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After DEI programs end at public land agencies, some wildland firefighters band together to create more inclusion.
“Why do we have all of these fire agencies?” It's a question many in the wildland world have asked for years — and Chief Brian Fennessy is now in position to do something about it. The director of the newly created U.S. Wildland Fire Service explains what it means to build an entirely new federal fire organization from the ground up and why the mission extends far beyond changing patches and organizational charts. Fennessy discusses unifying federal wildland agencies, creating a true firefighter-first culture, reducing bureaucracy and giving fire leaders the authority to make faster operational decisions. He also explains why prevention, fuels management, firefighter wellness and stronger communication with the public are just as critical as suppression. This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore. Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens sit down with Founder Jesse Sprague, Director of Research & Intelligence Phinehas Lampman, and Software Developer and Data Scientist Kathleen Matos from Axon Intelligence to talk about the future of wildland fire investigation, origin and cause documentation, data science, remote sensing, AI, drone imagery, and fire investigation technology. The conversation explores how the new app EchoSpectra is helping investigators organize field data, document wildland fire indicators, track GOA/SOA development, export maps and photo logs, and strengthen the scientific method through better case organization. The group also discusses how computer vision, mapping, drone-based imagery, and pattern recognition may shape the future of both wildland and structure fire investigations, while also touching on firefighter health, smoke exposure, Valley Fever, and the need for better respiratory protection in the field.Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, give us 5 stars, hit the follow button, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you are listening in from. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast
MDs raise concerns over Utah AI Chatbot prescription renewal pilot program -- Logan City firefighters join Utah State Wildland Fire Task Force
Former California game warden John Nores reveals the hidden war being fought deep inside America's forests — where cartel-run marijuana farms have taken over remote public lands, poisoned wildlife, stolen water, and turned California's mountains into dangerous territory. In this episode, John breaks down how Mexican cartel growers set up massive hidden weed farms, how they camouflage camps and irrigation systems, why game wardens became involved in marijuana raids, and what happened when his team came face-to-face with armed growers in the woods. We also discuss the environmental destruction caused by illegal grows, toxic pesticides, cartel tactics, California legalization, the black market, and why this problem is still far from over. John Nores is a former California Department of Fish and Wildlife game warden and author of Hidden War, where he documents his years tracking cartel activity in America's wildlands. Topics include: Cartel weed farms, California forests, game wardens, illegal marijuana grows, Sinaloa cartel, toxic pesticides, water theft, wildlife destruction, armed growers, and the hidden war on public lands. Go Support John! Book: https://www.johnnores.com/hidden-war.html Website: https://www.johnnores.com/ This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Hims! To get simple, online access to personalized, affordable care for ED, Hair Loss, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://hims.com/connect Prescription required. See website for details and important safety information. Sildenafil is the generic version of Viagra®. Viagra® is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC. Hims is not affiliated with or endorsed by Viatris. Lucy! Save 20% on your first online Lucy order at https://lucy.co/connect with promo code CONNECT! Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Intro: California's Weed War 01:00 Meet John Norris: Game Warden Turned Cartel Hunter 04:00 Why Game Wardens Battle Cartels 09:00 Inside Cartel Grow Tactics 17:00 Water Theft & Ranch Infiltration 24:00 Deadly Encounters: Gunfights in the Hills 26:00 This Episode Is Sponsored By Hims 27:58 Cartel Structure & Operations Unveiled 41:00 Cat-and-Mouse: Grow Raids vs Apprehensions 46:16 This Episode Is Sponsored By Lucy 47:52 Cartel Incentives: Who's Growing & Why 55:00 Hidden Health Dangers: Pesticides & Poisons 01:03:00 Environmental Fallout: Wildlife & Water 01:08:00 Legalization Backfires: Black Market Thrives 01:16:00 Chinese Cartels & the Evolving Threat 01:25:00 Why the Legal Market Can't Compete 01:36:00 From Gunfights to Game Wardens: War Stories 01:43:00 Cartels, China, and the Fentanyl Pipeline 01:53:00 Northern Border, Drugs, and the Hidden War 02:03:00 Solutions: Law, Education, & Real Change 02:10:00 Impact of Legalization Laws in Other States 02:12:00 Organic Growers vs Cartels: The Forgotten Warriors 02:16:00 Wrap Up: The Fight for America's Wildlands & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On Today's Show: To support and subscribe: https://thehotshotwakeup.substack.com/The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, along with the Department of the Interior, today announced new steps to reduce hazardous exposure for federal wildland firefighters. These actions include expanded access to N95 respirators on the fireline, required training, and standardized decontamination protocols, such as showers and Nomex cleaning.There is also direction on reducing exposure to extended periods of mop-up. I welcome Erin Phelps, Deputy Director of Risk Management with the Forest Service, to discuss everything in the release. Erin is no stranger to the fireline, working on engines, Hotshot crews, and as a rappeller before taking a more direct role in policy and management. There is a lot to cover, and plenty of questions. Deputy Director Phelps helps answer those questions and provides all the details on what it will look like moving forward. The Hotshot Wake Up is 100% listener and reader supported. No ads, no sponsorships. Thank You.
