Wildfire

The Texas Water Source April 2021

Embers Embers are flaming bits of debris coming from the fire that can travel one to two miles in certain weather conditions. If a large enough ember or several embers gather on flammable materials, a spot fire can occur on or near your home or structure.  Embers can pose one of the greatest threats to […]

Outdoor cooking is part of many gatherings with family and friends. But, grills, charcoal, or propane, can be a fire hazard if not used correctly. 

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is supporting shows conducted by professionals. Prioritize safety to make your fireworks experience a memorable and enjoyable one for everyone.  Handled fireworks responsibly Use fireworks outdoors Never do the following Protect your eyes and ears Be mindful of pets Celebrate responsibly Post-fireworks

Campfires can be a great way to warm up while enjoying the outdoors and provides a relaxing environment outside. Keep safety a priority and recreate responsibly.   When planning, constructing, and extinguishing campfires:   Pick a spot Prepare a fire pit Build a fire Extinguishing the fire

Equipment use and careless debris burning account for 50% of wildfires in Texas. Equipment includes vehicles, trailers, ATV/UTVs, heavy equipment, and other motorized equipment.   Be cautious when using equipment that could potentially overheat or spark and ignite a wildfire.   Vehicles Trailers Agricultural and other equipment Welding/grinding

As the state’s lead agency for wildfire response, we establish Wildland Fire Preparedness Levels throughout the year to ensure resource availability for wildfire incidents across the state. Preparedness Levels 1-5 are planning assumptions and actions dictated by fuel and weather conditions, current and expected wildfire activity, regional preparedness levels, and fire suppression resource availability in […]

Texas A&M Forest Service held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly outfitted Emergency Operation Center in College Station today.

Reducing vegetation on your property can dramatically decrease the spread and intensity of a wildfire. It can also increase the chances for firefighters to contain the fire quickly and creates a safer environment for them to work.   Fuels reduction focuses on removing excessive or hazardous fuels such vegetative debris, immature trees, shrubs, and dead or […]

SPWO Each year, Texas A&M Forest Service and the National Weather Service watch for an extremely dangerous fire weather phenomenon known as a Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak, or SPWO.   An SPWO event is a force of nature, and much like a hurricane or tornado, it cannot be stopped. Since 2005, SPWO fires account for 3% […]

Our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at our headquarters in College Station provides statewide situational awareness and management of all agency emergency response activities. We are an “All Hazard” agency, meaning we respond not only to wildfires, but floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, snowstorms, and more.   The EOC uses state of the art technology to continuously monitor wildfire […]

Evacuation planning Don’t wait for an emergency to happen to start planning for it. Have a plan in place so you are prepared. Learn about natural disasters that may potentially affect the area you live in or the area you are planning to visit. Work with local emergency responders Evacuation kits Evacuation routes Plan and […]

Fire-resistant landscaping reduces the amount of hazardous fuels near homes or structures and selectively isolates fuels within a landscape to break up continuous areas of vegetation. It should lower the intensity of a wildfire as it approaches your home.   A healthy, well-maintained landscape is important to home and structure survival during a wildfire. The threat […]

Fire resistant construction takes measures to reduce a home or structure’s risk to wildfire by using non-combustible or fire-resistant building materials.   Sometimes called “home hardening”, fire-resistant construction includes keeping the immediate area around your home free of debris and address any potential vulnerability to embers.   Home construction The materials you use to construct your home […]

A quick response to a wildfire is critical for saving your home. Firefighting personnel must be able to quickly locate and safely travel to your home. Emergency responders may not be familiar with your community, so highly visible signs are important to help them find their way.  Fire trucks and other wildfire suppression equipment, such […]

Identifying landowner priorities As a landowner, the first steps you should take to prepare for a wildfire is identify priority areas, points of contact, water sources, sensitive areas, fences, gates, and other zones within your ranch.   These allow firefighters to make tactical decisions that reflect your priorities. It will also provide a foundation for post-fire […]

Drought is a period of time when an area or region experiences below-normal precipitation. Drought is one component of the fire environment and is used to gauge fire potential based on its effect on long-term drying of wildland fuels, or any fire-feeding flammable material such as grass, leaves, or vegetation. An increase in fuels in […]

Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPP) are a collaborative wildland fire protection and mitigation approach. Plans can be as simple or complex as the community needs and includes involvement from local government, emergency response agencies, Texas A&M Forest Service, and other stakeholders.  CWPPs are authorized by the Healthy Reforestation Act, signed into law in 2003.  A […]

NFPA’s Firewise USA® program teaches how to adapt to living with wildfire and encourages neighbors to work together to take action to prevent losses.   Sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association, the Firewise USA® Recognition Program is aimed at small communities, community associations, and master planned communities. The goal is to assess the wildfire risk […]

Communities in action  Most wildfires occur within two miles of a community, placing thousands of homes at risk each year. Reducing the amount of vegetation, or fuel, around homes while using fire-resistant construction materials is the best defense in protecting people, homes, and property from wildfire.   Many communities have seen the benefits of using fire-resistant […]

Under the Texas Wildfire Protection Plan (TWPP), we work to reduce wildfire occurrence and loss in Texas through integrated programs that improve preparedness and respond capabilities statewide. The practices outlined in the plan are incorporated into the operational structure of the agency.   The TWPP has been used and refined over the past two decades as […]

We analyze current and predicted weather conditions, wildfire occurrences, and the state of vegetative fuels to deliver crucial products. This information empowers communities, officials, and firefighters to make well-informed decisions, ultimately contributing to more effective wildfire management and response strategies.  Fire environment products We produce a range of products to support fire management efforts. Staff […]

Prevent and prepare your community for wildfires The first and most important step communities can take in wildfire preparedness is recognizing and addressing their risk for wildfires.   The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) is the area where developed land is next to or intermixed with undeveloped wildland. WUI areas are often at the highest risk for […]

Prepare your farm or ranch for wildfires Wildfires on Texas farms and ranches can be costly and dangerous.   Actions can and must be taken to mitigate risk to conserve land and reach production goals. The first step is to assess your property for potential wildfire risk and establish your priorities.   Initial preparations

Prevent and prepare your home for wildfire Wildfire is an uncontrolled or unplanned fire burning vegetation like a forest or grasslands. They can occur in isolated areas or very close to and within communities, posing threat to people and property. It’s everyone’s responsibility to prevent and prepare for wildfires. The first and most important step […]

Texas A&M Forest Service hosted the fourth annual Sisters in Fire event on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Sam Houston State University Bearkat Camp. Twenty-three young women between the ages of 12 and 18 from across 23 Texas counties participated.  “For the fourth year, we’ve shown young women the comradery, integrity and excitement that comes with […]

Firefighting aircraft in Texas follow strict state and federal guidelines for safety, operation, training, and equipment. We obtain firefighting aircraft through a Call-When-Needed agreement with the federal government. This allows aircraft to be stationed strategically around the state during periods of critical fire weather.  WARNING: If you fly, we can’t. Drones aren’t permitted to fly […]

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.

Responding to wildfires and emergencies statewide Texas A&M Forest Service is the lead agency in Texas when is comes to fighting wildfires, and nationally-renowned for work in incident management. In addition to putting out fires, many of our programs are aimed at building local capacity and helping Texans help themselves. We work with local fire […]

As Memorial Day unofficially kicks off summer this weekend, Texans should prepare for wildfires.

A product depicting expected future fire danger based on National Weather Service weather forecasts.

The Texas Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal, TxWRAP, shows risk in your area and offers resources for wildfire risk.

Warning of weather conditions that create a high risk for wildfire

Terms related to fire weather

As a total solar eclipse crosses Texas on Monday, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to recreate responsibly and prevent wildfires.

Extremely critical fire weather conditions are expected to be widespread in the Texas Panhandle tomorrow near Amarillo, Borger, Canadian, Childress, Lubbock, Pampa and Perryton.

Thousands across the Texas Panhandle received wireless emergency alerts Feb. 26 and 27, warning of an eminent, dangerous wildfire on the landscape with the potential to expand.

The largest wildfire in Texas history is actively burning today. The Smokehouse Creek Fire in Hutchinson County is burning a total of 1,075,000 acres across Texas and Oklahoma and is 3% contained.

