Oklahoma firefighters react after Gov. Stitt fires head of forestry department

Gov. Stitt announced the firing of the State Forester earlier this week, citing concerns about the department’s response to the fires that have burned across the state. 

Following the announcement, multiple fire stations and firefighters posted on social media in support of Mark Goeller, head of the Forestry Department. 

"I was extremely surprised when I saw the news that Mark Goeller got fired," said Tulsa Fire Department Engine Captain Shawn Clark. Clark said he also works as an AD firefighter with the forestry department. 

When asked about Goeller’s departure, Stitt said, "As far as Mark's departure, we had a horrible, horrible wildfire in the state of Oklahoma and didn't think they did a really good job.” 

Goeller served in the department for more than 40 years. 

"I want the governor to know that Mark is really supported, not just with the citizens of Oklahoma, but a lot of the firefighters in Oklahoma. Mark has done so much for the Oklahoma fire service,” Clark recalled. 

He added that Goeller played a fundamental role in the forestry department and the recent fires. 

“We had over 130 fires on March 14th in Oklahoma. That’s overwhelming for any agency, even a well-equipped agency,” Clark shared. "I think it would have been a lot better to take those fires as a learning opportunity to see where we could have improved our response systems statewide instead of assigning blame." 

Clark said he believes Oklahoma is fortunate to have had Goeller. 

“With Mark’s experience and knowledge, Mark could have went and worked anywhere in the nation. Mark chose to stay here in Oklahoma and dedicate his service to the citizens of Oklahoma,” Clark reflected. 

When asked what he would like to see happen, he replied, “I’d really like to see Mark reinstated.” 

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry said Goeller resigned from his position and will be departing the department on Monday.