OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Oklahoma Forestry Services personnel are usually associated with fighting wildfires and helping with forest management projects, but for the past six weeks they have been part of the fight against a different kind of threat.

Forestry Services personnel are supporting the Oklahoma Department of Health’s response to the COVID-19 emergency by delivering critical personal protective equipment, medical supplies and COVID-19 test kits to hospitals, nursing homes and first-responders across the state.

Similar to a wildfire incident, the medical supplies distribution operation requires resource and logistical planning and management. Activated by the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management, Forestry Services personnel began operations March 24 at the Health Department’s Oklahoma City warehouse, where medical supplies and equipment are stored.

Forestry Services personnel have been on-duty seven days a week and have made over 1,000 deliveries. In addition to deliveries, Forestry Services personnel have maintained a regular schedule of picking up donated and purchased personal protective equipment from across the state, bringing it back to the warehouse for distribution.

“We are honored to support patients, the medical community and first responders by delivering the lifesaving supplies they need,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director Mark Goeller. “Most people associate us with wildfires, but our role in emergency response goes beyond fire. Reduced wildfire activity this spring has resulted in our personnel being available to assist with this unprecedented event.”

While most of their time is spent training for and responding to large wildfire incidents, Forestry Services emergency response personnel also prepare for other natural and man-made disasters. They regularly respond to nationally-significant events, such as hurricane response and recovery, the 9/11 World Trade Center disaster, and the Columbia Space Shuttle recovery.

Forestry Services fields an Incident Management Team to provide high-level organizational structure to emerging and long-term incidents. Six employees also serve on National Incident Management Teams, while many other personnel are deployed to wildfires and other disasters as needed. Forestry personnel have responded to ice storms, tornadoes and been involved with earthquake and other disaster planning within the state.

Oklahoma Forestry will continue to support the Oklahoma Department of Health’s COVID-19 response as long as needed. For more information about Oklahoma Forestry Services visit www.forestry.ok.gov.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Results are in and the public is invited to a review and summary of the 2019 Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area Tree Canopy Assessment project. Join us on November 6 at 2pm at Will Rogers Gardens Exhibition Building, 3400 NW 36th Street in Oklahoma City to hear the results.  

The first tree canopy survey to include the entire Oklahoma City Metro Area was conducted to help metropolitan cities shape their approach to beautification, quality of life and environmental sustainability, including air quality and stormwater runoff planning, as well as the location and type of trees that should be considered for planting going forward. 

“We now have comprehensive baseline information for metro cities and schools to utilize for developing plans for planting trees to maximize benefits,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator Mark Bays.  “We are all excited to be able to provide this information to improve environmental sustainability for the future.”

The project was funded through a collaboration with the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) and Oklahoma Forestry Services. The partnership utilized nationally-recognized Davey Tree Service to collect the tree and vegetation data and produce the report.  Results will be presented by Tina McKeand, Davey Resource Group, with representatives from each organization available for comments and questions. 

 Results provide significant quantitative information such as the Oklahoma City Metro’s 65 million trees that annually produce $150 million dollars in benefits, including, human health, air quality, stormwater runoff, carbon sequestration and energy savings. People may also be surprised to learn that the study area has 22% tree canopy, compared to 26% for the City of Tulsa.

For more information contact Mark Bays, Oklahoma Forestry Services, at mark.bays@ag.ok.gov or 405-522-6150.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Foresters from across the state invite the public to attend the annual “Walk in the Forest” event from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 5. The walk, which is held at a different location each year, will take place at Spring Creek Trail at Arcadia Lake in Edmond this year.

Foresters and other natural resource professionals will be stationed along the westward half-mile section of the trail to provide information about the forest. Walkers and hikers of all levels are invited to participate in this free event as part of a national effort to encourage people to enjoys the outdoors. Special activities will be provided for kids.

“This is a great opportunity to enjoy a fun day outside with your friends and family,” said Mark Goeller, Oklahoma Forestry Services director and state forester. “Foresters enjoy coming together for this event every year to provide the public with information and education about our forests. It also provides a chance for the public to explore one of our urban forests located here in Edmond.”

The trail is located off of I-35 at 4509 INTEGRIS Parkway in Edmond. Participants are encouraged to park in the INTEGRIS Heath Edmond parking lot for easy access to the trail. Hikers should dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Additionally, everyone is encouraged to bring bug repellent, sun screen and drinking water.

The Walk in the Forest program is part of a national campaign coordinated by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) and the American Forest Foundation. The Oklahoma walk is being hosted by the Oklahoma Division of SAF, in partnership with Oklahoma Forestry Services; Oklahoma State University (OSU) Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management; the OSU Student SAF Chapter and the City of Edmond. OSU Forestry Alumni is sponsoring the event.

For more information about the Walk in the Forest, contact Jerí Irby, Oklahoma Division Chairman, Society of American Foresters at 405-249-9612 or jeri.irby@ag.ok.gov. Additional information can also be found on www.forestry.ok.gov. For directions to Spring Creek Trail visit here

An Oklahoma Forestry Services firefighter from the Southeast Area was involved in an entrapment and subsequent burnover while responding to the Jack Creek Fire in Pushmataha County on Thursday, September 12. An entrapment is a situation where personnel are unexpectedly caught in a fire behavior-related, life-threatening position where planned escape routes or safety zones are absent or compromised.

The firefighter was utilizing a UTV in the steep rugged terrain scouting locations to build fire lines when the vehicle became disabled. The firefighters escape route was compromised as the fire behavior increased. The disabled UTV was abandoned and the firefighter fled on foot, sustaining injuries from the advancing fire. He is receiving treatment for second and third degree burns at a trauma center.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with our firefighter and all of us in the OFS family are reminded of the inherent danger faced while working wildfires,” said State Forester Mark Goeller. “With the increasing dry and hot conditions, we must all be extra cautious with any activities which could start a blaze. This incident is evidence of the danger wildfire presents to not only firefighters, but to the public as well.”

An Incident Review Team has been assembled.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Grants are now available to help communities across the state manage and improve their forests. Oklahoma Forestry Services, in conjunction with the US Forest Service and the Oklahoma Urban and Community Forestry Council, is accepting applications through November 8, 2019 from local governments, non-profits, neighborhood associations, civic groups, educational institutions and tree volunteer groups. The grants are available to support for a wide variety of projects and resources needed to assess, plan, maintain and improve urban and community forests.

Funding is available for creating forestry plans, conducting tree inventories, staffing, tree board development and tree protection ordinance development or revisions. Other projects that will be considered include public education materials, training, arboretum development and demonstrations projects that include tree maintenance or construction protection. A full list of acceptable projects can be found in the application.

“We encourage organizations to take advantage of this opportunity because trees are a vital asset to communities, providing health, environmental and economic benefits,” said Mark Bays, Oklahoma Forestry Services Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator. “We want to assist those communities that want to take a proactive approach to planning and caring for their trees.”

The Urban and Community Forestry Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and require that recipients provide 50/50 matching funds in cash, donations or in-kind contributions and/or services.

Applications are available on the Oklahoma Forestry Services website at www.forestry.ok.govand must be filled out online or mailed to Oklahoma Forestry Services, 2800 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105 by 5pm on November 8, 2019. All applicants will be notified of the status of their application by December 15.  Recipients will have one year from start date to complete their project. For questions or more information contact Mark Bays at 405-522-6150 or mark.bays@ag.ok.gov.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Grants are now available to help communities across the state manage and improve their forests. Oklahoma Forestry Services, in conjunction with the US Forest Service and the Oklahoma Urban and Community Forestry Council, is accepting applications through November 8, 2019 from local governments, non-profits, neighborhood associations, civic groups, educational institutions and tree volunteer groups. The grants are available to support for a wide variety of projects and resources needed to assess, plan, maintain and improve urban and community forests.

Funding is available for creating forestry plans, conducting tree inventories, staffing, tree board development and tree protection ordinance development or revisions. Other projects that will be considered include public education materials, training, arboretum development and demonstrations projects that include tree maintenance or construction protection. A full list of acceptable projects can be found in the application.

“We encourage organizations to take advantage of this opportunity because trees are a vital asset to communities, providing health, environmental and economic benefits,” said Mark Bays, Oklahoma Forestry Services Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator. “We want to assist those communities that want to take a proactive approach to planning and caring for their trees.”

The Urban and Community Forestry Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and require that recipients provide 50/50 matching funds in cash, donations or in-kind contributions and/or services.

Applications are available on the Oklahoma Forestry Services website at www.forestry.ok.govand must be filled out online or mailed to Oklahoma Forestry Services, 2800 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105 by 5pm on November 8, 2019. All applicants will be notified of the status of their application by December 15.  Recipients will have one year from start date to complete their project. For questions or more information contact Mark Bays at 405-522-6150 or mark.bays@ag.ok.gov.

from the National Association of State Foresters

America's beloved wildfire prevention icon rings in birthday alongside fans and celebrities.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2019—Smokey Bear, the face of the longest-running PSA campaign in United States history, turns 75 today, continuing his legacy of bringing awareness to unwanted, human-caused fires in America.

Smokey Bear’s wildfire prevention campaign has had a dramatic impact since its introduction in 1944. This progress continues today, with an approximate 14 percent reduction in the average number of human-caused wildfires from 2011-2018, compared to the previous 10 years. While it’s clear his work has been successful, 9 out of 10 wildfires are still caused by humans, which means Smokey’s iconic message is as important as ever.

To celebrate the wildfire prevention icon’s milestone birthday, the USDA Forest Service, the National Association of State Foresters, and the Ad Council are releasing new PSAs featuring Betty White, announcing the addition of a new Smokey Bear balloon in the 2019 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and promoting Smokey birthday parties and local events across the nation. Together, these three partners make up the Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention (CFFP) Committee, the coalition behind Smokey Bear and his wildfire prevention campaign.

“The hardest working bear in the world, Smokey, has for decades now tirelessly shared with the public the message ‘Only You Can Prevent Wildfires,’” said U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen. “And I’m certain that 75 years from now, Smokey will still be active in his duty of spreading the wildfire prevention message – reminding us to do our part in preventing unwanted wildfire.”

“Smokey Bear and his friends know that wildfire is not just a western issue or a summer phenomenon. It’s always wildfire season somewhere in the United States,” said Jay Farrell, executive director of the National Association of State Foresters. “This is why it is so important that Smokey’s message resonate year-round and nationwide with all Americans. This year’s Smokey Bear wildfire prevention campaign and the hundreds of events held in his honor promise to do just that.”

“This coalition of partners has created an extraordinary legacy for Smokey Bear over the past 75 years, and the Ad Council is so proud to be part of Smokey’s story,” said Lisa Sherman, President and CEO of the Ad Council. “Very few advertising icons have stood the test of time the way Smokey has, and thanks to our favorite bear, individuals across the nation know they play an important role in helping to prevent wildfires.”

Smokey Bear has only said a handful of words over the last 75 years. To complement this signature message “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires” (voiced by actor Sam Elliott for the last 12 years), Smokey’s famous friends are stepping in to speak through him about the importance of fire safety and wildfire prevention.

With the help of ad agency FCB and cutting-edge facial recognition and mapping technology, Smokey’s friend Betty White is the most recent celebrity to lend her voice and carry on the beloved bear’s legacy into his 75^th year with an animated emoji PSA. Stephen Colbert, Jeff Foxworthy, and Al Roker have also lent their voices to the cause in similar PSAs launched earlier this year.

“75 years ago, FCB, in partnership with what would become the Ad Council, gave birth to Smokey Bear. All these years, he’s been reminding us that ‘Only You Can Prevent Wildfires.’ In other words, there’s a little Smokey Bear in all of us,” said Susan Credle, FCB Global Chief Creative Officer. “This year, we are asking people to listen to their inner Smokey Bear. People sharing stories about why they love the outdoors and how they protect our country’s beautiful wildlife — what a perfect gift to give Smokey Bear on his 75^th birthday!”

The celebration of Smokey’s legacy will continue this fall with the debut of his new character balloon in the 93rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®. On Thursday, November 28, more than 3.5 million spectators and more than 50 million viewers nationwide will witness America’s national champion of wildfire prevention fly through the streets of New York City in Smokey’s return to the world-famous Macy’s Parade line-up.

A fan-favorite, Smokey Bear first debuted as a giant character balloon in the 1966 Macy’s Parade and participated in the holiday spectacle every year until 1981. In celebration of his 50^th birthday in 1993, Smokey made his last appearance before this year’s return to form. Catch Smokey in action during the 93rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade airing nationwide on NBC, Thursday, November 28 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, in all time zones.

Smokey Bear’s 75^th birthday will also be celebrated by a variety of media partners, including Clear Channel Outdoor, Facebook, iHeartRadio, National CineMedia (NCM), Reddit and many others.

The story of Smokey Bear begins with World War II. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, and the following spring, fired shells from submarines that exploded on an oil field near the Los Padres National Forest in California. Fear grew that more attacks could bring a disastrous loss of life and destruction of property, and even ignite raging wildfires.

With many experienced firefighters deployed in the war, it was up to communities to prevent wildfires as best they could. Quickly, the protection of forests became a matter of national importance. To rally Americans to the cause, the Forest Service organized the CFFP Committee with the help of the War Advertising Council (now known as The Ad Council), and the National Association of State Foresters. Together, they created posters and slogans, including "Forest Fires Aid the Enemy" and "Our Carelessness, Their Secret Weapon.”

Smokey Bear first appeared on a forest fire prevention campaign poster in 1944 thanks to FCB, the creative agency that to this day is an essential partner of the campaign. Two years later, he and his message were featured on a series of stamps used nationwide, and by the 1950s, Smokey Bear had made his debut in radio commercials voiced by Washington radio personality Jackson Weaver. In the decades since, the beloved icon has been featured in countless TV and radio spots, posters, stamps, billboards, and memorabilia alongside well-known actors and celebrities including B.B. King, Barbara Stanwyck, Betty White, Dolly Parton, Leonard Nimoy, Ray Charles, and Ted Nugent.

Since 1944, wildfire prevention PSAs have run exclusively in time and space donated by the media. In the last seven and a half decades, that equates to more than $1.63 billion in donated media support. Today, Smokey’s catchphrase is recognized by 96 percent of U.S. adults and 75 percent of young adult outdoor recreationists who know of him see Smokey Bear as a role model for children.

To learn more about Smokey Bear and wildfire prevention, visit www.smokeybear.com and follow Smokey on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter with the hashtags #SmokeyBear75 and #OnlyYou. To find a Smokey event near you, visit www.smokeybear75th.org/.

Visitors to the Forest Heritage Center are in for a treat during the Masters at Work: Beads of Courage competition, happening on September 13-15. While partnering with the Beads of Courage Program, our artists will provide arts in medicine for children with serious illnesses. The Beads of Courage Program is designed to support and strengthen children and families coping with serious illness. Through the program, children tell their stories using colorful beads as meaningful symbols of courage that commemorate milestones they have achieved along their unique treatment path. The turnings created by wood artists will be presented to the children as a safe-keeping treasure box for their beads.

During the two day competition on Friday and Saturday, five Master Woodturners will compete in four competitions. This year the cast of female turners will showcase the diversity among woodturning styles with spindles, platters, lidded containers, and an always exciting turner’s choice category. Demonstrating artist will include Janice Levi, Brazos Valley Woodturners; Mary Brewer, River Valley Woodturners; Sarah and Donna Frazier, Hunt County Woodturners; Sarah Mantooth, Central Oklahoma Woodturners and Diane Whalen, Tulsa Woodturners.

The weekend provides an excellent opportunity for the public to see wood art being created from start to finish, interact with some of the area’s most talented wood artists, and purchase some great wood art gifts. The exhibit will open to the public with a special reception on Sunday, September 15 at 1:30 p.m. to announce the winners of the competitions.

Along with the competitions, the Forest Heritage Center will host an art retreat. Talented artist Jamie Carter will have a Painting Workshop: “Capturing Nature’s Beauty” for adults, beginners or advanced painters on Friday and Saturday, September 13 and 14. Participants may take the painting workshop for one or both days. For more information or to register, visit www.ArtLessonsWithJamie.com or contact Jamie at 903-674-2018.

This exhibit promises to be an enjoyable event that will showcase the unique form of wood art. The woodturning competition will be held September 13 and 14 from 9am until 5pm at the Forest Heritage Center Museum with an opening reception on September 15 at 1:30 pm. The exhibit gallery will be open free to the public until October 20. Gallery hours will be Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m.-4 p.m. For more information contact the Forest Heritage Center at 580-494-6497, email fhc@beaversbend.com or visit us at www.forestry.ok.gov/fhc.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry confirmed the presence of Sudden Oak Death, also referred to as SOD, in plants that passed through an Oklahoma nursery, Park Hill Plants, earlier this year.

SOD is a plant disease that has caused damage in susceptible plants and trees for nearly 15 years, primarily along the West coast. Infected rhododendron plants were part of a larger shipment that originated from West coast nurseries in Washington State and Canada which were shipped to the Oklahoma nursery.

Park Hill Plants ordered the infected plants from these nurseries in mid-January. On April 22, the last shipment of rhododendrons shipped from Park Hill out to Midwestern states. On May 30, a Rhododendron plant that passed through Park Hill tested positive for SOD in Indiana. Testing and confirmation of SOD in additional plants in the vicinity is currently taking place.

Park Hill Plants and all stores containing plants that traveled through Park Hill have cooperated with ODAFF, USDA, and other states’ plant regulatory staff as they work to destroy all infected and potentially-infected rhododendrons still for sale, along with any other host plants in the vicinity.

There is no treatment for the pathogen or disease and infected plants should be destroyed to prevent spread to other plants. Symptoms of SOD include foliar leaf spots, browning and wilting of leaves, and brown to black discoloration on stems and/or trunks. If you observe symptoms, need assistance with disposal, or need more information, please contact the Consumer Protection Services division at the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry by calling (405) 522-5879.

NOTE: Any plants that test positive for P. ramorum will be destroyed along with all plants that are within a 2 meter radius of an infected plant. Host plants outside the 2 meter radius will be sampled intensively. Other hosts in the impacted facilities will be monitored for symptoms of the pathogen.

Trees matter.

And data that analyzes how many there are, where they are located and how they affect areas where we live, work and play matters too.

It is especially important to Oklahoma’s Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments and the Oklahoma City Community Foundation.

The state agency is working with the two other organizations and the Davey Tree Expert Co. to assemble a tree canopy survey that covers 536 square miles, taking in urbanized areas of the greater Oklahoma City metro area.


Representatives of the state agency and community foundation said recently the ongoing survey, which should conclude by July, is the most comprehensive look at how many trees exist in areas that stretch from north Edmond to Norman and from east of Tinker Air Force Base to Yukon.

Mark Bays, urban forestry coordinator at the Oklahoma Forestry Services Division, and Brian Dougherty, director of parks and public spaces at the community foundation, noted recent technological advances helped make the survey possible.

