Glickman encouraged forest users and vacationers to be safe with campfires and reminded them that fireworks are prohibited in all national forests. Yet, as we celebrate, we must do so with care and caution.
Summer is the time of year when our forests are the most susceptible to human-caused wildfires.
Small fires can grow rapidly in areas filled with dry grasses, brush and fallen trees. As the top official responsible for the USDA Forest Service, the nation's leading wildland fire management agency, Glickman reaffirmed the agency's commitment to help control wildfires through fire management programs. But accidental, human-caused fires can have devastating results to the forest ecosystem and to nearby communities. Over the 4th of July weekend, when our national forests receive some of their heaviest use, it is imperative that we all are careful with fire. Last year over 700 structures were lost to wildfire due to a lack of planning or knowledge about fire in rural communities, Glickman said.