Texas A&M Forest Service urges everyone to use extreme caution when participating in activities that may start a wildfire or house fire this holiday season. One spark can ruin a holiday.

The May 2023 revised plan of the Texas Wildfire Protection Plan.

An annular solar eclipse will occur in the Texas skies Oct. 14. A“ring of fire” will be created by the sun’s shadow around the moon while parts of Texas will be in the path of totality.

A Texas A&M Forest Service employee was honored with the Current Achievement Award for Fire Protection during today’s National Association of State Foresters Annual Meeting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Kendall County has adopted a plan to reduce risks and enhance community safety in advance of a wildfire.

Hot summers and wildfires are not new to the South. Nor is interagency cooperation in responding to and suppressing wildfires. But this summer has been far from normal.

During the upcoming dove hunting season, Texans are urged to help protect the lands and natural resources that we all love by being mindful of activities that may cause a wildfire.

Texas A&M Forest Service conducted a survey of the health of baldcypress trees along a seven-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River this summer after a significant decrease in water levels over the last four years.

Emergency grant applications are now open for volunteer fire departments included in Governor Abbott’s wildfire disaster declaration.

Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to celebrate Smokey Bear’s 79th birthday today by being extremely cautious with all outdoor activities that create heat or sparks.

Texas A&M Forest Service has raised the State Wildfire Preparedness Level to Level 4 due to the recent increase in wildfire activity across the state and the growing potential for wildfires to become more severe, making them harder to control.

Texas communities at risk of wildfires can now apply for a federal grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Available funding is intended to help at-risk communities plan for and reduce the risk of wildfire.

Elevated fire weather, characterized by triple-digit temperatures, low humidity and increased wind speeds, will create an environment with high potential for wildfires that are difficult to control this week.

The most-asked question of college students is – “what are you going to do when you graduate?”

The Plantersville-Stoneham Volunteer Fire Department sits across from the town’s Baptist church on F.M. 1774 and is otherwise surrounded mostly by pastureland.

The following trees have made a big impression on Texas, some still standing hundreds of years later.

Central Texas landowners can apply April 1, 2023 for the SFAM Mechanical Fuels Reduction Grant to help reduce risks posed to their property by wildfire.

Bexar County Emergency Service District No. 7 has adopted a plan to reduce risks and better prepare for wildfires.

Texas A&M Forest Service raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2 due to the threat of increased wildfire activity across several regions of the state.

The tree landscape in Texas is made up by a variety of species. From ponderosa pines in West Texas to oaks in Central Texas to dogwoods in East Texas, trees play a vital role in our ecosystem and provide countless benefits.

Rich Gray announced his retirement as Texas A&M Forest Service Chief Regional Fire Coordinator last month.

The potential for wildfire activity increases this week as cold fronts are forecast to impact the state.

Texas A&M Forest Service firefighting resources are prepared to respond to wildfires as a cold front moves into the state this week.

Since Jan. 1, firefighters with Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments saved 8,056 homes in the path of wildfire. Many of those homes had the first layers of protection — defensible space and fire-resistant construction materials — before fire crews arrived.

Gray County has adopted a plan to reduce risks and better prepare for wildfires.

Texas A&M Forest Service reminds Texans to be careful with activities that may cause a wildfire this hunting season.

Texas A&M Forest Service raised the State Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2 this week due to increased wildfire activity, particularly in the eastern half of the state.

Texas A&M Forest Service fire analysts warn of wildfire activity, including the potential for significant wildfires, through Friday in the Western Pineywoods, Southeast and Central Texas.

Last week, a Texas A&M Forest wildfire handcrew was mobilized to the Cedar Creek Fire in Oregon.

Texas A&M Forest Service firefighters across the state have had a busy year, responding to more than 1,725 fires since Dec. 9. Many of those fires were given official names, typically connected to a geographic location or landmark near the fire. While wildfires aren’t to be taken lightly, some of the names can be rather interesting.

Eligible communities in Texas can apply now for a federal grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service to plan for and mitigate against risks created by wildfire.

As hot and dry conditions persist, extremely dry vegetation will continue to support wildfire activity across much of the state, even as surface moisture increases in some areas.

The fire environment, characterized by critically to extremely dry vegetation and critical fire weather, will support wildfire activity this week.

Texas A&M Forest Service is opening the Austin Airtanker Base at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to assist with increased wildfire activity across the state Saturday, July 15.

Hot and dry conditions across the state of Texas will create high wildfire potential through the weekend.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with picnics, grilling, camping and fireworks, Texas A&M Forest Service asks everyone to be careful with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.

The Texas fire environment will support increased wildfire activity through the weekend, as hot and dry conditions persist across the state.

This Memorial Day, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to protect our great state by being mindful of activities that may start a wildfire

There is potential for large wildfires to occur in the Western/Eastern Hill Country and Rolling Plains through Friday including areas near Childress, Vernon, Abilene, Brownwood, Lampasas, San Angelo, Ozona and Fredericksburg.

Last week, 40 members from Texas All-Hazard Incident Management Teams (AHIMT) attended the Enhanced All-hazards Incident Management/Unified Command training.

Significant, or large, wildfires may occur this weekend for the Texas Panhandle and the Trans Pecos including areas near Canadian, Amarillo, Childress, Lubbock, Abilene, Big Spring, Midland and Alpine.

There is potential for large wildfires to occur Thursday through the weekend in areas near Canadian, Amarillo, Childress, Lubbock, Big Spring, Midland and Alpine.

We can’t control when disasters strike, but we can make sure we are prepared.

A Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak is possible Tuesday in the Texas Panhandle.

A National Fire Prevention Education Team (NFPET) was brought in to assist Texas A&M Forest Service with wildfire prevention messaging.

Wildfire activity is expected to increase through the weekend as more areas across the state will be characterized by dry to extremely dry surface fuels.

Wildfire activity is expected to gradually increase throughout the week, as periodic critical fire weather occurs where very dry vegetation is present across West and South Texas.

Texas A&M Forest Service has increased the State Preparedness Level to Level 4 as the result of a significant increase in wildfire activity across the state, potential for large fires and the increased commitment of state and local resources to fires

There is potential for large wildfires to occur today that may outpace firefighters’ suppression efforts in areas near Childress, Lubbock, Abilene, Mineral Wells, Brownwood, Midland, San Angelo, Fredericksburg, Del Rio, Laredo and Brownsville.

Wildfire potential increases today for large, difficult to control wildfires to occur in Southwest Texas, specifically for areas near Del Rio, San Angelo, San Antonio and Laredo.

Wildfire activity is forecast to increase along and west of I-35 and into South Texas through the weekend.

Increased wildfire activity will be supported Friday through Sunday by warm and dry conditions and critically dry vegetation in the Western Plains, Hill Country and Cross Timbers.

Wildfire activity is forecast to increase Friday through Monday along and west of I-35 and into South Texas as dormant vegetation dries and becomes receptive to fire ignitions.

Wildfire activity is expected to increase through Wednesday as an active weather pattern aligns with dry vegetation across the landscape.

At today’s meeting of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announced the selection of an independent panel to review the circumstances and cause of last week’s escape of a prescribed fire at Bastrop State Park.

Texas A&M Forest Service readies firefighting resources today in anticipation of an increase in wildfire activity caused by pre-frontal conditions approaching the state.

Critical fire weather is forecast through Sunday for portions of North and West Texas with Friday holding the most potential for wildfire activity, particularly in the panhandle.

A Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak occurred across the panhandle of Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas on Wednesday.

Texas A&M Forest Service is opening the Abilene Airtanker Base at the Abilene Regional Airport to assist with potential wildfire activity this week.

Texas A&M Forest Service has positioned firefighting personnel and equipment in the Texas Panhandle and South Plains in preparation for forecasted elevated to critical fire weather in the areas, with anticipation of conditions becoming progressively worse today, tomorrow and into the weekend.

Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to protect our lands and all that we love this hunting season by being mindful of activities that may cause a wildfire.

The 23rd annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy (CAIWA) begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week. The academy will take place October 8-20, 2021.

Texas A&M Forest Service continues to send firefighters, overhead and equipment to respond to wildfires burning across the country.

