Missoula, MT – According to the state officials, the DOC Fire Crew reportedly assists the DNRC fighting wildfires and other non-wildfire duties such as prescribed burns, pre-commercial thinning, fuels management, fencing range management, and other projects throughout the year.
The crew consists of DOC staff, inmates, and DNRC staff. All staff and offenders go through annual safety and fire suppression training provided by the DNRC.
A maximum of 15 crew members can be deployed at a time and correctional officers accompany the crew on assignments. The crew stays in Montana.
DOC Director Brian Gootkin released the following statement:
“The DOC Fire Crew is another opportunity for inmates to gain valuable work skills, life skills and income that will help them transition when they return to Montana communities.
This is a great partnership between the DOC and Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation that allows the crew members to give back to the state and local communities while under supervision.”
