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Videowall for Wildfires, UC San Diego's AlertCalifornia Partnering with CAL FIRE

by Webmaster |

CAL FIRE San Diego Unit (https://www.fire.ca.gov/) sent along a press release announcing that the University of California San Diego, with whom they have worked since July 2023 on the ALERTCalifornia program, has installed a Videowall in the San Diego Interagency Emergency Command Center to provide real-time intelligence of incidents throughout the region.

Forest Service to hold Women in Wildfire training camp in Northern California

by Webmaster |

Women looking for a career change have a unique opportunity coming up as the U.S. Forest Service will be holding a wildfire training camp on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest in Northern California similar to the Women in Wildfire training camp held on the Los Padres National Forest in Southern California.

Prescribed fire liability pilot program in Oregon launches

by Webmaster |

A new pilot program, modeled after one in California, meant to increase the use of prescribed burns and help businesses that conduct them maintain access to insurance, will provide state liability coverage for future prescribed fires.

'Inside slider' to bring dire wildfire weather to parts of California

by Webmaster |

Pacific Gas & Electric officials warned Tuesday that the utility could cut power in five San Francisco Bay Area counties beginning on Thursday due to dry and windy weather conditions that could heighten the wildfire risk across the Golden State.

Tiger Creek Fire grows to 611 acres; more firefighters added

by Webmaster |

More than 300 firefighters from multiple agencies and states continue to battle the 611-acre Tiger Creek Fire, which began as a prescribed fire in the Mill Creek Municipal Watershed, about 15 miles southeast of Walla Walla, bringing the blaze to 7% containment.

Arizona fire crews gain control of fires burning near Payson and Pine

by Webmaster |


WILDFIRES
Arizona fire crews gain control of fires burning near Payson and Pine
Portrait of Miguel TorresMiguel Torres
Arizona Republic







The two wildfires that have been burning for a month near Payson and Pine saw major containment on Monday morning, according to the U.S. National Forest Service.

Feds testing first respirators for wildland firefighters

by Webmaster |

The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate is midway through a five-year, $1.7 million effort to develop a respirator that's up to the outdoor task.

Up to 14,000 people evacuated ahead of wildfire burning south of Reno

by Webmaster |

Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District officials reported that the 6,500-acre Davis Fire, which broke out Saturday in Davis Creek Regional Park south of Reno, closed major roadways, cut power to thousands, shut down schools and forced 12,000 to 14,000 people in the Washoe Valley to leave their homes. Up to 14,000 people evacuated ahead of wildfire burning south of Reno.

Thousands flee Line Fire in Southern California

by Webmaster |

The blaze on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest had grown to more than 20,000 acres (32 square miles) as of Monday evening, and was 3% contained.

Thousands of Lightning Strikes Across the West Have Resulted in Numerous New Ignitions

by Webmaster |

housands of lightning strikes across the West have resulted in numerous new ignitions, some of which have become new large wildfires, and there is potential for others to do firefighters credit nifcthe same. Currently, 63 large active wildfires are being managed with full suppression strategies. Current wildfires have burned 1,927,516 acres.

Cal Fire expands night aerial firefighting capability

by Webmaster |

Cal Fire reported that it continues to see success on initial attack and major wildland fires with its fleet of Cal Fire Hawks and contracted night water dropping helicopters.

Garage Into Brewery

by Kristen Inbody GREAT FALLS TRIBUNE |

Great Beer

Smokejumper Has Sheridan Roots

by Ron Richter "Sheridan Media.com" |

The eight-person team of smokejumpers from West Yellowstone who were brought in to help fight the Sheep Creek Fire in the Bighorn Mountains west of Dayton have moved on to fight the next fire. Sheridan Media's Ron Richter sat down with one of the smokejumpers who grew up in Sheridan.

Sam Cox The Smokejumper

by Drew Petersen-Powder Magazine |

Montana Skier Fights Fires

Last Year For DC-3

by Rob Chaney--Missoulian |

The End of the Doug

Alaska Smokejumpers

by Emily Schwing KUAC Fairbanks |

Jumpers Ready For Big Season

Fire Season Slows

by Chuck Sheley |

Project Work Sets In

Bases Jumped Out

by Chris Sorensen |

On Sunday afternoon August 18, several Bases are jumped out.

Jon Ueland to Retire

by Chuck Sheley |

West Yellowstone Base Manager Moves On

Follow Dwight Chambers

by Chuck Sheley |

Send encouragement to fellow jumper and family.

2013 NSA Scholarship

by Webmaster |

ART JUKKALA-JON MCBRIDE NATIONAL SMOKEJUMPER ASSOCIATION
ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS

The NSA would like your feedback

by webmaster |

Your participation will help insure that any work we do to smokejumpers.com will be in line with serving your needs and interests.

RAC Reunion Postponed

by Chris Sorensen |

Due to repeated poor air quality indexes associated with the Pole Creek Fire that and its proximity to the proposed site of the SMJK reunion next weekend, the committee has unanimously agreed to suspend the celebration until a later date.

Smoke Jumpers fight lightning fires

by Patric Hedlund and Gary Meyer |

Skies exploded with crashing thunder and strobing lightning as a tropical storm cell pounded the western end of the Mountain Communities with heavy rains Saturday, Aug. 11. Flooding water gushed down streets in Pine Mountain.

Lightning fire burning in Carson-Iceberg Wilderness

by Joel Metzger |

A lightning fire called the Wheats Fire was discovered early Monday morning had burned 20 acres in the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness as of Tuesday afternoon, according to a report from the Stanislaus National Forest Service.

Historic First Fire Jump In South Dakota

by Chris Sorensen |

8 BLM Jumpers from a Spike Base in Rawlins WY made the first ever fire jump in South Dakota on the Parker Peak Fire June 3, 2012

Russian Smokejumpers Visit Missoula Base

by Chris Sorensen |

The Missoula SmokeJumper Base hosted a contingent of Russian Smokejumpers in an effort to improve management of wildfire and agricultural burning.

Smoke Jumper, Moon Pilot Released

by webmaster |

Life of Smoke Jumper and Apollo Astronaut Stuart Roosa is chronicled in new book from Acclaim Press and Willie G. Moseley

Walt Wasser Retires

by Leo Cromwell (IDC-66) |

After 395 fire jumps and 834 total jumps with the USFS/BLM,Wally Wasser retires at age 57!

Visit our new Bargain Bin

by webmaster |

Visit the NSA Store's new Bargain Bin for great deals!

Robert Howard Information

by Marvin Miller |

I'm sure that Bob could use some words of encouragement from any past and present jumpers who would like to send him a card or letter.

Jedidiah Lusk Passes Away

by Chuck Sheley |

Jedidiah Lusk died last night (Jan. 3) after a 10-month battle with cancer.

Eddy Wards Retirement Party

by Doug Houston |

Eddy Ward, Missoula Smokejumper Unit Manager, is retiring and you are all welcome to see him off.

Gallery down for a few weeks

by webmaster |

The Image Gallery will be down into January until I can get time for a full upgrade.

Image Gallery Down

by webmaster |

The Image Gallery is down through the weekend for maintenance.

Death-Wish Jobs: Smokejumpers Meld Sky Diving, Firefighting

by webmaster |

Smokejumpers spend their careers going to the wrong place at the wrong time. They parachute to the edge of wildfires deep in roadless wilderness, then fight the massive blazes with little more than hand tools.

