Washington lawmakers have approved significant funding cuts to wildfire prevention efforts, prompting concerns for the future as the state prepares for another potentially severe fire season.
The move pulls $60 million in funding from House Bill 1168, which previously allocated $120 million every two years for wildfire prevention. It’s one of the legislature’s most recent attempts to balance the state’s budget.
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now carefully considering its next steps.
“I think as an agency we’re still processing what this means,” said Thomas Kyle-Milward, a spokesperson for DNR.
Wildfires have become an increasing threat in Washington, with loose fuels contributing to blazes that have come dangerously close to communities like Spokane.
For two consecutive summers, fires such as the Cemetery Fire have swept through the Palisades, threatening dozens of homes.
Although DNR is fully funded for this fire season, Kyle-Milward said the agency could face significant challenges in 2026 if funding is not restored.
“It’s important that the legislature address the hole they’ve created here in the funding moving forward,” he said.
In the meantime, DNR officials are urging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves, including clearing dry fuels from around their homes and preparing emergency go-bags in case evacuations become necessary.
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