Governor Gordon Discusses Pack Trail Fire and Statewide Wildfire Efforts
Governor Mark Gordon expressed gratitude to the firefighters battling wildfires across Wyoming, including the Pack Trail Fire in Fremont County, during an online news conference Thursday, County 10 reports.
The Pack Trail Fire has grown to 67,376 acres, according to the latest update from the US Forest Service.
Governor Gordon noted that the state’s firefighting budget has been fully spent, and his office plans to borrow from the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account (LSRA), also known as Wyoming’s “rainy day fund,” to continue operations. He also expressed hope for replenishing these funds in future legislative sessions.
The Governor raised concerns about potential reductions in seasonal US Forest Service hires, who are often first responders to wildfires. He emphasized that Wyoming is still in the midst of fire season, with an unprecedented amount of land burned this year.
Gordon urged residents to be cautious with fire-starting equipment like hay swathers and campfires, as dry conditions continue. He also addressed concerns about fire retardant and ash affecting water supplies and discussed efforts to secure remaining funds from the American Rescue Plan Act before they expire at the end of the year.
