Robert Smith: “I rise today to reflect on a tragedy that weighs very heavy upon my heart. Last month four firefighters were killed in a…”

“I rise today to reflect on a tragedy that weighs very heavy upon my heart. Last month four firefighters were killed in a conflagration in Washington State's Okanogan National Forest. My prayers and thoughts are with the families of Tom Craven, Devin Weaver, Jessica Johnson, and Karen FitzPatrick. Their service and bravery will not be forgotten. This tragedy, like those at Mann Gulch and Storm King Mountain, reminds us of the very real, imminent and often hidden specter of wildfire. While Congress and the Administration have made a commendable commitment to fighting and preventing wildfire, this most recent tragedy raises valid concerns about potential administrative and regulatory barriers to responsible fire management. There are reports that conflicting authorities, involving the requirements to protect bull trout under the Endangered Species Act, delayed a water drop on the fire for nearly 12 hours, during which time the fire grew from 25 to 2,500 acres. I am aware that the Forest Service is investigating this matter, and in no way want to comment on the verity of this report. The fact that such an occurrence is possible, however, is cause enough for great alarm, and a call for immediate attention by this body and the administration.”