Just Wildfire Workforce: A Study on The Diverse Impacts of the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program

Abstract

In recent years, wildfires have become more intense and destructive, driven by climate change, decades of aggressive fire suppression, and the expansion of communities into fire-prone landscapes. At the same time, wildfire response agencies struggle with understaffing and unstable funding. Simultaneously, the USDA Forest Service regularly reports labor shortages. In February 2023, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) reported that 1,700 additional hires were needed to fill positions in firefighting, fuel reduction, and reforestation. Last year, 35% of California’s wildland firefighters were incarcerated individuals working in the State’s fire camps (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 2024). These fire camps are branches of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation aimed at supporting “state, local and federal government agencies as they respond to emergencies including fires, floods, and other natural disasters” (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 2024). Despite their training and experience, few individuals with a criminal record can access careers in fire upon completion of their sentence.

The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP) in California is working to address these crises by helping formerly incarcerated individuals gain additional skills and knowledge to achieve gainful employment in the fire and forestry sector. FFRP’s model provides program participants with the training and support needed for career success. With a focus on job training, mentoring and employment support, FFRP has built a strong network of skilled individuals who are prepared for successful employment as wildland firefighters and hazardous fuel management workers. By doing so, FFRP also addresses structural racism by creating pathways from a justice system that disproportionately impacts people of color to access stable careers in wildland firefighting, predominantly held by white males.