Missoula, MT – The National Forest Foundation has established a Wildfire Recovery Fund. The proceeds from this fund will be used to help forests damaged by wildfire and other destructive events return to vibrant and productive ecosystems through long-term restorative efforts. Those interested in participating can click here.

“Our work isn’t over when we’ve put the fire out. If restoration efforts aren’t underway before the next big storm hits, critical drinking water supplies may be endangered and overall forest health compromised for years to come,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell.  “When you consider that one in five Americans get their drinking water from a National Forest, it is all the more important to get to work once the fire is out.”

“In recent years we have experienced increasing levels of catastrophic fire that have brought about dramatic changes, especially in the American West,” said Bill Possiel, president, National Forest Foundation (NFF). “While it may seem that little can be done to mitigate these large-scale fires, the NFF and its extensive volunteer network has been actively working to address post-fire restoration and other management challenges facing the National Forest System.” 

Historically, small low-intensity fires played an important role in shaping the landscape. A century of well-intentioned fire suppression removed this natural process from forests, causing a buildup of fuels and creating ideal conditions for the severe fires is the U.S. is experiencing today.

In 2008, the NFF launched its $100 million Treasured Landscapes, Unforgettable Experiences Conservation Campaign with the goal of engaging Americans in the restoration challenges facing our National Forests. This ambitious, nationwide campaign focuses on 14 iconic National Forest and Grassland sites from New Hampshire to Alaska.

Some of the projects specific to helping restore forests after destructive wildfires include:

Each of these efforts includes community engagement of diverse stakeholders to build a sense of ownership and increase project success. One of the NFF’s principal objectives is to create sustainable community-based organizations that will continue to develop the knowledge and resources to keep their backyard forests healthy and vibrant for the next generation.

“Our goals are ambitious but our purpose is clear. Our National Forests need our help and together we can ensure that these amazing places are healthy so that future generations can enjoy their many benefits,” said Possiel. 

Since 1991, the National Forest Foundation (NFF) has been at the forefront of addressing restoration needs across America’s 193-million-acre National Forest System. These incredible natural areas form the backbone of America’s public lands heritage and provide unparalleled recreation opportunities, critical wildlife habitat, and a wealth of natural resources.  They also play a critical role in providing fresh, clean water, and they sequester carbon to help slow climate change. These lands are truly “the people’s lands.”

To support the work that the National Forest Foundation does, become a Friend of the Forest®.

Click here to support the NFF Wildfire Recovery Fund.