Fall is Prescribed Burn Season

Prescribed fires are a common tool used by land managers and conservation groups to reduce the amount of fuel available for wildfires, improve the health of older trees, support new and current wildlife habitats, and recycle soil nutrients back into the ground.

Successful completion of a prescribed fire operation enhances public safety by providing wildland firefighters a safer landscape on which to fight a wildfire. It can also lessen the amount of smoke caused by wildfires due to the reduction of fuels.

What's New

New offering allows users to customize the number of locations and method of notification about upcoming prescribed burns

The Washington State…

Transfer will Improve Tribal Salmon Recovery Goals and Enhance Trust Land Management

The State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has entered…

Some suppression repairs and forest health assessment activities may take place now, while others must wait for wetting rains

 The…

The Commissioner will also work with the Legislature to get the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) the authority and resources…

Commissioner Upthegrove

Commissioner of Public Lands

Commissioner Dave Upthegrove is focused on protecting clean air, clean water, and habitat, continuing to improve wildfire prevention and response, and building more equitable access to recreational opportunities. Every day Dave brings four key values to his leadership of this agency: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, and Joy.  

He is dedicated to leading with a strong focus on equal rights and fair treatment, including honoring the sovereignty of Washington’s tribes. He is honored to lead the talented and driven staff at the Department of Natural Resources. And he is proud to support these 2,200 employees as they manage Washington’s lands and resources and meet challenges head-on, with the strength, optimism, and determination that defines our state. Learn more about Commissioner Upthegrove