U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service workforce declines by 3,600

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has seen its workforce decline by 3,600 employees during President Donald Trump’s second term, according to federal data obtained by the Center for Biological Diversity. The agency’s staff has dropped from nearly 10,000 in 2024 to just over 6,300 today.

Significant staffing reductions have occurred across the Western United States. Oregon has experienced a 40% decline, falling from 434 to 257 employees. Other notable losses include New Mexico at 47%, Arizona at 45%, Colorado at 41%, and Montana at 40%. Alaska and Washington also reported declines of 36% and 38%, respectively.

The reductions include approximately 1,900 scientists, such as biologists, foresters, and wildfire managers. The data suggests these losses resulted from early retirements, buyouts, or cuts implemented by the U.S. DOGE Service, a commission established to reduce federal spending.