Fire management is one of the tools refuge managers use to ensure that abundant and healthy vegetation exist for wildlife. In fact, fire has been used to manage Blackwater's wetlands for over 60 years. Among the goals of the Blackwater NWR Fire Program are:

• to reduce the risk of loss of human life and property due to wildfires
• to stimulate the growth of vegetation beneficial to waterfowl and other wildlife through the use of prescribed fire
  
• to increase the overall health of the wetlands

Take a moment to learn more about the Blackwater NWR Fire Program by following the links on the left and discover for yourself the role that prescribed burns have played in keeping the Blackwater ecosystem healthy and productive.

Seasonal Job Opportunities with the Blackwater NWR Fire Program

A seasonal fire crew of 4-6 firefighters is hired annually during our fire season, which typically runs November thru April. Positions are a mix of GS-4 and 5 ratings. Housing is provided on the Refuge at the fire station. Prescribed burns are conducted in marshland, woodlands, and grasslands. Fuel model types are primarily 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9 and 11. Hiring procedures begin in June and end by late October. Application information can be requested by contacting the Refuge at 410-228-2692, ext.130. Applications can be sent directly to the Refuge office at: 2145 Key Wallace Drive, Cambridge, MD 21613. Thank you for your interest in the Blackwater NWR Fire Program.