Governor Gordon Signs Order to Tackle Wildfire Risks and Boost Forest Health Across Wyoming

Gov. Mark Gordon is turning up the heat on wildfire prevention — but in a good way, Jackson Hole News & Guide reports.

On Friday, Gordon signed a new executive order that puts forest health and wildfire risk reduction at the top of Wyoming’s to-do list. The goal? Get ahead of wildfires before they start, by better managing our forests and boosting cooperation between local, state, and federal partners.

“This is about reducing wildfire risk, expanding fuel mitigation work, and making sure our forests — and the jobs tied to them — stay healthy,” Gordon said. “Frankly, I’d love to see more people out in the woods. They’ve always been part of Wyoming’s economy and lifestyle.”

The order calls on agencies like the Wyoming State Forestry Division to ramp up collaboration with the US Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and local fire teams. Together, they’ll focus on smart forest management, training, research, and getting ahead of fire season — not just reacting to it.

One big part of the plan? Expanding the Good Neighbor Authority — a program that allows federal agencies to work directly with states, tribes, and counties to restore forests and rangelands. The idea is to fast-track cross-boundary work so wildfires don’t stop at one border and wreak havoc across another.

State Forester Kelly Norris called the EO “a critical step” toward making real progress on the ground — especially when it comes to getting projects moving before wildfire season hits.

“Mitigation is the most cost-effective way to manage wildfire,” Norris said. “This gives us the support we need to expand that work.”

Chris Campbell, deputy regional forester for the Intermountain Region, echoed that sentiment. He said the order will help strengthen long-standing partnerships and take them to the next level — with shared goals and a focus on protecting both forests and the communities that depend on them.

The executive order went into effect immediately, and state leaders say the work starts now.

So if you’re someone who lives near the woods, works in forestry, or just loves spending weekends in Wyoming’s wild spaces — this one’s for you.