WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Wildland Fire Town Hall Meeting with Secretary Vilsack was held on Monday, May 17, 2021. The meeting, which was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was a focused and intimate dialogue with staff from the wildland fire community across the agency. Employees representing fire operations, leadership, research and wildfire support operations were encouraged to join the call and share their experiences.

Secretary Vilsack and Chief Christiansen shared their leader’s intent on a variety of issues that included extended fire seasons, fire and climate change, wildfire response during COVID-19 and an inclusive workplace environment that focuses on employee safety and well-being. In addition, questions and discussions between employees and the secretary about past and present funding, increasing forest management opportunities, the competitive job market, a diverse workforce, work-life balance, and mental health were all covered in the meeting.

Editor's Note: The original video with full transcript can be found online.