As the summer wildfire season gets underway, federal wildland firefighters are facing an increasingly difficult situation on the job. Three out of four respondents to a recent survey say they have considered quitting within the past 12 months. That comes as the frontline workers face increasing burnout and low morale. Here with more, Federal News Network's Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What does it take to turn a crisis into an opportunity for community resilience and meaningful careers? In this episode of The Future of Work podcast, our host Dr. Salvatrice Cummo, talks with Pasadena City College's Dean of Business and Enrollment Management, Mathew Barboza, to discuss the rapid launch and far-reaching impact of the college's Wildland Fire Academy.Sparked by the urgent needs following the Eaton fire, this program trains and empowers students to become skilled wildland firefighters—meeting a critical demand as California's fire season becomes a year-round reality. Tune in as we explore what it takes to adapt education for real-world challenges, hear the inspiring stories of students called to serve, and learn how innovative training is shaping the future workforce and helping rebuild lives and communities in the Altadena and Los Angeles Region.You'll learn:Why short-term, high-impact training programs are critical for workforce readiness and regional recoveryThe importance of timing academies to synchronize with hiring cycles for organizations like U.S. Forest Service and Cal FireWhy up-to-date equipment, strong advisory committees, and close industry alignment matter for effective workforce educationThe role that accessible, responsive higher education can play in both immediate disaster response and building long-term resilienceAbout the guest:Mathew Barboza attended Cal Poly Pomona and earned his bachelor's degree in communication arts and later attended Cal State Fullerton to earn a master's degree in communication arts. After graduating, Barboza started a graphic design career in the advertising and marketing field, working on such global brands as Coca-Cola, Ray Ban, Bebe, Oakley, and BCBG.After 15 years in the advertising industry, Barboza made the leap to education, where he began teaching for Moreno Valley College, within the Riverside Community College system. He taught at MVC for 19 years across several FSA's (faculty service areas) including computer science, computer information systems, graphic design, digital art, and game design. While teaching, he became interested in a management position and was hired as the Dean of CTE (Career and Technical Education) at CMC (Copper Mountain College), located in Joshua Tree, California. Copper Mountain College is one of the smallest California Community Colleges in the state, which allowed him to become deeply involved in many aspects of his CTE Dean role.While at Copper Mountain College, Barboza was approached by CMC's Fire Technology faculty, asking him to support a new WFA (Wildland Fire Academy). As a team, the Fire Technology faculty and Mathew Barboza created and supported CMC's very first WFA, which is still being offered today. After a few years at CMC, Barboza applied to colleges closer to his home and was hired by PCC (Pasadena City College) as the Dean of Business and Enrollment Management in 2022.While working at PCC, Dean Barboza was contacted by his former Fire Technology faculty from CMC, informing him of the fact that PCC is within the Verdugo Corridor, which meant that this Firefighter/Faculty cadre would follow him to PCC if he agreed to start a WFA there. Agreeing to this, the Fire team and Dean Barboza launched PCC's first 8-week WFA academy in 2025.Last year's WFA boasted a full cohort of 40 students, which was limited by the classroom size. This year, PCC's WFA was able to move to a larger classroom, allowing the enrollment of 60 students into cohort #2.Because of our alignment with USDA FS (United States Department of Agriculture Service Forest Service) we were invited to train at MRCA (Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority) located in the Malibu Hills, where PCC currently conducts field training.Engage with us:LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook: @PasadenaCityCollegeEWDJoin our newsletter for more on this topic: ewdpulse.comVisit: PCC EWD websiteMore from Dean Barboza & The Wildland Fire Academy at PCC:Visit - WIldland Fire Academy CertificationDean Barboza: mbarboza3@pasadena.edu or 626-585-7684LinkedIn - @mathewbarbozaFull-time faculty Lead Captain Frank Brambilla: fbrambila2@pasadena.edu or 626-585-7647Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: scummo@pasadena.eduFind the transcript of this episode herePlease rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts - we'd love to hear from you!
Mayor Walker is joined by Draper City Fire Chief Clint Smith and Wildland Fuels Crew Supervisor Parker Hansen to discuss the upcoming fire season, as well as changes within the State of Utah affecting the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).Episode Links:Utah WUI interactive map (to check if home or address is in high risk area): wildfirerisk.utah.govFireworks restrictions zone map: draperutah.gov/fireNational Fire Protection Association: nfpa.orgDraper notifications: draperutah.gov/notifyWUI presentation on HB48 at city hall on YouTube: Draper Wildland Urban InterfaceOpen House (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMIhKqPCN_k)Originally published June 22, 2026.
Years after working in smoky, sooty conditions controlling fires, workers can experience the adverse health effects of the job. Proving the link can be difficult. But now in British Columbia, wildland firefighters are getting early cancer screening and expanded workers compensation coverage for cancer. With climate change contributing to the hot, dry conditions that lead to longer, more intense fire seasons, we explore what else can be done to reduce the exposure to carcinogens these front-line workers face.