More than 70 Texas A&M Forest Service personnel are currently deployed to wildfire incidents across multiple western states including Arizona, California, Idaho and Montana.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with picnics, grilling, camping or fireworks, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.

Twenty-five Texas A&M Forest Service overhead personnel and operational fire resources, including two engine crews, are currently deployed to wildfire incidents in Colorado, Arizona, Alaska, New Mexico and Florida.

Texas A&M Forest Service has opened a single engine air tanker base in Alpine, Texas to assist with wildfire response across the state.

Wildfire potential is increase Tuesday through Thursday across portions of the state, including the Western Plains, Trans Pecos and Rio Grand Valley.

Increased wildfire potential is expected across much of the state early this week due to approaching dry cold fronts and high temperatures.

With hunting season underway, many hunters and campers across the state are headed to the wild outdoors. This greater movement of people into wildland areas increases the potential for human-caused wildfires to start.

Recent rainfall observed across most of the state has significantly reduced wildfire activity and the potential for large fire growth.

The footprint of wildfire potential has decreased for a large portion of the state after a multi-day rain event. However, the potential for wildfire ignitions will remain high in southwest Texas where critically dry fuels remain.

The return of widespread triple digit temperatures Friday through Sunday will increase the rate of drying in vegetation, resulting in increased risk of wildland fire occurrence. Minimal rainfall from Hurricane Laura was observed west of Interstate 35 where critically dry fuels are present.

Continued hot and dry conditions across much of the state have resulted in increased wildfire activity, particularly in north central Texas and in areas along the Interstate-35 corridor. Activity and fuel dryness is expanding north and east into higher population centers, including further east along the Interstate-45 corridor as well.

Wildfire activity has increased statewide with hot and dry conditions. This pattern of activity is expected to continue as the state moves into late summer.

Firefighters from across the state are battling the still-growing, human-caused Mays Fire in San Saba and McCulloch Counties. The fire ignited on Aug. 1, approximately 16 miles east of Brady, Texas, as the result of an individual parking and idling their vehicle over tall, dry grass. The fire has currently burned an estimated 9,500 acres and is only 50% contained.

Significant wildfire activity has increased statewide, and accelerated drying has elevated the potential for new wildfire ignitions. New wildfires will become increasingly difficult to extinguish if current temperatures and drying conditions persist into August as forecasted.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with any activity that may cause a spark. Approximately 90 percent of wildfires are caused by humans and their activities, and Independence

Last week, on June 13, Texas A&M Forest Service responded to assist on the McDaniel Fire in Coke County, northwest of San Angelo. Extreme fire behavior–including multiple days with short crown runs and short-range spotting–coupled with topography challenges, wildland urban-interface and the remote location made the fire a challenge to contain and control.

Drought conditions in the western Plains and early drying across the state have led to an increase in wildfire activity and an early start to the summer wildfire season.

Texas A&M Forest Service, local fire officials and fire departments are advising the public to be aware of the continued drying conditions in Bell, McLennan, Coryell and Hill county regions that can contribute to rapidly growing wildfires.

Wildfire potential will increase this weekend and into the middle of next week across West Texas, including areas around Abilene, Childress, Lubbock and Amarillo.

While Texans are doing things differently this spring and summer, the threat of wildfire is constant. Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to take part in National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Wildfire Community Preparedness Day.

People and their activities cause more than 90 percent of wildfires in Texas. This holiday season, Texas A&M Forest Service urges everyone to be careful when participating in seasonal activities that could start a wildfire or house fire. One spark can ruin a holiday.

Media is invited to attend Field Day to learn more about the academy and visit classes covering engine operations, chainsaw work and tactical decision making in the wildland urban interface.

The 22nd Annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week. The academy runs from Oct. 11-23, 2019.

A Texas A&M Forest Service employee was honored with the prestigious Bronze Smokey Bear Award during today’s National Association of State Foresters Annual Meeting in Asheville, North Carolina. Wildland Urban Interface Specialist Samuel McCalip, a self-taught videographer, has harnessed the power of storytelling to bring wildfire prevention awareness across the state.

This weekend significant wildfire potential will increase across West and Central Texas as temperatures remain near 100 degrees and wind speeds increase to 10 to 15 mph.

With hunting season upon us, many Texans are headed to hunting leases and other open areas across the state. This influx of people into natural environments means a greater potential for human-caused wildfires.

Due to exceptional drought conditions in the panhandle and south Texas, Governor Greg Abbott issued a state of disaster on Friday, August 23. Abbott announced the state of disaster in Duval, Hall, Jim Hogg, Randall, Swisher, Webb and Zapata counties.

The Southern Area Type 1 Incident Management Red Team arrived in Texas this week to assist with the Copper Breaks Fire in Hardeman County. The Copper Breaks Fire is approximately 11 miles southwest of Quanah, Texas, and is currently 8,380 acres and 40% contained.

Texas A&M Forest Service is opening the Austin Airtanker Base at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to assist with increased wildfire activity across the state.

Over the last 14 days in West Texas, temperatures climbed over 100 degrees and the last significant rain occurred in June, resulting in dry conditions ripe for wildfire ignition. Local fire departments responded to multiple fires sparked by welding in the last week.

Smokey Bear, the face of the longest-running PSA campaign in United States history, turns 75 today, continuing his legacy of bringing awareness to unwanted, human-caused fires in America.

Texas A&M Forest Service, in cooperation with Abilene Fire Department, is hosting a celebration in honor of Smokey Bear’s 75th birthday and his wildfire prevention message. The event will be held Friday, Aug. 9, from 11a.m. to 2p.m. at Nelson Park Festival Gardens, 2070 Zoo Ln, Abilene, TX.

Since 2003, Texas has assisted the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA) with the Firewise USA® program. Through this program, Texas A&M Forest Service educates communities on the steps they can take to better protect their homes from a wildfire.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with picnics, parades, grilling a favorite dish or using fireworks, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with outdoor activities that may cause a spark.

Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Investigators made an arrest Thursday afternoon in a timber theft case in Harrison County. Agency investigators arrested Edward Tom Williams, 59, of Longview on a warrant for Theft of Property valued between $2,500 and $30,000. Williams was released on a $10,000 bond.

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents have recognized James B. Rooni of Texas A&M Forest Service as a 2017-2018 Regents Fellow Service Award recipient.

Approximately 500 Texas A&M Forest Service employees gathered today at the agency’s annual personnel meeting. The meeting was held at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center in Temple, Texas. Agrilife Vice Chancellor Dr. Patrick Stover and Deputy Vice Chancellor Dr. Susan B

Texas A&M Forest Service will host an upcoming Tree Recovery event in Houston as part of the NASCAR Green Race for Trees Campaign. This year, the campaign will distribute 500 trees in Houston to replace those that were damaged and destroyed by Hurricane Harvey. Area residents may

Fire, field and forestry professionals now have additional tools, resources and online checklists to safely and effectively conduct prescribed burns in Texas. Texas A&M Forest Service is launching an online toolkit with comprehensive step-by-step information to assist burn managers

Some 98 firefighters from 29 Texas fire departments in 20 counties will head to California this week to fight wildfires that have burned more than 750,000 acres. The deployment is an activation of the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) for wildfire suppression

Esri, the global leader in spatial analytics, presented Texas A&M Forest Service with their Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Award on July 11 at the annual Esri User Conference. Selected from over 300,000 eligible candidates, Texas A&M Forest Service

Angelina Forest Products, LLC recently announced plans to open a $100 million sawmill in Lufkin, Texas. The softwood mill is expected to be in place by spring of 2019, creating 100 full-time jobs and contributing $52 million to the Texas economy in its first year. “We made the

There is high probability of a significant wildfire outbreak in West Texas and the Panhandle Tuesday, April 17 with elevated to critical wildfire conditions present today. The areas of concern include Amarillo, Ft. Stockton, and Midland/Odessa. “With these con

Critical and elevated wildfire conditions will be present over portions of Western Texas and the Panhandle beginning Wednesday and continuing through the weekend. The areas of concern include Amarillo, Lubbock and Childress.

Cynthia Foster, head of the Wildfire Planning and Preparedness Department at Texas A&M Forest Service received the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents Fellow Service Award on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at a presentation ceremony in College Station.

