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Illegal Grow Operations

Dangers from People

Illegal marijuana grow operations are often in remote, isolated areas – the same areas we work in. It can be a big business or a small operation. In either case, if the grow site is illegal, you can bet the individuals involved are highly motivated to keep their operation secret. Outsiders are perceived as a threat – people in any type of uniform or official vehicle even more so.

  • If you happen upon an illegal grow operation, notify law enforcement.
  • Do not approach any individuals.
  • Leave the area using the exact route that you entered.
  • If possible, note location.
  • If not able to leave, notify command of situation. They may want to avoid sending more folks into the area.

Dangers from Chemicals

Illegal growers frequently source large amounts of fertilizers and pesticides, many of which are not legal in the U.S. Some of these chemicals pose significant health hazards. Cleanup is highly specialized and requires specific training and PPE.

  • DO NOT touch any barrels, containers, bags, sprayers, etc.
  • If someone has come into contact with a chemical, immediately remove as much as possible by brushing off with gloved hand or water irrigation. Remove clothing WITH CARE to avoid exposing more skin to the material.
  • If you see something with the name of the chemical on it, snap a photo (if safe to do so) and send along with the patient.
  • Watch for signs and symptoms of organophosphate or carbamate poisoning. Think of it as everything is dripping and running. The mnemonic “SLUDGE” may be helpful:
    • S alivation - drooling
    • L acrimation - watery eyes
    • U rination
    • D efecation - diarrhea
    • GI - cramps and pain
    • E mesis - vomiting

Difficulty breathing, wheezing, muscle cramps, and low heart rate are more symptoms. 
There are antidotes available, but time is critical. Initiate the “RED” Medical Incident Response (MIR) plan and get help immediately. State if you suspect poisoning since antidotes are specific and require very high doses. If you can, decontaminate the victim to help prevent exposing others and the medical responders. Brush off any dried powder with a gloved hand or brush, then rinse with copious amounts of water. If wet, rinse immediately. 

While you wait for care, it’s a good idea to call POISON CONTROL: 800-222-1222 

References:

Category
Miscellaneous Fireline Hazards

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NEW! S-390, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended) Available Now

Date: December 22, 2025
Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the new S-390, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal.

This third course in the series combines online and instructor-led training components aimed at individuals who are involved in planning, managing, and executing wildland fire and prescribed burn operations; who require a thorough understanding of fire behavior calculations to enhance effectiveness and safety. This includes students who require the knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of a Type 3 Incident Commander (ICT3), Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS), or Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2).

Students are required to be qualified as any Single Resource Boss position and complete the prerequisite S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire behavior (Blended) course, before enrolling in S-390.

References:

S-390, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended)

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NEW! S-320, Introduction to Incident Management Teams (Blended) Available Now

Date: December 18, 2025
Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: Incident and Position Standards Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that S-320, Introduction to Incident Management Teams (Blended) is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal!

This blended course combines online learning with instructor-led training, designed for individuals seeking to build leadership skills and gain experience in incident management.

Students are required to complete the prerequisite trainings ICS-100, Introduction to Incident Command System (ICS), ICS-200, Basic ICS for Initial Response, and ICS-700, An Introduction to the National Incident Management System (NIMS) prior to attending S-320.

References:

S-320, Introduction to Incident Management Teams (Blended)

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

New! Ransom Road WFSTAR Module

Date: December 16, 2025
Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: NWCG Audiovisual Specialist

NWCG is excited to announce the release of the new Ransom Road Fire Module to RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR).

This module features a firsthand account from Rob Lee, official reports, and animated maps of the Ransom Road Fire which occurred on June 8, 1981, in Florida's Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

The module is available now in NWCG's RT-130, WFSTAR Catalog.

References:

WFSTAR Catalog

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

Call for Nominations: Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Date: December 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
 Leadership Committee 

Do you know someone working in wildland fire who strives to make positive change and is undeterred by obstacles or setbacks? Now is your chance to give that person the acknowledgment they deserve by nominating them for a Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award.

This award, is presented by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason's contributions to the wildland fire community and to recognize individuals or groups that exhibit the same spirit and dedication to leadership – those who lead by example.

Nominations can be submitted via email with an attached Lead by Example Form to BLM_FA_Leadership_Feedback@blm.gov or through the online form. 

Tips for successful nominations and more information can be found on the Lead by Example webpage. All nominations must be submitted by December 31, 2025.

References:

Paul Gleason Lead By Example Award 

Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award Nomination Form 2025 

Leadership Committee