The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) fire management program uses a balanced approach, combining prescribed burns, mechanical treatments, and suppression to manage fire for ecosystem health and to protect communities, focusing on fuel reduction, habitat enhancement for wildlife (including endangered species), and wildfire risk mitigation on their lands and adjacent areas, often in partnership with other agencies. They implement planned burns, thin vegetation, remove brush, and use herbicides to control invasive plants, all while coordinating with local communities and other fire agencies for suppression and preparedness.

Key Functions of FWS Fire Management:

• Prescribed Burning: Conducts planned, low-intensity fires to reduce fuel loads, improve habitat, and mimic natural fire cycles, treating hundreds of thousands of acres annually.

• Fuels Management: Mechanically thins forests, removes brush, and treats invasive plants to decrease wildfire intensity and protect communities and habitats.

• Wildfire Suppression: Deploys trained crews and resources to fight wildfires on FWS lands and assists other agencies on nearby lands.

• Habitat Restoration: Uses fire and other treatments to create fire-adapted vegetation that supports key wildlife, including threatened and endangered species.

• Community & Interagency Coordination: Partners with state agencies (like CAL FIRE and others), landowners, and local groups on fire planning, preparedness, and response.

• Emergency Response: Manages emergency responses on its lands, providing support and personnel with skills in first aid, CPR, and other emergency functions.

How They Do It:

• Planning: Develops detailed burn plans considering terrain, weather, wildlife, and smoke dispersal.

• Training: Trains firefighters in basic skills and advanced techniques for prescribed burning, suppression, and support roles (like GIS, dispatch).

• Monitoring: Continuously collects data to tailor strategies and monitor outcomes.

• Partnerships: Collaborates with other federal and state entities (e.g., NPS, USFS, BLM) through formal agreements and joint efforts.