Yensen Transferred to Rehab

by Chuck Sheley |

Bill Yensen has been transferred to a rehabilitation center this morning.

Smokejumper To Be Honored

by Chuck Sheley |

the California Professional Firefighters organization will add two Regional-5 smokejumper’s names to the memorial wall honoring those who died in the line of duty in 1970

Yensen Update

by Chuck Sheley |

Bill is still hospitalized at St Lukes (downtown) in Boise. Bill is improving and was moved from ICU to a regular roo

Yensen Update

by Chuck Sheley |

Bill Yensen is still in St. Lukes hospital (downtown) but has been moved back to the CCU (Critical Care Unit).

New North Cascades Base Manager

by Doug Houston |

Congratulations to Daren Belsby, the 6th base manager of the North Cascades Smokejumper Base.

Updates On Jedidiah Lusk

by Chuck Sheley |

Cynthia Lusk reminded me that her daughter posts updates on Jedidiah.

Yensen Update

by Chuck Sheley |

I just got off the phone with Bill's wife, Arlene, and here is the update of Bill's battle with the Staph Infection.

Bill Yensen In Hospital

by Chuck Sheley |

The doctors have described his condition as a very severe Staph Infection through-out his body.

Smokey Bear Campaign

by Michael Bellavia |

Our current focus is to get Smokey’s message out to young adults via social media

Jon McBride Update

by Chuck Sheley |

Jon’s obituary will follow, but this is an early alert regarding his memorial service.

Gallery back up

by webmaster |

Got gallery back up. Will need to see if it

Image Gallery update

by Webmaster |

I'm hoping to upgrade our gallery script and solve our issue before the reunion

Image Gallery Down

by Webmaster |

Hosting problems have the image gallery down

Jon McBride Dies

by Chuck Sheley |

Roger Savage called from Missoula and informed me that Jon McBride (MSO-54) died this afternoon while on a bike ride with the Missoula group.

Cliff Dalzell (MSO-61) Memorial

by Chuck Sheley |

Cliff's memorial service has been scheduled for July 12 at 11 AM at St. John's Cathedral in Boise.

Recent Smokejumper Retirements

by Doug Houston |

He left jumping last Friday and started a new job with the State of Montana as head of their safety program. So much for retirement...

CMT airs series on Smokejumpers

by Carl Gidlund |

For those who may be interested, this Friday on CMT a new television series focused on our Smokejumpers will air on CMT.

Richard Rothermel Recalls helping Norman Maclean

by Chris Sorensen |

Retired Fire Scientist Richard Rothermel made a presentation on the Forest Service pamphlet "The Race that Couldn't Be Won" at the Intermountain Fire Lab this week.

75th Anniversary of DC-3 this year at Oshkosh

by Larry Longley |

The Oshkosh Airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin is planning a huge gathering of DC-3's in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the DC-3.

Mark Kroger In Boise Hospital

by Chuck Sheley |

Leo Cromwell (IDC-66) passed along information that Mark Kroger (RDD-73) is in St.

Frank Solf

by Bill Woolworth |

Dr. Frank Solf, MSO and GAC during the late 60s and early 70s has myelofibrosis, a bone marrow disease.

Hal Ewing Passes Away

by Chuck Sheley |

Wes Brown (CJ-66) passed along the sad news that long time smokejumper pilot Hal Ewing passed away March 8, 2010

Hal Ewing Having Medical Problems

by Chuck Sheley |

Wes Brown (CJ-66) told us that long-time smokejumper pilot, Hal Ewing, has had some very serious surgeries with more coming up.

How To Help The Lusk Family

by Chuck Sheley |

Tara Rothwell (RAC-92) will be our link to the Lusk's and will advise us on how a donation from the NSA Good Sam Fund can best be used.

Lusk Family In Time of Need

by chuck sheley |

Cynthia Lusk (RAC-87) called me today after her son (Jedidiah their youngest) had been flown to UC Davis. He's been diagnosed with a inoperable brain tumor.

NSA Trail Maintenance Report 2009

by Bill Ruskin |

The report covers Projects, Funding, Tools, Scholarships and the activities of the Advisory Council.

Timothy Dalton. Taylor Sr.

by Timothy D. Taylor Jr. |

Wish to inform all who knew my father, he passed on October 3rd 2009.

Harry Roberts (MSO-53) Ill

by chuck sheley |

Bill Murphy (MSO-56) reports that Harry Roberts went to the hospital for lung problems in November.

Current Postings on NSA Trail Blogs

by Bill Ruskin |

New postings are available on the NSA Trail Maintenance Resource blog and the NSA Colorado Projects blog

Earl Cooley Memorial Nov. 16th

by chuck sheley |

A memorial service for Earl Cooley (MSO-40) will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 16, at the Sunset Funeral Home. A family burial will take place at 2 p.m. Monday, at the Corvallis Cemetery.

Senior's project gets boost from Smokejumpers

by webmaster |

So when Kelsey had a project to make an informational poster for one of her design classes, she thought it would be great to make the poster about smoke jumpers, to educate her peers about the men and women who jump from planes into raging forest fire.

Clayton Berg (MSO-52) Memorial

by Chuck Sheley |

There will be a celebration of the life of Clayton Berg (MSO-52) Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Valley Nursery in Helena at 2:00 P.M.

Johnson Tri Motor N8419 Flies Again

by Chris Sorensen |

Johnson Flying Service Ford Trimotor N8419 flew from Kalamazoo/Battel Creek Michigan Airport to Alma Michigan this week after being resotred by a group of dedicated volunteers.

Hebgen Lake Earthquake 50th Anniversary

by Chris Sorensen |

Fifty years ago Monday, Montana’s most violent recorded earthquake struck near Yellowstone National Park.

Leonard Piper Remembered in His Hometown

by Chris Sorensen |

Leonard Piper grew up on a farm with five brothers and three sisters. He was a popular student at Derry High School, where he took part in a play and enlisted in the Navy before graduating in 1945.

Fire Burning near Mann Gulch

by Chris Sorensen |

As of this morning the fire was at 457 acres with one Type II hand crew, and a helicopter and engine on the fire.

Last Frontier

by webmaster |

“There was a really big open area to jump into, and I think I jinxed myself because I told my buddy, ‘Oh, I can land in that.’

BLM Firefighter Killed in the Line of Duty

by Chris Sorensen |

Brett Stearns, 29, from Craig, Colo., was working with 12 other firefighters to clear trees at Freeman Reservoir, 15 miles northeast of Craig, said BLM spokeswoman Lynn Barclay.

Memorial Service for Ed Weissenback

by chuck sheley |

Upcoming on Friday, September 11, 2009, a short memorial service will be held at the Eagle Point, Oregon, National Cemetery for Ed Weissenback (CJ-64). The service is scheduled at 11:00 a.m.

Limited Edition Smokejumper Print

by Lowell Hanson |

The print captures two smokejumpers descending on a jump spot near a forest fire in the mountains above famous Rock Creek, Montana.

P2V Neptune Air Tanker Crash

by Doug Houston |

A Neptune Aviation P2V airtanker, Tanker 42, crashed Saturday morning, yesterday, killing all 3 on board.