Chief Royal Ramey moved 3,000 incarcerated individuals into public service careers through wildland firefighting. Here is exactly how he built the pipeline.SummaryThe Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program is a nonprofit workforce reentry pipeline that has moved over 3,000 current and formerly incarcerated individuals into public service careers through wildland firefighting. In this episode, Donald Thompson sits down with Chief Royal Ramey, a 12-year firefighting veteran, 2024 TED Fellow, and the program's co-founder, to examine how a fire line became one of the most measurable career pathways in the United States. After serving six years in prison, Ramey discovered that the discipline and identity structure of wildland firefighting provided what the traditional reentry system had never offered. Today his program operates across multiple states, and he is building toward a national model.Episode Long DescriptionChief Royal Ramey spent six years incarcerated before wildland firefighting gave him a framework for purpose, discipline, and leadership that the traditional reentry system had never provided him. As a 12-year firefighting veteran, 2024 TED Fellow, and co-founder of the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program, Royal has built one of the most measurable workforce reentry pipelines in the United States, moving over 3,000 current and formerly incarcerated individuals into public service careers across multiple states.In this episode of High Octane Leadership, Donald Thompson sits down with Royal to examine how California's wildland firefighting infrastructure became an unlikely but highly effective model for workforce equity, legislative advocacy, and community reinvestment. The conversation covers Royal's four-step goal achievement framework, the economic argument for expungement, and what organizational leaders can learn from a culture that trains people to run toward the hardest problems. Housing one person in a California state prison costs close to $130,000 annually. Royal's program routes that same public investment toward a six-figure career that generates tax revenue, reduces recidivism, and creates measurable community financial stability."The most destructive conditions produce the most qualified leaders," argues Chief Royal Ramey, 2024 TED Fellow and co-founder of the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program.Key Talking Points:Wildland Firefighting as a Workforce Reentry Model: The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program fills a structural gap that exists in 13 states: incarcerated firefighters who serve on the line have no guaranteed pathway into the profession after release. Chief Ramey's nonprofit directly addresses that gap, with documented career outcomes for over 3,000 participants across California and partner states. Expungement as an Economic Investment, Not a Social Handout: Housing one person in a California state prison costs close to $130,000 annually, while a wildland firefighting career generates tax revenue, reduces recidivism costs, and creates a multiplier effect on family and community financial stability. Four-Step Goal Achievement Framework for High-Stakes Environments: Chief Ramey's Four-Step Goal Achievement Framework asks individuals to define the goal, confirm the desire behind it, build a concrete blueprint, and execute without exception. Developed on the fire line, the framework now drives career transition, leadership development, and organizational culture work inside Ramey's program. .Wildland Firefighting Discipline Applied to Business Leadership and Retention: The mindset that produces effective incident commanders maps directly onto corporate retention challenges. Radical accountability, mission clarity, and a culture where every team member understands their contribution are not firefighting-specific virtues; they are the conditions that reduce turnover in any high-performance organization. Climate Crisis and Incarcerated Firefighters as a National Workforce Imperative: Western wildfire frequency is increasing, and the incarcerated firefighter population represents a trained, available, and deeply motivated labor force. CAL FIRE workforce planning and state emergency management agencies have only begun to formally invest in this population as a climate infrastructure asset.Published: May 21, 2026 | High Octane Leadership with Donald Thompson, Episode 184.Chapter Markers0:00 - Intro: Chief Royal Ramey01:40 - From Fire Camp to Public Service: The Journey Out of Incarceration03:30 - Co-Founding the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program05:00 - How Chief Ramey's Four-Step Framework Moves People from Incarceration to Public Service07:15 - How Wildland Firefighting Converts a Criminal Record into a Public Service Identity10:00 - Focus on What You Can Control: The Leadership Mindset That Changes Everything12:00 - Firefighting as a Lifestyle, Not a Nine to Five14:40 - Legislative Advocacy and the Case for Expungement18:00 - Why Expungement Costs Less Than Incarceration: The Economic Case for Second Chances20:00 - What It Feels Like to Change 3,000 Lives23:00 - Why Purpose-Driven Leadership Produces Lower Recidivism Than Job Placement Alone27:45 - What Scaling the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program to 13 States Actually Requires30:00 - How the Prison-to-Public-Service Pipeline Works and What Other States Can Replicate32:00 - From Fire Camps to the Daily Show and Jeff Bezos: What Notoriety Did for the Mission35:30 - Closing: Chief Ramey's Legacy and Magic Wand MomentAbout the GuestChief Royal Ramey is a 12-year wildland firefighting veteran, 2024 TED Fellow, and co-founder of the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program, a nonprofit workforce development pipeline recognized by CAL FIRE and California workforce development agencies as one of the most effective reentry-to-public-service models currently operating in the United States. After serving six years in prison, Ramey built an organization that has guided over 3,000 current and formerly incarcerated individuals into careers in wildland firefighting and public service. His advocacy contributed to the passage of California AB 2147 (signed September 2020, authored by Assemblymember Eloise Reyes) allows formerly incarcerated firefighters to petition to have their records expunged and pursue state fire certifications for the first time. Ramey has appeared on The Daily Show, discussed the economics of second chances with Jeff Bezos, and spoken internationally on the argument that people who have survived the most destructive conditions are frequently the most qualified to lead during a national climate emergency.Resources:Donald Thompson LinkedInDonald's Books: https://donaldthompson.com/books-resources/Chief Royal Ramey LinkedInForestry and Fire Recruitment Program: [Link]Workplace Options 2026 Psychological Safety Study: https://psychsafety.workplaceoptions.com/resource/the-coe-2026-psychological-saf...