The $150,000 project is being accomplished through financial and in-kind contributions by the community foundation, ACOG and the state agency.

Dougherty said his organization and others have hoped for a truly comprehensive survey of tree cover for a long time.

“I don’t think we could have even attempted something like this just 10 years ago,” he said.

Bays said the ongoing survey is the largest of its kind in Oklahoma, so far.

It uses data collected from various sources.

Researchers first use satellite images to calculate coverage percentages for not just trees, but also buildings, roadways, parking lots, water and undeveloped areas.

They also are importing LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data that has been gathered by ACOG into the study.

Then, on 300 randomly selected tenth-acre plots spread geographically across the study area, Dave Tree professionals are conducting on-the-ground evaluations, where they collect information that identifies what kinds of trees are there, as well as their heights, trunk and crown diameters and health conditions.

Some plots don’t have many trees, while others might have as many as 100.

“They are trying to measure the green space, because at the very end of this, we will be able to calculate the environmental services that the trees are providing,” Bays said.

Trees provide those services by trapping particulate matter in the air, which improves air quality, and by affecting storm water runoff rates. They also provide other environmental benefits, such as shade that reduces summer cooling costs and provides people relief from the sun.

“Using an algorithm, they actually will be able to come up with a dollar amount of what those benefits are and what the value is for human health,” Bays said.

Dougherty said that is valuable information that ACOG, his organization, state officials and other professionals can use.

Plus, he and Bays noted the data also will help each involved entity plan for the future.

“We will be able to use what we learned through the study to help plan future tree plantings for parks, school campuses and trails,” Dougherty said, adding it also will provide valuable information to urban planners concerned about storm water issues and health care professionals.

“There are going to be a lot of different people looking at the information, for different reasons."

OKLAHOMA CITY – McCurtain County native, Michelle Finch-Walker is the newest Tourism and Recreation Commissioner according to State Sen. Joseph Silk, R-Broken Bow.

“I was honored to carry the gubernatorial nomination of Michelle Finch-Walker to the Senate,” said Silk. “It’s clear to the entire state of Oklahoma that the southeastern corner knows what it’s doing when it comes to the tourism industry. It’s time that we share that experience and expertise across our state.”

Finch-Walker was raised in the middle of what many deem to be the birth of tourism in the area; the opening of Broken Bow Lake, where her father, Bob Finch, was named the first project manager. Finch-Walker’s family moved to the area in 1971 when she was eight years old. The lake quickly became a favorite in Oklahoma and nearby states. After graduating with honors from East Central State University, she returned to McCurtain County and spent 17 years managing the Forest Heritage Center Museum in Beavers Bend State Park, adjacent to that same lake that was the backdrop for many of her childhood memories.

Being raised by two public servants, her mother Johnette worked in social services, Michelle answered the call to follow a similar path of service in a big way. The list of board seats, committees and community development projects she’s been involved with is far reaching in the southeastern corner of the state. In recent years, she was chosen for Leadership Oklahoma, graduating in the class of XV and remained actively engaged, serving as a board member and advisor with the well-connected association.

Leadership Oklahoma and many of the other opportunities I’ve had in my career and personal life (she’s also career employee for Oklahoma Department of Agriculture – Forestry Services Division) really let me see this incredible state in a brand-new way,” Finch-Walker said. “Oklahoma is a perfect fit in the tourism industry. We have so much to offer…history, culture, scenery, fun. I usually like to add fun twice, because if tourists don’t enjoy what they’re doing, they won’t be back. Luckily, we’ve got it covered.”

In 2006, she parlayed fun into a tourist business with two friends, turned partners, at Girls Gone Wine, the original winery in Hochatown, Oklahoma. She is also partner in Beavers Bend Brewery and a cabin owner, along with husband Terry, a former manager of Beavers Bend State Park.

Finch-Walkers accomplishments garnered her three nominations as Journal-Record ‘Woman of the Year’ along with a myriad of other accolades for her nearly three decades of public service in community and state roles.

“I have known Michelle for many years and am confident that she will be a great asset to this commission,” Silk said. “It’s critical to have people at the table who know what tourism is all about, from the ground up. Michelle is absolutely the person we need at that table at this time. She will be a great ambassador for southeastern Oklahoma and the entire state."

Do you know a teen who could benefit from spending a week hiking and canoeing, while learning about natural resources in a beautiful forest? Oklahoma Forestry Services invites girls and boys between the ages of 13 to 15 to apply for its annual Oklahoma Forestry Camp, which will be held June 3-8 at Beavers Bend State Park in southeast Oklahoma.

“Youth Forestry Camp provides a unique experience for teens, especially those who don’t get to spend a lot of time outdoors,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and State Forester Mark Goeller. “It’s really a fun, hands-on way to learn about our environment from foresters and other natural resources professionals, while having adventures and making new friends. Our camp experience has a lasting influence on kids, whether it’s a new appreciation for the forest or even choosing natural resources careers.”

In addition to swimming, canoeing, fishing and hiking, campers will also participate in hands-on forest management and stream ecology learning activities with natural resource professionals. These professionals, who represent organizations such as Oklahoma Forestry Services, Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, Oklahoma State University Research Extension, Lower Mountain Fork River Foundation, US Forest Service and Weyerhaeuser Company, will also discuss career opportunities with the teens.

The fee for campers is $250, which covers all costs, including lodging, meals, field trips, workshops and transportation at camp. A limited number of partial scholarships are available to help defray the cost. Camp staff applications are also being accepted.

Teens are encouraged to register now for this extraordinary camp experience, as space fills up quickly and registration closes on May 10th. Visit www.forestry.ok.gov/forestrycamp to get more information, register or view pictures from previous years. For more information contact Camp Director, Mo Rice, at 405-808-9822.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued for western Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma Panhandle. High temperatures and low relative humidity coupled with strong, gusty winds will result in extremely dangerous fire weather for Beaver, Beckham, Cimarron, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, Texas, Tillman, Washita, Woodward and Woods counties. Additional counties may be placed under a Red Flag Warning if the extreme fire weather conditions expand further east.

Any fire that occurs given the current forecast conditions has the potential to spread rapidly and pose an extreme threat to life and property. Citizens are urged to be vigilant with outdoor activities that could spark a wildfire and are asked to report any suspicious smoke or fire to their closest fire department or by calling 911.

Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

“Under these extreme conditions we are strongly discouraging any outdoor burning north and west of the I-44 corridor today and tomorrow,” said State Forester Mark Goeller. “Oklahoma Forestry Services has pre-positioned wildland firefighting resources in Guymon, Woodward and Weatherford. Additionally, an incident management team is pre-positioned in Woodward, ready for deployment anywhere in the state. Oklahoma Army National Guard and Oklahoma Highway Patrol air support has also been ordered to provide aerial suppression assistance if needed.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For Firewise tips visit www.forestry.ok.gov/firewiselinksandpublications.

Oklahoma City - Officials with Oklahoma Forestry Services are asking Oklahomans to take wildfire precautions, as the potential for elevated fire danger significantly increases Tuesday through Thursday in western and central Oklahoma.

“We are monitoring weather and fire conditions carefully, as well as proactively positioning resources in the western part of the state to respond quickly to suppress wildfire starts,” said State Forester and Oklahoma Forestry Services Director, Mark Goeller. “We are asking for the public’s help in preventing wildfires by avoiding any activities that could spark a wildfire during the forecast extreme fire weather.”

Avoiding activities such as burning brush or trash, dragging chains from vehicles or parking in dry grass is critical. In addition to preventing wildfires, the public is urged to report any suspicious smoke or wildfire to their closest fire department or call 911. Homeowners can make their homes more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is positioning personnel, wildland fire engines and firefighting dozers in Guymon, Woodward and Weatherford. Additionally, an incident management team will be in stationed in Woodward. Oklahoma National Guard and Oklahoma Highway Patrol air support has also been ordered.

“We are well prepared to fight new wildfires by placing these resources in strategic locations. But the public can make a big difference in what happens over the next few days by preventing them from starting,” said Goeller. “Now is the time to take all precautions.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information .

OKLAHOMA CITY— Oklahoma Forestry Services in conjunction with the Oklahoma Urban and Community Forestry Council recognized 38 Oklahoma communities, campuses and utility companies for achieving national certification from the Arbor Day Foundation for their commitment to greener environments. These organizations earned national designations by accomplishing specific criteria related to planting and caring for trees, woodlands and community forests in their communities and on campuses.

The annual celebration took place at Oklahoma City University to kickoff Oklahoma’s Arbor Week, which is observed the last week of March. In addition to recognizing the groups who have attained Arbor Day Foundation designations, the group heard about tree planting opportunities on school properties and the state’s Green School program, including a presentation by kids from Terra Verde Discovery School. Attendees helped plant an Eastern Redbud on the OCU campus.

“We celebrate these groups who have worked hard to achieve Arbor Day Foundation certifications and are benefiting their communities and campuses in numerous ways,” said State Forester and Oklahoma Forestry Services Director, Mark Goeller. “We also encourage other communities and campuses to accept the challenge and begin improving the health and quality of life for people in their communities and on campuses.”

Through the Arbor Day Foundation, communities can earn Tree City USA status by meeting core standards of sound urban forestry management, maintaining a tree board, having a community tree ordinance, spending a minimum of two dollars per capita on urban forestry and celebrating Arbor Day.

Communities honored for achieving Tree City USA designation include: Ada, Alva, Ardmore, Bartlesville, Bixby, Broken Arrow, Claremore, Edmond, Enid, Guthrie, Kingfisher, McAlester, Midwest City, Morrison, Muskogee, Nichols Hills, Norman, Oklahoma City, Pauls Valley, Ponca City, Shawnee, Tinker AFB, Tulsa and Vance AFB.

Tree Campus USA designation is available to colleges and universities that effectively manage their campus trees, develop connectivity with the community beyond campus borders to foster healthy community forests and strive to engage their student population utilizing service learning opportunities.

Campus USA honorees include: Cameron University, Northeastern University, Oklahoma Baptist University, Oklahoma City Community College, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma State University and all four campuses of Tulsa Community College.

The TreeLine USA program exists to recognize best practices in public and private utility arboriculture, demonstrating how trees and utilities can co-exist for the benefit of communities and citizens. Requirements include providing quality tree care, annual worker training; community tree planting and public education, tree-based energy conservation program and an Arbor Day observance. Utility companies honored for achieving Tree Line USA designation are: AEP/PSO, Edmond Electric, OG&E, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative and People’s Electric.

For more information about obtaining Arbor Day Foundation certification, contact Mark Bays, Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator, Oklahoma Forestry Services, at 405-522-6150 or mark.bays@ag.ok.gov or visit the Arbor Day Foundation website at https://www.arborday.org/.

###

Oklahoma Forestry Services officials urge residents in Central and Western Oklahoma to use caution as fire danger increases Wednesday. The area of concern includes counties west of U.S. Highway 75, which encompasses the western two-thirds of the state. Elevated fire danger on Wednesday is due to high sustainable wind speeds and low relative humidity, which create the potential for large fires.

“We are especially concerned with outdoor burning activities, such as debris burning, prescribed burns or controlled burns tomorrow,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and State Forester Mark Goeller. “It is also imperative that anyone who engages in outdoor burning today be sure the fire is dead out to ensure that it does not reignite on Wednesday.

In addition to using caution with outdoor burning, citizens are urged to be careful with anything that can spark a wildfire and to report any suspicious smoke or fire to their closest fire department or by calling 911. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information .

Officials with Oklahoma Forestry Services are preparing for predicted high fire danger in western Oklahoma Monday. The primary area of concern is the Oklahoma panhandle, as well as counties bordering the Texas panhandle. Areas to the east of this could be affected if the forecasted dry air shifts farther east than predicted.

Firefighting resources are being prepositioned in Guymon and Weatherford in advance of the predicted fire weather. This includes two OFS wildland task forces and an Oklahoma National Guard helicopter on standby for deployment. These resources will be poised to respond to any new fires and available to assist local resources with extended attack as well.

“Recently, numerous fires have been sparked in Western Oklahoma by vehicles dragging chains or driving on a tire rim after a flat,” said State Forester Mark Goeller. “This area is very dry with no significant rainfall in the last 30 days.”

Monday’s forecast calls for relative humidity in the low teens to 20% range, winds gusting over 30 mph and temperatures in the upper 50s to low 60s.

Citizens are urged to be cautious not to spark a wildfire and to report any suspicious smoke or fire to their closest fire department or by calling 911. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

“Under these conditions we are strongly discouraging any outdoor burning in the affected area on Monday,” said Goeller. “This is a short duration event, with conditions improving by after nightfall.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information .

Oklahoma City - Oklahomans are being cautioned by Oklahoma Forestry Services to expect increased wildfire danger in the Panhandle and parts of Western Oklahoma on Sunday afternoon. Warm, dry and windy conditions elevate fire danger and Oklahoma Forestry Services urges caution with anything that can cause a spark.

“Sunday’s elevated fire conditions are a reminder that we are heading into the time of year when we typically see increased wildfire occurrence,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and State Forester Mark Goeller. “I encourage all Oklahomans to be aware of conditions and make fire prevention a top priority.”

Oklahomans are asked to use caution with all activities that may spark a wildfire and to report any suspicious smoke or fire or by calling 911. Avoid burning debris and engaging in other fire prone activities such as outdoor welding or unattended campfires on the warm, dry and windy days. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. Personnel closely monitor fire weather and conditions every day and produce a Fire Situation Report as conditions warrant. To view the Fire Situation Report or for additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information .

In an effort to reach out to the young men and women who are the future of forestry, the Forest Heritage Center Museum will offer scholarships to college students and graduating high school seniors, as well as stipends for forestry program educators. Forestry’s impact on the economy in Oklahoma is tremendous, providing well over 19,000 jobs and $1 billion in wages statewide. The foresters and community leaders who make up the Forest Heritage Center’s board of directors introduced the Forest Heritage Center Scholarship Program in 2018 to help Oklahoma youth take advantage of the opportunities the industry provides.

The Fred Dierks Educational Scholarship offers a $1500 scholarship to a college undergraduate student. The scholarship is available to all students currently enrolled as second semester freshmen or higher grade level. Students must be enrolled in a forestry program in one of Oklahoma’s institutions of higher education, with a minimum of a 3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale.

For graduating high school seniors the Quintus Herron Educational Scholarship provides $500 to an Oklahoma student enrolling in a college level forestry program in an Oklahoma institution for higher learning.

A $1000 stipend is available for both formal and informal educators who wish to implement forestry curriculum in their program. Leaders of youth organizations and teachers can take advantage of this opportunity to introduce youngsters to the endless possibilities that the forest and forestry industry provide.

The application deadline for the scholarships and stipend is March 15. For more information and applications visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov/fhc-scholarships, call the Forest Heritage Center Museum at 580-494-6497 or e-mail fhc@beaversbend.com.

Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) has released its Calendar Year 2018 wildfire statistics as it prepares for the dry, windy weather so common now through spring green-up. It reports that 2018 was another busy year for wildfire suppression, responding to and assisting on a total of 1,086 fires that burned approximately 466,864 acres. While it is the state’s lead wildland firefighting agency, Oklahoma Forestry Services works alongside local fire departments and inter-agency partners to achieve efficient and effective wildfire suppression. Wildfires can occur during any month of the year in Oklahoma. However, fire activity is typically the heaviest during the months of January through April when live wildland fuels across the state are dormant.

March experienced 436 wildfires, the highest number in a single month in 2018. April saw the most acres burned (367,458) during the year. April also hosted the most challenging single day, April 12^th, with numerous large and devastating fires occurring. Some of the exceptional fires include the Rhea Fire in Dewey County, the 34 Complex Fire in Woodward County and the Shaw Fire in Roger Mills County. See Oklahoma wildfire monthly details below:

“As we prepare our firefighting resources for response in 2019, we encourage homeowners to prepare and protect their homes for possible wildfires,” said State Forester and Director of Oklahoma Forestry Services Mark Goeller. “Everyone can take proactive steps to protect their property by simply removing excessive vegetation and other flammable materials from around their home.”

 Homeowners are also encouraged to assess their property by looking at construction materials, landscaping, access for emergency personnel to property and maintenance of a defensible space around their home. Those living in or near heavily vegetated areas are especially encouraged to take precautions for wildfires. For more information visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov/firewise-for-you

by Caroline Vandergriff

FOX 25 News

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Forestry Service says in the past few years, the state has seen wildfires similar to the ones raging in California right now.

Though wildfire activity has been less than normal in Oklahoma for October and November, we could start seeing more fires here. The freezing conditions have pushed plants and trees into dormancy, which makes for perfect kindling.

"Grasses, leaf litter, dead and dying timber, standing timber - all that stuff is considered fuel," said Drew Daily with the Oklahoma Forestry Service.

Daily says our wildfire risk is now dependent on the weather. Warmer, dry, and windy days can be very dangerous. Though the recent rain and winter weather in Oklahoma has knocked the risk back.

"Decreases potential for fires to occur, but when they do occur, we have a little bit of a better opportunity to capture those," Daily said.

Right now, Daily says it looks like Oklahoma could see a less than normal amount of wildfire activity for the remainder of the fall and winter. He still warns people to be cautious.

"We’ve seen this regularly in Oklahoma, that things can change rapidly," said Daily. "The beginning of fall and through the fall season, is an excellent time to be very proactive in preparing your own residence and things you value for what may be potentially impacted by wildfire."

Firefighters recommend:

• Clearing leaves from gutters
• Raking leaves away from home
• Trimming hedges and bushes
• Mowing grass short this time of year
• Stacking firewood away from the home

https://okcfox.com/news/local/oklahoma-forestry-service-now-is-the-time-to-prepare-for-wildfires 

Christmas tree farmers brush off competition from Amazon

By:  Brian Brus     The Journal Record October 15, 20180 

Michael Dunn walks through the tree lot at Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree & Blackberry Farm in Edmond. (Photo by Emmy Verdin)

OKLAHOMA CITY – Traditional holiday tree farms will survive Amazon.com’s latest market intentions the same way they’ve made it through years of drought, Oklahoma producers said.

“We’ll wait and see how it goes this year,” said John Knight, owner of Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree & Blackberry Farm in Edmond. “It’ll probably hurt the market a little bit, I won’t deny that. … But we’ve been here 40 years. Most of our customers are steady.

“But who knows? In this changing atmosphere, there’s no telling. I may be out of business in a year or two,” he said. “They may figure out a way to get real fresh trees to your door.”

The online retail and shipping giant recently announced it would escalate its move on the holidays this year with trees, wreaths and garlands to go on sale in November. The Christmas trees, including Douglas firs and Norfolk Island pines, will be bound and shipped without water in a box. Amazon officials said they’ll be sent within 10 days of harvest and the company will offer pre-ordering so shoppers can choose their delivery dates.

