Newsroom


  • The Understory – February 26, 2026

    The Understory – 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… Read More


  • The Understory – January 28, 2026

    The Understory – January 28, 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,… Read More


  • The Understory – December 12, 2025

    The Understory – December 12, 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… Read More


  • The Understory – October 30, 2025

    The Understory – October 30, 2025

    Fall Fire Season is Underway While leaf-peeping season is one of Virginia’s most beautiful times of year, it also brings conditions that increase the risk of wildfires. As leaves fall and accumulate on the ground,… Read More


  • The Understory – September 17, 2025

    The Understory – September 17, 2025

    Helene left a lasting impact on Virginia’s forestry communities Additional Disaster Relief Funding Announced Thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Virginia Farm Recovery Block Grant Program… Read More