Critical fire weather conditions will be present over the Texas Panhandle and West Texas regions Wednesday with a small chance of a weather-caused phenomena called a Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak.

Port Aransas Volunteer Fire Department received a fire truck today, donated by the Philomont Volunteer Fire Department from Virginia.

Over 315 students from 13 states are expected to attend the 20th annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy that will be held from Oct. 13-25 at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility located north of Bastrop.

Officials from key fire service organizations of Texas are asking for monetary donations and equipment to help local Texas fire departments impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Officials from key fire service organizations of Texas are asking for equipment and monetary donations to help local Texas fire departments impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Some Texas landowners may be eligible to be reimbursed for their cost of prescribed burning. Texas A&M Forest Service is now accepting grant applications from private property owners who use strategically-planned prescribed fires to help reduce wildfire risk and restore natural ecosystems.

Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting applications for the 2017 Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program. Through this cost-share program eligible forest landowners can receive financial and technical assistance related to reducing the threat of future SPB infestation

As Texans from around the state make plans for the Nation’s Independence Day holiday, Texas A&M Forest Service urges vigilance with outdoor activities such as grilling, campfires and fireworks. According to the National Fire Protection Association, July 4th has the m

Texas Panhandle landowners are invited to attend a workshop designed to better prepare them for wildfires. The one-day Wildfire Preparedness workshop, hosted by Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, will focus

In Texas, the official state Arbor Day celebration is held in a different host city each year on the first Friday in November. Today, on National Arbor Day, Texas A&M Forest Service revealed that this year’s state celebration will be hosted in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Three Texas fire departments were selected to receive more than $700,000 in grants from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual System on Oct. 19.

Post oak trees across the state are facing higher mortality rates in both urban and rural settings.

Texans across the Lone Star State are invited to celebrate Arbor Day Nov. 4. Arbor Day is a holiday for trees – it is the perfect day to plant trees and to celebrate all the ways that trees enrich our lives, communities and landscapes.

For the first time, foresters, landowners and contractors in Texas can now access guidelines for practicing sustainable forestry on their mobile devices.

The Lone Star Family Health Center has awarded Texas A&M Forest Service Urban District Forester John Warner an annual community award recognizing his advocacy of children in nature.

The community of Ransom Canyon has taken action to better protect their homes and properties from wildfire.

The Lone Star State Incident Management Team from Texas A&M Forest Service deployed to Fort Bend County today, providing resources in support of continued response to severe weather. The deployment was activated by the Texas Division of Emergency Management and inclu

A task force with Texas A&M Forest Service began a hazardous fuels reduction training project which should prove to benefit the citizens of Childress. On May 3, the crew began cleaning up the area surrounding an overgrown section of Fair Park. Work includes thinning smal

Over the weekend a combination of lightning, dry vegetation and elevated temperatures led to a wildfire in Jeff Davis County. The area experienced temperatures in the upper 80s, sustained winds of 15 – 25 mph and low relative humidity. This critical fire weather played a

Some of the nation’s brightest and most accomplished leaders in wildland firefighting met this week at Texas A&M Forest Service headquarters to discuss the future of leadership development in the field. Attendees were all members of the National Wildfire Coordinating

Texas A&M Forest Service Firewise Coordinator Nick Harrison received the 2015 USDA Forest Service Robert E. Browning Jr. Award for his efforts in wildfire prevention, March 23. The award is in memory of Browning, a southern wildland firefighter who gave hi

Critical fire weather conditions will be present over the Texas Plains region Tuesday and Wednesday. The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued an alert putting far western portions of the state in the “critical” and “elevated” categories for wi

Escalated fire weather conditions will be present over the Texas Plains region Tuesday and Wednesday. The Storm Prediction Center has issued an alert putting parts of the Panhandle in the “extremely critical” and “elevated” categories for wildfire potential. The areas of concern

Want to learn how your community can manage a wildfire incident? The newest learning tool in wildland fire and all-hazard management is set to be showcased at Lone Star College-Montgomery in the Woodlands. Simtable uses geographic data and a variety of colorful and interact

Portions of Northwestern Texas could see active wildfire weather this afternoon and tomorrow. The Storm Prediction Center has issued an alert putting parts of the Panhandle in the “extremely critical” and “critical” categories for wildfire potential. “Recent moistur

A drying trend in the South Plains may present the most active fire weather in Texas so far this year. “The most important thing to take note of is that this is the fourth consecutive day of high temperatures, which dries out fuels in these areas creating significant fire potential

Increased fire potential is expected in Northwestern Texas today through Monday due to above normal temperatures, moderate wind speeds and low relative humidity. “Strong winds on Monday will be a concern as they follow on the heels of three days of strong drying. Initial attack ac

Elevated fire potential is expected in the western Plains Sunday due to above normal temperatures, high wind speeds and low relative humidity. The National Weather Service forecasts increased wind speeds which can lead to potential wildfire occurrences in areas with abundant

Elevated fire danger is expected in the Panhandle Monday and Tuesday due to above normal temperatures and low relative humidity. According to the National Weather Service, southwest winds will sustain at 15 – 20 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Affected counties include

The West Texas Plains is on alert Tuesday and Wednesday as a dry front moves over abundant, dry grasses increasing the potential for wildfires. According to the National Weather Service, a dry cold front will approach and cross the West Texas Plains over the next two days brin

Texas A&M Forest Service surveyed the 2,312 acres of the Hidden Pines Fire that burned outside the 2011 Bastrop County Complex fire boundary. This area encompasses part of Buescher State Park, private and public property. The state agency estimates that 143,000 out of 233,000 trees were killed in this area, including those likely to die as a result of the wildfire. This translates into a potential $1.8 million loss in ecosystem services — a value placed on the annual social, economic and environmental benefits the trees provided the area before the fire.

Firefighters and apparatus from across the state mobilized to assist with fighting fire and protecting homes in Bastrop County on the Hidden Pines Fire that ignited last Tuesday.

Bastrop is no stranger to the dangers and devastation that wildfire can bring to a community. One weekend proved how reducing overgrown vegetation and implementing other mitigating efforts can decrease the severity of wildfires—potentially saving a community from a destructive fire.

It’s that time of year when fireworks stands open and big plans are made for the July 4th holiday. If fireworks, grilling or hanging out by a campfire are part of your celebration this year, Texas A&M Forest Service urges caution.

Emergency responders are invited to hone their wildland firefighting skills at the 14th annual Central Texas Wildfire Academy, February 11 – 15. The academy at Camp Bowie, in Brownwood, Texas, features wildland firefighting training.

Emergency responders are invited to hone in their wildland firefighting skills at the 17th annual Mile High Wildfire Academy held at the Fort Davis Fire Department, February 19–22. The academy features wildland firefighting training for paid and volunteer departments, safety and fire operations courses in the wildland urban interface.

Changing the way the South recognizes and prepares for wildfire, a 17-year Texas A&M Forest Service employee was honored Tuesday with the Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence for Public Service in Forestry.

Through a community-wide effort to raise wildfire awareness and reduce the risk of wildfires, the City of Rosser, Texas earned national recognition as a Firewise Community. Texas A&M Forest Service representatives were proud to take part in the celebration.

Helping prevent wildfires can save property, resources and lives. A message Texas A&M Forest Service plans to share through Smokey Bear’s 70th Birthday Bash.

Labor Day is upon us and as we head outside to enjoy the last days summer, Texas A&M Forest Service urges Texans to celebrate carefully.

The San Antonio Missions Baseball Club is committed to helping protect the community in which they live work and play. As team members took to the field over the past three baseball seasons, they also took wildfire prevention messages to the streets, and tonight were honored for their effort with a Bronze Smokey Bear Award.

A Texas A&M Forest Service survey of hundreds of forested plots scattered across the state shows 301 million trees were killed as a result of the devastating 2011 drought. The number was determined by a study of both on-the-ground tree health assessments collect

An estimated 5.6 million trees that once shaded homes, streets and parks in communities across Texas now are dead as a result of last year’s unrelenting drought. The finding comes from a study conducted by Texas Forest Service urban foresters, who spent the las

Texas A&M Forest Service held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly outfitted Emergency Operation Center in College Station today.

