Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has addressed a letter to the United States Forest Service (USFS) seeking greater transparency in wildfire management strategies. This request follows concerns raised by Montana Governor Greg Gianforte regarding how wildfires are being managed.

Daines emphasized the importance of public understanding and oversight of USFS's plans for handling wildfires. He stated, "Montanans are tired of breathing in smoke and as Governor Gianforte points out, the Biden-Harris Forest Service failed Montanans in a number of areas."

The senator highlighted issues with transparency between the Forest Service, state partners, and the public concerning wildfire management strategies. Specifically, he questioned whether fire monitoring is part of full suppression efforts or if a single wildfire can be divided into different management strategies for its various sections. These alternatives are not covered in the Master Cooperative Agreement, which adds to the concern.

Daines urged that these concerns be addressed swiftly and thoroughly to support ongoing firefighting efforts.