Deze aflevering van Gamekings Daily is ook te bekijken op https://youtu.be/NXkBe3GuJSE PlayStation heeft bekendgemaakt dat hun singleplayer blockbusters niet langer naar de PC komen. Dit bericht kwam na de opnames van deze vodcast en kon dus niet meegenomen worden. Welkom bij Gamekings Daily, een gaming vodcast waarin twee presentatoren van Gamekings discussiëren over de laatste ontwikkelingen in de wereld der videogames. Vandaag heeft Skate plaatsgenomen achter de desk en bespreekt hij een aantal game gerelateerde nieuwtjes. Bijvoorbeeld de proef van PlayStation om op je desktop te laten zien hoeveel mensen een bepaalde game op de PlayStation consoles spelen. De proef toonde nu al cijfers waar veel hardcore gamers niet blij van zullen worden. Het geeft ook direct de verklaring waarom Jim Ryan zo graag een aantal eigen live service hits wilde laten maken. JJ en Skate bespreken verder het gerucht dat er gewerkt wordt aan een spirituele opvolger van Titanfall. Wie doet dat en zouden we willen dat dit gerucht waarheid werd? Plus, gelooft Skate in de release van twee games van From Software in één jaar? Deze onderwerpen en meer zijn te zien en te horen in de Gamekings Daily van dinsdag 19 mei 2026. Gaat From Software dit jaar naast The Dusbloods nog een game uitbrengen? De twee bekijken de stilte rondom de game The Duskbloods van From Software. De Japanners hebben opnieuw beloofd dat het spel nog dit jaar uitkomt, maar marketing of nieuwe beelden zijn ver te zoeken. En wat denkt Skate van het verhaal van de nieuwe 'piratengame' die From Software volgens een aantal leakers nog deze zomer wil gaan uitbrengen? Twee games in één jaar? En is dit thema uniek en iets waar je hem midden in de nacht voor wakker mag maken? Werkt Ubisoft aan een realistische Ghost Recon-editie? In ander nieuws praten de twee over de aanpak van de nieuwe Ghost Recon. Die zou je volgens de geruchten kunnen vergelijken met de game Ready or Not. Deze titel is een ultrarealistische en tactische first-person shooter waarin spelers de leiding nemen over een SWAT-politie-eenheid. Zien de beide heren een dergelijke aanpak zitten of hebben ze liever de meer open wereld georiënteerde aanpak van Wildlands? Ze vertellen het je in deze video.Wil je adverteren bij de podcast Gamekings óf misschien bij een andere podcast van ILVY Network? Mail dan naar management@ilvy.com en/of kijk even op de website : https://ilvy.com/podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we’re bringing you the best from the KUOW Newsroom… First, officials in Snohomish County are seeking emergency permission to fix a crumbling levee near the city of Stanwood. Next, and this fire season is poised to be historic – not just because of the record-low snowpack and unprecedented spring heat. It will also be the first for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. And finally, every spring, purple martins fly to Tacoma. The migratory birds travel over six-thousand miles from Brazil to breed here. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grace Foerschler and Sahara Kaleem interview Dean Foerschler, a firefighter who recently participated in the 13th annual Wildland firefighter foundation softball tournament. In this episode, Dean breaks down his experiences growing up as an avid baseball fan and player, as well as the effects of stepping back on the mound after nearly five years away from the sport.
Join host Luke Barrett on The Lookout Podcast as he sits down with Taylor Moe of the powerful new documentary 13 Crosses: The Story of the Mann Gulch Fire. In this episode Taylor dives deep into the making of 13 Crosses, the personal stories behind the documentary, the challenges of bringing this story to life on screen and why the lessons from Mann Gulch remain critical for todays firefighters. Whether you're a Wildland firefighter, history buff, or simply want to understand the real stories behind the crosses on the hillside, this episode delivers raw insight, respect, and powerful storytelling.
“Suppression is always going to be there,” Chief Brian Fennessy told the Mountain West News Bureau. “But we're not going to suppress our way out of this situation.”
Send us a text and chime in!The City of Prescott supports federal firefighting operations at Prescott Regional Airport. Wildland fire season in Northern Arizona officially begins today (May 1, 2026), bringing increased aviation and firefighting activity to Prescott Regional Airport – Ernest A. Love Field. With the region entering fire season at Preparedness Level 2 and Response Level 1, the City of Prescott is working closely with the U.S. Forest Service to support early-season readiness and community safety. Located on airport property, the U.S. Forest Service's Henry Y. H. Kim Aviation Facility, commonly known as the Prescott Fire Center, serves as a major hub for wildfire response... For the written story, read here >> https://www.signalsaz.com/articles/prescott-supports-federal-firefighting-operations-at-airport/ Check out the CAST11.com Website at: https://CAST11.com Follow the CAST11 Podcast Network on Facebook at: https://Facebook.com/CAST11AZFollow Cast11 Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/cast11_podcast_network
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When it comes to fighting wildfires, women have historically faced a lot of obstacles. In this classic, we uncover the often overlooked history of women doing this difficult work, the progress that's been made, and the work that still needs to be done.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today on the show, Bill Gates' nuclear power project in Kemmerer is officially under construction. We talk to a reporter who was at Terra Power's groundbreaking last week. We hear from a landslide specialist about what can happen when it rains over a wildfire burn scar. And we head to the gym with a 68-year–old powerlifter. Turns out, heavy weights are good for your bones, brain and social life. Those stories and more.
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Corporate culture is a nightmare, but getting out of the office brings its own problems in Carter Keane's debut novella – Morsel. It's a story about monsters and eldritch beings, about killer cults and evil law-enforcement, about wellbeing scams and a boss from hell – but it's also a springboard for a whole conversation about the cons (many) and pros (debatable) of capitalism. Carter indulges my devil's advocacy, before we get back to the matter of strange forest disappearances and horrible shit that happens with bears. It's a whole range of ways to feel scared of the world. Enjoy! Other books mentioned: The Ritual (2011), by Adam Nevill Last Days (2012), by Adam Nevill All the Fiends of Hell (2024), by Adam Nevill The Lamb Will Slaughter the Lion (2017), by Margaret Killjoy Postmodernism, or the Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism (1989), by Frederic Jameson Debt: The First 500 Years (2011), by David Graeber Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist (2017), by Kate Raworth The Cold Vanish: Seeking the Missing in North America's Wildlands (2020), by Jon Billman Rust Belt Femme (2020), by Rachael Anne Jolie Night of the Grizzlies (1969), by Jack Olsen Support Talking Scared on Patreon Check out the Talking Scared Merch line – at VoidMerch Come talk books on Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram, or email direct to talkingscaredpod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
State legislators received an update Wednesday on the goals of the federal government's effort to streamline wildfire fighting resources. The Wildland Fire Service unifies operations previously managed by several federal agencies.
