The CDF Firefighters came into existence (as CDFEA) in order to make available to the forestry employees an organization dedicated solely to the unique needs of its members, which was not otherwise obtainablethrough existing employee associations. It was incorporated as theCalifornia Division (later Department) of Forestry Employees Association (CDFEA) on May 24, 1962 as a non-profit corporation to "collectively foster, develop and obtain for its members top working conditions and equitable pay". The CDF Firefighters celebrated its 30 Anniversary in 1995 when it also officially changed its name to the CDF Firefighters.

The CDF Firefighters is governed by a State Board of Directors, which consists of elected officers: President, Vice President, Treasurer, Rank & File Representative, Supervisorial Representative, Retiree Representative and Past President. It has 9 Regions and 24 Chapters throughout the State.

The CDF Firefighters contracts for legislative, legal, public relations, and insurance services, and has a paid staff of three. It owns its own headquarters building in Sacramento, California and two condominiums used by the officers when they are in town.

There are 21 state employee bargaining units in California. The CDF Firefighters is Bargaining Unit 8. We represent 3,000 members year around and an additional 2,000 members during the summer 'fire season'.

A major milestone which has proven to be of enormous benefit to all CDF employees was when the CDF Firefighters affiliated with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the California Professional Firefighters (CPF). This affiliation was ratified by the members in July of 1982 and the CDF Firefighters (then CDFEA) is now proud to be known as Local 2881 of the International Association of Fire Fighters.

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