In the aftermath of a storm, cleanup can be daunting. It can be difficult to know where to start after you’ve already been through so much. There are programs and resources available to help. Our Recovering from Storms and Wildfires page contains several helpful resources for landowners that provide guidance on topics ranging from how to assess the damage and salvaging timber to legal/regulatory guidance, safety considerations and tax implications.

The N.C. Forest Service is waiving the requirement for open burning permits in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties effective at noon Saturday, Oct. 12, until further notice. This measure is enacted through the authorization of House Bill 149, the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024.

Ninety-nine percent of wildfires are the result of human activity such as backyard burning and campfires. That means most of North Carolina’s wildfires are avoidable. Escaped yard debris burns are often due to carelessness. Someone burns during poor weather conditions, they turn their backs, and that’s all it takes.

The N.C. Forest Service is accepting applications for grant funding through the Volunteer Fire Assistance Award Program. This program is for North Carolina fire departments serving a population of less than 10,000 people. Grant funding will be awarded to qualifying departments chosen during the application process. Funds can be used to purchase authorized items for wildland firefighting. Applications are being accepted Sept. 1 through Dec. 2, 2024.

The N.C. Forest Service isn't just protecting forests. We're protecting futures. By working hand in hand with the citizens of North Carolina, we ensuring our forests stay healthy and productive. Will you help us keep working forests working for future generations to enjoy?

The N.C. Forest Service manages several state forests across North Carolina. Many of them are open to the public and offer a variety of educational and recreational experiences. Select the State Forests dropdown above to learn more about a state forest near you.