Media: News Releases

Update on Virginia Wildfires

November 17, 2023 - The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) continues to respond to several wildfires across central and southwest Virginia. Since the start of Virginia’s fall fire season (Oct. 15 – Nov. 30), DOF has responded to 113 wildfires that have burned more than 12,000 acres.

Throwing Shade VA Program is Growing

November 14, 2023 - The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) is pleased to announce that the Throwing Shade VA program, which offers discounts on native trees and shrubs, is growing. In 2024, DOF will expand participation to 10 retail nurseries.

Governor Glenn Youngkin Declares State of Emergency to Enable Assistance for Wildfires in Two Counties

November 8, 2023 - Governor Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency to assist firefighter response efforts on two wildfires around the state due to dry conditions and high winds, both of which are common during the ongoing fall fire season. These fires may continue to pose a threat to public health and safety. Specifically, two fires—the Quaker Run Fire in Madison County and the Tuggles Gap fire in Patrick County—broke containment lines over... Read More

Executive Order 29 – Declaration of a State of Emergency Due to Wildfires or the Potential Thereof, Throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia

November 8, 2023 - Executive Order 29 – The Commonwealth of Virginia is experiencing multiple wildfires around the state due to extremely dry conditions and high winds, both of which are common during the ongoing fall fire season. These fires have and may continue to pose a significant threat to public health and safety. Specifically, two fires – the Quaker Run Fire in Madison County and the Tuggles Gap Fire in Patrick County –... Read More

Progress Made in Containing Madison County Wildfire

October 28, 2023 - Firefighters from the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) and partner departments continue containment efforts on the now 390-acre Quaker Run Fire that began Tuesday in Madison County near Syria.

DOF Working to Contain Madison County Wildfire

October 27, 2023 - The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) continues to respond to a wildfire that began Tuesday in Madison County near Syria. The 125-acre fire is located on private land that is steep and difficult to access, which has made containment efforts difficult.

Virginia’s Fall Fire Season Begins

October 16, 2023 - The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) reminds everyone that the fall fire season has arrived. From now through November, be extra careful when burning yard debris, or enjoying a campfire or backyard fire pit. 

Forest Products Week in Virginia October 16-20

October 16, 2023 - Governor Glenn Youngkin has proclaimed Oct. 16-20 Forest Products Week in Virginia. The proclamation recognizes the numerous products that come from our forests, the vital role they play in our lives, and the more than 100,000 men and women in Virginia who work in the forest industry.