Lincoln County, OK, Fire Chiefs Support Ex-Forestry Head Fired by Governor

April 11, 2025

"Why do I even have a Department of Forestry?" OK Gov. Keving Stitt said, adding he's considering scrapping it.

Fire chiefs in Lincoln County are fired up. And, they're letting their governor know.

At a press conference days after he fired State Forestry Director Mark Goeller, Governor Kevin Stitt said: “Why do I even have a Department of Forestry? Let’s just get rid of the whole thing."

The governor's action came after he questioned the handling of historic wildfires last month, KFOR reported.

Goeller defended the response: “Preparations were made well in advance, the public was notified of the impending fire danger, firefighting resources were ordered and in place. Nothing was held back as the events of the 14th and following days unfolded."

Fire chiefs in Lincoln County are standing by the forestry head.

Wellston Fire Chief Todd Beesley and 13 other department leaders have sent Stitt a letter, saying they strongly oppose the firing.

“We respectfully ask that you provide a clear explanation for this decision and consider the long-term impact it may have on Oklahoma’s forestry and wildlife response efforts,” according to the letter.

About the Author

Susan Nicol | News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.