Walz authorizes National Guard to support Minnesota wildfire response

Gov. Tim Walz has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide support in battling wildfires in Minnesota.

The governor’s order on Sunday came after a large wildfire broke out in Superior National Forest.

"This summer, Minnesota has experienced abnormally high temperatures and a historic drought resulting in dry conditions conducive to wildfires. I am grateful to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for their tireless efforts to combat wildfires in our state," Walz said. "The Minnesota National Guard’s additional support will be critical to responding to these wildfires and protecting the safety of Minnesotans and their property. I am proud that our Service Members have again answered the call to serve their fellow Minnesotans."

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the State Emergency Operations Center and partners at the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, including the U.S. Forest Service, continue to battle ongoing wildfires.

"The Minnesota National Guard is ready to assist firefighting efforts in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center, and the State Emergency Operations Center," Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke said. "We take pride in being able to answer the call to serve our fellow Minnesotans."