The company sold trees no taller than 3 feet last year, and some merchants sold bigger ones through the Amazon.com marketplace. But this is the first year Amazon.com itself is offering larger decorations, trees of about 7 feet in height.

Home delivery sounds appealing, Knight said, but the practice has practical limitations that should keep Amazon.com’s threat from growing too great.

“A fresh tree needs to be put in water within an hour,” Knight said. “If you’re on a truck for a couple of days, it’s going to dry out pretty good and you won’t be able to revive it. Those trees won’t last too long.

“Plus, Amazon isn’t going to be able to find many good Christmas trees of its own to sell,” he said. “It’s just a marketing ploy, I think, to get a little free advertising from the attention.”

Scott Huff, the state Department of Agriculture’s forest management chief, said the local industry is not overly worried about the Amazon.com threat, but producers do respect the evolving situation. Oklahoma is typically in the lower quartile of states in number of trees harvested for the holiday, according to the National Christmas Tree Association trade group.

“With everything they already have to fight through – the environment and weather – to make a good product at the end, it’s already a challenge,” Huff said. “And then when you have someone open the market to sell live trees, it’s something you don’t want to have to deal with.”

Kris White at Foster’s Nursery & Trees in Oklahoma City said many smaller growers stopped offering fresh-cut holiday product years ago when it became obvious that consumers were satisfied with buying at large retailers such as Walmart and Home Depot. Instead, Foster’s found a more satisfying niche while encouraging sustainability.

Michael Dunn prunes a Christmas tree at Sorghum Mill Christmas Tree & Blackberry Farm in Edmond. (Photo by Emmy Verdin)

“We found that people really love to replant their trees after Christmas,” he said. “So we sell them live now, a bucketed tree that they can put in the yard to watch grow over the seasons. It’s been very successful for us.”

Knight said Amazon.com won’t be able to capture the market segment comprising families with annual traditions. For those people, waiting for a delivery at home will never compare with wandering through a tree farm with a saw, hot cup of cocoa in hand, arguing over appropriate height and width.

The White House is taking a different route and got started on the job much earlier. In mid-September, the president’s chief usher and superintendent of grounds visited Newland, North Carolina, to look over dozens of choice firs, searching for the perfect display piece. They found it at Larry Smith’s Mountain Top Fraser Fir Farm, a 19½-foot tall specimen that will be placed in the Blue Room of the White House this holiday season.

We are delighted to introduce our new Education Coordinator, Mo Rice!   

Mo brings excellent experience to her position with Oklahoma Forestry Services, having worked as a naturalist, camp director, environmental educator and curriculum writer.  She most recently served as Youth and Family Director at Earlywine Park YMCA.  Prior to that, she was the Naturalist,
Volunteer Coordinator & Camp Director at Okeeheelee Nature Center, near West Palm Beach, Florida.  She has worked for multiple education centers and camps.

Originally from Atlanta, Mo earned a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Florida Atlantic University and a bachelor's degree in Marine Science from Jacksonville University.

A transplant to Oklahoma, Mo is enjoying learning about our diverse landscape.  She spends her free time volunteering as a Regional Coordinator for Gamma Phi Beta Sorority and having fun with her husband and children. 

In her role as Education Coordinator, Mo will serve as Oklahoma's Project Learning Tree Coordinator, direct Forestry Youth Camp, provide curriculum and programming for forestry education and collaborate with other environmental educators.   

Contact Information:

Mo Rice, Education Coordinator

Oklahoma Forestry Services

Office: 405.521.2020

Cell: 405.808.9822

Mo.rice@ag.ok.gov 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Officials with Oklahoma Forestry Services are asking citizens to use caution as record high temperatures and lack of rain are creating the potential for increased wildfire danger across the state. While the entire state is drying out, southern Oklahoma is already seeing increased fire activity.

“We experienced a big increase in fires in southeastern Oklahoma over the weekend, with 19 fires burning 743 acres compared to 23 fires in the entire month of June,” said Aranda Chamberlain, who in her role as forestry fire control officer, dispatches fire information to firefighters from Oklahoma Forestry Services’ Broken Bow office. “We really want to encourage everyone to be aware of how dry it is and to be smart with anything that can cause a spark.”

The public can have a huge impact on preventing wildfires by delaying any burning until conditions improve, avoid dragging chains on vehicles, making sure that campfires are completely out, using extra care when grill outdoors and using caution with anything that can cause fire. Additionally, citizens are asked to report any new fires or suspicious smoke to the closest fire department.

“We know that our increased ability to predict fire weather, combined with Oklahomans heeding the warnings, has a positive impact on preventing wildfires,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and State Forester Mark Goeller. “So we ask everyone to please use caution and help us spread the word to others.”

As the state’s lead agency for wildland fire prevention, Oklahoma Forestry Services monitors fire weather conditions every day, including frequent discussions with National Weather Services and assessing drought, soil conditions and fuel conditions. Additionally, fire officials post a Daily Fire Situation report on the OFS website at www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information as fire weather conditions warrant. For burn ban can be found at http://www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info.

Oklahoma Forestry Services announces the promotion of Andy James to assistant director and fire management chief. James will lead the state’s wildfire suppression and mitigation operations, as well as provide leadership for the division’s field operations based out of Tahlequah, Wilburton and Broken Bow.

“As the state’s lead agency for wildfire suppression, the role of fire chief is critical,” said Director of Oklahoma Forestry Services and State Forester Mark Goeller. “We are fortunate to have someone as knowledgeable and experienced as Andy ready to step into that role. He will do a phenomenal job.”

A 22-year veteran of Oklahoma Forestry Services, James previously served as the area forester for Community Fire Assistance programs, providing assistance to rural fire departments and communities. Prior to that he has served in a variety of positions including leading the Southeast Area operations located in Broken Bow, service forester in Wilburton and district forester in Jay. Wildland firefighting has been a big component of all of his positions with Oklahoma Forestry Services.

Throughout his forestry career James has focused on wildland fire suppression and management, not only in eastern Oklahoma, but across the state as a task force leader, division supervisor and operations chief for the OFS Interagency Type 2 Incident Management Team.

“I am excited about the opportunity to represent Oklahoma Forestry Services on a state and national level,” said Andy James. “We have made great strides as a wildfire agency over the last few years and I look forward to continuing those efforts.”

In addition to his duties with Oklahoma Forestry Services, Andy is a member of the Northern Rockies National Type 1 Incident Management Team, and is qualified as an operations section chief, type 2 and an operations section chief, type 1 (trainee). He is also a member of the Fuels Management Committee of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group and the Oklahoma Statewide Mutual Aid Working Group.

Oklahoma’s forest and forest products industry had a total impact of $5.1 billion on the state’s economy, including supporting more than 19,000 jobs with a payroll of $1.0 billion according to the latest Economic Importance of Forestry in Oklahoma report. All of these numbers represent significant increases over the last report, which was based on 2012 information.

The report is a collaborative effort between Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma Forestry Services to measure the impact of Oklahoma’s forests industry. The report is produced periodically, with the current report based on 2016 information. Dr. Omkar Joshi, forest economist at Oklahoma State University, conducted this analysis along with his graduate students Morgan Starr and Paulina Harron.

Dr. Omkar Joshi is optimistic about future growth of Oklahoma’s forest industry.

“In this region, abundant timber supply, the flow of capital investments in the mills and increased consumer confidence have contributed to the growth of forestry industries in recent years,” said Dr. Omkar Joshi, Oklahoma State University forest economist. “There has been a steady increase in demand for secondary wood products in the urban areas, which has generated meaningful employment opportunities in Oklahoma. This trend is expected to continue with the surges in population.”

Additionally, the report revealed that Oklahoma’s forest industry has directly contributed $3.3 billion to the state’s economy, employing over 8,789 people with wages and salaries in excess of $454 million.

“We want Oklahomans to know that our forests and forest industry have a significant impact on the state economy,” said Oklahoma Forestry Director and State Forester Mark Goeller. “We also want to make people aware that, in addition to the measurable economic contribution, our forests provide invaluable ecological benefits such as clean air and water, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and woodlands. For more information and to view the fact sheet visit www.forestry.ok.gov/oklahoma-forests.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today amended the state burn ban, reducing the number of affected counties from seven to two. Cimarron and Texas counties remain under the burn ban, according to the amended proclamation.

 “I’ve been in constant communication with Oklahoma Forestry Services as they continue to analyze the dry conditions and rainfall,” said Fallin. “The recent 6,000-acre fire on Black Mesa just affirms the need for continuing the ban in counties that haven’t received adequate rainfall.”

 While the governor has the authority to issue burn bans for multiple counties, county commissioners also issue bans for their individual counties.  There are currently no county burn bans in effect, but citizens should always check with local officials or visit here to see if county burn bans are in place before doing any type of burning.

 “Cimarron and Texas counties are just lagging behind the rest of the state in greening up,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and State Forester Mark Goeller.  “Unfortunately, we are moving into our hot, dry summer so odds of any improvement continue to diminish.”

Unlawful activities under the ban include open flames, campfires, bonfires, and setting fire to trash, grass, woods or other materials outdoors. Gas and charcoal grilling is allowed provided that it is over a nonflammable surface and at least five feet from flammable vegetation.

 “I commend Oklahomans for heeding these bans and for calling 911 as soon as they see or smell smoke,” Fallin said. “Citizens’ actions have made a difference in the number of fires during this prolonged drought.”

 Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

FROM THE OFFICE OF GOVERNOR MARY FALLIN

OKLAHOMA CITY – Due to improving wildland fire conditions, Governor Mary Fallin has issued a proclamation reducing the number of counties in the governor’s burn ban from 14 to seven.  The change came at the recommendation of Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) after an analysis of the impact of recent rains.

Counties that remain under the governor’sburn ban are: Beaver, Cimarron, Ellis, Harper, Texas, Woods and Woodward.

“The drought continues to persist acrossnorthwest Oklahoma, but the recent rains have given most of the state areprieve from extreme fire conditions,” said Fallin. 

While the governor has the authority to issue burn bans for multiple counties, county commissioners also issue bans for their individual counties.  There are currently no county burn bans in effect,but citizens should always check with local officials or visit the OFS website to see if county burn bans are inplace before doing any type of burning.

“Spring green-up typically signals theend of our winter fire season,” said OFS Director and State Forester MarkGoeller. “While some improvement has been realized with recent rainfall,significant green-up has not yet occurred in the Panhandle and northwestOklahoma.”

Unlawful activities under the ban includeopen flames, campfires, bonfires, and setting fire to trash, grass, woods orother materials outdoors. Gas and charcoal grilling is allowed, provided thatit is over a nonflammable surface and at least 5 feet from flammablevegetation. 

OFS is the state’s lead agency related towildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information aboutwildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information. 

Mark Goeller was recently named State Forester and Director of Oklahoma Forestry Services by Secretary of Agriculture Jim Reese. Goeller has served Oklahoma Forestry Services, a Division of the Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, for the past 33 years. He has held various positions with the division, the latest being Fire Management Chief and Assistant Director since 2005.

“I am pleased to name Mark Goeller as the new State Forester and Director of Oklahoma Forestry Services,” said Secretary of Agriculture Jim Reese. “With his extensive experience and leadership abilities, Mark is the right person to take the division forward to the next level.”

In his new role, Goeller will lead the division of over 100 people who are dedicated to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s forests and natural resources. In addition to providing forest management advice and best practices, Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency for wildfire suppression.

“I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish over the past years and excited about the opportunity to continue to provide valuable services to the people of Oklahoma,” said State Forester and Director of Oklahoma Forestry Services Mark Goeller.

In addition to his regular duties, Goeller also serves in leadership roles on the state, regional and national levels. He is chair of the National Wildfire Coordinating Group Risk Management Committee and serves on the S-520 Advanced Incident Management Steering Committee. He also chairs the Southern Group of State Foresters Fire Management Chiefs. Additionally, Goeller is an Operations Section Chief, having served in that capacity on a Northern Rockies Type I Incident Management Team since 2005. His incident management experience comes from wildfire and all-hazards assignments in twenty-one states. He also serves as chair of Oklahoma’s All-Hazards Standards, Qualifications and Training Committee for Incident Management Teams and a member of the Oklahoma Incident Management Team Advisory Committee. Goeller holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture – Forest Management from Oklahoma State University.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Due to significant rainfall across the state,Governor Mary Fallin today issued a proclamation reducingthe number of counties included in the burn ban from 36 to 14. This change cameat the recommendation of Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) after an analysis ofthe impact of the rainfall in the affected counties.

Counties that remain under thegovernor’s burn ban are: Beaver, Beckham, Cimarron, Dewey, Ellis, Greer, Harmon,Harper, Jackson, Major, Roger Mills, Texas, Woods and Woodward.

“Wetting rains have reduced thedangerous wildfire conditions that were prevalent in a large part of the statefor the past few weeks,” said OFS Director and State Forester George Geissler. “However, there are some parts of the state still at risk for additional firedanger.”

While the governor has the authority toissue burn bans for multiple counties, county commissioners also issue bans fortheir individual counties.  There are currently no county burn bans ineffect, but citizens should always check with local officials or visit www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-informationto see if county burn bans are in place before doing any type of burning.

“We have seen the devastation thatwildfires have caused in our state over the past few months, and I urgecitizens to continue to be vigilant, especially in those counties still underburn bans,” Fallin said.

OFS is the state’s lead agency relatedto wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information aboutwildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

OFFICE OF GOVERNOR MARY FALLIN

OKLAHOMA CITY – Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb today extended and expanded aburn ban from 16 counties to include 36 counties in western and centralOklahoma due to extreme and extraordinary fire danger. 

The burn ban will remain in effect indefinitelyfor the following counties: Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Caddo,Canadian, Cimarron, Comanche, Cotton, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Grady,Grant, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Jackson, Jefferson, Kay, Kingfisher, Kiowa,Logan, Major, Noble, Oklahoma, Osage, Pawnee, Roger Mills, Stephens, Texas,Tillman, Washita, Woods and Woodward.

Lamb, who is acting governor whileGovernor Mary Fallin is in Florida on an economic development-related trip,also signed an executive order easing trucking regulationsdirectly related to fire relief.  The order will ease hay deliveries andhauling in equipment and crews to restore electrical, sewer, water andtelecommunications to the areas affected by wildfires.

Conditions have deteriorated since theburn ban was amended Feb. 23, prompting the expansion. The governor's burnban supersedes existing county burn bans. This list is frequently updated bycounty commissioners and can be viewed anytime on the OFS website at  www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info.

“We have seen unprecedented fireconditions develop over the last week that created the dangerous wildfires thathave burned over 400,000 acres so far,” said Lamb. “An expanded burn ban iscalled for to reduce the risk of preventable wildfires and to protect lives andproperty.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS)recommended the ban based upon an ongoing analysis of fire activity, wildlandfuel conditions, and the predicted continued drought. Lamb said people shouldbe extremely careful with any outdoor activities that might spark a blaze.

“We have worked hard to prepare forthese historically dangerous conditions,” said George Geissler, OFS director.“We are working with our partners within the state as well as bringing intremendous regional and national resources in an effort to keep Oklahomans safe. We currently have an additional 200 firefighters, along with equipment andvehicles, and multiple aircraft.”

Unlawful activities under the baninclude campfires, bonfires, and setting fire to any forest, grass, woods,wildlands or marshes, as well as igniting fireworks, burning trash or othermaterials outdoors. LPG and natural gas grills and charcoal-fired cookingoutside in a grilling receptacle are permitted, provided the activity isconducted over a non-flammable surface and at least 5 feet from flammablevegetation, but any fire resulting from grilling or use of one of the cookersor stoves is still considered an illegal fire.

As part of the governor’s burn ban,there are exemptions for many items, such as welding and road construction. Formore specific information and details, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info or call(405) 586-0404.

Oklahomans are being warned to expect extreme wildfire danger in the western part of the state on Tuesday. Officials with the Oklahoma Forestry Services anticipate conditions that supersede those experienced last week, which produced multiple wildfires causing fatalities and widespread damage across western Oklahoma.

Because of ongoing extreme fire conditions, Oklahoma Forestry Services requested additional resources, including firefighters, equipment, engines, dozers and aircraft over the past couple of weeks. Additionally, Oklahoma Forestry Services ordered two Incident Management Teams and have been assigned to 34 Complex Fire in Woodward County and Rhea Fire in Dewey County to assist in management all aspects of the incidents.

“Fire weather is predicted to be historic tomorrow. Meaning we haven’t seen conditions this extreme in over 10 years,” said Mark Goeller, Fire Management Chief of OFS. “These conditions have the potential to produce very large devastating fires. Oklahoman’s needs to be extremely careful while doing anything outdoors tomorrow.”

Oklahomans are urged to be cautious not to spark a wildfire and to report any suspicious smoke or fire to their closest fire department or by calling 911. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

“The Governor has expanded the burn ban in anticipation of the threatening fire weather, one spark could rapidly become a large wildfire.” said State Forester George Geissler.

Several counties remain under a Governor’s Burn Ban and County Commissioner Burn Bans. Visit www.forestry.ok.gov for the latest fire information and county burn ban resolutions.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information .

###

___________________________________________________________________________

Note to Media: For the latest Oklahoma “Daily Wildfire Situation Report” visit www.forestry.ok.gov and click the link on the homepage (green box on right hand side.) The report contains information about recent fire activity, predicted fire weather and a link for current burn bans. Warning!! – If you are going to fly, please contact OFS Air Operations at 405-373-6082 to obtain fire air traffic information and VHF AM frequencies.

About Oklahoma Forestry Services

Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and woodlands. Since 1925, Oklahoma Forestry Services has worked with individuals and communities throughout the state to create resilient landscapes, fire-adaptive communities and provide wildfire response. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the division also has regional offices in Goldsby, Broken Bow, Wilburton and Tahlequah. For more information, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov.

Ominous fire danger will be present both Thursday and Friday with subsequent fire danger remaining firmly in place through the weekend. The Fire Environment will support problematic and extreme fire behavior with potential for historic fire weather to occur over the most significantly drought influenced fuels. A dry line will push firmly into western Oklahoma with temperatures above 90°, single digit relative humidity and very strong southwest winds on Thursday. With minimal moisture recovery in the overnight hours and sustaining strong winds over extremely dry fuels, the burning period will last through Thursday night into Friday morning in the Panhandle, northwest and potentially far western Oklahoma. A cold front will push into northwest Oklahoma progressing through the state during the peak of the burning period. 

 A Red Flag Warning/Fire Weather Watch is currently in effect. Please refer to http://www.weather.gov/ for the latest updates to the fire weather forecast.

• Fire Behavior predictions indicate that attacking the head of any fire - frontal assault should be avoided.

• Establish a Staging Area at the onset of a wildfire incident and designate additional fireline leadership personnel to facilitate span of control and resource accountability.

• Consider predicted rates of fire spread and, if needed, plan evacuation notifications accordingly. 