Wildland fire activity remains the predominant national operational signal, as articulated in the most recent National Interagency Coordination Center Incident Management Situation Report. The report indicates that the national preparedness level is sustained at PL3, with multiple large incidents threatening residential structures in various southern regions, specifically in Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky. Each state has been meticulously analyzed, with significant incidents such as the Twin Creek Fire and Hancock Mill Pond139 highlighted, alongside pertinent details regarding their containment status and the behaviors of the fires. The complexities of fire activity across these states necessitate diligent monitoring and resource allocation to mitigate their impacts effectively. This brief encapsulates the critical updates and serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by wildland fires in our communities.Takeaways:* The National Interagency Coordination Center Incident Management Situation Report identifies national wildland fire activity as a significant operational concern.* The report indicates that the southern region maintains a preparedness level of PL3 amidst multiple large-scale incidents threatening residences.* Detailed summaries of specific large fires across several states reveal a diverse range of fire behaviors and containment statuses.* Significant incidents in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida are highlighted, illustrating the widespread nature of current fire threats.* The IMSR provides comprehensive updates on fire incidents, including containment efforts and the number of structures at risk across affected regions.* Overall, the latest updates emphasize ongoing fire risks and the immediate need for vigilance in response efforts.SourcesNational wildland fire (NIFC/NICC)NICC Incident Management Situation Report (IMSR) — Mar. 25, 2026 (PDF) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
The episode elucidates the current status of wildland fire activity, emphasizing that the Southern Area is operating at Preparedness Level 3, with numerous large fires threatening structures and residences across multiple states. We provide a comprehensive overview of significant incidents, including those in Alabama, Colorado, and Florida, where extreme fire behavior has been reported, leading to considerable risks to nearby communities. The discussion also includes pertinent advisories from CISA regarding cybersecurity vulnerabilities that necessitate immediate action to mitigate risks. Furthermore, we touch upon recent seismic events, such as the magnitude 7.6 earthquake near Tonga, which, while not resulting in a tsunami threat, underscores the importance of situational awareness in the Pacific Ring of Fire. We conclude with an examination of public health concerns, specifically a meningococcal disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting the need for vigilance in travel advisories.Takeaways:* The Southern Area Preparedness Level has reached a critical status of Level 3 due to numerous large wildfires threatening structures and residences.* A recent advisory from CISA emphasizes the urgent need to mitigate critical risks associated with unauthenticated command execution on commercial control systems.* The Pacific Ring of Fire remains a significant focus of attention following a magnitude 7.6 earthquake in Tonga, despite no tsunami threat being reported.* The CDC has issued a travel notice regarding an outbreak of meningococcal disease in a health zone of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, underscoring the importance of public health awareness.* Numerous states are currently experiencing substantial fire activity, with reports indicating active fire behavior and threats to both structures and residences.* The FAA has provided updates on potential thunderstorms affecting air traffic in central Florida, highlighting the need for vigilance in aviation safety.SourcesDHS* DHS News Release — Senate confirms Markwayne Mullin as DHS Secretary (Mar 24, 2026)* DHS Newsroom — “There are no current advisories” (NTAS status shown on DHS newsroom pages)CISA* CISA ICS Advisory — Pharos Controls Mosaic Show Controller vulnerability (Published Mar 24, 2026)* CISA ICS Advisory — Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Foxboro DCS vulnerability (Published Mar 24, 2026)* CISA ICS Advisory — Grassroots DICOM memory leak vulnerability (Published Mar 24, 2026)Wildland fire activity (NIFC/NICC)* NIFC/NICC Incident Management Situation Report (IMSR) — PDF (Published Mar 24, 2026)Aviation* FAA — Statement on Air Canada Express incident at LaGuardia (Mar 23, 2026)* NTSB — Investigation page: Air Canada Express Flight 8646 collides with fire truck at LGA (Event date Mar 22, 2026; includes media briefings)* FAA — Daily Air Traffic Report (Mar 24, 2026)Earthquake and tsunami messaging* USGS — Event page: M7.6, 153 km W of Neiafu, Tonga (Reviewed)* Reuters — No tsunami threat after deep M7.6 near Tonga (Mar 24, 2026)Public health* CDC — Travel Health Notices: Meningococcal Disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Mar 24, 2026) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
In this episode of Fire Ecology Chats, Fire Ecology editor Bob Keane speaks with Alissa Cordner about underrepresented hazards in wildland firefighting like forever chemicals, minefields, and rainbow meat. Full journal article can be found at https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42408-026-00449-9
In "Old Bones," strange hyena creatures come to life in the Wildlands of Malifaux. Read By: Ian Travis Announced by: Julian Smith Music: "Terror Theme" by Hakan Eriksson
According to a new investigation from ProPublica, the U.S. Forest Service knew for years that firefighters were wearing clothing containing “forever chemicals” for years. Abe Streep, a reporter at ProPublica, joins us to discuss his story.
