The State of Utah Wildland Fire Operations Center serves as a critical component of the state's fire and resource management strategy. Operating under the Division of Forestry, Fire, & State Lands (FFSL) within the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the center manages wildfire assignments and natural resource projects to support public safety and ecological sustainability across Utah.
Seasonal fire and resource management
During the core wildfire season from April through November, crews within the operations center remain on-call for immediate deployment to local, regional, and national wildfire incidents. When not engaged in active fire suppression, the center's personnel focus on resource management tasks such as forest health projects, ecosystem restoration, and hazardous fuel reduction.
Maintenance efforts for landscape protection
These maintenance efforts are typically concentrated during the spring and fall seasons with the goal of reducing wildfire risks and maintaining healthy landscapes. The center's work is designed to protect Utah's communities, infrastructure, and natural landscapes.
Historical evolution of the center
The facility has a long history in Utah, having been established in 1978 as the Lone Peak Conservation Center (LPCC). Originally, the program provided rehabilitative work opportunities for inmates at the Utah State Prison while fulfilling state forestry and fire control responsibilities. Over time, the center transitioned to a professional workforce as safety and security requirements evolved.
Expansion and new facility development
In 2000, the organization expanded its operations by establishing civilian state agency fire crews and partnering with Utah Valley University to create a wildland firefighter internship program. Following the relocation of the Utah State Prison from Draper to Salt Lake City, FFSL planned a transition to modernize the center. In 2022, the Utah legislature approved funding for a new facility, which was scheduled for completion in June 2025.
Current operations and staffing structure
The current State of Utah Wildland Fire Operations Center integrates LPCC operations with the Division’s statewide fire management team. The center employs 80 seasonal firefighter positions and 27 career leadership positions at Lone Peak Wildfire Resources, offering various career ladder opportunities including roles such as County Fire Wardens and WUI Coordinators.