• Forecast wind speeds and gust spread may 

 All firefighters are advised to take particular note of the 10 Standard Fire Orders with specific interest in the first three: (a complete list of the Standard Firefighting Orders below)

 Keep informed on fire weather conditions and forecasts.

1. Know what your fire is doing at all times.

2. Base all actions on current and expected behavior of the fire.

 Thursday:

Significant fire danger indices will exist across a broad area of the Southern Great Plains as a dry line pushes into Oklahoma. Temperatures into the mid-90°’s and relative humidity values in the single digits translate into fine-dead fuel moisture values of 2-5% and a probability of ignition approaching 100%. Southwest winds sustained 20-30+ mph will insure that any fire becoming established will likely exhibit extreme rates of fire spread and erratic fire behavior on Sunday. The burning period will last through the night and continue into Friday with poor overnight recovery.

• Short Grass / Pasture: Maximum of 170-240 ft./min. (2.7 mph), head fire flame length 11 ft.

• Tall Grass / Prairie: Maximum of375-500 ft./min. (5.7 mph), head fire flame length 18-31 ft.

• Grass/Shrub/Redcedar: Maximum of120-190 ft./min, head fire flame length 10-20 ft. (Medium range spotting expected)

Friday:

Ominous fire danger indices are expected across a much broader area on Friday in the pre-frontal fire environment. Green up has been delayed with drought impacts and further set back by hard freeze conditions. Very poor overnight moisture recovery will encourage an early burning period ahead of a cold front that will pass during the peak of the burning period and effectively push the fire threat eastward. Fuels will be very receptive given the depth of drying in previous days. Southwest winds sustained as high as 35+mph with gusts nearing 50 mph will shift clockwise to the northwest with the passage of a cold front. Extreme fire danger will progress into and east of the I-44 corridor ahead of the cold front. Again, problematic fire behavior and extreme rates of fire spread are expected along with a change in direction of fire spread.

• Short Grass / Pasture: Maximum of 190-270 ft./min. (3.1 mph), head fire flame length 10-12 ft.

• Tall Grass / Prairie: Maximum of375-600 ft./min. (6.8 mph), head fire flame length 18-35 ft.

• Grass/Shrub/Redcedar: Maximum of120-190 ft./min, head fire flame length 10-20 ft. (Medium range spotting expected)

Anchor the fire at advantageous point (road, creek, cold black) and flank the fire if utilizing direct firefighting tactics. Work the fire from the black if possible to provide for quick escape to a safety zone. Avoid placing yourselves in a situation where unburned fuel is between you and the fire. If protecting structures insure that ingress and egress are identified, escape routes and safety zones are identified and equipment is pointed in a direction to facilitate rapid escape. Establish trigger points for evaluating tactics and develop contingency plans should the primary plan not be successful.

All firefighters are advised to take particular note of the 10 Standard Fire Orders with specific interest in the first three: (a complete list of the Standard Firefighting Orders below)

1. Keep informed on fire weather conditions and forecasts.

2. Know what your fire is doing at all times.

3. Base all actions on current and expected behavior of the fire.

Resources:

• Oklahoma Forestry Services will have multiple Task Forces prepositioned in Western, Northwestern and along the I-35 corridor.

• USFS cooperating with OFS will have aviation resources available.

• National Guard will have aircraft available.

• County Wildland Task Force Resources should be prepared for mobilization.

To request assistance, call the Resource Hotline (800) 800-2481

Four common denominators of fire behavior on tragedy fires:

1. On relatively small fires or deceptively quiet areas of large fires.
2. In relatively light fuels, such as grass, herbs, and light brush.
3. When there is an unexpected shift in wind direction or wind speed.
4. When fire responds to topographic conditions and runs uphill. Alignment of topography and wind during the burning period should always be considered a trigger point to re-evaluate strategy and tactics.

Officials with Oklahoma Forestry Services are preparing for potentially extreme fire danger in western Oklahoma Thursday and Friday. Current fire weather forecast is also calling for elevated fire danger across the remainder of Oklahoma, except for southeastern Oklahoma.

Firefighting resources have been prepositioned in Woodward and Weatherford in advance of the predicted fire weather. This includes OFS wildland task forces and US Forest Service aviation resources. Additionally, Oklahoma National Guard helicopters are on standby in central Oklahoma.

“Very strong burning conditions are expected with warm temperatures and extremely low relative humidity Thursday through Friday,” said Drew Daily, fire staff officer for OFS. “With very little moisture recovery expected in the overnight hours, any fire starting has the potential to spread rapidly and burn through the night.”

Citizens are urged to be cautious not to spark a wildfire and to report any suspicious smoke or fire to their closest fire department or by calling 911. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

“Under these extreme conditions we are strongly discouraging any burning Thursday and Friday,” said State Forester George Geissler.

Several counties remain under a Governor’s Burn Ban and County Commissioner Burn Bans. Visit www.forestry.ok.gov for the latest fire information and county burn ban resolutions.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information .

The combination of extremely dry fuels and anticipated weather conditions prompted the need for additional resources to assist Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) and firefighters across the state with wildland fire response. For three weeks, that additional assistance has been provided by fire crews from multiple southeastern states. Personnel, engines, and dozers came to assist from Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.

Fire danger conditions have changed with a recent cold front that brought small amounts of moisture and higher relative humidity to critically dry western Oklahoma. This higher moisture level, along with low winds, has decreased fire danger for the state. As the amount of wildfires has decreased, so has the need for Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) to assist local fire departments with firefighting efforts.

“The support from these state forestry agencies allowed us to sustain an appropriate resource level for fire response in support of local fire departments and incident responders,” said Mark Goeller, Fire Management Chief for OFS. “Looking ahead to the fire danger forecast, we feel that we are back to a point where we can handle the need with our own state resources.”

These Southeastern state forestry agency personnel and equipment will begin their travel from Oklahoma today. Most will take two days to drive to their home units, depending on the distance and type of equipment they are driving. The number of aircraft resources has also been reduced in recent days.

It is important to note that fuels in western Oklahoma remain critically dry, and the threat of wildland fire has not been eliminated. OFS will continue to monitor weather conditions and continue to staff appropriately. For additional information about wildfires and the most up to date list of any counties involved in a burn ban, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov .

###

Do you know a teen who could benefit from a week of canoeing and hiking, while learning about natural resources, in a beautiful forest? Oklahoma Forestry Services invites girls and boys between the ages of 13 to 15 to apply for its 62nd annual Oklahoma Forestry Camp, which will be held June 4 - 9 at Beavers Bend State Park in southeast Oklahoma.

“Youth Forestry Camp offers a truly unique experience, especially for teens who don’t spend a lot of time outdoors,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and State Forester George Geissler. “It’s a fun way to learn about our environment from foresters and other natural resource professionals, while having memorable adventures and making new friends. Our camp experience has a lasting influence on kids, whether it’s a new appreciation for the forest or even choosing natural resources careers.”

In addition to swimming, canoeing, fishing and hiking, campers will also participate in hands-on forestry management and stream ecology learning activities with natural resource professionals. These professionals, who represent organizations such as Oklahoma Forestry Services, Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, Oklahoma State University Research Extension, Lower Mountain Fork River Foundation, US Forest Service and Weyerhaeuser Company, will also discuss career opportunities with the teens. Campers also take field trips to the Oklahoma Forest Heritage Center and Carter Mountain Fire Tower.

The fee for campers is $250, which covers all costs, including lodging, meals, field trips, workshops and transportation at camp. A limited number of partial scholarships are available to help defray the cost. Camp staff applications are also being accepted.

Teens are encouraged to register now for this extraordinary camp experience, as space fills up quickly and registration closes on May 12th. Visit www.forestry.ok.gov/forestrycamp to get more information, register or view pictures from previous years. Those who are interested are also welcome to contact Camp Director Jeri Irby, at 405-249-9612 or Jeri.irby@ag.ok.gov.

Oklahoma City (March 23, 2018) – Due to the dynamic fire weather forecast for late this afternoon through Friday, citizens are requested to postpone all outdoor burning activities for the next few days. Fire weather conditions today are expected to be very high to extreme which will allow any wildfire that starts to be very difficult to control.

Fires occurring Wednesday evening exhibited moderate to high fire behavior. Some of these fires were problematic and remained active throughout the night.  “We are expecting conditions to worsen today as winds increase, temperatures rise, and humidity decreases,” said Mark Goeller, Fire Management Chief for Oklahoma Forestry Services.  “Cooperation by the public is greatly appreciated as any new start has the potential to be difficult to suppress, particularly if the fire is burning in heavy fuels.”

A Red Flag Warning has been issued for the western one-third of the Oklahoma Panhandle and a Fire Weather Watch has been issued for Western Oklahoma for Friday as a dry line pushes into the western portion of the state. Wildland fuel moistures continue to dry and are at critically low levels.  The fuels are very receptive to ignition and fire behavior is expected to be very high to extreme.  

Citizens are requested to avoid areas where active fire is present, monitor media sources, and adhere to evacuation notices affecting residences and places of employment.

A Governor’s Burn Ban, as well as several County Commissioner issued bans are in effect.  For the most updated list of counties under a burn ban, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info. 

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.  

Oklahoma City (March 20, 2018) - Continued dangerous fire behavior conditions prompt interagency wildland personnel to extend the Fuels and Fire Behavior Advisory, issued on March 7, through April 4, 2018. Sunday’s weather pattern provided only limited moisture across the state. Gusty winds on Monday and a warming trend the remainder of the week will return wildland fuel moistures to critically low levels.

Sunday’s moisture varied from a trace to nearly 1-inch in isolated areas. “We are not out of the woods yet,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma Forestry Services Director. While the rain was a welcome relief, it did little to alleviate the extremely dry fuel conditions that are prevalent across the state.

“The rain gave some of our firefighting resources a small window to assess needs and prepare to respond quickly to new fire starts,” said Geissler. A gradual warming trend throughout the week will bring fire weather to near critical conditions on Friday.

Citizens are requested to avoid areas where active fire is present, monitor media sources, and adhere to evacuation notices affecting residences and places of employment.

A Governor’s Burn Ban, as well as several County Commissioner issued bans are in effect. For the most updated list of counties under a burn ban, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

###

Thirty seven communities, universities and utility companies were honored by Oklahoma Forestry Services and the Oklahoma Urban and Community Forestry Council for achieving national certification from the Arbor Day Foundation. These organizations earned national designations by accomplishing specific criteria related to planting and caring for trees, woodlands and community forests in their communities and on campuses and were recognized at an Arbor Week Kickoff celebration at the Oklahoma History Center and tree planting at the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry on March 13. Oklahoma observes Arbor Week the last full week of March each year, with this year’s being March 25 through 31.

We want Oklahomans to know about the communities, universities and utility companies that are working hard to plant and manage trees in public areas,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and State Forester George Geissler. “Their efforts are making a significant difference in their communities by providing health, recreational and environmental benefits.”

Through the Arbor Day Foundation, communities can earn Tree City USA status by meeting core standards of sound urban forestry management; maintaining a tree board; having a community tree ordinance and spending at minimum of two dollars per capita on urban forestry and celebrating Arbor Day. Tree Campus USA designation is available to colleges and universities that effectively manage their campus trees; develop connectivity with the community beyond campus borders to foster healthy community forests and strive to engage their student population utilizing service learning opportunities. The TreeLine USA program exists to recognize best practices in public and private utility arboriculture, demonstrating how trees and utilities can co-exist for the benefit of communities and citizens.

Communities honored for achieving Tree City USA designation include: Ada, Alva, Ardmore, Bartlesville, Bixby, Broken Arrow, Claremore, Edmond, Enid, Guthrie, Kingfisher, McAlester, Midwest City, Morrison, Muskogee, Norman, Oklahoma City, Pauls Valley, Ponca City, Shawnee, Tinker AFB, Tulsa and Vance AFB. Tree Campus USA honorees include: Oklahoma City Community College, Oklahoma City University, Tulsa Community College (all four campuses), Cameron University and Oklahoma Baptist University. Utility companies honored for achieving Tree Line USA designation are: Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO), Edmond Electric, OG&E, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative and People’s Electric.

For more information about obtaining Arbor Day Foundation certification, contact Mark Bays, Urban Forestry Coordinator, Oklahoma Forestry Services, at 405-522-6150 or visit the Arbor Day Foundation website at https://www.arborday.org/.

Oklahoma City - Given the current and predicted fire danger, Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) activated the South-Central Forest Fire Compact and ordered additional wildland firefighting resources from across the southeastern US. Fire danger across much of Oklahoma will continue to be very high to extreme for the next several days, including the upcoming weekend and into early next week. The potential for fires to escape initial attack efforts will also present challenges for firefighting resources.

Firefighting resources, including personnel, engines, and dozers, arrived from Alabama, Kentucky and Louisiana Thursday afternoon. Additional resources from Georgia and Mississippi will be operational today.

“As OFS resources have begun to be stretched thin and we could no longer meet the suppression needs, we are very appreciative of other state forestry agencies sending this additional help,” said State Forester, George Geissler. “It looks like we will be in the bullseye well into April.”

Resources have been divided into two suppression groups to increase OFS operational capacity and response times. Resources will be prepositioned in areas identified with the highest fire danger and then dispatched to active wildland fires as needed.

In addition to OFS firefighters and prepositioned resources, federal and state firefighting aircraft, and county wildland task forces are also prepared for mobilization.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/fireblog.

A Fuels and Fire Behavior Advisory is currently in effect for a large portion of Oklahoma as well as Texas, Kansas, Colorado and New Mexico. The above normal rainfall in 2017 led to excessive fine fuel growth. This combined with increasing drought conditions has created dangerous fire behavior conditions in the region.

The advisory was issued after thorough analysis by Oklahoma Forestry Services in collaboration with interagency wildland fire personnel. It is valid until March 22, but an extension or modification could be issued.

“Under these conditions we could see fast moving fires that quickly out pace suppression efforts and threaten communities,” said George Geissler, OFS director. “We request that citizens avoid areas in the vicinity of ongoing fires, monitor the media, and heed evacuation notices should fires occur near their homes or places of employment.”

Firefighter safety messages are being issued by OFS when fire weather conditions warrant. These safety messages caution wildfire suppression personnel not to depend on typical behavior and tactics.

“This fire season we are seeing fire carry across areas burned in previous years. Firefighters are reporting extreme fire behavior even during the overnight hours,” said Geissler. “This is not typical fire behavior in Oklahoma.”

A Governor’s Burn Ban, as well as several County Commissioner issued bans are in effect. For the most updated list of counties under ban visit www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today extended and expanded a burn ban to include 52 counties because of extreme and extraordinary fire danger.

Conditions have continued to deteriorate since Fallin issued the first burn ban Jan. 30. The governor's burn ban supersedes any county burn bans, and will remain in place until midnight March 2. Additionally, several counties in eastern Oklahoma remain under county commissioner-issued bans.

The governor’s ban covers 52 counties: Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Carter, Cimarron, Cleveland, Comanche, Cotton, Creek, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Garvin, Grady, Grant, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Jackson, Jefferson, Kay, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Lincoln, Logan, Love, Major, McClain, Murray, Noble, Okfuskee, Oklahoma, Okmulgee, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Roger Mills, Seminole, Stephens, Texas, Tillman, Tulsa, Washington, Washita, Woods andWoodward.

County commissioner-issued burn bans remain in effect for several counties.  This list is frequently updated by county commissioners. For the most updated list, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info.

“Drought conditions continue to worsen across the state with no measurable rainfall occurring in the western third of Oklahoma for the past 130 days, and central Oklahoma is approaching 40 days without rain,” said Fallin. “An expanded burn ban is called for to reduce the risk of preventable wildfires and to protect lives and property.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) recommended the ban based upon an ongoing analysis of fire activity, wildland fuel conditions, and the predicted continued drought.
The governor reminds people to be extremely careful with any outdoor activities that might spark a blaze.

“Oklahomans have heeded warnings to take extra caution to prevent wildfires during the burn ban these last two weeks,” Fallin said. “This has had a direct effect on the number of new fire starts.”

“Oklahoma Forestry Services’ wildland fire crews and aircraft are prepositioned as conditions continue to deteriorate,” said George Geissler, OFS director. “Oklahoma National Guard and Oklahoma Highway Patrol aircraft continue to support wildfire activities as necessary. We’ve also opened an air tanker base in Ardmore, and have additional helicopters staged in Weatherford and Shawnee in anticipation of initial attack needs across the state.”

Unlawful activities under the ban include campfires, bonfires, and setting fire to any forest, grass, woods, wildlands or marshes, as well as igniting fireworks, burning trash or other materials outdoors.LPG and natural gas grills and charcoal-fired cooking outside in a grilling receptacle are permitted, provided the activity is conducted over a non-flammable surface and at least 5 feet from flammable vegetation, but any fire resulting from grilling or use of one of the cookers or stoves is still considered an illegal fire.

As part of the governor’s burn ban, there are exemptions for many items, such as welding and road construction. For more specific information and details, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-info or call Michelle Finch-Walker with the Oklahoma Forestry Services at (580) 236-1021.

Note to MediaFor the latest Oklahoma “Daily Wildfire Situation Report” visit www.forestry.ok.gov and click the link on the homepage (green box on right hand side.) The report contains information about recent fire activity, predicted fire weather and a link for current burn bans.

About Oklahoma Forestry ServicesOklahoma Forestry Services (OFS), a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and woodlands. Since 1925, OFS has worked with individuals and communities throughout the state to create resilient landscapes, fire-adaptive communities and provide wildfire response.  Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the division also has regional offices in Broken Bow, Goldsby, Wilburton and Tahlequah.  For more information, visit www.forestry.ok.gov.

A community meeting will be held at 6 pm Thursday, February 15 at the Broken Bow Public Library where Oklahoma Forestry Services will discuss a new fire preparedness project. Area residents, cabin management companies and cabin owners are encouraged to attend to learn more about how they can participate in the plan.

Explosive tourism development in the Hochatown area caught the attention of wildland firefighters with Oklahoma Forestry Services and several years ago discussions began about how to be better prepared for wildfires in this very popular tourist area.

This issue has also been the focus of several national level fire managers as the area continues to see development of more and more structures nestled in the forest. The parallels between this tourist area and the fires that occurred in Gatlinburg, Tennessee in 2016 make the significance of a preparedness plan even more relevant for the public and firefighters.

OFS began a huge project in 2016 utilizing a new GIS app called Collector. “This app was a game changer for us,” said OFS Forest Ranger and project lead, Don Cook. “It allows us to drop a pin with identifying information for every cabin, home and water source and layer that onto the road maps to begin developing strategies for wildfire suppression for each subdivision.”

The purpose of the Hochatown Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Preparedness Plan is to:

• Enhance the safety of both firefighters and the public when wildland fire events threaten the area.
• Streamline initial attack resources so that priorities and concerns are established at an early stage so that proactive strategies can be implemented.
• Define and explain “trigger points” to be used in establishing needs for additional resources.
• Enhance cooperation and coordination of responding resources by decreasing confusion and chaos in both ordering and utilizing additional resources.