Texas A&M Forest Service hosted the fourth annual Sisters in Fire event on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Sam Houston State University Bearkat Camp. Twenty-three young women between the ages of 12 and 18 from across 23 Texas counties participated.  “For the fourth year, we’ve shown young women the comradery, integrity and excitement that comes with […]

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.

As Memorial Day unofficially kicks off summer this weekend, Texans should prepare for wildfires.

As a total solar eclipse crosses Texas on Monday, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to recreate responsibly and prevent wildfires.

Extremely critical fire weather conditions are expected to be widespread in the Texas Panhandle tomorrow near Amarillo, Borger, Canadian, Childress, Lubbock, Pampa and Perryton.

Thousands across the Texas Panhandle received wireless emergency alerts Feb. 26 and 27, warning of an eminent, dangerous wildfire on the landscape with the potential to expand.

The largest wildfire in Texas history is actively burning today. The Smokehouse Creek Fire in Hutchinson County is burning a total of 1,075,000 acres across Texas and Oklahoma and is 3% contained.

Texas A&M Forest Service urges everyone to use extreme caution when participating in activities that may start a wildfire or house fire this holiday season. One spark can ruin a holiday.

An annular solar eclipse will occur in the Texas skies Oct. 14. A“ring of fire” will be created by the sun’s shadow around the moon while parts of Texas will be in the path of totality.

A Texas A&M Forest Service employee was honored with the Current Achievement Award for Fire Protection during today’s National Association of State Foresters Annual Meeting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Kendall County has adopted a plan to reduce risks and enhance community safety in advance of a wildfire.

Hot summers and wildfires are not new to the South. Nor is interagency cooperation in responding to and suppressing wildfires. But this summer has been far from normal.

During the upcoming dove hunting season, Texans are urged to help protect the lands and natural resources that we all love by being mindful of activities that may cause a wildfire.

Texas A&M Forest Service conducted a survey of the health of baldcypress trees along a seven-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River this summer after a significant decrease in water levels over the last four years.

Emergency grant applications are now open for volunteer fire departments included in Governor Abbott’s wildfire disaster declaration.

Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to celebrate Smokey Bear’s 79th birthday today by being extremely cautious with all outdoor activities that create heat or sparks.

Texas A&M Forest Service has raised the State Wildfire Preparedness Level to Level 4 due to the recent increase in wildfire activity across the state and the growing potential for wildfires to become more severe, making them harder to control.

Texas communities at risk of wildfires can now apply for a federal grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service. Available funding is intended to help at-risk communities plan for and reduce the risk of wildfire.

Elevated fire weather, characterized by triple-digit temperatures, low humidity and increased wind speeds, will create an environment with high potential for wildfires that are difficult to control this week.

The most-asked question of college students is – “what are you going to do when you graduate?”

The Plantersville-Stoneham Volunteer Fire Department sits across from the town’s Baptist church on F.M. 1774 and is otherwise surrounded mostly by pastureland.

The following trees have made a big impression on Texas, some still standing hundreds of years later.

Central Texas landowners can apply April 1, 2023 for the SFAM Mechanical Fuels Reduction Grant to help reduce risks posed to their property by wildfire.

Bexar County Emergency Service District No. 7 has adopted a plan to reduce risks and better prepare for wildfires.

Texas A&M Forest Service raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2 due to the threat of increased wildfire activity across several regions of the state.

The tree landscape in Texas is made up by a variety of species. From ponderosa pines in West Texas to oaks in Central Texas to dogwoods in East Texas, trees play a vital role in our ecosystem and provide countless benefits.

Rich Gray announced his retirement as Texas A&M Forest Service Chief Regional Fire Coordinator last month.

The potential for wildfire activity increases this week as cold fronts are forecast to impact the state.

Texas A&M Forest Service firefighting resources are prepared to respond to wildfires as a cold front moves into the state this week.

Since Jan. 1, firefighters with Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire departments saved 8,056 homes in the path of wildfire. Many of those homes had the first layers of protection — defensible space and fire-resistant construction materials — before fire crews arrived.

Gray County has adopted a plan to reduce risks and better prepare for wildfires.

Texas A&M Forest Service reminds Texans to be careful with activities that may cause a wildfire this hunting season.

Texas A&M Forest Service raised the State Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2 this week due to increased wildfire activity, particularly in the eastern half of the state.

Texas A&M Forest Service fire analysts warn of wildfire activity, including the potential for significant wildfires, through Friday in the Western Pineywoods, Southeast and Central Texas.

Last week, a Texas A&M Forest wildfire handcrew was mobilized to the Cedar Creek Fire in Oregon.

Texas A&M Forest Service firefighters across the state have had a busy year, responding to more than 1,725 fires since Dec. 9. Many of those fires were given official names, typically connected to a geographic location or landmark near the fire. While wildfires aren’t to be taken lightly, some of the names can be rather interesting.

Eligible communities in Texas can apply now for a federal grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service to plan for and mitigate against risks created by wildfire.

As hot and dry conditions persist, extremely dry vegetation will continue to support wildfire activity across much of the state, even as surface moisture increases in some areas.

The fire environment, characterized by critically to extremely dry vegetation and critical fire weather, will support wildfire activity this week.

Texas A&M Forest Service is opening the Austin Airtanker Base at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to assist with increased wildfire activity across the state Saturday, July 15.

Hot and dry conditions across the state of Texas will create high wildfire potential through the weekend.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with picnics, grilling, camping and fireworks, Texas A&M Forest Service asks everyone to be careful with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.

The Texas fire environment will support increased wildfire activity through the weekend, as hot and dry conditions persist across the state.

This Memorial Day, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to protect our great state by being mindful of activities that may start a wildfire

There is potential for large wildfires to occur in the Western/Eastern Hill Country and Rolling Plains through Friday including areas near Childress, Vernon, Abilene, Brownwood, Lampasas, San Angelo, Ozona and Fredericksburg.

Last week, 40 members from Texas All-Hazard Incident Management Teams (AHIMT) attended the Enhanced All-hazards Incident Management/Unified Command training.

Significant, or large, wildfires may occur this weekend for the Texas Panhandle and the Trans Pecos including areas near Canadian, Amarillo, Childress, Lubbock, Abilene, Big Spring, Midland and Alpine.

There is potential for large wildfires to occur Thursday through the weekend in areas near Canadian, Amarillo, Childress, Lubbock, Big Spring, Midland and Alpine.

We can’t control when disasters strike, but we can make sure we are prepared.

A Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak is possible Tuesday in the Texas Panhandle.

A National Fire Prevention Education Team (NFPET) was brought in to assist Texas A&M Forest Service with wildfire prevention messaging.

Wildfire activity is expected to increase through the weekend as more areas across the state will be characterized by dry to extremely dry surface fuels.

Wildfire activity is expected to gradually increase throughout the week, as periodic critical fire weather occurs where very dry vegetation is present across West and South Texas.

Texas A&M Forest Service has increased the State Preparedness Level to Level 4 as the result of a significant increase in wildfire activity across the state, potential for large fires and the increased commitment of state and local resources to fires

There is potential for large wildfires to occur today that may outpace firefighters’ suppression efforts in areas near Childress, Lubbock, Abilene, Mineral Wells, Brownwood, Midland, San Angelo, Fredericksburg, Del Rio, Laredo and Brownsville.

Wildfire potential increases today for large, difficult to control wildfires to occur in Southwest Texas, specifically for areas near Del Rio, San Angelo, San Antonio and Laredo.

Wildfire activity is forecast to increase along and west of I-35 and into South Texas through the weekend.

Increased wildfire activity will be supported Friday through Sunday by warm and dry conditions and critically dry vegetation in the Western Plains, Hill Country and Cross Timbers.

Wildfire activity is forecast to increase Friday through Monday along and west of I-35 and into South Texas as dormant vegetation dries and becomes receptive to fire ignitions.

Wildfire activity is expected to increase through Wednesday as an active weather pattern aligns with dry vegetation across the landscape.

At today’s meeting of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announced the selection of an independent panel to review the circumstances and cause of last week’s escape of a prescribed fire at Bastrop State Park.

Texas A&M Forest Service readies firefighting resources today in anticipation of an increase in wildfire activity caused by pre-frontal conditions approaching the state.

