I don't know what they make - none of my business really.  What I do know is that the local USFS doesn't get involved on the ground (can't deplete the local labor) and the people fighting the fire are professionals from around the country.  These people are in TX one month and MN the next.  I met 4 guys from NJ who cleaned up the WTC.  Fire if fire to them - no matter where it is.  However, while all of them know fire, they don't know the BWCA.  They did not like the fact that they had to paddle in, portage and carry all their gear.  They were pissed they couldn't get a float plane ride from Insula to Hudson.  Hey, no motorized activity on those lakes!   This is was a pristine wilderness.   :(