The Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) announced Wednesday that it will invest $3-million into the Oregon State Fire Fighter Joint Apprenticeship Program over the next two years. Klamath County Fire District No. 1 and Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue will each receive $1.5 million dollars. OSFM says these two agencies were selected to receive funding due to the increased risk of wildfire near their communities. "Over the last few decades, these regions have experienced more wildfires that have increased the demand for firefighters. This investment will help to lessen that need and provide highly-trained personnel to stop fires before they have a chance to grow and impact communities." OSFM says there has been a decrease in the number of career and volunteer firefighters entering the field. With this investment, the hope is to create an accessible pathway into a fire career and increase diversity and inclusion.