Ranchers slated to join Idaho firefighting efforts

As these questions about Idaho firefighter safety loom, state forester David Groeschl said training for ranchers who will form the proposed new rangeland fire protective associations that Otter wants to help pay for is essential in maximizing safety — and avoiding accidents like the one that killed Veseth. Ranchers will work with fire officials from the Bureau of Land Management and the state Department of Lands, to ensure they know rules of engagement, he said. “We have to really focus on the training — what can occur on rangeland, helping them understand the risks, and how to communicate and coordinate with the BLM,” Groeschl said. “Can I give you an assurance that somebody would never be injured again? I wish I could tell you it would never happen again. I can't.” On Tuesday, the House Resources Committee approved a measure governing how these new rancher-led organizations are established...more