“The Hochatown project encompasses many facets including documenting location of all subdivisions, cabins, homes, businesses; planning evacuation routes for each area; identifying cooperating fire departments and other partners to respond in the event of a large wildfire; and a plan to regularly conduct a simulation with all partners participating in a mock scenario,” said Cook. “Another component of the project will be home owner/cabin owner meetings where we discuss proactive steps each can take to make their property more defensible in advance of a wildfire.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfire preparedness for individuals, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/firewise-for-you.

Oklahoma Forestry Services and the National Weather Service have been closely monitoring fuel and weather conditions and are warning extreme fire danger exists generally south of I-40 and west of US 81 this weekend. Citizens are urged to delay any activity that might spark a fire.

“Your actions can make a difference with these types of conditions and we are asking everyone to take care or delay any activities that could spark a blaze,” said State Forester George Geissler. “It is incredibly dry out there and any fire that starts will spread rapidly making suppression very difficult.”

Officials are also urging citizens to report any suspicious smoke or fire to their closest fire department by calling 911. Quick response by firefighters in these conditions can make a difference and keep fire size small.

Oklahoma Forestry Services will pre-position wildland firefighting resources near areas that are predicted to experience the worst fire behavior, minimizing response time. Oklahoma National Guard and Oklahoma Highway Patrol aircraft, and county wildland task forces are ready to deploy as needed.

An approaching cold front that will move across the state Sunday night will drive fire danger into the extreme category across much of western Oklahoma and very high fire danger indices into the I-35 corridor.

“We are going to see these conditions continue to ebb and flow until we receive significant moisture,” said Geissler. “Predictive services are putting Oklahoma in the bullseye for a very bad winter fire season that is predicted to last until late March or early April.”

Curtailing of everyday activities like outdoor grilling, welding, and any other activity that could spark a blaze can make a real difference in new fire starts. Safety of the firefighters and public is of the utmost concern and one of the main threats for firefighters will be rapid spread of any fire start. Firefighter safety messages will be pushed out via email from OFS to assist departments in safety briefings of crews who deploy on wildland fires.

County issued burn bans are currently in effect for Alfalfa, Beaver, Cimarron, Grant, Harper, Jefferson, Major, Texas and Woodward. 

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

Note to Media:

For the latest Oklahoma “Daily Wildfire Situation Report” visit www.forestry.ok.gov and click the link on the homepage (green box on right hand side.) The report contains information about recent fire activity, predicted fire weather and a link for current burn bans.

Dozens of volunteer firefighters from around Oklahoma gathered in Grady County this weekend to train to battle wildfires. The class comes ahead of what is expected to be a severe fire season locally, but it will also give them skills to help other states.

Wildfires are ravaging southern California right now, and despite having thousands of firefighters there to help, there is still no end in sight.

The Oklahoma Standard of helping others is no exception for firefighters. Over the past year of massive wildfires across the western United States, the help was much needed.

“It was all hands on deck,” says Andy James, a Community Fire Assistance Program forester with the Oklahoma Division of Forestry Services, "and there were times when we couldn’t get enough resources in some of the states where we were trying to fight fire."

Through this Forestry Service course, though, veteran and rookie firefighters alike are able to become certified to cross state lines. 23 of the 40 attendees successfully completed the physical qualifier.

“Once they finish this course,” James says, "then they will be issued what’s called a 'red card.'"

The rest of the men and women are still gaining knowledge to use right here at home.

“I’ve been a firefighter for approximately 30 years,” says Grady County Fire Department district chief Buddy Myers, who helped organized the class.

“I’ve learned new and valuable information that I’ll be able to put into play next week should we happen to have a fire.”

The prospects are looking very dry for the months to come.

James says, “A lot of our organizations that we depend on for weather and forecasting, they’re all on the same page.”

Heavy rains earlier this year followed by a dry fall produced masses of tinder just waiting to burn. Once it sparks, volunteer fire departments need to have the skills to properly respond. Because volunteer firefighters are not at the station when a call comes in, Myers says, “It gives the fires a head start, and it’s more difficult to put out when the fire load is heavy and the conditions are dry.”

The firefighters hope you can help too by reducing burning and using common sense.

James says, “I have a feeling this coming spring we’re all going to be in this fight together.”

The Forestry Service recommends firefighters practice these skills annually. To find or schedule an upcoming class for your department, contact the Community Fire Assistance Program by clicking here.

Conditions in Oklahoma are looking ripe for a very busy winter fire season. Fire managers with Oklahoma Forestry Services are monitoring drought conditions, fuel loads and weather forecasts while bracing for an active end to 2017.

And, early 2018 is predicted to be even worse with near to above normal temperatures and less than normal precipitation statewide, plus an above average availability of fuels that mean potential increased fire size. Fuels are grasses, branches, leaves and drought stricken trees that are available as fuel for a fire outbreak.

“This increased availability of fuels typically means that any fire that starts has the potential to grow large very quickly under fire weather conditions,” said Mark Goeller, Fire Management Chief for Oklahoma Forestry Services. “Through the combined effort with our partners with the National Weather Service, we’ve gotten so much better at accurately predicting fire outbreaks and this allows us to preposition firefighters and stage aircraft to quickly respond to new fires.”

Quick response by local and state resources means smaller fire size and safer conditions for those battling the blazes as well as better notification of those living the predicted fire areas. Oklahomans are being asked to heed the warning and begin to look around their homes and property for ways to make it more defensible in the event of wildfire.

50 Ways to Make your Home Firewise is a great resource for homeowners. It includes everything from no cost actions like relocating firewood stacks and propane grills to more costly suggestions like modifying driveways to accommodate fire trucks. A social media campaign highlighting a tip of the day will get underway so that Oklahomans can get daily reminders of how their mitigation activities can contribute to the survivability of their homes.

The brochure is available for download at www.forestry.ok.gov and tips will be posted daily on www.facebook.com/OklahomaForestry.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

Recipients of the annual Rural Fire Defense 80/20 Reimbursement Grants have been announced by Oklahoma Forestry Services. The grants provide funding for equipment purchases and fire station construction and are available through an application process to rural fire departments which serve populations of less than 10,000.

“There is a great need for equipment and station construction by our rural fire departments,” said George Geissler, director, Oklahoma Forestry Services. “These departments are the first line of defense for their communities and we would like to be able to offer assistance to more departments.”

A total of $125,000 was available for the program this year and departments were eligible to receive up to $30,000 for fire department construction and up to $20,000 for fire equipment purchases. The grants provide reimbursement of up to 80% of the total amount of projects, with fire departments receiving reimbursement after the purchase or constructions costs have been paid. Sixteen departments were selected to receive the grants this year.

The grants are authorized by Governor Mary Fallin, funded by the Oklahoma Legislature and administered by the Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food & Forestry. Oklahoma’s Rural Fire Coordinators grade the applications and select the recipients.

Rural fire departments which have been awarded grants this year include: Boulanger Rural Fire Department; Butler Volunteer Fire Department; Caddo Fire Department; Blackwell Fire Department; Harrah Fire Department; Cordell Volunteer Firefighters Association; Darwin Volunteer Fire Department; Green Country Volunteer Fire Department; Walters Fire Department; Jacktown Fire Department; Monroe Volunteer Fire Association; Ochelata Volunteer Fire Department; Oglesby Civil Defense Volunteer Fire; Sam's Point Volunteer Fire Department; Meeker Fire Department; Rosston Volunteer Fire Department and Wilson Community Volunteer Fire Association.

For more information about the grants and recipients visit the Oklahoma Forestry Services website at http://www.forestry.ok.gov/8020-rfd-grant or call 405-288-2385.

By James D. Watts Jr. Tulsa World

For a day or two this week, when a cold front that was actually cold swept over northeastern Oklahoma and drove temperatures down into the 40s and 50s, it seemed as if — finally! — fall had fallen upon Tulsa and its environs.

Even though temperatures this weekend are forecast to return to summer highs, at least we have had some actual proof that cooler weather is in the offing.

And with that cooler weather comes the technicolor splendor of fall foliage, when trees begin to turn dormant and their leaves turn landscapes into a riot of reds and oranges and yellows.

The current issue of the Farmer’s Almanac, which likes to champion that its predictions about all things to do with weather are 80 percent accurate, states that fall colors in Oklahoma will likely peak the final week of October through the first week of November, with the changes happening first in the northern regions of the state.

Exactly when fall colors will be at their full peak and how colorful the Oklahoma landscape will turn remain matters of some mystery.

A recent Associated Press story about the storied fall colors to be found in New England stated that the unusually warm temperatures the region experienced in September caused trees to continue to produce the chlorophyll that creates the green in leaves.

Oklahoma has been experiencing predominantly warm and dry weather throughout the summer months of 2017, which could mean the fall foliage will not be as colorful nor as long-lasting as it could be.

“Last year, we stayed green around here right into November,” said Bart Haake, meteorologist at the

 National Weather Service office in Tulsa. “The front that came through earlier this week was the 

first really cool weather we’ve experienced this season, and in the 20 years I’ve been here, I don’t recall an air mass like that one coming in as late as this.”

The National Weather Service’s monthly forecast for October predicts temperatures to run slightly above normal throughout the month, with precipitation forecasts being significantly lower than normal.

Craig Marquardt, an area forester for east central Oklahoma with the Oklahoma Forestry Services, agreed that what fall color Oklahoma does experience will likely be later in the year — and perhaps a bit less colorful than in years past.

“Right now I’m in LeFlore County, and everything’s pretty green around here,” he said. “There hasn’t been much rain here and the nights have been warm, which really affects the fall colors. And trees are smart enough to know what to do under moisture stress. They don’t really need their leaves, so they’ll just drop them.”

The Oklahoma Tourism Department’s TravelOK website (travelok.com) has a Fall Color Report that is updated on a regular basis. The most recent update, posted on Tuesday, states in its entirety: “Fall foliage is just beginning at Boiling Springs (in northwestern Oklahoma) with yellow starting to pop through in the trees and many of the vines already turning red. Typically, foliage can be viewed at its peak from the last week of October through the first week of November.”

To help you prepare to take in the colors of fall, whenever and wherever they may appear, here are some of the best places in eastern Oklahoma to do a bit of leaf peeping.

Midtown

The starting point is Woodward Park at the corner of 21st Street and Peoria Avenue, where you can take a leisurely stroll through the park’s grounds, enjoy a picnic or add to your horticultural knowledge with a trip through the Tulsa Garden Center and the Linnaeus Teaching Garden. Then take your time traversing through the neighborhoods encompassed by 21st Street to the north, 41st Street to the south, Peoria Avenue to the west and Yale Avenue to the east for some of the more spectacular fall foliage in the city.

Riverside Drive

With A Gathering Place for Tulsa still under construction, you cannot traverse the full length of this boulevard, but there is still plenty to be seen and marveled at along this route that follows the Arkansas River.

Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness

On the west side of the Arkansas, between 41st and 61st Streets, is the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness, whose densely forested acres hold the potential for a host of fall colors. You can enjoy from a distance, while passing by on U.S. 75, or explore from within along one of the many hiking and biking trails through the area.

Oologah Lake

Head northwest to Oologah Lake in Rogers County, with its 209 miles of shoreline and more than 18 miles of equestrian and hiking trails — or bring a book and enjoy the views of the changing of the trees from the lake itself. You can round out the trip by taking Oklahoma 88 into Claremore to visit attractions such as the Will Rogers Memorial Museum and the J.M. Davis Gun Museum.

Oklahoma 10

Start in Miami and follow Oklahoma 10 south as it threads through the eastern portion of Green Country, past Grand Lake, running along the Illinois River until you gets to Tahlequah, where you can explore some of the history of the Cherokee Nation at the Cherokee Heritage Center.

Talimena National Scenic Byway

This 54-mile stretch of highway, which starts at Talihina State Park and treks through the Ouachita National Forest to Mena, Arkansas, is considered one of the region’s premiere fall foliage destinations. A nonstop drive along this route can be completed in just over an hour, but when the fall colors are in full force, one will want to take advantage of the more than a dozen scenic vista stops along the way.

Robbers Cave State Park

So named because outlaws such as Belle Starr and Jesse James were said to have holed up here at one time or another, Robbers Cave State Park near Wilburton, on Oklahoma 2, is the perfect place to experience what autumn brings to the foliage covering the San Bois Mountain Range.

Oklahoma State Forester George Geissler was recently named president of the National Association of State Foresters (NASF).

“As leaders of state government, State Foresters have high standards for leadership of the association that represents their interests at the national level,” said Jay Farrell, executive director of NASF. “It is an honor for George Geissler to be elected President of NASF by his peers. This means state foresters across the nation recognize his leadership skills and have a high level of confidence in his abilities to serve their common interests.”

Geissler has a distinguished career in forestry, having worked as a forester and wildland firefighter for variety of organizations, including the United States Forest Service, a private corporation and as a business owner before joining Oklahoma Forestry Services in 2006, where he serves as the director and state forester. In his current role Geissler provides leadership for the conservation, enhancement and protection of Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and wildfire mitigation and suppression for all 77 counties in the state. Geissler will serve a one year term as NASF president, succeeding Wyoming State Forester Bill Crapser.

“State forestry agencies work to ensure the health, productivity and sustainability of our nation’s trees and forests while protecting our citizens from loss due to threats such as wildland fire,” said George Geissler. “I look forward to working with my fellow state foresters and our partners to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Established in 1920, NASF is a non-profit organization composed of the directors of forestry agencies in the states, territories and the District of Columbia of the United States. State Foresters manage and protect state and private forests, which encompass two-thirds of the nation's forests. State forestry agencies in cooperation with federal agencies are the primary delivery system for forestry activities.

Join foresters from across the state for the fourth annual “Walk in the Forest” event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on September 30 at Martin Nature Park, located at 5000 West Memorial Drive in Oklahoma City. Foresters and natural resource professionals from across the state will be stationed along the trail to provide information about the forest. Walkers and hikers of all levels are invited to participate, with special activities planned for kids, as part of a national effort to get people outside.

“This is a great opportunity to enjoy a fun day outside with your friends and family,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma Forestry Services director and state forester. “Foresters enjoy coming together for this event to provide the public with information and education about our forests and woodlands. It’s a great time to ask your forestry and tree questions.”

Hikers should dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Additionally, hikers are encouraged to bring bug repellent, sun screen and drinking water.

The Walk in the Forest program is part of a national campaign coordinated by the Society of American Foresters (SAF) and the American Forest Foundation. The Oklahoma walk is being hosted by the Oklahoma Division of SAF, in partnership with Oklahoma Forestry Services; Oklahoma State University (OSU) Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management; the OSU Student SAF Chapter and Martin Nature Park. Event sponsors include Weyerhaeuser Company and Oklahoma Forestry Association.

For more information about the Walk in the Forest, contact Oklahoma Forestry Services at 405-522-6158 or visit www.forestry.ok.gov. For information and directions to Martin Nature Park call (405) 297-1429 or visit https://okc.gov/departments/parks-recreation/martin-park-nature-center.

Oklahoma’s forest products industry are a significant part of our state’s economy, historically focused in the southeastern counties. Investment in new facilities continues and this industry is looking to new locations and markets. To better serve the industry, Oklahoma Forestry Services is creating a new directory of Oklahoma sawmills and invites owners and operators to provide their company information to be included.

“We see value in providing a comprehensive directory of sawmills, especially for landowners,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma Forestry Services Director and state forester. “Increased awareness of potential markets allow landowners the opportunity to support our state’s wood utilization and timber industry and we want to make that information easily accessible.”

Sawmill owners who would like to have their company included in the directory are asked to fill out a brief, one-page questionnaire to provide their company information, including contact information, location, which species are accepted and delivery options. The questionnaire is available on the Oklahoma Forestry Services – www.forestry.ok.gov/saw-mill-survey or you can call Oklahoma Forestry Services at 405-522-6158 to request a form or provide answers over the phone. Completed forms should be emailed to okforest@ag.ok.gov.

Sunday, August 13, 2017 | by Paula Burkes  The Oklahoman

Likely due to the first line in its state song, Oklahoma largely is regarded as a plains state. But in fact, ancient forests — including 200-year-old trees and 13 ecoregions with differing elevations, climate and moisture patterns — comprise some 27 percent of the state.

That's the message State Forester George Geissler stresses in talks to Rotary Clubs and other public groups. The Forestry Services division of the state Agriculture Department is all about managing national resources, Geissler said.

“From dealing with everything from trees and critters to water production, we want our forests to be healthy and productive, so that we can ensure they'll remain for years to come,” he said.

Geissler has worked nearly 30 years as a forester throughout Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, Colorado and Idaho.

He joined Oklahoma Forestry Services in 2006, and since February 2011 has served as director of the division, which employs 135 including some 100 firefighters whom are lent to other states when they're not fighting fires in Oklahoma.

From his offices at 2800 N Lincoln Blvd., Geissler, 52, sat down with The Oklahoman on Monday to talk about his life and career. This is an edited transcript:

Q: Tell us about your roots.

A: The name Geissler is German, but I have heavy Italian roots on both sides. I grew up in the low-rent Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans. My mom was a teacher before she had me and my sister, who's three years younger. Later, she worked as a substitute teacher. My father read water meters for the city and did every other odd job he could, from repairing engines to filling tankers with natural gas for Tenneco. Today, my parents live north of New Orleans and my sister teaches math and science at an elementary school there. A number of our family lost their homes in Hurricane Katrina. I talk to my parents every morning on my commute from Norman to the office and check in with my sister about once a week.

Q: What were the highlights of your childhood?

A: As kids, my sister and I would collect pop bottles and redeem them for cash toward the family fund. And my father and I before school every morning would catch and sell fish and crabs. I attended parochial military schools. At 5 feet, 6 inches, and 120 pounds, I knew I wasn't going to play the football my father had. Instead, I ran for the school cross-country team, including 5Ks, 10Ks and even some marathons. That's also when a fellow student from Great Britain lent me a road bike and introduced me to the sport of cycling. I've been running and cycling every since.

Q: What led you to pursue forestry as a career?

A: I decided at age 11 or 12, on one of those hell family vacations where everyone piles in the car and drives across the country. My dad met a forest ranger in Colorado, who took me to a logging site, showed me a prescribed burn, checked a crew measuring trees and more. As a city boy, I thought his was the coolest job on earth. So, when it came time for college, I chose to major in forestry at LSU. During the week, I'd bartend in Baton Rouge and work for the LSU forestry department, and on the weekends, I'd unload trucks and tend bar in New Orleans. After my freshman year, I worked my summers as a firefighter in Idaho and loved being outdoors and the physical and intellectual challenge of it. Upon graduation, I went to work for the United States Forest Service on the Boise National Forest as both a wildland firefighter with the Boise Hotshots and a silviculturalist on the Idaho City Ranger District.