Charley Moseley in Seton Medical Center

by John Moseley (Charley's son) |

Charley had an episode with his heart this week and got a helicopter ride from Bastrop to Austin, TX.

Gary Welch (CJ '60) Takes On Leukemia

by webmaster |

Charley Moseley tells us Gary Welch's Leukemia has returned and he has chosen to go into an experimental drug regime

Smokejumper Beer now Available

by Doug Houston |

The Smokejumper Smoked Imperial Stout beer, brewed by the Lefthand Brewing company, is now available in stores across the U.S.

400 Attend Memorial for Tanker 09 Crew

by Chris Sorensen |

400 friends, family, co-workers and mourners gathered at the Neptune hangar in Missoula this past Saturday to remember the crew from Tanker 09 which was lost on September 1 near Reno.

Early Cooley in rehab

by Doug Houston |

Earl Cooley, pioneer smokejumper, now 97 years of age is currently in rehab at Village Health Center after a serious bout of flu and pneumonia.

Tree Climbing Underway in Massachusetts

by Chris Sorensen |

Two dozen U.S. Forest Service smokejumpers from seven western bases will climb trees in Worcester for the next two months, looking for infestations of the Asian longhorned beetle.

Smokejumper Smoked Imperial Porter 2008 Rollout

by Bill Ruskin |

Expect the 2008 SSIP roll-out party (only one party this year) at the brewery sometime in late November or early December. SSIP will be available in many more states than it was in 2006

Earl Cooley Turns 97

by Doug Houston |

Earl Cooley turns a young 97 on September 26th

Neptune Tanker 09 Crashes

by Doug Houston |

Neptune Tanker 09 crashed shortly after takeoff from Stead in Nevada on Labor Day. A left engine fire started the eventual crash killing
Gene Wahlstrom, 61, pilot, Greg Gonsioroski, 41, co-pilot, and Zachary VanderGriend, 25, mechanic.

Reunion at Redmond: September 19, 20 and 21st

by Charley Moseley |

It is being held... at the very beautiful Eagle Crest Lodge about five miles west of Redmond. Please hail past and current jumpers—and their friends.

Air Force Rescue Supports Jumpers

by Andrew Butte |

Since the precedence was set using the Jolly(s), every active jumper might want to know what went
right and what could be done better.

Plankowner's Surving Wife Needs Your Help

by Wes Langley |

This is a call to action to smokejumpers all over the country who have an opportunity to be of some assistance to this very special lady and surviving wife of a famous early smokejumper.

Forest Service Jumpers Train on Ram-Airs

by Doug Houston |

Monday, 12 USFS smokejumpers started ram-air rookie training in Fairbanks. The jumpers are a representation from most of the FS bases.

New Alaska BLM Base Manager

by Doug Houston |

Bill Cramer has accepted the Alaska BLM Smokejumper Base Manager position.

In Memory of Dr. W. Thomas McGrath

by webmaster |


Tom, who died March 9, was a Missoula jumper in 1957, 1958, 1960, 1975-1979, 1981-1983 and 1985. He was a forestry professor at Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas.

Alaska jumpers train as spring breaks

by webmaster |

That’s not a bird, or a plane and, despite the appearance of the red and blue canopy flying through the sky, it’s not a superhero either. It’s a smokejumper from the Alaska Fire Service on the first day of training.

Doctor made house calls — by parachute

by CURT SYNNESS (Independent Record) |

More than 60 years ago, before helicopters were used for mountain and wilderness rescues, Helena's Dr. Amos "Bud" Little was making rescues from the sky.

Richard Widmark Dies

by Chris Sorensen |

Richard Widmark Died Monday at this home on Roxbury Conecticut at age 93

Membership Store Back in Business

by webmaster |

The Membership Store is back in business and ready to take your new applications and membership and renewals alike.

Smokejumper Survives When Both Chutes Fail

by Bob Garrard McCall (MYC 1949) |

"Bob, pull your emergency chute", I heard myself mumble.When I did, it tried to open,then proceeded to wrap around the main chute.

'Tin Goose' to fly from Midland

by Stuart Frohm (ourmidland.com) |

Paying passengers will have a chance in August to take off from Midland Barstow Airport on a 79-year-old "Tin Goose" airliner that transported smokejumpers. The Ford Tri-Motor, piloted by former Midlander and veteran airline pilot Cody Welch, is to be at the airport Aug. 18-20.

Smokejumper's "Bucket List"

by Bill Ruskin |

Have you ever wanted to hike the Bob from North to South? Led by Mike Overby, MSO'67 several NSA trail crew volunteers are planing to do this prior to meeting up with an NSA trail crew in July.

Membership Store still down

by webmaster |

Membership Store still experiencing problems at the start of March '08

Evergreen Aviation Museum Spokejumper Display

by Doug Houston |

Tommy Albert, old CJ smokejumper and smokejumper pilot, has added a really well done model of the jumper dumper airplane, the twin beech, to the smokejumper display at the Evergreen Aviation Museum.

Indian Meadows Guard Station

by Jon McBride |

This article appeared in the latest NSA Trail Maintenance Newsletter which was just released.

Sign Up Begins for 2008 NSA Trail Maintenance Program

by Bill Ruskin |

If you are a member of the NSA and interested in getting back in the woods with a group of fellow smokejumpers working on trail or restoration projects in the national forests, please complete the form by March 15

An open letter from Darryl Christian

by Darryl Christian (NCSB '74) |

There is a bond between smokejumpers, that is not always achieved in many of our jobs and careers that we may have had after our unique experiences of being a "smokejumper". Once you are a smokejumper, you are always a part of that family.

Geof Hochmuht's Retirement Party

by webmaster |

Three things from 1950 that no longer have to work:
1.The 1950 Lincoln Continental
2.Post war advertising
3.Geof Hochmuht!

Flooding Victim Needs Help

by Doug Houston |

Daryl Christian, prior NCSB and Redmond jumper from the 70's/80's, was one of those whose home was caught in the flood causing excessive damage.

Russian smokejumpers

by Glenn Hodges (National Geographic Society) |

with more moxie than money, the world's first and largest aerial firefighting force snuffs wildfires across 11 time zones

Work rekindles firefighting tales

by Sam Taylor |

Project lets former smokejumpers reconnect while helping remodel Forest Service cabin

Rescue Dawn - A big disappointment

by Denny Breslin |

But after reading the critical comments from Gene DeBruin's family and the account from Phisit, it is clear that Mr. Herzog went beyond the bounds of "literary license" into what amounts to mean fiction.

New Merchandiser for NSA

by Doug Houston |

Stan Linnertz has taken over as the NSA Board Director in charge of Merchandising and is working closely with KASMAR

Ford Tri-Motor for Sale

by Norm Hill FBX 63 |

Want to own your own Frod Tri-Motor? One's for sale!

Watch Company Honors Montana Smokejumpers

by John Walden |

Bozeman Watch Co. chief executive Christopher Wardle presented Doug Houston, president of the National Smokejumper Association, with a check

Maclean Book Signing

by Kelly Andersson |

Maclean's book profiles the firefighters and details the chronology of the perfect set-up for a perfectly disastrous fire.

Help Scott Anderson

by chuck sheley |

At this time (Sept. 2007), Scott has been hospitalized in Boise for over nine weeks and has undergone four rounds of chemotherapy.

