April 30, 2026 -
While many people are familiar with Virginia’s fabulous State Parks, fewer know about the 26 State Forests scattered across Virginia. Ranging in size from 121 to over 19,000 acres, State Forests are managed by the Virginia Department of Forestry for multiple uses. What they lack in facilities, they make up for in quiet spaces to recreate, learn, and simply enjoy nature. We’ll be featuring several state forests throughout the year,... Read More
April 30, 2026 -
Block Grant Reopens: Applications Accepted Through July 1 Earlier this month, Governor Spanberger announced that the Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant Program will reopen, with applications accepted through July 1. This provides those farmers and timber owners impacted by Hurricane Helene who did not apply during the initial period, with another opportunity for relief funding. Applicants must be located within one of the designated southwest Virginia localities (full list is... Read More
February 26, 2026 -
Spring Fire Season Arrives Spring fire season is officially underway, marking the time of year when Virginia’s 4 p.m. burning law is in effect. “Virginia averages around 700 wildfires each year, with the majority occurring in spring,” said Chief of Fire and Emergency Response John Miller. “Already this year, DOF has responded to approximately 100 wildfires. Warmer weather, dry and windy conditions, and abundant fuels increase wildfire risk. Until fire season ends on April 30, you can... Read More
January 29, 2026 -
Terry Lasher Appointed State Forester Terry Lasher has been appointed by Governor Abigail Spanberger as DOF’s ninth State Forester. Most recently serving as executive director with the Virginia Forestry Association, Lasher rejoins the agency where he spent more than two decades, beginning in 2001 as resource conservation and development forester in Tappahannock. From there, he went on to assume a wide range of roles with the agency including, assistant regional... Read More
December 13, 2025 -
Be Fire Safe This Holiday Season Virginia’s fall fire season wrapped on Nov. 30. Since its start on Oct. 15, DOF suppressed 152 wildfires that burned 1,733 acres and damaged two outbuildings. DOF response efforts during the fall are credited with protecting 36 homes and 39 other structures with a total value estimated to be over $10 million. Virginia’s fall fire season may be over, but please take it from... Read More
