Built for speed and precision, Sky Hammer launches quickly to respond to emerging fires, helping to stop them in their tracks.
By catching fires early, it helps to reduce damage to natural resources, improves safety for communities and firefighters, and saves taxpayer dollars.
Today, the U.S. Forest Service announced an additional 2026 recreation fee-free day on June 6 in celebration of #NationalTrailsDay, providing no cost use of all standard amenity recreation sites on national forests and grasslands.
"For National Trails Day in 2025, Forest Service trail managers, partners, and volunteers hosted 80 events, including 54 stewardship projects, engaging with more than 3,100 volunteers who maintained 173 miles of trail,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “We hope those who love Forest Service trails will join us at the trailhead on June 6, whether it’s volunteering to build new trails, pick up trash near a trailhead, participating in a nature walk, or taking advantage of the fee-free day benefits.”
Find a local National Trails Day event and join the nationwide movement. 🔗in bio.
Wildfire season ready ✅
The Washington National Guard conducted helicopter water bucket training alongside civilian first responders, strengthening their ability to work together during emergency operations throughout the state.
🎥 by Sgt. Joshua Linfoot
This spring, smokejumpers from all nine Forest Service and Interior bases trained new spotters in Missoula — the jump leaders who guide crews safely into wildland fire operations. Simulations. Classroom time. Every scenario imaginable. All to prepare for the moment that matters. Link in bio.
#WAM2026 #WildfireAwarenessMonth2026
A spotter is a highly experienced smokejumper responsible for leading every smokejumper mission.
This spring’s National Smokejumper Spotter Academy brought smokejumpers together from across the country to train, practice and refine the skills that keep crews safe on every mission.
Experience.
Judgment.
Teamwork.
That’s what wildfire readiness looks like.
An early spring sunset illuminates the Ruby Mountains on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Nevada. Plan your visit today.
(Forest Service photo by Michael Balen.)
Weekend wildflower moment.
The wildflowers on the Custer Gallatin National Forest have their own rhythm, and today the wind is the DJ. When the breeze picks up, even the smallest blooms can’t help but dance. Get out and enjoy the spring flowers in your big backyard.
(Forest Service video.)
Meet Operation Sky Hammer–a fast, powerful response team in the sky. Sky Hammer is built to respond to emerging wildfires, support ground resources and keep fires from spreading.
With precision drops of water or fire retardant, it helps protect communities, forests, and the people working to keep people safe.
From the Rockies to the coast, we share these spaces with some pretty incredible neighbors. 🦅 Right now, we're thinking about what it really means to coexist, and it starts with a few small habits.
Watch from a distance (binoculars are underrated). Keep food and trash locked down. And if you've got a pup, keep them close. Wildlife depends on us to get this right.
#ProtectTheNext250 #LeaveNoTrace #PublicLands250 #NationalForests250