Critical fire weather is forecast through Sunday for portions of North and West Texas with Friday holding the most potential for wildfire activity, particularly in the panhandle.

A Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak occurred across the panhandle of Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas on Wednesday.

Texas A&M Forest Service is opening the Abilene Airtanker Base at the Abilene Regional Airport to assist with potential wildfire activity this week.

Texas A&M Forest Service has positioned firefighting personnel and equipment in the Texas Panhandle and South Plains in preparation for forecasted elevated to critical fire weather in the areas, with anticipation of conditions becoming progressively worse today, tomorrow and into the weekend.

Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to protect our lands and all that we love this hunting season by being mindful of activities that may cause a wildfire.

The 23rd annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy (CAIWA) begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week. The academy will take place October 8-20, 2021.

Texas A&M Forest Service continues to send firefighters, overhead and equipment to respond to wildfires burning across the country.

More than 70 Texas A&M Forest Service personnel are currently deployed to wildfire incidents across multiple western states including Arizona, California, Idaho and Montana.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with picnics, grilling, camping or fireworks, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.

Twenty-five Texas A&M Forest Service overhead personnel and operational fire resources, including two engine crews, are currently deployed to wildfire incidents in Colorado, Arizona, Alaska, New Mexico and Florida.

Texas A&M Forest Service has opened a single engine air tanker base in Alpine, Texas to assist with wildfire response across the state.

Wildfire potential is increase Tuesday through Thursday across portions of the state, including the Western Plains, Trans Pecos and Rio Grand Valley.

Increased wildfire potential is expected across much of the state early this week due to approaching dry cold fronts and high temperatures.

With hunting season underway, many hunters and campers across the state are headed to the wild outdoors. This greater movement of people into wildland areas increases the potential for human-caused wildfires to start.

Recent rainfall observed across most of the state has significantly reduced wildfire activity and the potential for large fire growth.

The footprint of wildfire potential has decreased for a large portion of the state after a multi-day rain event. However, the potential for wildfire ignitions will remain high in southwest Texas where critically dry fuels remain.

The return of widespread triple digit temperatures Friday through Sunday will increase the rate of drying in vegetation, resulting in increased risk of wildland fire occurrence. Minimal rainfall from Hurricane Laura was observed west of Interstate 35 where critically dry fuels are present.

Continued hot and dry conditions across much of the state have resulted in increased wildfire activity, particularly in north central Texas and in areas along the Interstate-35 corridor. Activity and fuel dryness is expanding north and east into higher population centers, including further east along the Interstate-45 corridor as well.

Wildfire activity has increased statewide with hot and dry conditions. This pattern of activity is expected to continue as the state moves into late summer.

Firefighters from across the state are battling the still-growing, human-caused Mays Fire in San Saba and McCulloch Counties. The fire ignited on Aug. 1, approximately 16 miles east of Brady, Texas, as the result of an individual parking and idling their vehicle over tall, dry grass. The fire has currently burned an estimated 9,500 acres and is only 50% contained.

Significant wildfire activity has increased statewide, and accelerated drying has elevated the potential for new wildfire ignitions. New wildfires will become increasingly difficult to extinguish if current temperatures and drying conditions persist into August as forecasted.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with any activity that may cause a spark. Approximately 90 percent of wildfires are caused by humans and their activities, and Independence

Last week, on June 13, Texas A&M Forest Service responded to assist on the McDaniel Fire in Coke County, northwest of San Angelo. Extreme fire behavior–including multiple days with short crown runs and short-range spotting–coupled with topography challenges, wildland urban-interface and the remote location made the fire a challenge to contain and control.

Drought conditions in the western Plains and early drying across the state have led to an increase in wildfire activity and an early start to the summer wildfire season.

Texas A&M Forest Service, local fire officials and fire departments are advising the public to be aware of the continued drying conditions in Bell, McLennan, Coryell and Hill county regions that can contribute to rapidly growing wildfires.

Wildfire potential will increase this weekend and into the middle of next week across West Texas, including areas around Abilene, Childress, Lubbock and Amarillo.

While Texans are doing things differently this spring and summer, the threat of wildfire is constant. Texas A&M Forest Service encourages Texans to take part in National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Wildfire Community Preparedness Day.

People and their activities cause more than 90 percent of wildfires in Texas. This holiday season, Texas A&M Forest Service urges everyone to be careful when participating in seasonal activities that could start a wildfire or house fire. One spark can ruin a holiday.

Media is invited to attend Field Day to learn more about the academy and visit classes covering engine operations, chainsaw work and tactical decision making in the wildland urban interface.

The 22nd Annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy begins at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility in Bastrop, Texas this week. The academy runs from Oct. 11-23, 2019.

A Texas A&M Forest Service employee was honored with the prestigious Bronze Smokey Bear Award during today’s National Association of State Foresters Annual Meeting in Asheville, North Carolina. Wildland Urban Interface Specialist Samuel McCalip, a self-taught videographer, has harnessed the power of storytelling to bring wildfire prevention awareness across the state.

This weekend significant wildfire potential will increase across West and Central Texas as temperatures remain near 100 degrees and wind speeds increase to 10 to 15 mph.

With hunting season upon us, many Texans are headed to hunting leases and other open areas across the state. This influx of people into natural environments means a greater potential for human-caused wildfires.

Due to exceptional drought conditions in the panhandle and south Texas, Governor Greg Abbott issued a state of disaster on Friday, August 23. Abbott announced the state of disaster in Duval, Hall, Jim Hogg, Randall, Swisher, Webb and Zapata counties.

The Southern Area Type 1 Incident Management Red Team arrived in Texas this week to assist with the Copper Breaks Fire in Hardeman County. The Copper Breaks Fire is approximately 11 miles southwest of Quanah, Texas, and is currently 8,380 acres and 40% contained.

Texas A&M Forest Service is opening the Austin Airtanker Base at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to assist with increased wildfire activity across the state.

Over the last 14 days in West Texas, temperatures climbed over 100 degrees and the last significant rain occurred in June, resulting in dry conditions ripe for wildfire ignition. Local fire departments responded to multiple fires sparked by welding in the last week.

Smokey Bear, the face of the longest-running PSA campaign in United States history, turns 75 today, continuing his legacy of bringing awareness to unwanted, human-caused fires in America.

Texas A&M Forest Service, in cooperation with Abilene Fire Department, is hosting a celebration in honor of Smokey Bear’s 75th birthday and his wildfire prevention message. The event will be held Friday, Aug. 9, from 11a.m. to 2p.m. at Nelson Park Festival Gardens, 2070 Zoo Ln, Abilene, TX.

Since 2003, Texas has assisted the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA) with the Firewise USA® program. Through this program, Texas A&M Forest Service educates communities on the steps they can take to better protect their homes from a wildfire.

As Texans make plans to celebrate the Fourth of July with picnics, parades, grilling a favorite dish or using fireworks, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful with outdoor activities that may cause a spark.

Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Investigators made an arrest Thursday afternoon in a timber theft case in Harrison County. Agency investigators arrested Edward Tom Williams, 59, of Longview on a warrant for Theft of Property valued between $2,500 and $30,000. Williams was released on a $10,000 bond.

The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents have recognized James B. Rooni of Texas A&M Forest Service as a 2017-2018 Regents Fellow Service Award recipient.

Approximately 500 Texas A&M Forest Service employees gathered today at the agency’s annual personnel meeting. The meeting was held at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center in Temple, Texas. Agrilife Vice Chancellor Dr. Patrick Stover and Deputy Vice Chancellor Dr. Susan B

Texas A&M Forest Service will host an upcoming Tree Recovery event in Houston as part of the NASCAR Green Race for Trees Campaign. This year, the campaign will distribute 500 trees in Houston to replace those that were damaged and destroyed by Hurricane Harvey. Area residents may

Fire, field and forestry professionals now have additional tools, resources and online checklists to safely and effectively conduct prescribed burns in Texas. Texas A&M Forest Service is launching an online toolkit with comprehensive step-by-step information to assist burn managers

Some 98 firefighters from 29 Texas fire departments in 20 counties will head to California this week to fight wildfires that have burned more than 750,000 acres. The deployment is an activation of the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) for wildfire suppression

Esri, the global leader in spatial analytics, presented Texas A&M Forest Service with their Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Award on July 11 at the annual Esri User Conference. Selected from over 300,000 eligible candidates, Texas A&M Forest Service

Angelina Forest Products, LLC recently announced plans to open a $100 million sawmill in Lufkin, Texas. The softwood mill is expected to be in place by spring of 2019, creating 100 full-time jobs and contributing $52 million to the Texas economy in its first year. “We made the

There is high probability of a significant wildfire outbreak in West Texas and the Panhandle Tuesday, April 17 with elevated to critical wildfire conditions present today. The areas of concern include Amarillo, Ft. Stockton, and Midland/Odessa. “With these con

Critical and elevated wildfire conditions will be present over portions of Western Texas and the Panhandle beginning Wednesday and continuing through the weekend. The areas of concern include Amarillo, Lubbock and Childress.

