underscoring the need for preparedness in Maine
COURTESY OF THE MAINE FOREST SERVICE
By the end of September, Maine had experienced 750 wildfires, burning 473.6 acres. While this past spring and early summer’s wildfire activity was very much on par with the State’s 20-year average (408 fires burned 336.5 acres from January through July 2025), conditions began to rapidly deteriorate in August. As very dry weather progressed to various stages of drought throughout much of the State, daily wildfire danger ratings increased to High and Very High for many days in August and September. Maine ended up seeing 251 wildfires in August alone, over twice the number seen in any August in more than two decades.
The leading causes of Maine’s wildfires in 2025 have been debris/open burning (23%), equipment or vehicle malfunctions (21%), and recreational campfires (16%). Most debris and campfire incidents stemmed from improper extinguishment or being left unattended. One key aspect of our wildfire prevention effort is the State’s Online Burn Permit System (maineburnpermit.com). This platform is connected to the daily Wildfire Danger Report (mainefireweather.org), which provides updates on current fire weather conditions that help communities and local fire departments make informed decisions on open burning activities. When wildfire danger ratings are elevated to High or above, the online system stops issuing burn permits to the public to limit potential ignition sources and reduce risk.
As the stewards of the most heavily forested state in the nation, the Maine Forest Service proudly embraces a mission centered on wildfire preparedness and risk reduction. Our leadership and collaborative efforts with Maine’s fire service, FEMA, the Maine Emergency Management Agency, forest landowners, community leaders, and regional and national partners ensure a coordinated and effective response to wildfire threats.
Training is a key area of focus: we equip Forest Rangers and Maine’s fire service with specialized wildfire response techniques and incident management skills. By participating in mutual aid agreements, Maine Forest Rangers gain valuable experience from out-of-state mobilizations, which they bring back to enhance local preparedness and response strategies.
Modern equipment and technology are also critical to our success. National lightning detection and heat signature systems enable rapid notification of wildfire starts in remote areas. The Maine Forest Service aviation program, the only one of its kind in New England, plays an invaluable role in assisting ground forces with water bucket drops, transport of personnel and equipment, and providing aerial situational awareness. These resources ensure a quick response to incidents, with most areas in Maine reachable within an hour.
Despite these efforts, severe conditions can still lead to wildfires burning out of control. Preparedness is a shared responsibility. We encourage residents to take an active role in wildfire planning—on their properties and in their communities. Contact your local Forest Ranger for guidance and support. Together, we can reduce risks and protect Maine’s forests.
