The move is intended to improve recruitment and retention.
The Department of the Interior announced permanent pay increases this month for federal and tribal wildland firefighters. The decision seeks to improve recruitment and retention amid the increased threat of wildfires. The pay adjustments, included in the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 (H.R. 1968), were signed into law by President Donald Trump.
Alongside base salary increases, the law establishes wildland fire Incident Response Premium Pay, offering additional compensation for extended deployments. The Bureau of Indian Affairs will also provide ongoing financial support for tribal firefighter pay supplements, replacing previous temporary increases.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said, “These firefighters endure extreme conditions and grueling work to safeguard our homes, businesses, and natural resources. This permanent pay increase ensures they are fairly compensated for their sacrifices and strengthens our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this essential profession.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Burgum to seek God’s direction as he manages the Department of the Interior and its many agencies.
- For Acting Director Bart Stevens as he heads the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
- For the strength and well-being of wildland firefighters who work to contain the blazes.
Sources: Department of the Interior