Scott Anderson (McC 84-03) diagnosed

by Doug Houston |

Scott Anderson, McCall 84-03, and currently working at BIFC, was diagnosed with leukemia in June.

Maclean, new Thirtymile blaze book

by John Walden |

"What startled me, and eventually entrapped me in the story, was the personalities of the four people who died," Maclean said

OSHA faults Forest Service in deaths of 5 firefighters

by John Walden |


"The real bottom line is OSHA and the Forest Service will hopefully work together to prevent tragedies like this in the future…. It's not about providing a scapegoat,"

RescueDawntheTruth.com

by Stevan Smith |

After seeing "Rescue Dawn" I learned that it is a good movie for people who do not know the real story.

Redding Jumpers Get in Fast, Keep 'em Small

by webmaster |

As a lightning-ignited fire raged deep in the Sierra backcountry north of Truckee, Derek Kramer threw himself from a turbo-prop airplane at 1,500 feet and hurtled toward the ground.

Family, Friends of Gene DeBruin Critical of Herzog Film

by Jerry DeBruin (Associate) |

The movie is vaguely based on the book Escape From Laos, written by Dieter Dengler. However, the movie takes liberties that are offensive to anyone who is familiar with the events..

Where memories still smoulder

by webmaster |

"We want to make sure there's a permanent record of what happened up there," Savage said.

Boise Reunion will raffle Items

by Doug Houston |

The Boise Reunion will have a silent auction on Friday and a raffle of a New Sako Rifle & Original Ken Perkins SJ Art ending Saturday.

Idaho City Tour (Reunion)

by Francis Mohr |

bus up/from Idaho City (39 miles from Boise) to the old Jumper Base, tour of Historic Buildings, Lunch in the Park, a demo jump from the McCall Base where we all trained, and music/refreshments on the lawn/house of Kenn Smith

Max Glaves (MYC-47) Surgery

by chuck sheley |

Max Glaves' family wants to the smokejumper community to know that Max is recovering from artery surgery

Reunion2007---UPDATE as of 3/14/2007

by webmaster |

Reunion Registrations are arriving and we have determined a trend: A hearty interest in having Group Activities on Friday June 8

Pat Wilson Retirement & National Award

by Doug Houston |

The award compliments Pat on his outstanding contributions in technical, safety and promotional parachute projects.

A leap of faith

by John Walden |

Former smokejumper spearheads effort to turn a closed base near Cave Junction into a museum honoring the airborne firefighters

Frenchtown Rural Fire District Hiring Students

by Chris Sorensen |

Frenchtown Rural Fire District is currently accepting applications from young men and women to participate in FF/EMT training program.

MORE Reunion 2007 information

by Steve Nemore (RAC 69) |

Lots of new downloadable information on the Reunion 2007 link from this website.

The Thirtymile fire burns on and on

by John Walden |

T his is the offseason for the nation's wildland firefighters, yet from Oregon to Montana to New Mexico there is a palpable fear and anxiety among the men and women responsible for quelling Western forest fires.

Redding Smokejumpers Turn 50

by webmaster |

The Redding Smokejumper Base will be celebrating its 50th anniversary on May 19th 2007.

Bozeman Watch Sale

by Doug Houston |

This a correction to the article written December ll.

Left Hand Brewing Funds Art Jukkala Scholarship Fund

by Bill Ruskin |

Chris Lennert, Director of Sales and Marketing for Left Hand Brewing presented Stan Linnertz (MSO '61) with a check for $800 for the Art Jukkala Scholarship Program.

Forest Service veterans worry about precedent

by John Walden |

The possibility of being held personally liable for actions during wildland fires has loomed over firefighters ever since four local firefighters died in the Thirtymile Fire.

Left Hand Brewing Co. Introduces Smokejumper Porter

by webmaster |

Three separate events in Colorado are planned for the release, all with proceeds going directly to a scholarship fund for children of Smokejumpers killed in action.

Engine 57 Memorial Web Site

by Chris Sorensen |

A memorial web site has been created to honor the 5 USFS Firefighters killed in the line of duty on the Esperanza Fire.

NSA Trail Maintenance Report 2006

by Bill Ruskin |

The report to the NSA Board of Directors on October 7, at their annual meeting in Wenatchee, WA.

Bozeman Watch Co. Auctions SmokeJumper Chronograph for NSA Fundraiser

by John Tarver Bailey - Bozeman Watch Co. |

We at the Bozeman Watch Company are proud to be able to help the efforts of the smokejumpers around the country, and have donated upwards of US$2,000 to the NSA through sales of our SmokeJumper Chronograph

Hero saves 2, honored

by Kate Ramsayer (bendbulletin.com) |

"My first thought was to save myself, but after I did there was no question" about going back to save the others, he said.

Benefit Auction for Finn Ward

by webmaster |

A Benefit Auction for Finn Ward will be held on September 16 at the Traveler's Rest Country Store in Montana.

Jumping into wildfire season

by John Walden |

When fires first setup is when people like Lyndsey Lalicker get the call. Lalicker is a smokejumper working out of West Yellowstone.

Liability questions for firemen linger

by John Walden |

Firefighter Kenneth Jordan once hoped to lead one of the nation's elite teams of specialized wildfire and disaster incident managers. Not anymore.

NSA 2006 Trail Projects Underway

by Bill Ruskin |

Jon McBride, NSA trail maintenance program chief, announced today that the 2006 NSA Trail is well underway.

Help Needed-Finn Ward Fund

by webmaster |

Finn Ward is the son of Edmund Ward, current Missoula Smokejumper Base Manager, and Pam Ward. ...Finn’s medical expenses have exceeded $100,000 above what the insurance has covered to date.

Final flight

by John Walden |

Freddie Miller jumped out of airplanes for four years of his life.

NSA Project Descriptions for 2006

by Bill Ruskin |

Jon Mcbride, NSA trail boss released detailed descriptions of trail and releated maintenance projects for 2006 today.

National Smokejumper Center, Phase 1

by John Walden |

The National Smokejumper Center (NSC) was "born" during a meeting at the USFS West Yellowstone Smokejumper Base on April 27, 2006.

Just In Time For Fire Season

by John Walden |

Evergreen International Aviation... reports the mammoth tanker is ready to fly

BIA regional director retiring

by John Walden |

Keith Beartusk's career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs has gone beyond his wildest expectations.

Saw Certification Set for June 22

by webmaster |

Good news for any NSA volunteer that would like to get crosscut saw certified and volunteer for an NSA trail maintenance project at the same time

Lawmakers say dry winter, budget cuts fuel fire dangers

by John Walden |

As the parched Southwest braces for a record wildfire season, some lawmakers say they are worried that repeated cuts in the Forest Service budget have left it unprepared to fight forest fires.

Friends of Tim DeJong

by Betty Violette |

The family of Tom De Jong will host a memorial July 21, 2006 in the Wilma Bldg. basement meeting room 4-7 pm.

'Hot Shots' ready for the fire season

by John Walden |

The mission of the Feather River Hot Shots is to serve the public by going to national disasters and wildfires

March 4th Board Meeting

by Chuck Sheley |

ACTION ITEMS FROM RENO, NEVADA NSA BOARD MEETING

Half of Heavy Tankers Never Coming Back

by Chris Sorensen |

Federal officials say Arizona will have the necessary aerial resources to help battle a potentially huge fire season, despite the loss of half of their heavy airtanker fleet.

