Joining forces to clear the way: Fire and aviation crews from Idaho and Nevada assist in Southeast storm relief

Responding to disasters and all-hazard emergencies is not a new concept for federal land management personnel. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) employees have assisted with emergencies dating back to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Space Shuttle Columbia Recovery in 2003, and prior disasters. In the past six years, employees have responded to 21 unique declared disasters across the country ranging from flooding and storm damage response to assistance with the COVID-19 Pandemic. These mobilizations are possible through emergency assistance laws, namely the Robert T. Stafford Disaster and Emergency Assistance Act, and related disaster response authorities and agreements that provide federal assistance to state and local governments.

Emergency Support Functions (ESFs)—are components of federal emergency assistance authorities designed to coordinate federal interagency support during incidents and are a core mechanism of Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) response structure. ESFs categorize governmental and certain private sector services into one of 15 different essential resource areas aimed at saving lives, protecting property, and restoring normalcy after disasters. 

ESF #4 – allows for a coordinated national response of federal firefighters, or employees holding specific fire-related incident qualifications, to be mobilized from anywhere across country (as well as from several foreign countries) to support all-hazard incidents anywhere in the U.S. Firefighters not only provide a labor workforce to complete a wide range of challenging tasks, but they also have critical specialty skills, such as chainsaw operating and tree felling to help clear woody debris after natural disasters. 

Last month, the dedicated fire and aviation crews from BLM Boise District in Idaho and BLM Ely District and BLM Carson City District in Nevada answered the call to assist with storm relief. Together, they formed a tough team of 23 individuals, responding to a call from FEMA to assist in the wake of severe storms hitting the southeastern United States. With freezing temperatures, rain, snow, and freezing rain marking their journey, the crews braved the elements with firm determination.

Upon their arrival in Tennessee, the teams wasted no time and were immediately put to work. Their primary task was to clear the storm damaged trees and vegetation that had rendered many roads inaccessible. Equipped with extra chainsaws and fortified with warm clothing, the crews set about cutting through the obstacles, ensuring that vital routes were reopened for emergency services and the public.

The crew leader, Chad Niblett, expressed immense pride in his team's efforts. He highlighted the dual significance of their mission: not only were they providing crucial aid to communities in need, but they were also sharpening their skills, shaking off the winter cobwebs as the fire season in Idaho was slower during this time of year. Niblett remarked on the rewarding nature of the work, noting that despite the grueling long hour days over a 14-day period, the sense of fulfillment was deep among the crew members.

The residents of the affected areas were deeply appreciative of the crews' hard work and dedication. Many expressed their gratitude for the support from individuals who had traveled great distances to help restore their communities. The collaborative effort of the BLM Boise District and Nevada fire teams not only cleared roads but also brought a sense of hope and resilience to the storm-stricken regions.