President Trump's proposed budget cuts to the U.S. Forest Service are causing concern amongst researchers and forest management agencies across the West. Research stations, especially those located in Seattle, face potential closure due to budget cuts and reorganization plans. The impact on wildfire research, smoke prediction models, and fire prevention efforts is a major concern for scientists and local communities facing increased risk of wildfires. Despite promises from Forest Service officials that research remains crucial, the proposed budget will have significant consequences for managing the growing threat of forest fires in the United States.
Original Article Source Link:
https://www.npr.org/2026/06/12/nx-s1-5819899/president-trump-is-taking-aim-at-forest-and-wildfire-research-just-as-the-west-is-poised-to-burn