Forest Service Chief Michael Boren Pressed for More Aircraft on 7-Acre Idaho Fire, Report Says
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Aug 14
Forest Service Chief Michael Boren Pressed for More Aircraft on 7-Acre Idaho Fire, Report Says
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Aug 14
Summary
Michael Boren, who oversees the US Forest Service, repeatedly contacted regional and national staff in July about the 7-acre Cabin Creek fire burning near his Idaho ranch, the Washington Post reported.
Nine aircraft — including helicopters, air tankers and tactical planes — responded on July 12, and six current and former officials told the Post that was more than typical for a blaze of that size.
At least some aircraft were diverted from other Idaho fires, according to the Post’s flight-path analysis and two agency officials, even though the fire posed no significant threat to life or property.
The blaze, started by an unattended campfire, was 100% contained by July 15; Boren owns a 480-acre ranch in the Sawtooth national recreation area.
USDA denied any improper intervention, saying Boren was expected to communicate with agencies he oversees and did not pressure leaders or order extra resources.