North Dakota National Guard support operations strengthen North Dakota’s wildland fire program

The North Dakota Forest Service (NDFS) announces the successful conclusion of the spring 2026 wildfire support operations provided by the North Dakota National Guard (NDNG) to strengthen North Dakota’s wildland fire program.

Over the course of this mission, NDNG personnel played a valuable role in enhancing fire response readiness, increasing operational capacity, and supporting proactive land management efforts. Their contributions were focused across three key areas: fire preparedness and response; training; and hazardous fuels mitigation.

Fire Response and Preparedness

Throughout their 21-day deployment in Dickinson, NDNG personnel conducted daily engine and equipment checks to ensure readiness for immediate response. During this period, personnel were strategically prepositioned alongside NDFS resources during periods of very high fire danger and Red Flag Warning conditions to improve response times and situational awareness. The NDNG personnel were able to get real-world experience responding to fires in support of locals, better preparing them to support future surge support efforts when called upon.

Training

NDFS facilitated multiple training opportunities to enhance the readiness and qualifications of NDNG personnel. This included completion of the annual fireline refresher and pack test, ensuring maintenance of red card qualifications. Additional training focused on key wildland firefighting skills, including pump operations, hose lays, ignition techniques, chainsaw safety and operations, fire engine operations, and wildland fire tactics. These efforts strengthened the overall suppression capability of state resources and the ability to support local fire departments if requested.

Fuels Mitigation Work

NDNG personnel also supported hazardous fuels reduction efforts near Amidon, North Dakota. This project involved thinning Ponderosa pine stands through chainsaw operations and hand piling of materials for future burning. The work completed—totaling 9 acres—will help reduce ladder fuels, increase canopy spacing, and lower the risk of large, catastrophic wildfire in the area.

The collaboration between NDFS and NDNG reflects a strong and effective interagency partnership focused on protecting North Dakota’s communities, natural resources, and infrastructure. The professionalism, adaptability, and commitment demonstrated by NDNG personnel significantly contributed to the success of this mission and enhanced state support for local fire departments when necessary. This was the first time the state has proactively mobilized a field force of NDNG firefighters, and we are confident that the lessons learned both in the field and in the logistics of how this mission can be executed in the future have better prepared the state to support the fire service.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the North Dakota National Guard for their support and dedication.