Wildfire Response Program

The Wildfire Response Program provides civilians with training and work opportunities to fight wildland fires in New Mexico. Wildland crew members are Administratively Determined firefighters (AD’s), which means they are only called upon or hired during an actual wildland emergency.

Each crew member follows the same qualification and training system as seasonal AD firefighters from any other Forestry Division district across the state.

What we do

Fighting wildland fires is dynamic and physically demanding work. It is both challenging and deeply rewarding. In this program, you will learn and use vital skills to manage and combat wildland fires.

Who can become a Wildland Firefighter?

To be eligible to participate, you are required to meet the following criteria:

• Submit a completed AD Hire application.
• Live within two hours of Santa Fe. While fire emergencies can happen anywhere, participants must report to the program’s headquarters to be dispatched to assignments.
• Be able to remain on fire assignments for an extended period of time, and be available at short notice (within two hours). Due to the unpredictable nature of wildfire emergencies, involvement is seasonal and does not conform to a set schedule.
• Have the physical capacity to work for an extended period of time. An example would be working for approximately 16 hours per day for 14 consecutive days.
• Have the physical capacity to perform duties in steep and/or rugged terrain under adverse weather conditions, while carrying a pack weighing up to 45 pounds.
• Complete the required training and physical fitness testing yearly.

For More Information

Address:
Wildfire Response Program
1085 Richards Ave.
Santa Fe, NM 87505
505-474-9813

There may also be other opportunities available with the Forestry Division’s six district offices around the state. Click here for contact information.