Send a textRecorded live at the California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI), this episode features Fire Investigator and researcher Keith Parker for a wide-ranging (and very real) conversation about what it looks like to apply the scientific method in fire investigation—especially when the ignition source is gone and the pressure to “have an answer” is high. We dig into affirmative evidence vs. negative corpus, why timelines can be some of the strongest support for (or against) a hypothesis, and the danger zone of assumptions sneaking into your data when you're convinced you already know what happened. Keith shares how his wildland experience evolved from frustration with wiped-out origins to building better training and getting involved in peer-reviewed wildland fire pattern research, including collaboration and mentorship from Dr. Vito Babrauskas. If you've ever wondered how confident we can be in wildland indicators under extreme conditions (wind, dry fuels, high intensity), or how wildland O&C is still maturing the way structure investigation did pre-NFPA 921, this one's for you. Plus: conference updates, what we're teaching next, how to get involved with IAAI as a student, and the return of “Can you use it in a sentence?” with a practical definition challenge to sharpen your investigator brain.National Wildland Fire Conference — April 24–26, 2026 — Oceanside (North County San Diego), CaliforniaIAAI ITC (International Training Conference) — April 27–May 1, 2026Georgia Fire Investigators Association Spring Conference — March 16–19, 2026 — Marietta (Cobb), GeorgiaAlabama Chapter FREE Spring Training — April 7, 2026 — Decatur, AlabamaMontana IAAI Annual Training Conference — May 12–14, 2026 — Billings, MontanaThank you for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, give us 5 stars, hit the follow button, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you are listening in from. Follow us on social media!Instagram: @infocusfire_podcastLinkedIn: INFOCUS podcastFacebook: INFOCUS podcastTikTok: @infocus_podcast
Béidh suas le 120 gnó áitiúil as Conamara agus Oileáin Árann ag teacht le chéile i Wildlands i Maigh Cuilinn an tseachtain seo chugainn don ócáid turasóireachta atá á eagrúag Costa Gaelach Chonamara agus Árann.
Fighting wildland fires is dangerous enough. The smoke exposure, changing conditions and mental health risks can be daunting, for even experienced firefighters. But federal wildland firefighters across the country were also wearing pants containing potentially dangerous PFAS chemicals, according to reporting this month from ProPublica. Officials at the U.S. Forest Service knew about that risk for years, before it became public knowledge. In Washington, fire seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer and just last year, western Washington experienced its largest fire in a generation. Reporter Abe Streep covered all of this for ProPublica, and he talked with KUOW's Paige Browning. Related Links Firefighters Wore Gear Containing “Forever Chemicals.” The Forest Service Knew and Stayed Silent for Years. “It Feels Impossible to Stay”: The U.S. Needs Wildland Firefighters More Than Ever, but the Federal Government Is Losing Them Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why is it so important to imagine the worst-case scenario? What happens when we don't?In this episode of Delivering Adventure, Chris and Jordy share a few examples from their adventure industry careers to illustrate the importance of considering the worst-case scenario. They also talk about some of the factors that can compromise our ability to foresee what can happen if things don't go to plan and how we can avoid falling into these traps.Chris Kaipio has been working in the adventure guiding industry as a guide, instructor, trainer, manager and content developer since 1991.Jordy Shepard is an internationally certified ACMG / IFMGA Mountain Guide, guide trainer, an avalanche educator, rescue specialist, and a former park warden.Key TakeawaysHow we can imagine the wort-case scenario:Consider What can Reasonably Happen: This involves asking ourselves what all the possible negative outcomes could be and identifying if we are prepared if they come to pass.Be detail oriented: The difference between a professional and an amateur is being detail oriented. Considering all the details before hand gives us an opportunity to identify and plan for all the likely outcomes that may happen.Think ahead: This can require us to step away from complex situations so that we can fully consider the situation and what lies ahead.Ask if we are Missing Anything: Is there information that we might be missing? This is something that we should always be asking ourselves. This helps to avoid developing tunnel vision.Do your research: This can involve talking to others and looking at case-studies.Training and Simulations: This can give us firsthand experience with what can happen.Communicate the Risks Thoroughly: This creates an opportunity for everyone to understand what hazards they can expect to encounter.Guest BiosChris Kaipio is the produce and co-host of Delivering Adventure.He has worked in the adventure industry as an instructor, guide, trainer and manager since 2001.Chris is currently developing the Managing Risk on Snow eLearning Certification for the Professional Ski Instructors of Canada. When complete, this will be a robust four level online risk management and decision-making certification for guides and Instructors.Chris has written the book Power to Influence: How to get the best out of ourselves and others. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides. This is where he met Jordy Shepherd.Jordy Shepherd is the co-host of Delivering Adventure.Jordy is an internationally certified ACMG / IFMGA Mountain Guide, guide trainer, an avalanche educator, rescue specialist, and a former park warden.His work experience includes Canadian Avalanche Association Course Leader for Avalanche Search and Rescue Advanced Skills, Provincial Park Ranger, National Park Warden, Wildlife Conflict Specialist, Wildland and Structural Firefighter, Mountain and Industrial Rescue Specialist, Heli-skiing Operations Manager and Lead Guide, and Licensed Real Estate Agent. In addition to all of his work in the adventure guiding industry, Jordy runs a successful real estate company in Canmore Alberta where he currently lives with is family.Follow or SubscribeDon't forget to follow the show!Share & Social Linkshttps://linktr.ee/deliveringadventure
This week on the Regional Roundup, we'll hear about the formation of a new federal agency: the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, and a report on so-called “death cards” found in abandoned vehicles following rumored ICE activity near Vail, Colorado. We'll also check in on an avalanche training program in Wyoming, and efforts underway to reintroduce wolverines to Colorado. Plus, a look at the dismantling of a beloved gathering place for some locals in Moab by the Bureau of Land Management, and we wrap up the show in Park City with a look at the Sundance Film Festival, the final year the festival will call Utah home before moving to Boulder, Colorado, next year.