Early wildfire season expected

by John Walden |

Warm, dry and fire prone. That's the prediction weather scientists, foresters and fire officials are making for New Mexico in the coming months.

Smokejumpers and Antarctica

by Michael Hill (WYS 95) |

What connections do smokejumpers have with Antarctica? I once asked myself and now having spent a season down on the "Ice" I’ve discovered just what the link is.

Merry Christmas

by Doug Houston, President, NSA |

With another year coming to a close, it has been a good one for the National Smokejumper Association.

John Berry (RAC-70) retired

by webmaster |

John Berry (RAC-70) retired January 3, 2006 from the Eldorado National Forest. John was Forest Supervisor from July 1999 till his retirement.

Grant Creek logging proposed for fuels reduction

by John Walden |

It's such a perfect example of what the Forest Service considers a bad situation that the agency has used it as a scenario in a national training course.

Forest Service meeting draws avid response

by John Walden |

Panelists Dale Bosworth, Chuck Keegan, Sherm Anderson and John Gatchell listen to Sen. Conrad Burns, R-Mont., as he introduces a hearing on the Forest Service planning process Friday in Missoula.

Grants fuel fire safety funds

by John Walden |

State and federal agencies are giving away money to community groups trying to protect themselves from fire

Remembering Mann Gulch

by John Walden |

Robert Sallee seems a forthcoming yet reluctant celebrity of sorts.

Idaho company to maintain Mann Gulch Trail

by Idaho company wins contract to maintain Mann Gulch Trail |

Clearway Services of Whitebird won the contract for the Mann Gulch trail reconstruction and maintenance project

Triple Nickel to hold reunion

by webmaster |

In 1945, when the soldiers finally got their orders to head to the West Coast, they thought they would be going to fight against Japan in the Pacific. Instead, their train made a pit stop in the mountains of Oregon.

The New NSA Store is Here

by webmaster |

Our former store is now converted to the Membership Store, where you can renew your existing membership, or become a new member just as you have before.

The 'Big Easy'

by Romie Deschamps MSO 61-64 |

My wife, Pat whom alot of MSO jumpers know, as a Nurse from St. Pats was deployed to Katrinia via a DMAT strike team.

Jackson MS Fire Department Requests Assistance

by Chris Sorensen |

Chief Farrar of the Jackson MS is requesting the following items for his Department. I can confirm that this is a legitimate request.

First Smokejumpers Deployed to Southeast

by Chris Sorensen |

According to this mornings Smokejumper Status Report, 3 Boise Smokejumpers have deployed to the Southeast for Hurricane Katrina relief eforts.

Shelters Deployed on Tarkio Fire

by Chris Sorensen |

3 Firefighters deployed fire shelters during a burnover on the Tarkio Fire west of Missoula Thursday Evenin

50-year celebration Next Week in Willows

by webmaster |

On August 13 at the Willows Airport, the Mendocino National Forest will host an anniversary day marking the 50th year of aerial firefighting.

Last Days of Smokejumpers.com Store!

by webmaster |

The last days of the Smokejumpers.com Store are passing quickly. Don't miss the bargans on the last few remaining products!

Chasing Beetles in New York City

by webmaster |

The Asian longhorned beetle has once again been discovered in Central Park and smokejumpers are on the scene to lend a hand

All Books $9.95!

by webmaster |

All remaining Books are now just $9.95!

Limited time NSA Store closeout

by webmaster |

Time is running out on the NSA's online store closeout pricing! All remaining Caps and T-Shirts just $9.95!

NSA Forum Down for a few days

by webmaster |

The NSA's forum will be down for a few days while we make updates to our software.

Tanker Down on the Lassen NF

by Chris Sorensen-Associate |

An Aero Union P3 Orion Air Tanker was lost on the Lassen National Forest Wednesday evening during a training flight.

Former smokejumper leaps into retirement

by webmaster |

McChesney retired in January from a 35-year career battling fires for the Forest Service - a career that took him all over North America and gave him thousands of memories.

Heat Seeking Human Missiles

by Doug Houston |

In a quest to find the "toughest tongue in town," a smokejumper outlasted a Klingon and a roller derby queen to take home the crown

Curt McChesney's Retirement

by Doug Houston |

Curt was a longtime Missoula smokejumper who has been the FMO at the West Fork District, Bitterroot National Forest, for the past several years.

Jumpers to Russia

by Doug Houston |

His hopes are to find some of the older jumpers for interviews and research the aerial fire protection service gaining historical information on the Russian smokejumper program.

More Mike McMillan!

by Webmaster |

Mike McMillian has added a whole new album to his ever-popular photo gallery!

A change in Interagency Smokejumper Delivery System?

by webmaster |

an improved parachute system used by both agencies could decrease operational complexity without sacrificing current efficiencies and could produce economies of scale that would help reduce the cost of parachute procurement

HOA settles wildfire suit

by John Accola, Rocky Mountain News |

Group blamed for Sand Dunes blaze will pay $695,000

Cubin Survives Strong Challenge

by Chris Sorensen |

Rep. Barbara Cubin, R-Wyo., who drafted and is carrying the
Public Safety Officer Benenfit for Pilots in the House, won a sixth
term Tuesday.

NSA Merchandise Manager wanted!!

by Webmaster |

A significant portion of NSA funding for important programs such as reunions, membership services, and museum displays comes from the sale of NSA merchandise.

Hawkins and Powers looks for financial Help

by Chris Sorensen |

The aerial firefighting company puts $32 million a year into the local economy. Its troubles have serious implications for the schools, services and the area at large.

Image Gallery Restored

by webmaster |

After several months’ absence, the popular image gallery is now restored.

NSA Historian Needed

by Chuck Sheley (Editor) |

Volunteer Historian needed to ensure NSA/Smokejumping history is accurately represented, maintained and preserved

Button Appointed To Lead Smokejumpers

by Doug Houston (NSA President) |

John Button, a smokejumper for 31 years, has been named manager of the North Cascades Smokejumper Base

One Dead In Copter Crash

by Doug Houston (NSA President) |

A pilot was killed when his helicopter crashed ferrying supplies to a remote fire in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

Fire Jumps Leader

by Doug Houston (NSA President) |

It was Dale's 300th fire jump and Mark's 299th. That is an amazing amount of experience and jumps on one fire.

Smoke jumper thrives on diving in

by Webmaster |

"My main goal in life was to become a smoke jumper, and once I became one, I had no desire to do anything else," says Longanecker

Wildfire nerve center tracks the hot spots

by webmaster |

"After a good lightning bust comes through, we'll get inundated with a couple of hundred (reports)," said Steve Arasim, the assistant emergency operations manager.

Alaska fires draw crews from across nation

by webmaster |

The Alaska Fire Service building at Fort Wainwright has become a crossroads for firefighting personnel who are rushing in from all over the state and country to help with the worst fire season in decades.

World War II-era smokejumpers passing on

by Webmaster |

"They are the World War II generation that we're losing thousands of by the day," former smokejumper Chuck Sheley said.

FSEER Suing Forest Service

by Chris Sorensen |

FSEER is suing the forest service over the names in the death investigation of the 2003 central Idaho wildfire

Mountain of memories

by webmaster |

Hundreds ascend Storm King in honor of fallen firefighters

Storm King and its legacy

by webmaster |

"We were supposed to save our own lives," he said. "Once we got here, we should have been able to save our own lives."