Cynthia Foster, head of the Wildfire Planning and Preparedness Department at Texas A&M Forest Service received the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents Fellow Service Award on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at a presentation ceremony in College Station.

Critical fire weather conditions will be present over the Texas Panhandle and West Texas regions Wednesday with a small chance of a weather-caused phenomena called a Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak.

Port Aransas Volunteer Fire Department received a fire truck today, donated by the Philomont Volunteer Fire Department from Virginia.

Over 315 students from 13 states are expected to attend the 20th annual Capital Area Interagency Wildfire and Incident Management Academy that will be held from Oct. 13-25 at the Camp Swift National Guard Facility located north of Bastrop.

Officials from key fire service organizations of Texas are asking for monetary donations and equipment to help local Texas fire departments impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Officials from key fire service organizations of Texas are asking for equipment and monetary donations to help local Texas fire departments impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Some Texas landowners may be eligible to be reimbursed for their cost of prescribed burning. Texas A&M Forest Service is now accepting grant applications from private property owners who use strategically-planned prescribed fires to help reduce wildfire risk and restore natural ecosystems.

Texas A&M Forest Service is accepting applications for the 2017 Southern Pine Beetle Prevention Program. Through this cost-share program eligible forest landowners can receive financial and technical assistance related to reducing the threat of future SPB infestation

As Texans from around the state make plans for the Nation’s Independence Day holiday, Texas A&M Forest Service urges vigilance with outdoor activities such as grilling, campfires and fireworks. According to the National Fire Protection Association, July 4th has the m

Texas Panhandle landowners are invited to attend a workshop designed to better prepare them for wildfires. The one-day Wildfire Preparedness workshop, hosted by Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, will focus

In Texas, the official state Arbor Day celebration is held in a different host city each year on the first Friday in November. Today, on National Arbor Day, Texas A&M Forest Service revealed that this year’s state celebration will be hosted in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Three Texas fire departments were selected to receive more than $700,000 in grants from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual System on Oct. 19.

Post oak trees across the state are facing higher mortality rates in both urban and rural settings.

Texans across the Lone Star State are invited to celebrate Arbor Day Nov. 4. Arbor Day is a holiday for trees – it is the perfect day to plant trees and to celebrate all the ways that trees enrich our lives, communities and landscapes.

For the first time, foresters, landowners and contractors in Texas can now access guidelines for practicing sustainable forestry on their mobile devices.

The Lone Star Family Health Center has awarded Texas A&M Forest Service Urban District Forester John Warner an annual community award recognizing his advocacy of children in nature.

The community of Ransom Canyon has taken action to better protect their homes and properties from wildfire.

The Lone Star State Incident Management Team from Texas A&M Forest Service deployed to Fort Bend County today, providing resources in support of continued response to severe weather. The deployment was activated by the Texas Division of Emergency Management and inclu

A task force with Texas A&M Forest Service began a hazardous fuels reduction training project which should prove to benefit the citizens of Childress. On May 3, the crew began cleaning up the area surrounding an overgrown section of Fair Park. Work includes thinning smal

Over the weekend a combination of lightning, dry vegetation and elevated temperatures led to a wildfire in Jeff Davis County. The area experienced temperatures in the upper 80s, sustained winds of 15 – 25 mph and low relative humidity. This critical fire weather played a

Some of the nation’s brightest and most accomplished leaders in wildland firefighting met this week at Texas A&M Forest Service headquarters to discuss the future of leadership development in the field. Attendees were all members of the National Wildfire Coordinating

Texas A&M Forest Service Firewise Coordinator Nick Harrison received the 2015 USDA Forest Service Robert E. Browning Jr. Award for his efforts in wildfire prevention, March 23. The award is in memory of Browning, a southern wildland firefighter who gave hi

Critical fire weather conditions will be present over the Texas Plains region Tuesday and Wednesday. The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued an alert putting far western portions of the state in the “critical” and “elevated” categories for wi

Escalated fire weather conditions will be present over the Texas Plains region Tuesday and Wednesday. The Storm Prediction Center has issued an alert putting parts of the Panhandle in the “extremely critical” and “elevated” categories for wildfire potential. The areas of concern

Want to learn how your community can manage a wildfire incident? The newest learning tool in wildland fire and all-hazard management is set to be showcased at Lone Star College-Montgomery in the Woodlands. Simtable uses geographic data and a variety of colorful and interact

Portions of Northwestern Texas could see active wildfire weather this afternoon and tomorrow. The Storm Prediction Center has issued an alert putting parts of the Panhandle in the “extremely critical” and “critical” categories for wildfire potential. “Recent moistur

A drying trend in the South Plains may present the most active fire weather in Texas so far this year. “The most important thing to take note of is that this is the fourth consecutive day of high temperatures, which dries out fuels in these areas creating significant fire potential

Increased fire potential is expected in Northwestern Texas today through Monday due to above normal temperatures, moderate wind speeds and low relative humidity. “Strong winds on Monday will be a concern as they follow on the heels of three days of strong drying. Initial attack ac

Elevated fire potential is expected in the western Plains Sunday due to above normal temperatures, high wind speeds and low relative humidity. The National Weather Service forecasts increased wind speeds which can lead to potential wildfire occurrences in areas with abundant

Elevated fire danger is expected in the Panhandle Monday and Tuesday due to above normal temperatures and low relative humidity. According to the National Weather Service, southwest winds will sustain at 15 – 20 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Affected counties include

The West Texas Plains is on alert Tuesday and Wednesday as a dry front moves over abundant, dry grasses increasing the potential for wildfires. According to the National Weather Service, a dry cold front will approach and cross the West Texas Plains over the next two days brin

Texas A&M Forest Service surveyed the 2,312 acres of the Hidden Pines Fire that burned outside the 2011 Bastrop County Complex fire boundary. This area encompasses part of Buescher State Park, private and public property. The state agency estimates that 143,000 out of 233,000 trees were killed in this area, including those likely to die as a result of the wildfire. This translates into a potential $1.8 million loss in ecosystem services — a value placed on the annual social, economic and environmental benefits the trees provided the area before the fire.

Firefighters and apparatus from across the state mobilized to assist with fighting fire and protecting homes in Bastrop County on the Hidden Pines Fire that ignited last Tuesday.

Bastrop is no stranger to the dangers and devastation that wildfire can bring to a community. One weekend proved how reducing overgrown vegetation and implementing other mitigating efforts can decrease the severity of wildfires—potentially saving a community from a destructive fire.

It’s that time of year when fireworks stands open and big plans are made for the July 4th holiday. If fireworks, grilling or hanging out by a campfire are part of your celebration this year, Texas A&M Forest Service urges caution.

Emergency responders are invited to hone their wildland firefighting skills at the 14th annual Central Texas Wildfire Academy, February 11 – 15. The academy at Camp Bowie, in Brownwood, Texas, features wildland firefighting training.

Emergency responders are invited to hone in their wildland firefighting skills at the 17th annual Mile High Wildfire Academy held at the Fort Davis Fire Department, February 19–22. The academy features wildland firefighting training for paid and volunteer departments, safety and fire operations courses in the wildland urban interface.

Changing the way the South recognizes and prepares for wildfire, a 17-year Texas A&M Forest Service employee was honored Tuesday with the Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence for Public Service in Forestry.