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Federal wildland firefighters would keep their higher pay rates under the latest congressional appropriations package. The spending “minibus” maintains funding for wildland firefighters' permanent pay raise, as well as job updates that were initially included in the 2021 infrastructure law. The new appropriations package also would ‘not' adopt President Trump's plan to combine wildland firefighting forces into a single agency. According to the legislation, wildland firefighters from the Forest Service and the Interior Department would remain separate. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of Rocks to Roots, Hilary and Duane sit down with Michael Townshend of Wildland Cooperative for an inspiring conversation about the challenges and rewards of running a regenerative farm on Green Bluff, Washington.From cultivating vegetables and Christmas trees to brewing beer and building a community hub, Michael shares the mission behind Wildland Co-op and the values that guide their work. They discuss the importance of sustainable practices, supporting local food systems, and how the co-op is creating space for connection and education.Whether you're passionate about farming, local food, or the future of cooperative business models, this episode highlights the heart and hard work behind one of Spokane's most community-driven farms.Learn more about Wildland Cooperative at: https://www.wildland.coop/
In this episode, we are joined by Christopher Hanson, Workforce Development Specialist at the Kansas Forest Service. Christopher breaks down the wildland fire career path—from getting RED CARD qualified to pursuing advanced roles—while sharing what makes Kansas wildfire unique. He also highlights training opportunities offered by KFS, the importance of fitness and mental resilience, and how mentorship and statewide programs help grow the next generation of fire professionals.Firefighter Training: https://www.kansasforests.org/fire/wildlandfiretraining.htmlAbout the Fire Program: https://www.kansasforests.org/about/meet_our_staff/firemanagement.html
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Michael Christidis is a 31 year old Melbourne entrepreneur and the Co Founder and Managing Director of Untitled Group, one of Australia’s leading independent live music and events companies. He started young, running uni events and selling tickets before co founding Untitled Group in 2014, now home to festivals like Beyond the Valley, Pitch Music and Arts, Wildlands and Ability Fest. We cover his early entrepreneurial DNA, how he built a nightclub that took off, and how that momentum evolved into major festivals and a wider ecosystem that includes artist management, touring, events and strategic partnerships like The Daily Aus. Mike also opens up about the importance of mentors, the impact of COVID 19, dealing with chaos, staying bulletproof under pressure, diversification and why thinking bigger is the only way forward. You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-up Join the Facebook Group. Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is a deep dive with Sarah Hall into the world of wildland fire medical support—where emergency medicine meets the world wildland firefighting. This podcast explores what it takes to keep firefighters safe on the line, from treating tree strike injuries, heat illnesses, to navigating remote evacuation challenges and limited resources. Listeners will hear how Medics and EMTs prepare and train for this line of work, the specialized gear they carry, and the real-world decision-making that happens when help is hours away. Whether you're a firefighter, a medical provider, or simply curious about the hidden world behind wildland firefighting, Burning Edge Medicine offers a compelling look at the skills, cases, and grit required to deliver medicine in austere fire environments.
Wildland Firefighting and the Importance of Nutrition, Stress Management, and Overall Health, Fitness, & Wellness:Scott Mulvaney and Jesse Thomas discuss their backgrounds in wildland firefighting and their transition to health coaching. Jesse emphasizes the importance of sustainable wellness, linking nutrition to environmental impact. They highlight the challenges of maintaining health in high-stress environments like firefighting, advocating for nutrient-dense food and avoiding toxins like glyphosate. Jesse shares her experiences with physical fitness and nutrition, stressing the need for long-term lifestyle changes over short-term diets. They also touch on the broader impact of environmental toxins on human health and the importance of local, sustainable practices in agriculture and wellness. Scott Mulvaney and Speaker 1 discuss their shared passion for health and fitness, emphasizing the importance of nutrition over exercise. They criticize the use of creatine and whey protein, citing their dubious benefits and high costs. Scott shares his experience with the carnivore diet, highlighting the balance between methionine and glycine. They also discuss the mental health challenges faced by firefighters, including addiction and suicide, and the importance of diet and lifestyle interventions. Scott's charity, Field Foundations, provides high-quality boots to firefighters, having donated 11 pairs so far. They both stress the need for personal accountability and sustainable wellness practices. Scott Mulvaney and his guest co-host discussed the importance of personal responsibility in health and wellness. Scott shared a story about a fellow athlete who faced significant challenges but never gave up. The guest emphasized the significance of aligning with one's heart and passions, and the responsibility to oneself and future generations. They highlighted the role of foundational health and wellness in achieving personal and societal goals. Scott concluded by thanking the guest for his contributions to the wellness community and encouraging listeners to prioritize their health and legacy.Quote: “We are the agents for change in our internal ecosystems and the ecosystems in the world around us. We aren't separate. It's time to stack the deck in favor of both.”Your Co-Host Today:Jessie Thomas, owner of Sustainable Wellness, a health consulting business dedicated to helping people achieve better foundational health through nutrition and lifestyle. After 15 years as a wildland firefighter in region 1 and 4, I pivoted and went back to my roots in nutrition to start a health coaching business.Outside of fire, I have a background in ultra running, nordic and alpine skiing. I am now raising kids with my smokejumper husband, Jake Besmer. Presently, I work with clients 1 on 1 and with groups of people interested in learning more about how nutrition and lifestyle can improve health outcomes and make their experiences as productive as possible. Today's Top 3 Takeaways:The connection between Nutrition and Environmental impact.Challenges in the Health and Wellness IndustryEnvironmental Toxins, for example, the negative impacts of glyphosate.Today's Guest Co-Host Links:https://www.sustainablewellness.netInstagram: @sustainablewellness Watch us on YouTube:https://youtu.be/psCgwJdNxzc Timestamped Show Notes:17:40 – So your eyes picked up on that, you had the senses that picked out that. I think that's the thing, is when people are buying crapola from...