Smokejumpers.com going off-line

by Webmaster |

Beginning Thursday evening June 10th around 7pm, Smokejumpers.com will be off-line for an indeterminate length of time as we adjust to hosting changes

Government Contracting 100 Aircraft

by Chris Sorensen |

BLM Director Kathleen Clarke and Forest Service Chief Dale Bosworth said yesterday that they couldn't justify using the old tankers because of safety risks.

Missing the 2004 Reunion

by Leo Cromwell |

With deep regrets, Smokey Stover will miss this year's reunion in Missoula.

Reunion: Long lines mean less!

by Chuck Wildes |

Less Beer, BBQ and BS that is!register early for Reunion 2004! Don't be caught standing in line while the others are festificating!

6 facing USFS discipline in fatal Cramer fire

by Webmaster |

The U.S. Forest Service could suspend or dismiss six employees for their handling of the forest fire that killed two firefighters near Salmon last summer.

NTSB pinpoints airtanker crash cause

by Webmaster |

Federal regulators said Friday that inadequate maintenance of aging aircraft is to blame in three fatal firefighting accidents over the past decade

Linda Klakken Services

by Chris Sorensen |

Brenda Lee McFarland-Klakken, wife of Shane Klakken R-1 Leadplane pilot, passed away Thursday April 22, 2004, in Missoula after a year long battle with cancer.

USFS looking to diversify firefighting ranks

by Webmaster |

The U.S. Forest Service is trying to diversify its California firefighting ranks by recruiting job applicants from areas with ethnic populations.

Many Join 2004 Reunion Effort

by Webmaster |

Vendors, Sponsors, and Cooperators are stepping forward asking for a piece of the reunion action in Missoula, June 18,19,20,2004.

NIFC Orders Fire Shelter Recall

by Chris Sorensen |

officials received an anonymous report of a shelter tearing near the shake handles.

Black paratroopers' enemy: forest fires

by Webmaster |

They prepared for a shooting war in Europe and the Pacific, but ended up waging a secret war against fires and bombs in the forests of the western United States.

Officials discuss wildfire prevention

by Webmaster |

A machine that turns leaves and other fire hazards into mulch is among fire-prevention strategies shown to federal officials visiting Florida.

Fire photo contest

by Karen Mora |

Fire Management Today is seeking entries for its annual fire photo contest.

Bush budget would boost fire funds

by Webmaster |

Funding for wildfire fighting would go up significantly under President Bush’s budget plan, but the final total would still fall short of the actual money spent on fire suppression in recent years.

Nemore Retirement Party

by Eric Hipke |

Friday, March 19th and Saturday March 20th. RSVP by March 10th!

Report on fire deaths shows shift in attitude

by Webmaster |

Troyer´s words, welcomed by the families, represented a shift away from a time when the deaths of firefighters were considered unavoidable casualties, like soldiers killed in battle.

Cramer Fire Report released

by Chris Sorensen |

The final Forest Service report on the fatal Cramer Fire in Idaho is available

Nonprofit groups take up forestry

by webmaster |

As the U.S. Forest Service budget dwindles, nonprofit, community-based groups are stepping up to pick up the slack.

USFS Beech Baron Crashes in MSO

by Chris Sorensen |

A Forest Service Beech Baron crashed in Missoula Monday Night in pea soup fog.

130,000 Foot free fall

by Chris Sorensen |

SkyDiver Cheryl Stearns, is making plans for a 130,000 foot jump from the stratosphere.

The one that got away

by webmaster |

After 43 years as a firefighter's eye in the sky, Jim Haslip knows fire. Haslip spotted this year's Snowbank Fire and is convinced it never should have grown beyond a quarter-acre near Copper Creek.

Foreign Parachute Opportunity

by Ron Stoleson |

A man called me today who is planning to participate in a voluntary medical mission in Guyana.

Martha J.

by Chris Sorensen |

Her courage and perseverance over the past decade, despite the disabling effects of cancer, osteoporosis, and Parkinson's disease will remain an inspiration to all who were a part of her life.

Rocky Mountain Bureau Chief/AvWeek

by Bill Scott |

A minor update to Dennis Symes' note about Aviation Week's stories on aerial firefighting and smokejumpers

Aerial Firefighting Articles

by Denis Symes |

"I think we have to decide whether we really want to be in the aviation business, or whether we want to give that to somebody else," Hicks said. "To move into the future is going to cost a lot of money"

Reunion 2004 Information is Here!

by webmaster |

As promised, the NSA’s Reunion 2004 information is here and we have posted it to the Reunion 2004 section!

California Wildfires Test Airtanker Pilots

by Chris Sorensen |

Windshields on six tankers were cracked by the debris, and cockpits filled with smoke. Another pilot saw a 4-by-8 foot sheet of plywood sail past at 1,500 feet.

Forest Service retirees chide firefighting litigation

by chris sorensen |

the National Association of Forest Service Retirees on Tuesday lambasted a lawsuit filed against the agency by current employees who want an evaluation of the environmental and social effects of wildland firefighting.

Clearing bills

by chris sorensen |

the Northern Region spent $367 million fighting wildfires this past summer

FBI: al-Qaeda detainee spoke of fire plot

by chris sorensen |

an al-Qaeda terrorist now in detention had talked of masterminding a plot to set a series of devastating forest fires around the western United States

Alleged Hazing of Rookie Firefighters

by webmaster |

An investigation by the Federal Bureau of Land Management found evidence of hazing and sexual harassment of rookie firefighters during training.

Firefighting policy defended

by Chris Sorensen |

The whole point of the Healthy Forests Initiative and the National Fire
Plan is to get out of the fire suppression business...

Group to sue over firefighting

by webmaster |

Forest Service should study environmental, social effects, employees' association says

Pilots In Fatal Crash Identified

by webmaster |

Pilot Carl Dolbeare, 54, and co-pilot John Attardo, 51, were flying the tanker owned by Minden Air Corp out of Nevada.

Two killed in air tanker crash

by webmaster |

Minden-based firefighting air tanker crashed Friday in Southern California, killing its crew of two as they returned from a fire in Arizona, officials said.

2 dead as air tanker crashes in California

by webmaster |

A firefighting air tanker crashed Friday in the San Bernardino National Forest, bursting into flames and killing both people aboard, authorities said.

The Heat That Hides

by webmaster |

Nate Bashkirew dug his fingers beneath a clump of beargrass, looking for the heat that hides from firefighters after the flames subside.

KIA Plaque Dedication at NCSB

by Ron Stoleson |

An NSA produced plaque showing smokejumpers killed in action will be dedicated at NCSB, Friday, Sept. 26th at 1100.

NSA announces Reunion 2004!

by webmaster |

Mark June 18-20, 2004 on your calendar now for what promises to be a most exciting and memorable reunion.

Jumping into danger, side by side

by webmaster |

Mara and Tory Kendrick were competitive cross-country skiers who could not get enough of the cold stuff. Now they cannot keep away from the heat.

Out of the classroom, into adventure

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

California elementary school teacher and NSA member Tom Dwyer's summer job as a Smokejumper is highlighted.

