Media: News Releases

Virginia Department of Forestry Announces $500,000 Available through Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant Program

Virginia Department of Forestry Announces $500,000 Available through Virginia Trees for Clean Water Grant Program

August 18, 2023 - The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) has announced the availability of approximately $500,000 in grant funding through the end of 2023 for the Virginia Trees for Clean Water (VTCW) Grant Program. Supported by the Virginia Water Quality Improvement Fund, the VTCW Grant Program is designed to improve water quality across Virginia by encouraging tree-planting efforts where they are needed most and raise awareness of their benefits.

Virginia Department of Forestry Incentivizes Hardwood Management

Virginia Department of Forestry Incentivizes Hardwood Management

July 18, 2023 - Hardwood Initiative cost-share and tax credit programs now available. Virginia’s invaluable hardwood forests provide clean air and water, recreation, wildlife habitat, and raw materials used for a wide variety of products. To maximize these benefits and ensure a healthy, sustainable hardwood resource, the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) has established the Hardwood Initiative to promote quality management practices. 

Media Alert: 2023 Interagency Wildland Fire Academy

Media Alert: 2023 Interagency Wildland Fire Academy

May 22, 2023 - During this annual academy, wildland firefighters and other emergency responders from many agencies and states learn how to respond to wildfires and other disasters. Students also build their field skills with courses such as bulldozer and chainsaw operation. Friday, May 26, 2023, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. RSVP by Tuesday, May 23

Emerald Ash Borer Cost Share Now Available

Emerald Ash Borer Cost Share Now Available

May 3, 2023 - Applications are now open for the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) Emerald Ash Borer Cost-Share Program, which offers cost reimbursement for treating ash trees to protect from the invasive emerald ash borer. Landowners and organizations (including municipalities, not-for-profits, educational institutions and homeowner associations) can apply until June 16. 

Prevent Spring Wildfires Before They Start

Prevent Spring Wildfires Before They Start

April 5, 2023 -  With spring fully underway, the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) wishes to remind Virginians that the 4 p.m. burning law, which restricts open-air burning of any kind until after 4 p.m., remains in effect through April 30. 

Applications Open for 75th Camp Woods and Wildlife

Applications Open for 75th Camp Woods and Wildlife

March 16, 2023 - Applications are now open for the 75th annual Camp Woods and Wildlife to be held June 19-23 at the Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center near Appomattox. This activity-packed camp is hosted by the Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) with support and cooperation from natural resource agencies, organizations and businesses. 

Statement of Virginia Department of Forestry Tragedy

Statement of Virginia Department of Forestry Tragedy

March 10, 2023 -  At approximately 8:30 p.m. on March 9, a Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) employee was killed while fighting a 15-acre wildfire along Lester’s Fork Road near the Roseann community in Buchanan County. 

Virginia's Spring Fire Season Begins

Virginia’s Spring Fire Season Begins

February 14, 2023 - The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) joins fire departments throughout the Commonwealth to raise awareness about fire safety this spring. Due to weather conditions, available “fuel,” and increased recreational activity, the possibility of wildfires surges this time of year. Last week, several wildfires were contained in western regions of the state.

One Million Dollars in Forest Sustainability Funding Awarded to 68 Localities Across Virginia

One Million Dollars in Forest Sustainability Funding Awarded to 68 Localities Across Virginia

January 9, 2023 - The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) has announced the awardees for the 2022 Forest Sustainability Fund. One million dollars will be distributed proportionately to 68 Virginia localities to partially offset the reduced real estate tax revenue that results from forestland use taxation. The localities will be able to use these funds for public education, outdoor recreation, or forest conservation.