Through a community-wide effort to raise wildfire awareness and reduce the risk of wildfires, the City of Rosser, Texas earned national recognition as a Firewise Community. Texas A&M Forest Service representatives were proud to take part in the celebration.

Helping prevent wildfires can save property, resources and lives. A message Texas A&M Forest Service plans to share through Smokey Bear’s 70th Birthday Bash.

Labor Day is upon us and as we head outside to enjoy the last days summer, Texas A&M Forest Service urges Texans to celebrate carefully.

The San Antonio Missions Baseball Club is committed to helping protect the community in which they live work and play. As team members took to the field over the past three baseball seasons, they also took wildfire prevention messages to the streets, and tonight were honored for their effort with a Bronze Smokey Bear Award.

A Texas A&M Forest Service survey of hundreds of forested plots scattered across the state shows 301 million trees were killed as a result of the devastating 2011 drought. The number was determined by a study of both on-the-ground tree health assessments collect

An estimated 5.6 million trees that once shaded homes, streets and parks in communities across Texas now are dead as a result of last year’s unrelenting drought. The finding comes from a study conducted by Texas Forest Service urban foresters, who spent the las

Embers Embers are flaming bits of debris coming from the fire that can travel one to two miles in certain weather conditions. If a large enough ember or several embers gather on flammable materials, a spot fire can occur on or near your home or structure.  Embers can pose one of the greatest threats to […]

Outdoor cooking is part of many gatherings with family and friends. But, grills, charcoal, or propane, can be a fire hazard if not used correctly. 

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is supporting shows conducted by professionals. Prioritize safety to make your fireworks experience a memorable and enjoyable one for everyone.  Handled fireworks responsibly Use fireworks outdoors Never do the following Protect your eyes and ears Be mindful of pets Celebrate responsibly Post-fireworks

Campfires can be a great way to warm up while enjoying the outdoors and provides a relaxing environment outside. Keep safety a priority and recreate responsibly.   When planning, constructing, and extinguishing campfires:   Pick a spot Prepare a fire pit Build a fire Extinguishing the fire

Equipment use and careless debris burning account for 50% of wildfires in Texas. Equipment includes vehicles, trailers, ATV/UTVs, heavy equipment, and other motorized equipment.   Be cautious when using equipment that could potentially overheat or spark and ignite a wildfire.   Vehicles Trailers Agricultural and other equipment Welding/grinding

As the state’s lead agency for wildfire response, we establish Wildland Fire Preparedness Levels throughout the year to ensure resource availability for wildfire incidents across the state. Preparedness Levels 1-5 are planning assumptions and actions dictated by fuel and weather conditions, current and expected wildfire activity, regional preparedness levels, and fire suppression resource availability in […]

Reducing vegetation on your property can dramatically decrease the spread and intensity of a wildfire. It can also increase the chances for firefighters to contain the fire quickly and creates a safer environment for them to work.   Fuels reduction focuses on removing excessive or hazardous fuels such vegetative debris, immature trees, shrubs, and dead or […]

SPWO Each year, Texas A&M Forest Service and the National Weather Service watch for an extremely dangerous fire weather phenomenon known as a Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak, or SPWO.   An SPWO event is a force of nature, and much like a hurricane or tornado, it cannot be stopped. Since 2005, SPWO fires account for 3% […]

Our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at our headquarters in College Station provides statewide situational awareness and management of all agency emergency response activities. We are an “All Hazard” agency, meaning we respond not only to wildfires, but floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, snowstorms, and more.   The EOC uses state of the art technology to continuously monitor wildfire […]

Evacuation planning Don’t wait for an emergency to happen to start planning for it. Have a plan in place so you are prepared. Learn about natural disasters that may potentially affect the area you live in or the area you are planning to visit. Work with local emergency responders Evacuation kits Evacuation routes Plan and […]

Fire-resistant landscaping reduces the amount of hazardous fuels near homes or structures and selectively isolates fuels within a landscape to break up continuous areas of vegetation. It should lower the intensity of a wildfire as it approaches your home.   A healthy, well-maintained landscape is important to home and structure survival during a wildfire. The threat […]

Fire resistant construction takes measures to reduce a home or structure’s risk to wildfire by using non-combustible or fire-resistant building materials.   Sometimes called “home hardening”, fire-resistant construction includes keeping the immediate area around your home free of debris and address any potential vulnerability to embers.   Home construction The materials you use to construct your home […]

A quick response to a wildfire is critical for saving your home. Firefighting personnel must be able to quickly locate and safely travel to your home. Emergency responders may not be familiar with your community, so highly visible signs are important to help them find their way.  Fire trucks and other wildfire suppression equipment, such […]

Identifying landowner priorities As a landowner, the first steps you should take to prepare for a wildfire is identify priority areas, points of contact, water sources, sensitive areas, fences, gates, and other zones within your ranch.   These allow firefighters to make tactical decisions that reflect your priorities. It will also provide a foundation for post-fire […]

Drought is a period of time when an area or region experiences below-normal precipitation. Drought is one component of the fire environment and is used to gauge fire potential based on its effect on long-term drying of wildland fuels, or any fire-feeding flammable material such as grass, leaves, or vegetation. An increase in fuels in […]

Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPP) are a collaborative wildland fire protection and mitigation approach. Plans can be as simple or complex as the community needs and includes involvement from local government, emergency response agencies, Texas A&M Forest Service, and other stakeholders.  CWPPs are authorized by the Healthy Reforestation Act, signed into law in 2003.  A […]

NFPA’s Firewise USA® program teaches how to adapt to living with wildfire and encourages neighbors to work together to take action to prevent losses.   Sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association, the Firewise USA® Recognition Program is aimed at small communities, community associations, and master planned communities. The goal is to assess the wildfire risk […]

Communities in action  Most wildfires occur within two miles of a community, placing thousands of homes at risk each year. Reducing the amount of vegetation, or fuel, around homes while using fire-resistant construction materials is the best defense in protecting people, homes, and property from wildfire.   Many communities have seen the benefits of using fire-resistant […]

Under the Texas Wildfire Protection Plan (TWPP), we work to reduce wildfire occurrence and loss in Texas through integrated programs that improve preparedness and respond capabilities statewide. The practices outlined in the plan are incorporated into the operational structure of the agency.   The TWPP has been used and refined over the past two decades as […]

We analyze current and predicted weather conditions, wildfire occurrences, and the state of vegetative fuels to deliver crucial products. This information empowers communities, officials, and firefighters to make well-informed decisions, ultimately contributing to more effective wildfire management and response strategies.  Fire environment products We produce a range of products to support fire management efforts. Staff […]

Prevent and prepare your community for wildfires The first and most important step communities can take in wildfire preparedness is recognizing and addressing their risk for wildfires.   The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) is the area where developed land is next to or intermixed with undeveloped wildland. WUI areas are often at the highest risk for […]

Prepare your farm or ranch for wildfires Wildfires on Texas farms and ranches can be costly and dangerous.   Actions can and must be taken to mitigate risk to conserve land and reach production goals. The first step is to assess your property for potential wildfire risk and establish your priorities.   Initial preparations

Prevent and prepare your home for wildfire Wildfire is an uncontrolled or unplanned fire burning vegetation like a forest or grasslands. They can occur in isolated areas or very close to and within communities, posing threat to people and property. It’s everyone’s responsibility to prevent and prepare for wildfires. The first and most important step […]

Firefighting aircraft in Texas follow strict state and federal guidelines for safety, operation, training, and equipment. We obtain firefighting aircraft through a Call-When-Needed agreement with the federal government. This allows aircraft to be stationed strategically around the state during periods of critical fire weather.  WARNING: If you fly, we can’t. Drones aren’t permitted to fly […]

Responding to wildfires and emergencies statewide Texas A&M Forest Service is the lead agency in Texas when is comes to fighting wildfires, and nationally-renowned for work in incident management. In addition to putting out fires, many of our programs are aimed at building local capacity and helping Texans help themselves. We work with local fire […]

The Texas Water Source April 2021

Warning of weather conditions that create a high risk for wildfire

Terms related to fire weather

The May 2023 revised plan of the Texas Wildfire Protection Plan.

A product depicting expected future fire danger based on National Weather Service weather forecasts.

The Texas Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal, TxWRAP, shows risk in your area and offers resources for wildfire risk.