Q: What brought you to Oklahoma?

A: In 1988, I took a corporate forester job with Public Service Co. of Oklahoma (PSO) — which was part of the Dallas-based Central and Southwest Services electric utility holding company — where I, among other things, handled transmission line clearance in the wake of Oklahoma's ice storms and high winds. Over my nine years with the company, I advanced to director of forest management on 475,000 acres of company-owned timberlands and vegetation management on company electrical system infrastructure located in the U.S., Brazil and England. PSO paid for me to get my MBA at Harvard. That was before the internet, so I'd go to Boston for two weeks to a month to study, and then come back and work. It took me two and half years to earn my degree. When Ohio-based American Electric Power bought out Central and Southwest Services, I was tapped to help consolidate the two companies. Ultimately, I eliminated my own job because American Electric already had the same thing.

Q: You worked for yourself for nine years. Tell us about that.

A: When I left American Electric, Bea and I decided to start our own consulting company: Forestry West LLC. We figured we could live anywhere we wanted, so we decided on Tucson. Bea ran the back office and our home front, while I typically would hop a plane most Mondays and be gone through Friday or Saturday, consulting in San Diego, Oregon, Idaho and Colorado on forest management, community wildfire protection planning, and wildland fire planning and prevention. After we landed a big client in Los Alamos, New Mexico, we moved there so I'd see more of Bea and the kids. When we sold the firm in 2005, we had a staff of 80 supporting clients in 18 western states. We sold to move back to Oklahoma near Bea's parents who had health issues.

Q: What do you like most about the forestry profession?

A: There's a strong sense of legacy. The state of Oklahoma has a seed production plant in Idabel and a nursery in Goldsby where we grow millions of seedlings to plant in acres that have been cut over by lumber companies or in pastures landowners want to convert back to forests for wildlife. I won't live long enough to see the end of the cycle of the trees we plant.

Rural fire departments are encouraged to apply for 2017 Rural Fire Defense 80/20 Reimbursement Grants, which provide for equipment purchases and fire station construction. Fire departments in communities with populations of less than 10,000 are eligible to receive a grant and should apply through Oklahoma Forestry Services by September 1.

The grants provide reimbursement of up to 80% of the total amount of projects, with fire departments receiving reimbursement after the purchase or constructions costs have been paid. A total of $125,000 is available for the program this year and will be awarded in October. Departments can receive up to $30,000 for fire department construction and up to $20,000 for fire equipment purchases.

“Oklahoman’s rural fire departments do an excellent job of protecting and serving their communities,” said George Geissler, director, Oklahoma Forestry Services. “We are pleased that these grants are being funded again this year despite significant state budget cuts.”

The grants are authorized by Governor Mary Fallin, funded by the Oklahoma Legislature and administered by the Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food & Forestry. Oklahoma’s Rural Fire Coordinators grade the applications and select the recipients.

Fire Departments which received 80/20 Reimbursement Grants last year include: Courtney Volunteer Fire Department Association; Hanna Rural Fire Association; Carselowey Community Volunteer Fire Department; Norris Volunteer Fire Department; Crowder Volunteer Fire Department; Corn Fire Department; Wichita Mountains Estates Fire Department; Tecumseh Volunteer Firefighters Association; Temple Volunteer Fire Department; Liberty Area Fire Protection Association; Sooner Volunteer Fire Department; Hooker Firefighters Association; Hominy Fire Department; Jennings Rural Firefighters Association; Preston Volunteer Fire Department; Fort Supply Fire Department and Rock Fire Department.

Applications and more information are available on the Oklahoma Forestry Services website, www.forestry.ok.gov/firegrants or call 405-522-6158.

What type of forest or woodlands is present in Oklahoma? What tree species are in the state’s counties? Is our forest healthy?

These and many other questions will be answered as a Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) crew from Oklahoma Forestry Services begins collecting data on plots in Caddo, Canadian, Grady, Oklahoma,

Garfield, Grant, Kay, Kingfisher, Lincoln, Logan, Noble and Payne Counties.

Foresters began this important data collection in 2009. Each subsequent year, foresters continue gathering information about the amount of land under forest cover, the type of forests and tree species that are present, tree size, invasive species and forest health issues.

“Healthy forests and woodlands provide Oklahoma with many valuable goods and services,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma Forestry Services director and State Forester. “We are collecting information about our forests in all 77 counties which will improve our planning and management strategies and ensure our citizens receive the greatest benefit possible.”

The analysis is conducted on randomly located plots across private, industrial, and public lands and includes both forested and non-forested areas. Private landowners are contacted directly by mail if a plot falls on their land. The information gathered from this analysis determines the status of the local forest resource and shows trends seen in the forests of Oklahoma. This data also contributes to similar nationwide efforts of the USDA Forest Service.

“The information we collect is added to the national database to give policymakers the data they need to make informed decisions for the future of our forest resources,” said FIA Coordinator Carri Abner. “We appreciate landowners allowing us access to their land so we will have an accurate assessment of Oklahoma’s trees and forests.”

Crews will be traveling in marked Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry vehicles and will be carrying proper identification with them. Landowners and lessees can assist in this endeavor by granting crews access to property if an FIA plot falls on their land, as well as telling others about the program. They are also welcome to be present when the crew is conducting the measurements on their property. If you would like more information, contact FIA Coordinator, Carri Abner at 918-290-9208 or carri.abner@ag.ok.gov.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Addressing the success of the federal Natural Resources Conservation Service is one of Jeri Irby’s first priorities as the new head of the state’s reforestation program.

The primary task of the new forest regeneration and tree improvement manager at the state Department of Agriculture is to keep Oklahoma well-treed. That includes maintaining windbreaks created decades ago to mediate the damage of the Dust Bowl, she said. Trees don’t live forever and when they die, farmers need to be reminded to maintain their efforts at the risk of history repeating itself.

Following recent years of severe drought, Irby’s reforestation program at Goldsby is upping its tree nursery population by 500,000 plantings. The nursery typically produces 4 million seedlings per year on just 120 acres. Many of those baby trees are sold at cost to landowners for conservation, wildlife habitat development, and beautification, which helps keep the program afloat with little input from the government.

Trees have a $2.8 billion economic impact on the state, primarily via the lumber industry and conservation savings, according to the department. The annual seedling sales typically total about $1.5 million, a number that falls during drought and picks up again once there’s enough water to fill ponds. Irby is expecting higher demand this year, thus the 12-percent increase in plantings.

Nature has its own agenda, though, and trees take several years to grow to full size. Even now the northwest third of the state is abnormally dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The year started with some areas of the state already in extreme drought.

Farmers have gotten so good about managing drought that some of them might be a little too comfortable, said Eunice Padley, Natural Resources Conservation Service national forester.

Consider the no-till trend, for example: Traditional farming methods require a farmer to make several passes over a field with equipment before planting can begin, one of the more expensive costs of the ag industry. More often, tilling disks are being set aside in favor of seed-insertion machinery, leaving the soil undisturbed.

That’s important because it helps keep erosion to a minimum. The worst-case scenario occurred in the 1930s when black clouds of dust swept across the state, the result of over-farming the land. Following the economic catastrophe of the Dust Bowl, the federal government established a soil conservation and education program that later evolved into the NRCS.

Padley said farmers feel so good about no-till that they’re more likely to let their windbreak maintenance lapse when trees die. Also, farmers are investing in bigger machines for bigger operations, and they believe windbreaks are getting in the way of their progress.

Irby said the federal program’s first tree windbreak reported in the state was an Austrian pine in Greer County. If any of the trees from that era are still around, she said, they’ve likely been stressed to a breaking point and need to be replaced as part of the program’s focus.

Irby has served as the education coordinator with Oklahoma Forestry Services at the Department of Agriculture since 2012. She coordinated the environmental education program Project Learning Tree and managed outreach events throughout the state. Irby said she’s looking forward to the opportunity to apply her public-education skills on a wider scale.

Oklahoma Forestry Services recently promoted Jerí Irby to Forest Regeneration and Tree Improvement Manager, with responsibility for the OFS Forest Regeneration and Tree Improvement Centers.

“We are pleased to have a forester on staff that is ready to step into this key role,” said George Geissler, state forester and director, Oklahoma Forestry Services. “This position is responsible for assessing the state’s reforestation needs and producing the trees best suited to thrive in Oklahoma.”

Serving as Education Coordinator with Oklahoma Forestry Services since 2012, Irby coordinated the environmental education program Project Learning Tree; directed youth forestry camp; developed and implemented forestry curriculum and managed outreach events throughout the state. Irby also serves as secretary/treasurer for the Oklahoma Division of the Society of American Foresters and is the recipient of the Ouachita Society of American Foresters Young Leadership Award.

Irby holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Resource Conservation from Oklahoma State University, and a Master of Science degree in Land Resources and Environmental Science from Montana State University.

The Forest Regeneration Center, also known as the state nursery, grows trees and shrubs chosen for their adaptability to Oklahoma’s climate and environment. Seedlings are sold to landowners and others for reforestation, wildlife habitat development, erosion control, windbreaks, and a variety of other environmental purposes. The facility is located on 120 acres south of Norman in Goldsby.

The Tree Improvement Center conducts research, breeds and propagates genetically improved seeds to provide to the state nursery. Oklahoma Forestry Services collaborates with Oklahoma State University and Western Gulf Forest Tree Improvement Cooperative to continually evaluate and improve seed sources to increase seedling survivability and better plant health and production. The Tree Improvement Center is located on 160 acres in Idabel.

What type of forest or woodlands is present in Oklahoma? What tree species are in the state’s counties? Is our forest healthy?

 These and many other questions will be answered as a Forest Inventory and Analysis(FIA) crew from Oklahoma Forestry Services begins collecting data on plots in Carter, Cleveland,Garvin, Johnston, Love, Marshall, McClain and Murray counties.

 Foresters began this important data collection in 2009. Each subsequent year, foresters continue gathering information about the amount of land under forest cover, the type of forests and tree species that are present, tree size, invasive species and forest health issues.

“Healthy forests and woodlands provide Oklahoma with many valuable goods and services,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma Forestry Services director and State Forester. “We are collecting information about our forests in all 77 counties which will improve our planning and management strategies and ensure our citizens receive the greatest benefit possible.”

The analysis is conducted on randomly located plots across private, industrial, and public lands and includes both forested and non-forested areas. Private landowners are contacted directly by mail if a plot falls on their land. The information gathered from this analysis determines the status of the local forest resource and shows trends seen in the forests of Oklahoma. This data also contributes to similar nationwide efforts of the USDA Forest Service.

“The information we collect is added to the national database to give policymakers the data they need to make informed decisions for the future of our forest resources,” said FIA Coordinator Carri Abner. “We appreciate landowners allowing us access to their land so we will have an accurate assessment of Oklahoma’s trees and forests.”

Crews will be traveling in marked Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry vehicles and will be carrying proper identification with them. Landowners and lessees can assist in this endeavor by granting crews access to property if an FIA plot falls on their land, as well as telling others about the program. They are also welcome to be present when the crew is conducting the measurements on their property. If you would like more information, contact FIA Coordinator, Carri Abner at 918-290-9208 or carri.abner@ag.ok.gov.

What type of forest or woodlands is present in Oklahoma? What tree species are inthe state’s counties? Is our forest healthy? 

These and many other questions will be answered as a Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) crew from Oklahoma Forestry Services begins collecting data on plots in Creek, Pawnee and Osage Counties in early July. 

Foresters began this important data collection in 2009. Each subsequent year, foresters continue gathering information about the amount of land under forest cover, thetype of forests and tree species that are present, tree size, invasive species and forest health issues. 

“Healthy forests and woodlands provide Oklahoma with many valuable goods and services, "said George Geissler, Oklahoma Forestry Services director and State Forester. "We are collecting information about our forests in all 77 counties which will improve our planning and management strategies and ensure our citizens receive the greatest benefit possible.”

The analysis is conducted on randomly located plots across private, industrial, and public lands and includes both forested and non-forested areas. Private landowners are contacted directly by mail if a plot falls on their land. The information gathered from this analysis determines the status of the local forest resource and shows trends seen in the forests of Oklahoma. This data also contributes to similar nationwide efforts of the USDA Forest Service. 

“The information we collect is added to the national database to give policy makers the data they need to make informed decisions for the future of our forest resources,” said FIA Coordinator Carri Abner. “We appreciate landownersallowing us access to their land so we will have an accurate assessment of Oklahoma’s trees and forests.” 

Crews will be traveling in marked Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry vehicles and will be carrying proper identification with them.Landowners and lessees can assist in this endeavor by granting crews access toproperty if an FIA plot falls on their land, as well as telling others about the program. They are also welcome to be present when the crew is conducting the measurements on their property. If you would like more information, contact FIA Coordinator, Carri Abner at 918-290-9208 or carri.abner@ag.ok.gov.

Oklahoma’s forest and forest products industry had a total impact of $4.5 billion on the state’s economy, including supporting more than 18,000 jobs with wages and salaries in excess of $738 million according to a new report.

The report, which is produced periodically, is a collaborative effort between Oklahoma Forestry Services, Oklahoma State University and the Southern Regional Extension Forestry to measure the impact of Oklahoma’s forests industry. The new Economic Importance of Forestry in Oklahoma is based on 2012 information.

Dr. Omkar Joshi, Oklahoma State University forest economist, is optimistic about future growth of Oklahoma’s forest industry.

“Economic performance of forest related industry is strongly correlated with the housing market,” Joshi said. “While housing activity in Oklahoma is briefly stagnated with the recent downturn in oil market, we will see steady progress in housing demand as the population increases.”

Additionally, the report revealed that Oklahoma’s forest industry has directly contributed $2.95 billion to the state’s economy, employing over 6,770 people with wages and salaries in excess of $351 million.

“Our forests and forest industry have a significant impact on the state economy,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma Forestry Services director and State Forester. “We also want to make people aware that in addition to the measurable economic contribution, our forests provide invaluable ecological benefits such as clean air and water, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and scenic beauty.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.4 million acres of forests and woodlands. For more information and to view the fact sheet visit

www.forestry.ok.gov/oklahoma-forests.

Do you know a teen who could benefit from a week of canoeing, hiking, fishing and swimming in a beautiful forest? Oklahoma Forestry Services invites girls and boys between the ages of 13 to 15 to apply for its 61st annual Oklahoma Forestry Camp, which will be held June 5 - 10 at Beavers Bend State Park in southeast Oklahoma.

“For 61 years, Oklahoma Forestry Services has enjoyed providing teens with a unique opportunity to put down their phones and experience the forest,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma State Forester. “They have fun adventures and make new friends, while also learning about the environment from professional foresters. Our camp experience has a lasting effect on kids, whether it’s a new appreciation for the forest or even choosing natural resources careers.”

In addition to swimming, canoeing, fishing and hiking, campers will also participate in hands-on forestry management and stream ecology learning activities with natural resource professionals. These professionals, who represent organizations such as Oklahoma Forestry Services, Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, Oklahoma State University Research Extension, Lower Mountain Fork River Foundation, US Forest Service and Weyerhaeuser Company, will also discuss career opportunities with the teens. Campers also take field trips to the Oklahoma Forest Heritage Center and Carter Mountain Fire Tower.

The fee for campers is $250, which covers all costs, including lodging, meals, transportation at camp, field trips and workshops. A limited number of partial scholarships are available to help defray the cost. Camp staff applications are also being accepted.

Teens are encouraged to register now for this extraordinary camp experience, as space fills up quickly and registration closes on May 12th. Visit www.forestry.ok.gov/forestrycamp to get more information, register or view pictures from previous years. Those who are interested are also welcome to contact Camp Director Jeri Irby, at 405-249-9612 or Jeri.irby@ag.ok.gov.

Martin Nature Park recently received a facelift as city, state, nonprofit and private industry teamed up to celebrate the “Great American Cleanup,” during Oklahoma’s Arbor Week. Keep Oklahoma Beautiful, OKC Beautiful, Oklahoma City Community Foundation, P&K Equipment, Warren CAT, and Oklahoma Forestry Services worked together, along with about 30 volunteers, on March 24 and 25 to enhance the park’s natural areas.

“It is exciting when organizations can work together and really make a significant impact on a park that so many people enjoy,” said George Geissler, State Forester and director of Oklahoma Forestry Services. “None of us could have accomplished so much in such a short time working alone. This project really embraces the spirit of the Great American Cleanup and Arbor Week.”

Each organization contributed their unique expertise and equipment. Foresters from Oklahoma Forestry Services assessed the 2.5 miles of public trails for any trees that have health and safety risks to the public followed by an Oklahoma City Parks Forestry crew mitigating those potential risks by cutting down dead trees and trimming branches. Volunteers prepared planting sites and helped to plant 400 tree seedlings provided by Oklahoma Forestry Services. The Oklahoma City Community Foundation provided protective tree shelters for the seedlings and an additional 13 large specimen trees that were planted in highly utilized key areas of the park.

Additionally, volunteers spread 60 cubic yards of mulch donated by Oklahoma Environmental Management Authority and Minick Materials around the park’s playground to help prevent soil erosion, while Warren CAT employees helped by spreading mulch with their skid steers and mulching tree limbs with their masticator tool. P&K Equipment helped move mulch and provided utility vehicles to move people, mulch and equipment around the park. Premier Truck Group of Oklahoma City provided lunch for everyone who worked on the project.

“Partnering with such great organizations and agencies was so awesome! To come together as we did to change the face of such a wonderful 40-year-old OKC gem was priceless,” said Jeanette Nance, executive director, Keep Oklahoma Beautiful. “So many people worked so hard to make this tree planting and refurbishing happen during arbor week! Those of us at Keep Oklahoma Beautiful, staff and board alike, were happy to be hands-on for this amazing project.”

Martin Nature Park, located at 5000 West Memorial Road in Oklahoma City, is a hub for nature exploration and education for visitors of all ages, offering guided hikes, education programs and an interactive learning center that provides visitors a place to learn about nature and wildlife in a serene, suburban environment. For more information about the park call 405-297-1429 or visit its website at https://okc.gov/departments/parks-recreation/martin-park-nature-center.

For the past 3 years, Oklahoma Forestry Services, in cooperation with Oklahoma State University - Fire Service Training, has provided wildland firefighting training to fire departments across the state. This training prepares firefighters, who may be more accustomed to fighting structure fires, to safely and efficiently conduct initial attack on wildfire incidents. While Oklahoma Forestry Services is the lead agency for wildfire suppression in the state, it is local fire departments that are the first line of defense in their communities and will likely be first to respond to any wildland fire in their area.

This training paid off in a big way last week when the Washington County Fire Department fought the Hoppick Fire, a large wildfire that threatened multiple structures near Bartlesville. The fire was well established when Washington County Fire arrived on scene. The abundance of dry fine fuels, high temperatures, low humidity and windy conditions meant the Hoppick Fire could go big. Applying the tactics they learned in the Oklahoma Forestry Services training, Washington County Fire Department crews were able to prevent the loss homes and hold the fire at 544 acres.