Montana Aviation Pioneer Al Gillis Passes

by Chris Sorensen |

Just four months short of 100 years old, Albert F. "Al" Gillis, well-known aviation pioneer, passed away in his sleep early Saturday morning, Aug. 2, 2003.

Montana Aviation Pioneer Al Gillis Passes

by Chris Sorensen |

Just four months short of 100 years old, Albert F. "Al" Gillis, well-known aviation pioneer, passed away in his sleep early Saturday morning, Aug. 2, 2003.

Kenny Roth Article in the Missoulian

by Chris Sorensen |

Kenny Roth had just taken off from a backcountry ranger station when all three engines of his Ford Tri-Motor failed. A few hundred feet above the ground, there was little Roth could do but try to land in the trees.

Kenny Roth Article in the Missoulian

by Chris Sorensen |

Kenny Roth had just taken off from a backcountry ranger station when all three engines of his Ford Tri-Motor failed. A few hundred feet above the ground, there was little Roth could do but try to land in the trees.

Initial Report on Cramer Fire Fatalities

by Chris Sorensen |

The crews walked to the Cache Bar boat ramp. Shortly thereafter, the rappellers called for a helicopter to pick them up, saying that it was becoming very smoky.

Names of Cramer Fire fallen released

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

They are Jeff Allen, 24 of Salmon, Idaho and Shane Heath, 22, of Idaho’s Treasure Valley.

Cramer Fire Fatalities Initial Briefing

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Two firefighters were killed yesterday when they were trapped by fast moving fire on the Cramer Fire.

Pilot deaths led to changes

by webmaster |

The death of five air tanker pilots in 2002 prompted the federal government’s creation of a blue-ribbon panel to study its aerial fire-fighting business.

Smokejumpers.com to narrow scope of news delivery

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

After experimenting with delivering general wildland fire news, Smokejumpers.com will be narrowing the scope of staff news-posting activities.

Region 5 preparing to advertise positions

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

The Region 5 Smokejumper Unit located at the Northern California Service Center (NCSC) in Redding is currently preparing to advertise a GS-8 Smokejumper Captain/Spotter position and a GS-6 Senior Smokejumper position.

Region 5 preparing to advertise positions

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

The Region 5 Smokejumper Unit located at the Northern California Service Center (NCSC) in Redding is currently preparing to advertise a GS-8 Smokejumper Captain/Spotter position and a GS-6 Senior Smokejumper position.

Rain soaks Arizona wildfire

by Associated Press |

Rain soaked parts of a mountain wildfire for the first time since the blaze broke out nearly a month ago and destroyed more than 300 homes and cabins, helping firefighters who are trying to keep it from growing.

Older smokejumpers live for more than pay

by Jeff Barnard (AP) |

"It's kind of a cul-de-sac career. Once you get to a certain point, there's not a lot of movement," said Atteberry. "But it's addictive when you have the winter off and all you think about is coming back and doing it some more. I guess there are greater rewards than money."

Older smokejumpers live for more than pay

by Jeff Barnard (AP) |

"It's kind of a cul-de-sac career. Once you get to a certain point, there's not a lot of movement," said Atteberry. "But it's addictive when you have the winter off and all you think about is coming back and doing it some more. I guess there are greater rewards than money."

Training focus of Smokejumper story

by Ed Kemmick |

With more than 200 jumps under his belt, he wasn't worried about the parachuting part. It was the idea of getting out of the lake that he didn't like.

Training focus of Smokejumper story

by Ed Kemmick |

With more than 200 jumps under his belt, he wasn't worried about the parachuting part. It was the idea of getting out of the lake that he didn't like.

Congress Approves Fire Funds

by chris |

The Senate voted Friday to approve $314 million in emergency firefighting spending.

FBI memo: National forests al-Qaida target

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

The unidentified detainee said he hoped to create several large, catastrophic wildfires at once, mimicking the destructive fires that swept across Australia in 2002

Farewell Creek fire concerns officials

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Fire managers consider it one of the two most troublesome fires in the nation, along with the Aspen fire in Arizona

Drop in humidity calms Aspen

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

A drop in humidity calmed a wildfire burning a half-mile from an exclusive desert enclave Monday, greatly reducing the danger to dozens of houses, officials said.

Weather threatens Encebado fire efforts

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Crews battling to protect Taos Pueblo and the tribe's watershed from a fire that has burned 3,000 acres near the ancient Indian village expect no help from the weather today.

More structures fall to Aspen fire

by Jon Robinson |

A windblown wildfire that already has destroyed more than 300 mountaintop homes pushed into a previously untouched subdivision, burning five cabins and threatening 60 others, a fire official said Saturday.

Smokejumpers.com launches image gallery

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Smokejumpers.com, the NSA's online web presence, announces the addition of a gallery of images to their many features.

Wind, drought fuel western wildfires

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Record drought continues to cover much of the central west. High winds are expected at the sight of two of the regions hotspots.

Volunteer fire chief killed in rollover

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

A Cotton City, New Mexico, fire chief was killed Thursday evening when a tanker truck he was driving overturned and fell down a canyon.

NM fires look to be arson

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Three teenagers were booked on arson charges Friday for allegedly setting at least one of two wildfires that forced people to evacuate homes along the Rio Grande just north of downtown.

Firefighters making headway on Aspen

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

With the tally at about 350 homes, firefighters are beginning to have success holding lines of protection for remaining structures SE of the besieged town of Summerhaven.

Aspen fire tops 12,000 acres

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

the Aspen fire had dramatically grown to over 12,400 acres while approximately 900 firefighters have joined the fight.

Aspen fire (AZ) tops 6,300 acres

by Jon Robinson |

It is expected to be weeks before the estimated 1,000 or so firefighters that are now converging on the blaze will have a chance to get a handle on it.

Arizona BIA Firefighter Succumbs to Burn Injuries

by Chris Sorensen |

BIA Firefighter Rick Lupe 42, died Thursday at the Arizona Burn Center. Rick received burns over 33% of his body during a prescribed burn on Sawtooth Mountain in Arizona on May 14th.

Arizona BIA Firefighter Succumbs to Burn Injuries

by Chris Sorensen |

BIA Firefighter Rick Lupe 42, died Thursday at the Arizona Burn Center. Rick received burns over 33% of his body during a prescribed burn on Sawtooth Mountain in Arizona on May 14th.

Arizona wildfire burns Summerhaven

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

The town of Summerhaven, AZ lost from 200 to 250 homes yesterday and according to fire officials it's far from over.

Governors letter supports Bush bill

by Jon Robinson |

The Governors of four western states signed a letter of endorsement in support of much of President Bushes Healthy Forests Initiative Wednesday.

NSA To Dedicate Memorial at NIFC Wednesday June 18

by Chris Sorensen |

The National Smokejumper Association (NSA) will honor 30 smokejumpers killed in the line of duty with a ceremony tomorrow at the Wildland Firefighters Monument at NIFC at 2 p.m.

Western governors meet to discuss wildland fire & forest health

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Montana Gov. Judy Martz, chairman of the Western Governors Association, has called the governors of five western states (Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon and Arizona) to Missoula, Montana for a three day summit to discuss wildland fire issues and forest health.

CNN presents Summer of Fire

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

CNN presents a look at wildland firefighting this Sunday!

CNN presents Summer of Fire

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

CNN presents a look at wildland firefighting this Sunday!