From the front lines of the Tallac Hotshots, battling California's biggest wildfires like the Dixie and Caldor Fires, to the depths of the ocean helping restore coral reefs in Honduras. Jp has built a life defined by resilience, service, and purpose.
Where there's fire, there's risk—and where there's risk, there's medicine. This podcast tells the untold stories of those who bring medical expertise to the edge of the wilderness fireline. Firefighter Luke Werner, from the US Forest service, talks about the many hazards, how risk is mitigated, and what happens when things go wrong.
This is the fourth in the 12 for 12 Best of the last dozen years of First Draft in honor of the 12th anniversary. Abby Geni is the author of the novels The Wildlands and The Lightkeepers and the short story collections The Last Animal and The Body Farm. Her books have been translated into seven languages and have won the Barnes & Noble Discover Award and the Chicago Review of Books Awards, among other honors. Geni is a faculty member at StoryStudio Chicago and frequent Visiting Associate Professor of Fiction at the University of Iowa Writers' Workshop. We talked about emotional intelligence, teaching creative writing, science and investigation, the perfect murder (fictional that is), following a story to see where it goes, writing from a place of mystery, and moments that make you cry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There is a push in Congress to expand the use of hazard pay for federal wildland firefighters. Utah Congresswoman Celeste Maloy has introduced a bill attempting to correct what she says is a gap in the benefit. Currently, wildland firefighters receive higher pay rates, called hazard pay, when fighting active fires. But hazard pay doesn't apply to situations where firefighters are conducting prescribed burns or doing training jumps. Maloy says firefighters face similar hazards in those additional situations — but their pay rates don't currently match the risk.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Zoe Savage returned to the podcast to talk about her Wild Fire progression from working on a district, to Type 1 crew, to a Helitack crew. We also discussed the great Wildland Firefighter fun known as Type 2 fun. Tune in to hear the full episode.
On today's show: To Subscribe: https://thehotshotwakeup.substack.com/The question on the minds of many agency leaders and supervisors is how to build and train the new generation of wildland firefighters. Well, that's just what firefighter and teacher Bryan Kerns is doing with his wildfire program, earning him the 2025 Tennessee teacher of the year.Bryan Kerns is the Fire Science teacher at Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, TN. Bryan has been in wildland fire since 2003 and brought his wildland fire experience into the classroom in 2019. What started as an after school club known as The Pulaski Club in 2019 has now grown into a full progression of Fire Science courses, complete with one of the nation's, if not the only, high school Prescribed Burn Team. Bryan has over 30 young men and women from his program now working in wildfire and EMS.Bryan will travel to D.C. soon to discuss expanding this program nationwide.Contact: bkerns@k12k.comTHE HOTSHOT WAKE UP — Thank you to all of our paid subscribers. Your support allows us to donate generously to firefighter charities and supports all of our content. You also receive all of our article archives, more podcast episodes, Monday morning workouts, and also entered into our giveaways, plus more.
An extremely special edition of the Plodcast this week as we head to Knepp Wildlands in Sussex to look for storks and listen for turtle doves in the company of Isabella Tree. Isabella and her husband Charlie Burrell have transformed their former dairy farm into one of the best examples of rewilding in Europe – and it's a magical place to explore. Plodcast host Fergus was lucky enough to meet up with Isabella one midsummer evening. Isabella's new book Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back is illustrated by Angela Harding. It is published by Pan Macmillan. And now you can get in touch with the Plodcast team via: The BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast group on Facebook & BBC Countryfile Magazine's Instagram page. The BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast is the Publishers Podcast Awards Special Interest Podcast of the Year 2024 & 2025 and the PPA Podcast of the Year 2022. If you've enjoyed the plodcast, don't forget to leave likes and positive reviews. Contact the Plodcast team and send your sound recordings of the countryside to: theplodcast@countryfile.com. If your letter, email or message is read out on the show, you could WIN a Plodcast Postbag prize of a wildlife- or countryside-themed book chosen by the team. The Plodcast is produced by Jack Bateman and Lewis Dobbs. The theme tune was written and performed by Blair Dunlop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Fighting wildland fires by air at night is especially hazardous. NASA's ACERO Project aims to make firefighting safer, day or night, with drones and smarter airspace management.
Since January 7, wildfires have been devastating the Los Angeles area. In the span of 10 days, several different fires, including the Palisades and Eaton fires, have burned more than 40,000 acres and destroyed more than 12,000 structures. At least 25 people have died.The threat of fire is growing, especially in zones known as the wildland-urban interface, or WUI. That's where unoccupied wildland and human developments meet and mingle. Think of a city sprawling around a forest, for example. In the US, around one in three homes is in this type of high-risk zone.So what's the science behind urban fires? And how do we protect ourselves in the face of them?Ira Flatow talks with Dr. Kimiko Barrett, senior wildfire researcher and policy analyst at the research group Headwaters Economics in Bozeman, Montana; and Dr. Alexandra Syphard, senior research scientist at the Conservation Biology Institute in San Diego, California.Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.