The Washington County Fire Department has completed multiple wildland fire training classes but credits the

G-130 Wildland Training for Structural Firefighters as especially beneficial in last week's fire. The G-130 class addresses wildland firefighting in a variety of vegetation and terrain models. By delivering information on different fire environments, firefighters learn to adapt their tactics to the conditions they may encounter.

"The training our department received from Oklahoma Forestry Services greatly contributed to our ability to make good decisions on initial attack at the Hoppick Fire," said Washington County Fire Chief Kary Cox. "As a result, we had a better understanding of how the fire would behave and that helped us to tailor our tactics on the fire. I would recommend advanced wildland fire training for all rural firefighters in Oklahoma."

Oklahoma Forestry Services will continue providing the G-130 training, as well as the more advanced G-131 - Wildland Training (Firefighter 1) For Structural Firefighters and G-231 Wildland Training for Structural Firefighters (Engine Boss) at no cost to local firefighters. OFS is committed to providing training and tools that will help Oklahoma firefighters to do their jobs safely while providing the highest level of protection possible for the people they serve.

"Our local fire departments do an outstanding job of protecting lives and property in their communities," said Mark Goeller, fire management chief for Oklahoma Forestry Services. "We want to provide them with knowledge that is specific to wildland fire, which is different from structural firefighting, so they are equipped to get control of wildfires before they spread into large fires. It is gratifying to see that our training is making a difference."

The OFS trainings are primarily delivered at the Oklahoma State University - Fire Service Training Regional Fire Schools (OSU-FST). Task force members interested in receiving these trainings can enroll on the OSU-FST website at www.osufst.org.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state's lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

About Oklahoma Forestry Services

Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and woodlands. Since 1925, Oklahoma Forestry Services has worked with individuals and communities throughout the state to create resilient landscapes, fire-adaptive communities and provide wildfire response. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the division also has regional offices in Broken Bow, Wilburton and Tahlequah. For more information, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov.

Local firefighters, with the support of Oklahoma Forestry Services, will continue fire suppression activities on the Northwest Oklahoma Complex Fires, as the Southern Region Incident Management Red Team transitioned command back to the local fire departments. The team was ordered by Oklahoma Forestry Services and arrived on March 9^th to manage the large fire complex due to the scope of the incident. The fire complex, which consists of the Starbuck, 283, Selman and Beaver fires, is nearing 100% containment and is no longer in need of the team’s services.

"Bringing in the Red Team to manage the NWOK complex allowed our Oklahoma Forestry Services Incident Management Team to concentrate on managing other large fires across the state," said George Geissler, State Forester and director of Oklahoma Forestry Services. "They are one of 16 teams in the nation uniquely qualified to handle wildfires of this magnitude and complexity. They did an amazing job helping the people and fire departments of northwest Oklahoma."

Oklahoma Forestry Services will continue to have firefighters and aircraft prepositioned across Oklahoma until wildfire danger subsides. Fire weather is near critical today and forecast for critical on Friday, with winds gusting to 50 mph. There is some rain in the forecast, but it will take significant rainfall to end this extended period of fire activity. Oklahoma has experienced 133 large fires, burning 835,220 acres, since January 1, 2017. Large fires are defined as those exceeding 100 acres in timber and 300 acres in grass.

Oklahoma Forestry Services, working with the National Weather Service, Southern Area Coordination Center and with input from interagency and local fire resources, monitors fire conditions daily for the state and informs the firefighting community with a Fire Situation Report, which is available on its website. In addition to the daily report, Oklahoma Forestry Services provides fire updates throughout the day on its Facebook page.

“Oklahoma typically has a winter fire season while grasses and trees are dormant,” said Geissler. “This year is shaping up to be one for the record books, with the Starbuck Fire being the largest in state’s history and there is no relief in sight.”

The public is urged to continue being vigilant with fire prevention tactics, such as heeding burn bans, avoiding any activities that can spark a blaze, not allowing chains to drag from vehicles and not parking on dry grass.

Additionally Oklahoma Forestry Services is asking the public to report any wildfires immediately through 911, avoid the vicinity of wildfires to allow firefighters faster access for initial attack and to heed all evacuation notices. Families are advised to have a plan for wildfire incidents. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

Wildland fire conditions continue to be near “Critical” over much of the state, but is pronounced in western Oklahoma, the Panhandle and counties NW of Interstate 44. All fuel classes continue to dry down including heavy fuels which have reached single-digit moisture values. This equates to very rapid rates of spread, extended flame lengths, increased Probability of Ignition (PIG), complete fuel consumption and the potential for long-range spotting.

A Red Flag Warning will be in place from 12:00 noon through 8:00 p.m. for fifteen (15) western Oklahoma counties. Please refer to http://www.weather.gov/ for the latest updates to the fire weather forecast.

MONDAY: “Near Critical” to “Critical” fire weather is expected to develop by early afternoon. Anticipate good overnight humidity recovery in fine fuels, but this will rapidly erode with dry air pushing into the area. A cold front will follow a surface low pressure system eastward. Winds are expected to shift to north/northwest with the passage of the front. The forecast for sustained winds 15-20 mph with gusts near 30 mph will result in extreme rates of fire spread. Dormant grass fuel moisture will potentially fall into the 3-4% range which translates into very rapid rates of spread and significant fireline intensity (heat output). 

Potential Fire Behavior Head Fire Parameters (rate of spread (ROS) and flame lengths (FL):

• Short Grass / Pasture: maximum ROS 50-150 ft./min., FL 7-11 ft.

• Tall Grass / Prairie: maximum ROS 100-300 ft./min., FL 14-25 ft.

• Grass/Shrub/Redcedar: maximum ROS 50-150 ft./min., FL 9-15 ft.
  Expect single and group tree torching in the cedar, a Probability of Ignition of 75-90% and a spotting potential of .7-1.5 miles. Predicted fire behavior and the potential over the next 36-hours indicates that frontal assaults should be avoided. Do not engage in frontal assault tactics. Make sure to anchor the fire to a road, creek or to the cold black and the have resources flank the fire using direct attack. If possible, work the fire from inside the black. Avoid putting resources in unburned fuels. When protecting structures ensure that you have identified at least two (2) escape routes and make sure everyone knows where their safety zone is located. Establish “trigger points” for re-evaluating tactics. Remember the PACE acronym. Have a Primary, an Alternate, a Contingency and an Emergency plan in place. Make sure that “Leaders Intent” is clear, concise and understood.

Tuesday and Wednesday may provide some brief relief from current conditions, but elevated fire weather conditions are forecast to return on Thursday. All firefighters are encouraged to review tactical operating procedures including engine tactics and fire operations in the wildland/urban interface.

You can refer to the Oklahoma Wildland Tailgate Series for many topics - including Engine Tactics and Wildland/Urban Interface Tactics -  for review at http://www.forestry.ok.gov/tailgate. 

Be Alert, Keep Calm, Think Clearly, Act Decisively 

 Standard Firefighting Orders

1. Keep informed on fire weather conditions and forecasts.

2. Know what your fire is doing at all times.

3. Base all actions on current and expected behavior of the fire.

4. Identify escape routes and safety zones and make them known.

5. Post lookouts when there is possible danger.

6. Be alert. Keep calm. Think clearly. Act decisively.

7. Maintain prompt communications with your forces, your supervisor, and adjoining forces.

8. Give clear instructions and insure they are understood.

9. Maintain control of your forces at all times.

10. Fight fire aggressively, having provided for safety first.

Four common denominators of fire behavior on tragedy fires: 

1. On relatively small fires or deceptively quiet areas of large fires.

2. In relatively light fuels, such as grass, herbs, and light brush.

3. When there is an unexpected shift in wind direction or wind speed.

4. When fire responds to topographic conditions and runs uphill. Alignment of topography and wind during the burning period should always be considered a trigger point to re-evaluate strategy and tactics.

By Chris Heck - National Association of Conservation Districts blog

Early on in the proceedings, Geissler said “Strong partnerships between state forestry agencies and the federal agencies are critical to helping landowners manage their forests and to keeping the forests on the landscape that benefit all Americans.”

Programs like Good Neighbor Authority (GNA), he said, which received permanent reauthorization in the 2014 farm bill, help to encourage those close working relationships.

GNA allows states to act as ‘good neighbors’ with the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management to accomplish cross-boundary work. As the number of residents living in the wildland-urban interface grows, so too does the importance of our forestry program.

In recognition of the recent devastating wildfires in the Midwest, Chairman Frank Lucas, R-Okla., highlighted excessive fuel loads not just on forestland but on our nation’s grassland as well. In just one week earlier this month, more than four million acres of rangeland burned. The chairman summed it up by saying “If you don’t manage that fuel load and you get a lightning strike… you get a heck of a mess.”

All five witnesses agreed that with the right policy changes put in place, forest management on public and private lands could be made easier. Harbour expressed his frustration with the federal policies he says have contributed to hazardous fuels build-up. “As a result, you get these high intensity fires that take lives. It’s wrong to put all the fires out all the tim … we can’t do it and we shouldn’t do it.”

Humphries and Neiman both spoke on the importance of increasing the use of categorical exclusions to reduce the red tape around forest management projects. Neiman also mentioned the importance of making sure such actions were being conducted “at as low a level as you can go” rather than at the national level.

When discussing the 2014 farm bill all of the witness expressed support for the expansion the forestry programs received but emphasized that there is still room for improvement.

In the next farm bill, the witnesses suggested Congress:

• Expand Good Neighbor Authority;
• Increase the flexibility of existing conservation programs, such as Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP);
• Reauthorize the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP); and
• Promote timber and biofuels markets.

Neiman suggested that cutting the number of grazing permits on national forests by roughly one-third over the past half-century has resulted in huge amounts of undergrowth. “You have undergrowth 10’ to 20’ feet in height in areas that should have had had prescribed burns years ago, but now provides three levels of fuel. You can’t stop (fires in those areas) without going in and doing some sort of treatment,” he said.

“The idea of putting a dollar up front (to clear hazardous fuels from public and private forestlands) – it’s not just the idea of getting the wood out, it’s lowering the risk to the people and property around there,” Geissler explained.

NACD continues to be heavily involved in the farm bill process through its own farm bill task force and numerous partnerships and coalitions, including the Forestry in the Farm Bill Coalition.

Chris Heck, NACD government affairs associate, can be reached by email at chris-heck@nacdnet.org.

By Ryan Martini - National Association of State Foresters blog 

Oklahoma State Forester and NASF Vice President George Geissler testified about the next Farm Bill today before the House Agriculture Committee, Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry.

"In generating ideas for [Congressional] consideration in the 2018 Farm Bill, NASF is honored to help lead the Forests in the Farm Bill coalition along with our partners," Geissler said in his testimony.

The Forests in the Farm Bill Coalition is composed of 99 member organizations with diverse forestry, conservation, and wildlife backgrounds. Today, NASF and the other members of the coalition sent a letter to Chairman Lucas and Ranking Member Fudge of the Conservation and Forestry subcommittee. The letter expressed appreciation for the work of the chairman and ranking member on the past three Farm Bills and asked for their continued support of forest priorities in the upcoming Farm Bill reauthorization.

The coalition included the following priorities for the next Farm Bill:

• Increase the long-term protection and conservation of forest resources from threats such as wildfire, insects and diseases including the use of fire as an important forest management tool,
• Conserve and enhance wildlife habitat through voluntary conservation activities, particularly habitat for at-risk species, to prevent the need to list species under the Endangered Species Act,
• Encourage the retention and perpetuation of forestland and associated values, goods, and services,
• Increase employment, manufacturing, rural jobs, and sustainable forest management through a strong forest products industry, and
• Improve forest conservation program effectiveness and availability to private landowners and land managers to address many of the above issues.

The coalition asked the committee to continue its work supporting America’s forests and to be an advocate on issues that extend outside of its jurisdiction.

 - See more at: http://stateforesters.org/news-events/blog/oklahoma-state-forester-outlines-farm-bill-priorities-forests#sthash.wShzci9k.dpuf

Due to strong southerly winds, the Oklahoma Forestry Services predicts that the highest fire danger will remain in the western portion of the state as well as the Panhandle. This afternoon’s forecast calls for humidity levels to help moderate fire behavior experienced on wildfires today. Fire behavior is expected to be at a near critical level through Friday.

“We are anticipating that our humidity levels are going to be in the 18-23% range on Thursday and recover up to 30% through the day on Friday. On Saturday our weather will be back in our favor with higher humidity levels before dropping again on Sunday,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Fire Management Chief Mark Goeller. “On the Northwest Oklahoma Complex crews are working to shore up existing fire lines, mopping up approximately 150 feet into the black making sure heat is extinguished. The complex is approximately 80% contained, and we are continuing to work with local fire departments to fully contain these fires.”

The Southern Red Team, a Type 1 Incident Management Team, along with Beaver, Buffalo, Laverne, Mooreland, Slapout and Woodward Fire Departments, remains in Unified Command of the Northwest Oklahoma Complex. On the ground, firefighting resources from Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana and Tennessee are on the complex, along with management personnel from 34 states and Washington D.C.

Because of the anticipated increase in fire behavior on Thursday, crews have been identified to respond to requests for assistance for initial attack. Air resources remain ready for response, and are prepositioned throughout the state. Officials are asking the public to remain vigilant in their fire prevention efforts and to prepare for the possibility of an increase in the number and severity of wildfires. Current burn bans may be found on the Oklahoma Forestry Services’ website, the public is asked to continue to heed these bans and practice fire prevention tactics such as avoiding any activities that can spark a blaze, not allowing chains to drag from vehicles and not parking vehicles on dry grass.

The public is requested to report any wildfires immediately through 911, avoid the vicinity of wildfires to allow firefighters faster access for initial attack and to heed all evacuation notices. Families are advised to have a plan for wildfire incidents. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

Note to Media:

For questions regarding the NW Oklahoma Complex fire, contact the PIO office at 405-586-0404

For the latest Oklahoma “Daily Wildfire Situation Report” visit www.forestry.ok.gov and click the link on the homepage (green box on right hand side.) The report contains information about recent fire activity, predicted fire weather and a link for current burn bans.

About Oklahoma Forestry Services

Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and woodlands. Since 1925, Oklahoma Forestry Services has worked with individuals and communities throughout the state to create resilient landscapes, fire-adaptive communities and provide wildfire response. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the division also has regional offices in Broken Bow, Wilburton and Tahlequah. For more information, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov.

Oklahoma Forestry Services has ordered regional and national resources, including firefighters, equipment, aircraft and a Type 1 incident management team to provide support and management of the large wildfire incident that has burned across northwest Oklahoma. The scope and complexity of the three fires, being called the Northwest Oklahoma Complex, warrants the need for specialized resources.

“Local fire departments, along with county and state firefighters, have done an excellent job of initial attack on the fires, but incidents of this magnitude take weeks to contain and firefighters in our state need some relief,” said Oklahoma Forestry Services Director George Geissler. “We are in the process of bringing in wildland firefighters, dozers and engines from Arkansas, Louisiana and Kentucky to provide that relief. We have also ordered additional aircraft to support suppression of this fire and others around the state.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services has been battling the fires in unified command with the Woodward, Buffalo, Laverne, Slapout and Mooreland fire departments since Monday and will be transferring command on Friday morning to the Southern Region Red Team, a Type 1 Incident Management Team. This type of team is utilized on the most complex incidents, utilizing national resources and establishing a system of procedures for organizing and managing personnel, facilities, equipment and communications.

“Having this incident management team focused on the NW Oklahoma Complex Fire will enable local fire departments to return to their regular duties and Oklahoma Forestry Services is able to maintain focus on statewide wildfire suppression,” said Geissler. “We are in an excellent position to handle additional wildfires.”

Aircraft has also been deployed to Oklahoma to support fire suppression, including single engine air tankers (SEATs), Type 1 Helicopters, CL-415 (Super Scoopers), an Air Attack Platform and has established an Air Tanker Base at Ardmore.

While Oklahoma Forestry Services is well positioned for new fire activity, officials are asking the public to remain vigilant in their fire prevention efforts and to prepare for the possibility of an increase in the number and severity of wildfires. The public is asked to use fire prevention tactics such as heeding burn bans, avoiding any activities that can spark a blaze, not allowing chains to drag from vehicles and not parking on dry grass.

Additionally OFS is asking the public to report any wildfires immediately through 911, avoid the vicinity of wildfires to allow firefighters faster access for initial attack and to heed all evacuation notices. Families are advised to have a plan for wildfire incidents. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Note to Media: 

For questions regarding the NW Oklahoma Complex fire, contact the PIO office at 405-586-0404

For the latest Oklahoma “Daily Wildfire Situation Report” visit www.forestry.ok.gov and click the link on the homepage (green box on right hand side.) The report contains information about recent fire activity, predicted fire weather and a link for current burn bans.

While battling one of the state’s largest wildfires in recent history, Oklahoma Forestry Services is urging all Oklahomans to step up their wildfire prevention awareness and tactics. The Northwest Oklahoma Complex Fire includes three separate fires in Beaver, Harper and Woodward Counties and has burned over 800,000 acres across Oklahoma and Kansas, with significant loss of property and livestock. Citizens can prevent additional fires from igniting by following some simple precautions.

“Conditions are very dangerous today and we are urging everyone to use extreme caution and avoid any activity that can cause a spark,” said Oklahoma Forestry Director George Geissler. “The Northwest Oklahoma Complex Fire, as well as other fires around the state, are pushing resources to their limits and the last thing we need is to have additional fires.”

Due to current conditions, Oklahoma Forestry Services is urging firefighters and the public to prepare for the possibility of an increase in the number and severity of wildfires.

The public is encouraged to use fire prevention tactics such as heeding burn bans, avoiding any activities that can spark a blaze, not allowing chains to drag from vehicles and not parking on dry grass.

Additionally, we are asking everyone to report any wildfires immediately through 911, avoid the vicinity of wildfires to allow firefighters faster access to fires and to heed all evacuation notices. Families are advised to have a plan for wildfire incidents. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their homes.

Oklahoma Forestry Services, working with the National Weather Service, Southern Area Coordination Center and with input from interagency and local fire resources, monitors fire conditions daily for the state and informs the firefighting community with its Fire Situation Report, which is available on its website.

Additionally, the agency has prepared for heightened fire danger conditions by pre-positioning its firefighting crews in high risk areas of the state to work with local fire departments. Additionally, OFS has brought in federal and regional resources, including firefighters, engines, dozers and aircraft.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires and burn bans, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

Note to Media: 

For information regarding the Northwest Complex Fire contact:

Luke Kanclerz, PIO

(903) 918-9073

For the latest Oklahoma “Daily Wildfire Situation Report” visit www.forestry.ok.gov and click the link on the homepage (green box on right hand side.) The report contains information about recent fire activity, predicted fire weather and a link for current burn bans. The most current information is posted on our Facebook page @Oklahoma Forestry.