Four Large Blazes Open Fire Season

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Four large fires were reported today by the National Interagency Fire Center.

Roadless Conservation Act Introduced in Congress

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

If passed into law, the measure will codify the Clinton era Roadless Area Conservation Rule, which protects 58.5 million acres of roadless areas in National Forests from road construction and most logging.

Rapid City to get air tanker again

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

"The mindset in the past was that if you have a tanker base, you'll get your airplane," Davis said in a phone interview Monday. "This year, we've assigned tankers to a tanker base just as a place to start."

Rules give agencies shortcuts on forests

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

The changes will limit the procedural footholds forest activists have used to block what they contend are ill-advised logging projects billed as reducing fire danger.

Neptune Tanker 09 On Contract

by Chris Sorensen |

P2V Neptune Tanker 09 is carded and on contract in Missoula awaiting assignment by the NIFC.

Governor declares wildfire emergency

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Gov. Janet Napolitano signed an emergency proclamation last Thursday that seeks federal money to combat Arizona’s extreme wildfire danger.

Governor declares wildfire emergency

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Gov. Janet Napolitano signed an emergency proclamation last Thursday that seeks federal money to combat Arizona’s extreme wildfire danger.

Utah Forests, Rangelands Are in Prime Fire Danger

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

And because land managers traditionally suppressed fires for years, that forest and others like it are packed with dry, highly flammable undergrowth

Fires: Season will be bad one (CA)

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

Along with lush grass everywhere, the CDF is confronting a million-dollar cut in state funding. One casualty: 22 fire lookout towers are closed.

Hawkins and Powers Memorial Dedication June 14

by Chris Sorensen |

The Greybull Tanker Base and Hawkins & Powers Aviation, Inc. would like for you to join us for a Memorial Dedication in honor of Tanker 130 and Tanker 123 crew members, Steve Wass, Craig LaBare, Mike Davis, Ricky Schwartz, and Milt Stollak.

Hawkins and Powers Memorial Dedication June 14

by Chris Sorensen |

The Greybull Tanker Base and Hawkins & Powers Aviation, Inc. would like for you to join us for a Memorial Dedication in honor of Tanker 130 and Tanker 123 crew members, Steve Wass, Craig LaBare, Mike Davis, Ricky Schwartz, and Milt Stollak.

Shelters Deployed in Arizona

by Chris Sorensen |

3 firefighters deployed shelters on the A Bar Fire near Sierra Vista AZ on Wedneday.

Colorado fire season looks to be mild

by Jon Robinson (Webmaster) |

The upcoming Colorado fire season looks to be relatively mild due to a fair amount of precipitation so far this year.

Environmentalists say they may sue over fire retardant practices

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

An environmental group has warned the U.S. Forest Service that it intends to sue unless the agency comes into compliance with environmental laws covering the use of fire retardant while fighting wildfires.

Wildfire bill stirs local opposition

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

The Healthy Forest Restoration Act, whose drafters say is aimed at stemming the destruction caused by wildfires, is winning support in Washington D.C. But Eagle County's congressman, Boulder Democrat Mark Udall, says it leaves homeowners vulnerable and "unnecessarily guts important environmental laws."

Wildfire Debate Sweeps Through Congress

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

The House Resources Committee approved a wildfire plan today that supporters say will return forest management to people who know the forests and reduce the threat of wildfires

Fire Experts Expect Dry Season

by Jon Robinson (webmaster) |

FAIRBANKS -- Alaska fire officials are worried that wildland fire season could come early to the Interior unless nature cooperates with a healthy dumping of snow or rain in the coming month.

Oklahoma Get Together

by Michael Ahern |

On the 22 and 23 of March this year Charley Moseley (CJ-62) hosted a gathering of the Oklahoma Smokejumpers at the Lake Eufaula State Park in Oklahoma.

Wyoming Firefighter Will Get Day in Court

by Chris Sorensen |

In a case that is becoming all too familar in the West, a Wyoming Firefighter is going to court over his right to free speech.

Plumb Creek Timber wont pay for 2000 Fires

by Chris Sorensen |

"Plum Creek Timber Co. "respectfully declines" to take any responsibility for two wildfires ignited by loggers on its timberland at Lolo Pass during the summer of 2000 - or for the $11 million the U.S. Forest Service spent fighting those fires after they spread onto national forest land. In letters to the Clearwater National Forest, an attorney for Plum Creek pointed the finger at the independent contractors hired to log two tracts of company-owned forestland."

Colorado Gearing up for Busy Fire Season

by Chris Sorensen |

The State of Colorado has contracted for a total of 5 single engine 800 gallon Air Tankers this year and has purchased 10 additional Engines to be positioned around the state.

Neptune Aviation article 4/13/03

by Chris Sorensen |

The Missoulian ran an interesting article on Neptune Aviation on Sunday April 13.

NYC FD Creates National Type 1 Incident Mangement Team

by Chris Sorensen |

The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) and the Forest Service have established a training program in incident command management for New York City firefighters to better respond to terrorist incidents and natural disasters.

Montana leads Shuttle Recovery Deployment

by Chris Sorensen |

1024 firefighers from Montana have been deployed to East Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas to search for Space Shuttle debris.

Final Flight for Pilot Bob Schlaefli

by Ron Stoleson |

On January 16, 2003, Robert Quillan purchased an NSA life membership for pilot Robert Schlaefli on behalf of "the boys in Alaska".

In March, I received a copy of a letter Mrs. Schlaefli sent to the "Boys from Alaska" letting them know that Bob (Slaf) made his final flight on February 24.

NSA Solicits Information, Photos to Honor KIA Jumpers

by Carl Gidlund |

The National Smokejumper Association has initiated a program to honor the 30 Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management smokejumpers who have been killed in the line of duty, but it needs your help in the form of information and photos.

Higgins Ridge Fire

by gary shaw |

Description of an incredibly hot fire that went from 2 acres to 1280 in two hours on the NezPerce National Forest in Idaho.

Idaho Fire Stories Wanted

by Carl Gidlund |

The University of Idaho Press is seeking fire stories with a tie to Idaho.

NSA Designing Plaque For KIA Jumpers

by Carl Gidlund |

The NSA needs personal information on smokejumpers killed in the line of duty. Donations also are being accepted for memorial plaques.

Political Scapegoats?

by Roy E. Skelton and Terence L. McCabe |

Two veteran fire managers speak out about the Thirtymile Fire

NSA To Trademark Logo

by Dan McComb |

NSA retains firm to secure trademark to official NSA logo for $1,075

Dee Dutton dies

by Larry Lufkin |

Former Cave Junction base manager dies

NSA e-mail no longer functional

by Dan McComb |

If you have an NSA email account, you'll notice it's no longer functional. The software powering it finally gave up. If you depend on this account, here are some alternatives:

Average NSA membership up to 4.3 years

by Dan McComb |

The average NSA membership has risen to 4.3 years; annual merchandise sales for 2001 totalled $11,000, and the next national reunion will be in Missoula on June 18,19 and 20, 2004.

An interview with John Maclean

by Charlie Palmer |

No writer ever put ink to paper quite like Norman Maclean. Charlie Palmer interviews his son, Jon, to discover what he was like.

Fallen Friend

by Mike McMillan |

Mike McMillan remembers Dave Liston's last jump