While the USDA has assured the public that essential services will remain operational, local emergency management officials and conservationists are expressing concerns over the potential ripple effects of the layoffs.

“While the Allegheny National Forest has a robust fire program, they have limited staff members who are dedicated purely to fire prevention, suppression, or mitigation,” said Kale Asp, Deputy Director of Warren County 9-1-1. “This means that additional staff members have other collateral duties outside of their normal job titles–during a fire event, they form a ‘militia’ firefighting force to respond to major events. Any potential staffing reduction that impacts these positions or ancillary duties has the potential to reduce their capabilities.

“As this is a large-scale issue, it also has the potential to reduce the number of available federal resources nationwide should they be needed here,” Asp said.

“Local fire resources, whether paid or volunteer, are facing declining numbers. While most of the local resources are typically well trained and well equipped, the manpower required to combat these types of fire events, as well as their other duties, is an ever-present challenge.”

The Allegheny National Forest, covering over 500,000 acres in northwestern Pennsylvania, has yet to confirm the exact number of employees affected by the layoffs. However, local officials are assessing how reductions may impact trail maintenance, conservation efforts, and visitor services.

Environmental groups and community advocates have voiced concerns that workforce reductions could undermine critical land management programs, including wildfire mitigation, forest restoration, and public access initiatives.

They have already seen how understaffing affects our national forests.Clearing dead trees and brush is essential in preventing small fires from turning into catastrophic wildfires. Without that work, they are gambling with disaster.

The USDA maintains that the Forest Service will continue prioritizing core responsibilities despite budget constraints. Those affected by the layoffs are encouraged to seek other opportunities within the agency or related industries.

The Allegheny National Forest’s leadership is expected to provide further details in the coming weeks regarding how the layoffs will impact the region. For more updates, visit the USDA Forest Service website or contact ANF headquarters.