California Governor Gavin Newsom has urged President Trump to improve the federal management of forestlands in California. With over 57% of California’s forests under federal control, Newsom called for increased efforts from the federal government to align with California’s firefighting strategies.
Governor Newsom has sent a model executive order to the White House. If adopted, this order would enhance the federal government’s forest management capabilities and investments, aligning them with those of California. “It’s time for Trump to put his money where his mouth is,” said Newsom. “We’ve invested billions of dollars and treated millions of acres – more than doubling our state investment from when I took office.”
Newsom highlighted that Task Force Rattlesnake, comprising over 300 California National Guard members, has been affected by recent federal actions. Over half have been diverted due to what he termed as President Trump’s “illegal federalization” of the Guard, leaving only 40% available for firefighting duties.
The Trump administration’s cuts to the U.S. Forest Service also pose challenges, with a reported loss of 10% of positions overall and 25% outside direct wildfire response roles. Despite these setbacks, a partnership between California and the U.S. Forest Service aims to treat one million acres annually starting in 2025.
California has significantly increased its workforce for wildfire resilience and emergency response under CAL FIRE, hiring thousands more personnel since Governor Newsom took office. The state recently exceeded its goal for beneficial fire treatments and announced substantial investments in wildfire prevention projects.
Governor Newsom’s administration continues efforts to improve wildfire readiness through various initiatives, including regulatory streamlining and technological advancements in firefighting operations.
