In January 2025, a devastating wildfire fueled by hurricane-force winds tore through Los Angeles County, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Thousands of homes were destroyed, and 29 lives were tragically lost, making it one of the costliest fires in American history. This event served as a stark reminder of the increasing wildfire risks faced by communities in the Western United States.
The combination of hotter, drier summers and decades of fire suppression policies has led to unprecedented fire danger in the region. Overgrown landscapes have become a breeding ground for wildfires, posing a significant threat to both forests and homes. However, in Washington, a proactive approach led by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been instrumental in mitigating these risks.
Since 2017, the state has been implementing a 20-year forest health strategic plan aimed at restoring forests to their historic balance, enhancing community fire resilience, and bolstering firefighting resources. By focusing on forest restoration, including prescribed burns and thinning, the DNR aims to prevent catastrophic wildfires and create a sustainable ecosystem.
Partnerships with state and federal agencies, local communities, private landowners, and tribes have been crucial in the success of Washington’s wildfire mitigation efforts. By adopting an “all lands, all hands” approach, the state has been able to effectively address fire risks across different types of land ownership. This collaborative effort has not only saved forests and homes but has also created jobs and revenue for the state.
The results of Washington’s strategic approach have been promising. By treating nearly 900,000 acres of forest since 2017, the state has seen a significant reduction in the scale and intensity of wildfires. During the 2024 wildfire season, while neighboring states like Oregon experienced a record-breaking number of wildfires and acres burned, Washington managed to limit the damage to a comparatively small area.
In addition to forest restoration, Washington has also focused on community resilience measures to protect homes and human lives. By creating fire breaks, access roads, and supporting home hardening efforts in high-risk areas, the state has helped communities prepare for and withstand wildfires. The testimonies of homeowners like Kelly Finnell, who credits the DNR’s community resilience program for saving her family’s home during a wildfire, highlight the effectiveness of these initiatives.
With an increased corps of full-time firefighters, access to air firefighting resources, and the use of advanced technologies like drones and predictive fire risk modeling, Washington is well-equipped to combat wildfires and protect its communities. The state’s comprehensive approach to wildfire mitigation serves as a model for other regions grappling with similar challenges, demonstrating the power of proactive forest management and community engagement in building resilience against natural disasters. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has implemented several seemingly simple changes that have made a big difference in their wildfire response strategies. By allowing firefighters to request air support directly and shifting to a wholly-owned leasing model for aircraft, rather than sharing them with other states, the DNR has significantly improved their ability to combat wildfires.
One key aspect of the DNR’s approach is their risk modeling, which allows them to predict where fires are most likely to start. This enables them to pre-position firefighting resources in critical areas, leading to a more efficient and effective response. Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove emphasized the transformation of wildfire response in the state, making Washington a national leader in the process.
In addition to their firefighting efforts, the DNR also focuses on forest treatments to prevent wildfires. The revenue generated from these treatments helps support restoration work, with up to 30% of projects covering their costs. The Vaagen Brothers Mill, a fourth-generation mill owner, highlighted the economic benefits of purchasing timber from forest restoration projects, as the money stays within the state and funds various initiatives and services.
Furthermore, the DNR is exploring other markets for the byproducts of their forest restoration projects, with lumber from Washington’s thinnings being used in homes, schools, and commercial buildings. The recent Portland airport renovation even utilized lumber from these projects, showcasing the impact of sustainable forestry practices.
While Washington’s proactive strategies have proven effective, Upthegrove remains cautious about the ongoing threat of wildfires. With wildfire seasons stretching longer each year, he emphasizes the need for renewed resolve and commitment to saving lives and homes. The DNR’s management of state trust lands not only generates income to support public schools and essential services but also provides benefits such as outdoor recreation, habitat conservation, and clean water.
In conclusion, Washington’s approach to wildfire response and forest management demonstrates the importance of science-based strategies and proactive measures. By continuing to prioritize prevention and preparedness, the state can mitigate the impact of wildfires and protect its communities and natural resources.
