To celebrate Florida’s Arbor Day on Friday, Jan. 19, the Florida Forest Service will join communities throughout the state in several tree planting projects, tree seedling giveaways and forestry education activities to highlight the benefits of trees. Florida’s Arbor Day is held each year on the third Friday in January. A list of Florida’s Arbor Day festivities in your area can be found on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ events calendar.
Florida is currently home to a record-breaking 179 Tree City USA communities, which is the most in state history and ranks fourth in the nation. Tree City USA communities are recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation for their proactive effort to manage and expand public trees, which help moderate temperature extremes, reduce storm water runoff and absorb air pollutants.
“We encourage all Florida communities to work with their local county forester to become official Tree City USA communities and expand their public trees,” said Jim Karels, Florida State Forester.
Communities can achieve Tree City USA status by meeting four core standards of sound urban forestry management, including: maintaining a tree board or department, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry and celebrating Arbor Day.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres.
Florida Forest Service
Safety Tips for Ringing in the New Year with Fireworks
Fireworks and campfires pose wildfire risks year-round, and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Florida Forest Service is providing tips for a safe New Year.
Individuals should check with local laws before using fireworks. Local fire and police departments and the state Fire Marshal’s Office can also provide guidance. People planning to use fireworks should follow these safety tips:
- Follow all county or city fireworks laws;
- Light fireworks on a cleared area free of any vegetation or debris;
- Remove any debris from roofs or decks where fireworks could land;
- Always have a water source available in case of a fire;
- Aim fireworks away from people, homes and wooded areas;
- Do not allow young children to light or handle fireworks;
- Never use homemade fireworks;
- Discard used fireworks in a bucket of water;
- Store unused fireworks and lighters out of the reach of children;
- Clean up all debris from fireworks; and
- Report any fires immediately to 911.
Since Jan. 1, 2017, 2,917 wildfires have burned more than 201,171 acres across Florida.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres.
For statewide wildfire updates and additional wildfire information, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
Florida Forest Service Offers Tips for Fire-Safe Outdoor Holiday Decorating
While celebrating the holiday season with festive lights, decorations and greenery, it is important to take extra care to prevent fires. To ensure the safety of Florida’s citizens, homes and natural resources, the Florida Forest Service provides the following tips to reduce fire hazards in and around the home:
- Keep natural and artificial indoor trees away from fireplaces, portable heaters and other heat sources.
- Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant decorations.
- Check the labels on lights to make sure they were tested at a facility, such as UL or ETL, and follow manufacturers’ instructions for use.
- Discard any lights with cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections.
- Always turn off holiday lights and extinguish candles when going to sleep or leaving the house.
The Florida Forest Service also encourages residents to clear dry debris from roofs and yards to eliminate the link that could carry a wildfire from the woods to homes. Residents should check with local county or city officials for information regarding yard waste and Christmas tree disposal or recycling.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres.
For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com
Florida Forest Service Offers Military Veterans Free One-Night Stay at All State Forest Campgrounds
This Veterans Day, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Florida Forest Service is honoring active duty and honorably discharged military veterans with a free, one-night stay at any of Florida’s 64 state forest campgrounds when booking a three-night stay. Veterans, active duty and reserve unit members can book their stay between Wednesday, Nov. 8 and Sunday, Nov. 13, to receive a third night free of charge.
To take advantage of this promotion, veterans must use the code FFSVET17 and book a three-night, consecutive campground stay through the Florida State Forests reservations website or call center at 877-879-3859 or TDD 800-373-3851. Upon check-in at the campground, veterans must provide proof of military service.
Additionally, the Florida Forest Service offers reduced rates for campsite reservations and the Florida State Forests Annual Day-Use Entrance Pass to active military and honorably discharged veterans. Honorably discharged United States veterans with service-connected disabilities also qualify for a free Lifetime Military Entrance Pass.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.
Commissioner Putnam Highlights National Fire Prevention Week
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam and the Florida Forest Service are highlighting the dangers associated with wildfire and reminding Floridians to prioritize wildfire prevention and preparation during National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 8-14.
“Following one of the worst wildfire seasons in years, it’s vital that Floridians are prepared to keep homes, property and wildlife safe from wildfire,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam. “Fire Prevention Week is a great opportunity for citizens to establish a fire prevention plan.”
Several measures that Floridians have already taken this year to prepare for hurricanes, such as creating a “go kit” and evacuation plan, are useful in case of wildfire. Wildfire danger levels usually increase throughout Florida after hurricane season concludes due to drying debris from the storms.
The 2017 Fire Prevention Week theme, “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is a helpful reminder to formulate a fire prevention plan for both inside and outside the home. These tips can serve as the foundation for a fire prevention plan:
- Keep dry and dead debris away from homes, fences and decks.
- Keep roof and gutters free from debris such as pine needles, leaves, and branches.
- Keep flammable materials like gasoline and firewood away from homes.
- Have 30 feet of defensible space around homes and sheds.
“As you create a fire escape plan for the interior of your home, fire preparedness and prevention is equally critical for your home exterior and yard,” said State Forester Jim Karels.
Florida Forest Service offices will host and participate in community events across the state to raise awareness of fire prevention. For more information, consumers should contact their local wildfire mitigating specialist.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.
Commissioner Putnam Announces Reopening of State Forests Closed for Hurricane Irma
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.–Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam today announced that the Florida Forest Service will reopen 20 of the 30 state forests closed for Hurricane Irma today and Friday, Sept. 22. Certain tracts, roads, recreation areas or campgrounds in these state forests may remain closed until damage from Hurricane Irma is cleared or repaired.
