Wildfire prevention measures in effect April 15 - October 15

Regardless of the snow and rain, wildfire season officially begins April 15, as specified by state law.

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wants to remind people that the risk of wildfires can change rapidly during the spring when warmer, dryer weather occurs with increasing frequency. Wildfires can damage natural resources, destroy homes and threaten the safety of the public and the firefighters who protect forests and communities.

As of the end of last week, 13 forest fires have already been reported this year on lands protected by DNR. Last year, a total of 549 fires...