In this episode of The Landscape, Aaron and Lauren ask veteran wildland firefighter Bobbie Scopa about the state of America’s wildfire response. Bobbie, who is a retired firefighter with the organization Grassroots Wildland Firefighters, shares insights from her five-decade career, exploring how recent federal layoffs and policy changes are impacting fire mitigation, hazardous fuels reduction, and the morale of those on the front lines. This episode delves into the complexities of forest management, the challenges of interagency coordination, and the dedication of those who protect our public lands.

• Mike Lee reverses course on controversial national park proposal, but conservation groups say concerns still remain – Salt Lake Tribune
• USDA lost more than 20,000 employees this year, internal watchdog finds – E&E News
• Mexican wolves are rebounding, but are they ready for delisting? – High Country News

• Watch this episode on YouTube (link to come)

• Produced & hosted by Aaron Weiss and Kate Groetzinger
• Feedback: podcast@westernpriorities.org
• Music: Purple Planet
• Featured image: NPS photo by Brady Richards

The post Burnout and bravery: Fighting fire on America’s public lands appeared first on Center for Western Priorities.