California joins Northwest Wildland Fire Fighting Compact amid federal cuts

California has joined the Northwest Wildland Fire Fighting Compact, according to an announcement from Governor Gavin Newsom. The NW Compact is a partnership of U.S. states, Canadian provinces, and territories that work together to prevent and suppress wildfires by sharing resources, technology, and expertise.

The move comes as the federal government makes reductions to the U.S. Forest Service budget and staff. California officials say these cuts threaten wildfire response capabilities across the state and country.

Governor Newsom stated, “While the Trump administration retreats from firefighting, California is proud to join forces with our northwestern neighbors to fight catastrophic wildfire. We’re all on the front lines of this worsening wildfire threat – and by joining our collective resources together, we will be even more effective in protecting our communities.”

The NW Compact was established in 1998. Its current members include Alberta, Yukon Territory, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Montana, and Hawaii. With California and Nevada joining in 2025, there are now thirteen member states and provinces.

Joe Tyler, Director and Fire Chief of CAL FIRE said: “Wildfire is no longer a problem that stops at our borders and state lines. By joining the NW Compact, we’re building stronger connections, sharing knowledge, and ensuring that when fires threaten, we can respond faster and more effectively.”

California faces increasing wildfire threats due to climate change. In recent years hotter temperatures and shifting weather patterns have made fire risk worse.

By joining the NW Compact California gains access to additional firefighting resources during major incidents. The agreement also allows California firefighters to assist in other regions—an experience that can improve readiness at home.

CAL FIRE has expanded its workforce over the past five years by adding an average of 1,800 full-time and 600 seasonal positions annually—nearly double that of previous administrations. Over the next four years CAL FIRE plans to hire thousands more firefighters and support personnel.

Since 2019 California has invested over $5 billion in wildfire resilience efforts with legislative support. Recent announcements include $135 million for new prevention projects and $72 million for ongoing efforts statewide. Ninety new vegetation management projects covering over 21,000 acres have been fast-tracked following a March 2025 state of emergency proclamation.

These actions contrast with federal reductions which have resulted in a loss of 10% of all U.S. Forest Service positions—and 25% outside direct wildfire response—potentially impacting preparedness this year. A proposed reorganization would close regional offices including the Pacific Regional Forest Service office.

More information about preparedness is available at ReadyforWildfire.org.