REP. VASQUEZ SPEAKS OUT AGAINST ADMINISTRATION'S DECISION TO GUT U.S. FOREST SERVICE, CITING INCREASED WILDFIRE RISKS AND THREATS TO PUBLIC LANDS

Washington, April 14 -- Representative Gabe Vasquez issued the following press release:

On April 14, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the below statement condemning the Administration's decision to gut the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). The Congressman cited concerns about increased wildfire risks and threats to public lands as the Administration relocates agency headquarters from Washington, D.C. to Utah and shutters 57 research stations across the U.S. - moves which could cut the USFS workforce by as much as 50%.

"The Administration's plan to relocate USFS headquarters to Utah and shutter 57 research stations will gut the agency from the inside out. This wildfire season, more lives and property will be lost directly be...