Utah Wildfire Research Institute Act of 2025

# Utah Wildfire Research Institute Act of 2025 - Summary **What the bill does:** The bill would establish a new Southwest Ecological Restoration Institute in Utah focused on wildfire prevention and forest health. Similar institutes already operate in Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. The new institute would conduct research and promote "adaptive ecosystem management"—methods designed to reduce wildfire risk and restore forests and woodlands to healthier conditions. **Who it affects:** The bill would primarily benefit Utah residents and communities at risk from wildfires, as well as researchers and educators.

It would likely involve universities or research institutions in Utah and could affect federal land management practices in the region. **Current status:** The bill has passed the House of Representatives and is now awaiting consideration in the Senate. It was introduced by Rep. Mike Kennedy, a Republican from Utah.