Bend, OR — The U.S. Forest Service has made the difficult decision to pause seasonal hiring due to significant budget shortfalls. Chief Randy Moore confirmed that congressional appropriations fell approximately half a billion dollars short of the agency’s requested funding, leaving roughly 2,400 seasonal positions unfilled.

In an announcement, Chief Moore emphasized that these tough budgetary and hiring decisions are essential for the long-term sustainability of the agency. He also reassured the workforce that the burden would not fall solely on employees. “We will not be bringing on any additional seasonal employees, outside of fire,” Moore stated, referencing the importance of staffing for fire management.

However, the agency is not leaving employees without options. As part of the adjustments, between 1,300 and 1,400 employees have been transitioned to permanent seasonal roles, offering them continued work within the agency.

The seasonal roles most affected by the hiring freeze include positions dedicated to maintaining national forest campgrounds, roads, and trails, as well as those focused on wildlife management, including biologists working on forest wildlife, fisheries, and plant life.

While the pause in hiring will have a noticeable impact on forest operations, the Forest Service is working to mitigate disruptions and continue essential services. The agency’s focus remains on ensuring safety, preserving natural resources, and maintaining fire response capabilities despite the budgetary constraints.