WASHINGTON, D.C., September 25, 2025 — Partners in Wildfire Prevention Communications Director Chet Wade issued the following statement in advance of National Public Lands Day:
“Our nation’s public lands are a treasured resource for our country, and we need to make sure that we are protecting our public lands, parks, and forests from the threat of wildfires. Just last year, wildfires on federal lands made up almost half of the total acres burned for the entire year in 2024.
“Wildfires do not respect state lines – and this includes our national parks, forests, and lands. We need decisive action from Congress to defend our public lands from the dangers of wildfires. Right now, Congress has the opportunity to move forward the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act, which would update key federal land management policies and help prevent wildfires from starting on federal lands. With more than 50,000 wildfires already recorded this year, there is no time to waste, especially when it comes to protecting our public lands.”
Since 1994, the National Environmental Education Foundation, in partnership with the National Park Service and other federal agencies, has recognized the third Saturday of September as National Public Lands Day. The day provides an opportunity for communities across the country to help restore and preserve our nation’s public lands.
About Partners in Wildfire Prevention
Partners in Wildfire Prevention is a coalition committed to reducing the adverse effects of wildfires through prevention and preparedness. We believe we need a comprehensive national strategy that emphasizes community protection, wildfire prevention, responsible investment, and rapid recovery to effectively reduce the risk of wildfires. Our growing membership includes organizations from the public safety, labor, and business sectors, along with wildfire preparedness and community interest groups. For more information, visit preventwildfires.org.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Chet Wade or Gwen Fuller
media@preventwildfires.org, 404-538-4220
