DCNR prohibits campfires on state park, forest lands amid dry conditions

WILKES-BARRE — Dry conditions have elevated the risk of wildfires across the Commonwealth, and Pennsylvanians are encouraged to avoid outdoor burning on all lands.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) this week announced that it is prohibiting campfires on state park and forest lands until further notice — and encouraging Pennsylvanians to avoid burning on all lands amid extremely dry conditions across the Commonwealth.

While Pennsylvania saw heavy rain and flooding over the summer, recent dry conditions, paired with sunny days, unseasonably warm temperatures, and low humidity, have heightened wildfire risk.

The 10-day forecast for most of Pennsylvania predicts little or no precipitation, exacerbating the already heightened situation.

Pennsylvania has experienced 100 reported wildfires in the past week, with many more unreported. Several volunteer firefighters were injured in blazes this weekend and these ongoing wildfires have strained state and local resources.

“Leaf litter, fine twigs, and dried branches are prime fuel sources for a fire that could get out of control — when mixed with our current dry conditions, we have a potential recipe for disaster,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “I encourage Pennsylvanians to avoid burning on all lands, as it is the best way to protect the people putting their lives in danger to keep our Commonwealth safe from wildfires.”

DCNR has paused prescribed burns until further notice. State park and forest visitors with overnight reservations are being notified that campfires will not be allowed until conditions improve.

Human activity causes 99% of wildfires in Pennsylvania, leading to the destruction of thousands of acres of state and private woodlands each year.

Wildfires require specific conditions to ignite:

• An available fuel source — like dried grass or leaves.

• Dry conditions — including low relative humidity.

• An ignition source — a way for the fire to start.

“Practicing fire prevention outdoors is absolutely critical during these dry conditions,” State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook said. “Careless burning outdoors can put our firefighters lives at risk all across the Commonwealth, so please avoid any open burning anywhere at this time.”

No matter where you live, you should stay aware of weather and drought conditions and check for possible municipal or county-level burn bans that may be in effect before any outdoor burning. Always follow the guidance of local emergency officials to help you and your loved ones stay safe.

“Wildfires can start quickly and rapidly grow, especially when conditions are dry – it’s important to abide by all burn bans in effect and follow all local official recommendations,” Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) Director Randy Padfield said. “People should take every precaution to prevent wildfires and have plans in place if local officials were to issue evacuation orders for a wildfire in their area.”

Remember, a single spark can ignite a wildfire, risking your safety and that of others. As Smokey Bear says, “Only YOU can prevent wildfires!”

PA Game Commission agrees

With much of Pennsylvania abnormally dry, and wildfires impacting many areas, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is temporarily prohibiting the building of fires on state game lands.

While camping on state game lands is prohibited, regulations allow game lands users to build small fires for cooking or warming purposes. However, the regulation authorizes the Game Commission’s executive director to restrict otherwise-permitted activity when the threat of forest fire exists.

The prohibition on building fires on game lands will be left in place indefinitely until conditions improve.

“Taking this one, small step now to address wildfire risk could prevent a larger problem as we get deeper into the heart of hunting season,” Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith said. “Doing what we can to protect wildlife habitat in what might be a hunter’s favorite spot benefits both, and might make all the difference.”

The Game Commission conducts prescribed burns to improve wildlife habitat on select state game lands, mainly in the spring and early fall, and is temporarily suspending prescribed burns on game lands, as well.

“While the Game Commission recognizes the value of prescribed fires under the right conditions, that time is clearly not now,” said Scott Bearer, Game Commission Chief Land Manager.

The Pennsylvania Drought Task Force has declared drought conditions in 35 of the state’s 67 counties. The state has experienced 100 reported wildfires in the past week, with many more unreported. Several volunteer firefighters were injured in blazes this weekend and these ongoing wildfires have strained state and local resources.

Nearly 50 Game Commission personnel trained in fire management have been actively involved in suppression activities and structure protection, in partnership with DCNR and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

North Branch Land Trust welcomes new staff members

Local non-profit North Branch Land Trust this week welcomed two new staff to its conservation team — Leah Malarkey, Environmental Education Coordinator; and Caroline Chronowski, Office Administrator.

Malarkey comes to North Branch with a degree in Early Childhood Education and plenty of experience in Environmental Education. Before joining North Branch, Malarkey had been an educator at Monroe County Conservation District, Camp Kresge, Wildlands Conservancy, and Hillside Farms.

Outside of her professional life, Malarkey enjoys spending her personal time observing wildlife within nature, creating art using different media forms, and venturing out to new places on the eastern coast with her boyfriend. Malarkey grew up in the suburbs of Luzerne County, but now resides within rural Mountain Top.

As Environmental Education Coordinator, Malarkey will develop North Branch Land Trust’s event series including guided hikes, hands on activities, and naturalist talks. North Branch hopes that the community will embrace this new position by attending events and requesting her expertise in the classroom, at Land Trust Preserves and Sanctuaries, and all public lands in the region. Malarkey will also work with staff to develop educational outreach materials and articles about regional stewardship and appreciating Northeastern Pennsylvania’s natural resources.

Chronowski joined North Branch Land Trust after more than 30 years at Penn State Wilkes Barre where she most recently served as Director of Information Technology. Her background in IT, as well as her leadership and volunteerism throughout the region and passion for the mission led her to the Land Trust. Outside of her professional life, Chronowski enjoys gardening for wildlife with native plants, bird-watching, and exploring local history. Chronowski resides in Falls with her husband George.

As Office Administrator, Chronowski will play a vital role in supporting the North Branch team and enhancing our conservation operations. She will assist with managing schedules, coordinating events, and ensuring effective communication within and beyond the organization.

Their dedication and expertise will undoubtedly contribute to North Branch Land Trust’s ongoing efforts and initiatives.

“North Branch Land Trust is very fortunate to welcome Caroline and Leah to our small but mighty conservation team,” said Ellen Ferretti, NBLT Executive Director. “We are all committed to live, work and play in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and to serve as a catalyst for appreciation of the natural beauty and bounty of the area.”

“We are so excited to have both Leah and Caroline onboard,” said Emma Thompson, Conservation and Stewardship Director. “They bring unique talents and skill sets to North Branch and we can’t wait to showcase their abilities.”

“I am genuinely so excited to work with such a passionate group of people at North Branch, who strive to preserve our natural lands and educate the public on the purpose of conservation,” Malarkey said. “I hope to be able to create a greater connection with other local organizations and the public through engaging educational programs.”

“It’s thrilling to be sharing my talents in a new way conserving and protecting our beautiful natural landscapes,” Chronowski said. “I love to work with both nature and my community, so North Branch Land Trust is a perfect fit.”

For more information about North Branch Land Trust and its conservation efforts, visit nblt.org.