Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., criticized California’s handling of forest management amid the wildfires currently devastating areas near Los Angeles. Speaking on Newsmax’s Wake Up America, Zinke attributed the scale and intensity of the fires to years of inadequate management practices.
“These wildfires are large-scale, destroying property, and endangering lives,” Zinke stated, emphasizing that effective forest management is critical to preventing such disasters. He described the situation in California as “another disaster,” pointing to a long-standing failure to address issues such as dead and dying trees, undergrowth, and biodiversity.
Zinke, who served as secretary of the interior during the Trump administration, argued that wildfire prevention is not about climate change debates but about practical action. “Whether or not you believe in climate change, managing forests is essential. If the climate is changing, it means doubling down on efforts to clear fire hazards and diversify forest ecosystems,” he said.
The congressman also highlighted the impact of urban sprawl. He noted that houses are increasingly being built in fire-prone areas, which complicates efforts to protect lives and property during wildfires. Addressing both forest management and urban development is necessary to mitigate the risks, Zinke argued.
Zinke’s remarks follow years of debate over the role of state and federal policies in wildfire prevention. Critics of California’s approach, including Zinke, have pointed to a lack of controlled burns, removal of fire-prone materials, and other proactive measures that could reduce wildfire severity.
As wildfires continue to threaten California, Zinke’s call for improved forest management adds to ongoing discussions about balancing environmental stewardship, public safety, and responsible urban planning.