The following state forests open today, Sept. 20:
- Belmore State Forest
- Big Shoals State Forest
- Carl Duval Moore State Forest
- Cary State Forest
- Etoniah Creek State Forest
- Four Creeks State Forest
- Goethe State Forest
- Indian Lake State Forest
- Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
- Myakka State Forest
- Newnan’s Lake State Forest
- Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
- Ralph E. Simmons State Forest
- Ross Prairie State Forest
- Seminole State Forest
- Welaka State Forest
- Withlacoochee State Forest
The following state forests open Friday, Sept. 22:
- Lake George State Forest
- Matanzas State Forest
- Tiger Bay State Forest
State forest visitors should contact their local Florida Forest Service office to ensure the area they plan to visit is open. Citizens are also encouraged to take precautions when visiting areas of state forests that may have storm water or debris from Hurricane Irma.
For Florida Forest Service team contact information regarding state forest campground, trail or road closures, visitFreshFromFlorida.com/State-Forests.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.
Florida Forest Service and Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement Begin Urban Search and Rescue Missions
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam today announced that the Florida Forest Service and the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement, along with other agencies, have begun urban search and rescue efforts. They will also be conducting infrastructure assessments.
“Urban search and rescue efforts are among the highest priorities immediately following a hurricane, and the Florida Forest Service and Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement, along with other agencies, have begun these life-saving efforts.”
Commissioner Adam Putnam Announces Additional State Forest Closures for Hurricane Irma
In response to the westward shift of Hurricane Irma’s projected track toward the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend region, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam today announced the closure of three additional state forests in the to help ensure the safety of Florida residents and visitors. The grounds and all campsites, including primitive and RV, of Lake Talquin State Forest, Wakulla State Forest and Tate’s Hell State Forest are closed until further notice.
The following 30 state forests are closed and will remain closed until further notice:
- Belmore State Forest
- Big Shoals State Forest
- Carl Duval Moore State Forest
- Cary State Forest
- Charles H. Bronson State Forest
- Etoniah Creek State Forest
- Four Creeks State Forest
- Geothe State Forest
- Indian Lake State Forest
- Jennings State Forest
- John M. Beathea State Forest
- Lake George State Forest
- Lake Talquin State Forest
- Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
- Little Big Econ State Forest
- Matanzas State Forest
- Myakka State Forest
- Newnan’s Lake State Forest
- Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
- Peace River State Forest
- Picayune Stand State Forest
- Ralph E. Simmons State Forest
- Ross Prairie State Forest
- Seminole State Forest
- Tate’s Hell State Forest
- Tiger Bay State Forest
- Twin Rivers State Forest
- Wakulla State Forest
- Welaka State Forest
- Withlacoochee State Forest
Depending on Hurricane Irma’s tract, the Florida Forest Service may close additional state forest or campgrounds. The Florida Forest Service team is in constant communication with state and local emergency operations centers.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.
Florida Forest Service Announces State Forest Campground Closures for Hurricane Irma
In preparation for Hurricane Irma, Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam announced today the Florida Forest Service will be closing all campgrounds at more than 20 state forests starting Friday, Sept. 8.
“Today we are implementing campground closures to help ensure the safety of our residents and visitors,” said Commissioner Putnam.
Campgrounds for the following state forests will be closed starting Friday, Sept. 8:
- John M. Bethea State Forest
- Twin Rivers State Forest
- Cary State Forest
- Jennings State Forest
- Ralph E. Simmons State Forest
- Etoniah Creek State Forest
- Goethe State Forest
- Ross Prairie State Forest
- Welaka State Forest
- Lake George State Forest
- Matanzas State Forest
- Tiger Bay State Forest
- Seminole State Forest
- Withlacoochee State Forest
- Charles H. Bronson State Forest
- Little Big Econ State Forest
- Lake Wales Ridge State Forest
- Myakka State Forest
- Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
- Picayune Strand State Forest
These campgrounds will remain closed until further notice. While all Florida state forests remain open at this time, the Florida Forest Service urges citizens to take extreme caution and not to visit them if they seem unsafe due to weather.
Depending on Hurricane Irma’s tract, the Florida Forest Service may announce additional campground closures or state forest closures. The Florida Forest Service team is in constant communication with state and local emergency operations centers.
The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. Learn more at FloridaForestService.com.
Florida Forest Service Personnel, Aircraft, Off-Road Vehicles Staging to Respond to Hurricane Irma
Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam announced today that more than 100 Florida Forest Service personnel, as well as aircraft, off-road vehicles and mobile command posts, are preparing to respond to Hurricane Irma and assist in search and rescue missions, debris clearing, distributing supplies and more.
“More than 100 members of the Florida Forest Service, as well as aircraft and off-road vehicles, are preparing to immediately respond to the impacts of Hurricane Irma,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam. “While Florida’s emergency managers continue to prepare and plan for potential landfall of Hurricane Irma, I encourage all Floridians to complete their preparations and finalize their plans before it’s too late.”
During an emergency, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services helps provide necessary food and water to affected areas and helps protect animals and pets. The department’s Florida Forest Service is responsible for incident management and assists emergency responders in clearing debris and distributing supplies. Additionally, the department’s Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement provides law enforcement services to police departments and county sheriff’s offices as necessary.
For more information and tips on hurricane preparedness, visit FloridaDisaster.org.
