22/09/2025
Drought conditions lead to increased wildfire risk in New Hampshire
Summer drought conditions and the prolonged period without significant rainfall have increased the risk of wildfires statewide and officials from the N.H. Forest Protection Bureau are reminding everyone to avoid behaviors that can contribute to the start and the spread of wildfires.
Gov. Kelly Ayotte has issued a proclamation prohibiting any open fires, including those built for camping, the burning of debris or warming as well as prohibiting smoking in or near woodlands and on public trails. The proclamation will remain in effect until further notice.
“It is important to note that with the drought conditions we will need multiple rain events to reduce the wildfire risk,” said Chief Steven Sherman, N.H. Forest Protection Bureau. “While rain may wet the area for a day, it will take a lot to make up for the lack of rain this summer and soak deep into the soil.
“If the weather pattern does not change, allowing the state to receive significant rain, we may not see the wildfire risk reduced through the fall. The current fire restrictions imposed at the state level must remain in effect to protect the state’s citizens and natural resources until the drought conditions improve, reducing the threat of wildfire,” stated Sherman.
Ninety percent of wildfires in New Hampshire result from human causes.
The Forest Protection Bureau asks all New Hampshire residents and visitors to follow these wildfire prevention tips:
• Do not have any outdoor fires.
• Properly dispose of woodstove ash, making sure all materials are completely extinguished and placed in a metal container with a secured lid away from any combustibles;
• Wait until conditions improve and burn permits are being issued before burning any debris from fall yard cleanup, and consult with your local forest fire warden or fire department if you have questions about fire permits and restrictions;
• During fall yard cleanup, consider raking leaves and twigs into the woods. If you have the space, raking leaves into a corner of your yard or into the woods allows them to naturally decompose, returning nutrients to the soil;
• Refrain from smoking in areas with flammable vegetation or organic soils. Cigarette butts and ashes should never be discarded in the forest regardless of location. If you packed it in, please pack it out;
• Do not drive off roads or park on top of vegetation, as heat from mufflers and engines can ignite vegetation that touches them;
• When operating lawn equipment, chainsaws, generators and power equipment ensure that you have required spark arrestors and supplies (shovel, water, fire extinguisher) to deal with a fire if one should start;
• Help firefighters by conserving water, including by not watering lawns and gardens, allowing cars to remain unwashed and refraining from hosing down driveways and sidewalks as well as other uses considered aesthetic.
In New Hampshire, fire permits are required for all open outdoor burning, which include campfires and bonfires. With the statewide burn restrictions in effect, no permits are being issued by forest fire wardens, fire departments or via the state’s online fire permit system, nhfirepermit.com.
The N.H. Forest Protection Bureau is part of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Division of Forests and Lands, which protects and promotes the value provided by trees, forests and natural communities. For more information about the Division of Forests and Lands and the work of its Forest Protection Bureau, visit nhdfl.dncr.nh.gov
or call 603-271-2214.
