Have you ever wondered who safeguards our forests from wildfires? Florida Forest Service’s primary mission is to “protect Florida and its people from dangers of wildland fire and manage the forest resources through a stewardship ethic to assure they are available to future generations”. According to Florida Forest Service (FFS) website, nearly one half of the state of Florida is forested (35.7 million acres). That would cover an area bigger than Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts combined. Of that, at least 1 million acres are managed by FFS. Florida forestland supports an industry that contributes to the state’s economy. They equally provide jobs, as well as protect a great variety of wildlife habitat.
Special Operating Aircrafts
The Florida Forest Service has mutual agreements with cities, counties, and tribal fire departments. They all work together to accomplish the task of keeping us safe from wildfires. Trained FFS wildland firefighters use specialized heavy machinery during their suppression response to wildfires on the ground. They utilize special operating aircrafts and helicopters to support the detection, mitigation, and suppression of wildfire. FFS utilizes planes to patrol and monitor authorized fires and detect wildfires along our forests. Pilots’ observations provide crucial information about the vegetation, behavior of a wildfire, and the efficiency of the approach operated by wildland firefighters on the ground.
What does Florida Forest Service have to offer to Florida residents?
Florida Forest Service offers a variety of educational programs for the community and landowners. Educational material varies from certifications to training programs. These help Florida residents be involved and educated on how forest practices can have a positive impact on our quality of life. The website, in addition, offers resources for educators and also helps students learn about our forests.
Does Florida have a Wildfire Season?
Florida is distinctive in this feature because it has a 12-month wildfire season. There are months of the year during which wildfire activity is more frequent, and that coincides with the dry season (December to June). Wildfire activity, in fact, often peaks during the months of March, April, and May, and lightning is more common during the rainy season.
Do you know that Florida is the state that has the highest lightning flash density per square mile in the nation? Click here to see the map:
2023 United States Lightning Report – AEM
What can Florida residents do to prevent a wildfire?
According to Florida Forest Service, more than 75% of wildfires are caused by humans, who start a fire intentionally (arson) or from escaped debris that are still burning. Report wildfires by calling 911 or contacting the nearest Florida Forest Service Office: Florida Forest Service Office Locations / Our Forests / Forest & Wildfire / Home – Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov)
Also, avoid leaving fires unattended and make sure that all fires are completely out before leaving a burn site. Encourage others to prevent wildfires by doing the same and report any suspicious activity you might see. After all, it is our responsibility to protect the area we live in.
Operation Outdoor Freedom
Finally, a big shout out for a great initiative. The Florida Forest Service offers an outdoor opportunity for Florida wounded veterans, called “Operation Outdoor Freedom”. Their program provides recreational and rehabilitation activities for wounded veterans visiting our state forests and agricultural lands. Please check the link for upcoming events: Operation Outdoor Freedom / State Forest Recreation / State Forests / Our Forests / Forest & Wildfire / Home – Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov).
The Florida Forest Service, therefore, has a lot to offer. Check out their website to learn the latest about their Agriculture educational material and publications.
References: Information from this blog is provided by and available at the Florida Forest Service Website: Florida Forest Service / Divisions & Offices / Home – Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov)
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