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U.S. Forest Service Prepares for Budget Constraints in Fiscal Year 2025

The U.S. Forest Service is bracing for potential financial difficulties as it approaches fiscal year 2025, according to Chief Randy Moore. In a recent blog post, Moore emphasized that the agency is strategizing its budget allocations while acknowledging a “potentially budget-limited future.”

Moore indicated that the Forest Service’s preparation efforts are mindful of current funding levels, referencing proposals from both the House and Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittees. He noted that effective budget planning involves operating from the lowest proposed funding numbers to avoid overestimating resources or constraining congressional decision-making.

As Congress deliberates over appropriations, the Forest Service is closely evaluating funding estimates based on the House Interior Subcommittee proposal, which earmarked $8.43 billion as of June 26. This figure represents a $53.5 million increase over the agency’s regular fiscal 2024 appropriations and includes a 6.3% increase specifically for wildland fire management. However, it still reflects a 3.5% reduction from total enacted funding levels, which previously included $945 million in supplemental support from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

In its proposed budget for fiscal 2025, the Forest Service sought $8.9 billion, indicating the growing demands on its resources. Moore pointed out that alongside reductions in supplemental funding from significant legislative measures like the Inflation Reduction Act and increasing costs of living, the agency is facing substantial budgetary pressures.

The Chief mentioned, “The current situation necessitates challenging choices. In the immediate future, we are focusing on workforce planning and collaborating closely with our partners to maintain our core operations.” He emphasized the importance of community and partner engagement as the agency navigates these challenges.

Moving forward, the Forest Service aims to prioritize funding for its workforce, advising employees to concentrate on high-priority tasks aligned with available funding. This warning about potential financial limitations comes amid ongoing challenges the agency has faced in recruiting and retaining its wildland firefighters.

In 2022, the Biden administration took steps to improve the recruitment of wildland firefighters by introducing significant pay raises—$20,000 annually or 50% of their base salary, whichever was lower—through the infrastructure law. These increases have been extended through at least fiscal 2024 by Congress.

In July, during a National Leadership Council meeting, Moore reported that improvements in workforce retention will necessitate more stringent hiring practices within the agency. The appropriations process remains in flux, with the House passing its appropriations package with a narrow margin of 210-205 on July 24, while the Senate bill moved through committee clearance on July 25 and awaits a vote on the Senate floor.

To address any concerns or queries regarding the impending budget changes and planning, Moore has scheduled an all-employee call for September 16.

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