___________________________________________________________________________________

Oklahomans are being urged to remain vigilant in their fire prevention efforts as fire season is in full swing across the state. Dry conditions and high winds have created dangerous fire conditions that on some days become critical to extreme. Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) has worked alongside local fire departments to suppress multiple wildfires over the past few weeks and anticipates continued fire danger this week. Oklahoma is leading the nation in the number of large wildfires so far this year and responded to 75 fires that burned 9,737 acres just this past weekend.

“We are in a situation that can quickly become dangerous for the public and even firefighters due to the extreme fire weather conditions that can rapidly develop this time of the year,” said George Geissler, director, Oklahoma Forestry Services. “As we continue to see normal firefighting tactics proving less effective and more time consuming we ask that everyone be aware of these conditions and use extreme caution with anything that can spark a fire.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services, working with the National Weather Service, Southern Area Coordination Center and with input from interagency and local fire resources, monitors fire conditions daily for the state and informs the firefighting community with its Fire Situation Report, which is available on its website.

Additionally, the agency prepares for heightened fire danger conditions by pre-positioning its firefighting crews in high risk areas of the state to work with local fire departments. Additionally, OFS and Oklahoma Emergency Management (OEM) coordinate with the Oklahoma National Guard placing helicopters on standby and to bring in additional resources from out of state as necessary.

Due to current conditions, Oklahoma Forestry Services is urging firefighters and the public to prepare for the possibility of an increase in the number and severity of wildfires. The public is asked to use fire prevention tactics such as heeding burn bans, avoiding any activities that can spark a blaze, not allowing chains to drag from vehicles and not parking on dry grass.

Additionally the public is asked to report any wildfires immediately through 911, avoid the vicinity of wildfires to allow firefighters faster access to fires and to heed all evacuation notices. Families are advised to have a plan for wildfire incidents. Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

The month of March in Oklahoma is primetime for large and significant fire occurrence. Readily available-to-burn dormant fuels combining with critical fire weather results in many days of extreme fire danger. Today’s critical fire weather conditions resulting from a cold front approaching western Oklahoma were identified as early as one week ago by fire weather forecasters. Post-frontal fire weather on Tuesday and Wednesday will produce accelerated drying conditions with warm temperatures and very low relative humidity expanding well into eastern Oklahoma.

A Red Flag Warning/Fire Weather Watch is presently in place for areas in western Oklahoma and the Panhandle. 

Please refer to http://www.weather.gov/ for the latest updates to the fire weather forecast.

MONDAY: Critical fire weather is expected to develop by early afternoon. Respectable overnight humidity recovery in fine fuels will rapidly erode with dry air pushing into the Warned area. The forecast for sustained southwest to west winds 25-30 mph with gusts near 40 mph will result in extreme rates of fire spread. Dormant grass fuel moisture will potentially fall into the 3-4% range which translates into significant fireline intensity.

• Short Grass / Pasture: Maximum of 250-325 ft./min., head fire flame length 3-12 ft.

• Tall Grass / Prairie: 300-500 ft./min. ( 5.7 mph), head fire flame length 15-30 ft.

• Grass/Shrub/Redcedar: 150-250 ft./min, head fire flame length 12-24 ft.

  • Problematic fire behavior expected including single and group tree torching.

• Probability of Ignition will be near 80% in the afternoon hours meaning the potential for spotting will be high. The fuel moisture induced rate of combustion combined with the forecast winds may produce medium to long range spotting with one-quarter mile distances probable.

Potential fire behavior over the next few days dictates that frontal assault should be avoided – do not engage in frontal assault tactics. Anchor the fire at advantageous point (road, creek, cold black) and flank the fire if utilizing direct firefighting tactics. During direct attack, work the fire from the black to provide for quick escape to a safety zone. Avoid placing yourself in a situation where unburned fuel is between you and the fire. If protecting structures ensure that ingress and egress is identified, escape routes and safety zones are identified and equipment is pointed in a direction to facilitate rapid escape. Establish trigger points for re-evaluating tactics and develop contingency plans should the primary plan not be successful.

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY: Much drier air will push across all of Oklahoma as dewpoint temperature plummets. Continued warm temperatures and the low dewpoints will result in relative humidity values ranging from 10% in the west to 19% in the east. Overnight moisture recovery in fine fuels is expected to be poor. Elevated burning conditions will continue overnight and facilitate a long, active burning period on Wednesday. Firefighters should expect increasing resistance to suppression efforts especially in timber where heavy fuels are available.

• Avoid areas where numerous snags (dead standing trees) are present.

• Watch out for ash pits where stumps have been burning for a long period of time.

All firefighters are encouraged to review tactical operating procedures including engine tactics and fire operations in the wildland/urban interface. You can refer to the Oklahoma Wildland Tailgate Series for many topics for review at http://www.forestry.ok.gov/tailgate .

Specifically, you can reference an Engine Tactics review at: https://forestry.publishpath.com/Websites/forestry/images/Tailgate/Tailgate_Series_2_web_ready.pdf

Review Wildland/Urban Interface tactics by clicking the following link: https://forestry.publishpath.com/Websites/forestry/images/Tailgate/Tailgate_April_2015_FINAL.pdf

All firefighters are advised to take particular note of the 10 Standard Fire Orders with specific interest in the first three: (a complete list of the Standard Firefighting Orders below)

1. Keep informed on fire weather conditions and forecasts.

2. Know what your fire is doing at all times.

3. Base all actions on current and expected behavior of the fire.

              Be Alert, Keep Calm, Think Clearly, Act Decisively

Standard Firefighting Orders

1. Keep informed on fire weather conditions and forecasts.
2. Know what your fire is doing at all times.
3. Base all actions on current and expected behavior of the fire.
4. Identify escape routes and safety zones and make them known.
5. Post lookouts when there is possible danger.
6. Be alert. Keep calm. Think clearly. Act decisively.
7. Maintain prompt communications with your forces, your supervisor, and adjoining forces.
8. Give clear instructions and insure they are understood.
9. Maintain control of your forces at all times.
10. Fight fire aggressively, having provided for safety first.

Four common denominators of fire behavior on tragedy fires:

1. On relatively small fires or deceptively quiet areas of large fires.
2. In relatively light fuels, such as grass, herbs, and light brush.
3. When there is an unexpected shift in wind direction or wind speed.
4. When fire responds to topographic conditions and runs uphill. Alignment of topography and wind during the burning period should always be considered a trigger point to re-evaluate strategy and tactics.

A number of fires are on-going in Oklahoma this afternoon and extreme fire weather conditions are forecast again tomorrow across western Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma Panhandle. High temperatures and dry fuels coupled with gusty winds will result in an extremely dangerous fire weather situation for all counties west of Interstate 35. Elevated to potentially critical fire weather will be present in areas of northern Oklahoma as well generally west of Highway 75.

Any fire that occurs given the current forecast conditions has the potential to spread rapidly and could result in large fires. Citizens are urged to be vigilant with outdoor activities and are asked to report any suspicious smoke or fire to their closest fire department or by calling 911.

Homeowners can also make their home more defensible by moving trash, debris and other flammable items like firewood piles or portable propane tanks a safe distance away from their home.

“Under these extreme conditions we are strongly discouraging any burning in any county west of Interstate 35 tomorrow,” said State Forester George Geissler. “Oklahoma Forestry Services personnel are monitoring the weather forecasts and fire danger and have wildfire task forces and Oklahoma National Guard aircraft prepared to respond as fires occur.”

The safety of Oklahoma’s firefighters and public is of the utmost concern. Extreme fire weather potential results in notable risks, and we urge Oklahomans to be Firewise.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires and burn bans, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information. For Firewise tips visit www.forestry.ok.gov/firewiselinksandpublications.

Due to significant rainfall that moved across the state, Governor Mary Fallin issued a proclamation canceling the Governor’s burn ban that was in effect for 53 counties. This change came at the recommendation of Oklahoma Forestry Services after an analysis of the impact of the rainfall in the affected counties. The removal of the Governor’s burn ban has no effect on county burn bans that were in place. OFS is contacting those counties to confirm which bans will remain or be rescinded.

“Individual counties can utilize more localized data, conditions and fire occurrence to decide if burn bans are called for on a county level,” said Governor Fallin.

In the counties no longer covered by the Governor proclaimed burn ban, citizens are urged to check with local officials or visit www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-information to see if county burn bans have been enacted before doing any type of burning.

“The rainfall had a positive impact on the larger forest fuels such as branches and fallen trees, but our light grassy fuels will dry out quickly and will still carry fire,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma State Forester. “We are still in our winter fire season and in the absence of spring green up we could find ourselves right back in high fire danger within a week or so. The rain just gave firefighters a break from the extreme fire behavior that necessitated the burn ban.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services asks you to report any suspicious smoke or fire to your nearest fire department immediately.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

Governor Mary Fallin issued a burn ban yesterday for 53 counties due to extreme weather conditions and extraordinary fire danger. The Governor’s Burn Ban addresses continued long-term weather and drought predictions.

Fire danger is expected to increase today and Sunday with very warm temperatures, falling relative humidity and increasing winds ahead of a cold front that is currently expected to arrive in western Oklahoma late Saturday, moving across Oklahoma through the night.

“Today’s conditions are expected to be some of the worst that we have seen so far this year,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma State Forester. “We ask that even if you don’t live in one of the counties under the ban, that you seriously consider postponing any activities that might create a spark.”

Oklahomans are also urged to call 911 with any reports of smoke or fires. “Quick response by firefighters is critical during these conditions due to the rapid rate of spread that we are seeing on fires over the past couple of days,” Geissler said.

OFS wildland crews, local fire departments and Oklahoma Army National Guard aircraft are prepositioned and ready to respond to fires that may occur. 

The burn ban map and resolution stating prohibited activities can be seen at www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-information.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention and protection. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

OKLAHOMA CITY - Governor Mary Fallin today issued a two-week burn ban for much of the state because of extreme weather conditions and extraordinary fire danger.

The governor's burn ban supersedes all county burn bans currently in place. It expires Feb. 24.

The ban covers 53 counties: Adair, Atoka, Canadian, Carter, Cherokee, Choctaw, Cleveland, Coal, Craig, Creek, Delaware, Garfield, Garvin, Grady, Grant, Haskell, Hughes, Jefferson, Johnston, Kay, Kingfisher, Latimer, Le Flore, Lincoln, Logan, Love, McClain, McCurtain, McIntosh, Marshall, Mayes, Murray, Muskogee, Noble, Nowata, Okfuskee, Oklahoma, Okmulgee, Osage, Ottawa, Pawnee, Payne, Pittsburg, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Pushmataha, Rogers, Seminole, Sequoyah, Stephens, Tulsa, Wagoner and Washington.

"Critical fire weather and worsening drought have created conditions very conducive to wildfires," said Fallin. "A burn ban is now necessary to reduce the risk of preventable wildfires and to protect lives and property.”

Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, recommended the ban based upon an analysis of fire activity, wildland fuel conditions and the predicted continued drought as criteria for recommending the ban.

The governor urged people to be extremely vigilant because conditions are ripe to spark a large fire.

"Citizen actions can certainly play an integral role in minimizing fires,” Fallin said. “We are asking every one do their part to help prevent fires and to keep our families and businesses safe from harm.”

“Oklahoma Forestry Services’ wildland fire crews and fire departments across the state have experienced extreme wildfire behavior in recent days, resulting in fires that are both difficult to contain and pose an increased risk to firefighters on the ground,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma state forester. “We are expecting conditions to continue to deteriorate with only minimal chances for drought-breaking rainfall in the future.”

Unlawful activities under the ban include campfires, bonfires, and setting fire to any forest, grass, woods, wildlands or marshes, as well as igniting fireworks, burning trash or other materials outdoors.

As part of the governor’s burn ban, there are exemptions for a number of items, such as welding and road construction. For more specific information and details, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-information or call Michelle Finch-Walker with the Oklahoma Forestry Services at (580) 236-1021.

Oklahomans are urged to use extreme caution as wildfire conditions continue to worsen across the state. Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) has worked with volunteer fire departments to battle multiple large wildfires over the past week and is seeing increased suppression difficulty despite the lack of critical fire weather. Conditions for high fire danger are increasing early this week.

“Our firefighters and local fire departments are seeing the normal fighting tactics are becoming increasingly less effective and more time consuming, especially in areas where brush, timber and storm debris are present,” said Mark Goeller, Fire Management Chief, Oklahoma Forestry Services. “This is concerning to us as we see the potential for near-critical fire weather conditions developing early this week.”

Most of the state is under a Fuels and Fire Behavior Advisory, which was issued by the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) on February 1 and continues through February 14. The advisory warned of critically dry large fuel moisture, including dead and downed trees and above normal loading of dormant grass fuels in many areas of the state. The National Interagency Fire Center monitors wildfire conditions across the nation and makes plans for the use of national resources where they are most needed.

Oklahoma Forestry Services, working with the National Weather Service, Southern Area Coordination Center and with input from interagency and local fire resources, monitors fire conditions daily for the state and informs the firefighting community with its Fire Situation Report.

Due to current conditions, Oklahoma Forestry Services is urging firefighters and the public to prepare for the possibility of an increase in the number and severity of wildfires. The public is asked to avoid doing anything that can cause a spark. Also, to report any wildfires immediately through 911, avoid the vicinity of wildfires to enable firefighters faster access to fires and to heed all evacuation notices. Families are advised to have a plan for wildfire incidents.

The National Interagency Fire Center and Oklahoma Forestry Services will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate state and national resources as needed. For more information, visit Oklahoma Forestry Services’ website at www.forestry.ok.gov/firedanger or the National Interagency Fire Center’s website www.nifc.gov.

Most of Oklahoma is under a Fuels and Fire Behavior Advisory, issued by the National Interagency Fire Center at the request of Oklahoma Forestry Services, for February 1 through February 14. Advisory is issued to warn of critical wildland fuel conditions that increase the potential for extreme fire danger. The fire environment in Oklahoma is primed for elevated wildfire occurrences and severity.

Working with the National Weather Service, Southern Area Coordination Center and with input from interagency and local fire resources, Oklahoma Forestry Services monitors fire conditions daily and informs the firefighting community with its Fire Situation Report. Conditions this extreme are rare in Oklahoma.

“This type of advisory is rarely issued and is a first for our state, so we want everyone to understand the significance of it,” said Mark Goeller, Fire Management Chief, Oklahoma Forestry Services. “We ask that firefighters and the public prepare for the possibility of an increase in the number and severity of wildfires.”

The public is being asked to avoid doing anything that can cause a spark. Also, to report any wildfires immediately through 911, avoid the vicinity of wildfires to enable firefighters faster access to fires and to heed all evacuation notices. Families are urged to have a plan for wildfire incidents.

The National Interagency fire Center and Oklahoma Forestry Services will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate state and national resources as needed. For more information, visit Oklahoma Forestry Services’ website at www.forestry.ok/firedanger or the National Interagency Fire Center’s website www.nifc.gov.

                    CLICK HERE TO READ THE FUELS & FIRE BEHAVIOR REPORT

Oklahoma is officially in our winter fire season. This is a period where grasses and other fuels are dry, dormant and readily available to burn. Combine that with strongwinds, low humidity and increasing drought indices and the state begins seeing increasing fire activity throughout the winter season. 

Today and tomorrow are predicted to be two of those days and Oklahomans are being asked to limit outdoor activities that might spark a blaze. A generally dry pattern appears to be setting up and the highest fire danger today will be in western Oklahoma extending across much of southwest Oklahoma, up the western tier of counties and into the Panhandle; however, elevated fire danger will be present across much of the state.

Fire officialswith Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) monitor several factors to predict potentialbad fire days. “We have frequent discussions with National Weather Services,monitor drought and soil conditions and assess fuel conditions,” said MarkGoeller, OFS fire management chief. “In advance of predicted fire weather, we often pre-position task forces to be closer to the watch areas and have a quicker response time to work alongside local resources.”

“Tuesday will likely bring fire weather conditions that will bump fire weather watch or warning criteria in western Oklahoma and bring much drier fuel conditions toeastern Oklahoma,” said Goeller.  “Sustained southwest winds around 25 mphare expected across much of the western half of Oklahoma with the strongestgusts – near 40 mph - reserved for southwestern Oklahoma.  The entire state will experience high fire danger.”

Outdoor burning is discouraged and citizens are asked to report any new fires or suspicious smoke to the closestfire department. Safety of the firefighters and public is of the utmost concernand with this weather forecast one of the main threats for firefighters will berapid spread of any fires that start. Stay aware of current wildfireconditions by reading our fire situation reports that are posted daily on Facebook and at www.forestry.ok.gov.

Oklahoma Forestry Services is alerting the public of critical fire weather again Saturday. Dry conditions coupled with strong, gusty winds and low humidity mean any fire that starts will spread rapidly.

 “As people prepare to celebrate New Year’s Eve we are asking them to reconsider the use of fireworks in light of our ongoing drought and the fire weather potential,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma State Forester. "Tomorrow’s weather calls for critical fire danger and even the smallest ember could spark a blaze. If you decide to celebrate with fireworks, please use extra caution.”

 Precautions would include having a source of water on hand and having someone on the lookout for any unintended ignitions. Citizens are also asked to call their nearest fire department if they see or smell smoke.

 There are currently no burn bans in place. Oklahoma Forestry Services is the state’s lead agency related to wildland fire prevention, protection and use. For additional information about wildfires, visit www.forestry.ok.gov/wildfire-information.

For the latest Oklahoma “Daily Wildfire Situation Report” visit www.forestry.ok.gov and click the link on the homepage (green box on right hand side.) The report contains information about recent fire activity, predicted fire weather and a link for current burn bans.

Outdoor burning is not advised today or tomorrow due to the dry, windy conditions that will be present over most of the state. Officials from Oklahoma Forestry Services report that dry conditions over the last week have led to extending fire danger into Thursday.

“Wind will be a factor beginning today as warm dry conditions continue,” said George Geissler, Oklahoma State Forester. “Any fire that starts will spread rapidly, so we are urging everyone to delay any outdoor activity that might spark a blaze. Simple postponement of burning can mean the difference during these dangerous conditions.”

Given the current fire weather forecast, today is expected to present the highest fire danger. A Red Flag Warning has been issued today for the Oklahoma Panhandle and for counties in far western Oklahoma. Fire danger will continue to be high ahead of a cold front set to enter the state Thursday night, bringing southwest winds at 20-25 mph with potential gusts in excess of 30 mph.

Caution should be exercised with outdoor grilling, welding, and camp fires. “We are just asking Oklahomans to remain vigilant as we enter our winter fire season,” said Geissler.

Citizens are asked to report any new fires or suspicious smoke to the closest fire department. Safety of the firefighters and public is of the utmost concern and with this weather forecast one of the main threats for firefighters will be rapid spread of any fire start.