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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-231, Engine Boss Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

This is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of ENGB responsibilities during wildland fire operations, emphasizing readiness, information gathering, risk management, engine tactics, and Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) operations. Trainees apply these skills through scenario-based group work and an optional field day that reinforces hands-on engine operation tasks. 

References:

S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Celebrates 50 Years!

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

To honor where we’ve been and highlight where we are going, the NWCG team has created a video showcasing our history and accomplishments. The video is now available on the NWCG website.

References:

NWCG 50 Year Anniversary Video

NEW! S-131, Firefighter Type 1 Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this course is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of situational awareness and decision making, building on the knowledge and concepts introduced in previous required courses. Using a threaded fictitious fire, each unit focuses on a performance-based activity in which students practice applying their decision-making and problem-solving skills.

The S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is required for individuals seeking qualifications to be a Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) (FFT1) or an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).

References:

S-131, Firefighter Type 1 (Instructor-led)

NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) Position Page

NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

2026 Professional Reading List

Date: March 4, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: WFLDP Curriculum Management

The Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program (WFLDP) is announcing the 2026 Professional Reading List.  The goal of the annual reading list is to promote the reading and discussion of the selected books throughout the year. 

The six books chosen for this year are: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie; Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink; Meditations by Marcus Aurelious; Quiet by Susan Cain; The Little Book of Stoic Quotes by Phil Van Treuren; and The Confident Mind by Nate Zinsser.

References:

Professional Reading Program

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program