WRITTEN BY AMY ALLEN
Did you know Maine averages over 600 wildfires annually? April 16-22 has been proclaimed Wildfire Awareness Week in Maine, followed by National Wildfire Awareness Month in May.
Due to climate change, wildfires are increasing in intensity and size, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The result of these fires impact our economy, environment, and community health.
After a wildfire, “the dry, hot landscape transforms the native ecosystem and prevents plants and trees from regrowing,” according to energy.gov. “Some invasive plant species have adapted to these environments and grow even stronger after wildfires. Soot and ash from wildfires fall into nearby lakes and streams, polluting water sources for humans and wildlife.”
Forests cover more than 89 percent of Maine’s land and define our state, making protection from wildfires particularly important in the pine tree state. For more than a century, Maine “has been a national leader in forest fire control and prevention, and in 1891 established the Maine Forest Service to combat forest fires,” according to Gov. Janet Mills’ official proclamation of Wildfire Awareness Week in Maine.
Over 90 percent of Maine’s wildfires are caused by people, meaning there are many things we can do to prevent future fires. Simple efforts can make a difference, like never leaving a campfire unattended, appropriately using your firepit and fireworks, disposing of matches and cigarettes in a closed container or cup of water, keeping lighters away from children, and not allowing gasoline to spill on grass or other vegetation while working on your car. And always make sure bonfires, campfires, and firepits are completely doused or smothered with dirt before leaving the area.
This Earth Day and Wildfire Awareness Week is the perfect time to learn more about what you can do and take steps toward protecting Maine’s natural resources.