PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) has completed nearly 35,000 acres of forestry projects across the state for fiscal year 2025. Projects include fuels reduction, invasive species removal, timber sales, and more. Approximately 40% of those acres treated were on State Trust land, with the remainder of the work a combination of projects on federal, private, county, and tribal lands. The 35,000 acres treated represents a 40% increase from FY24. In addition, DFFM plans to increase the amount of acres treated through FY26 with a target goal of 40,000 acres.
Agency projects strategically designed to provide for forests that are more resilient. Fuels reduction and thinning operations remove dense, flammable vegetation that can fuel catastrophic wildfires. Invasive species removal helps native plants thrive, and timber sales provide a sustainable use for removed wood, which helps offset project costs and supports local businesses. Project work consists of both hand thinning and mechanical treatments. Private contractors assisted with the mechanical work through mastication and helped complete approximately 59% of all the acres treated. Additionally, DFFM projects contributed over 130,000 tons of woody material to 11 companies across the state.
“We are not only increasing the pace and scale of our work, but we are innovating, we are collaborating with our federal and local partners, and we are getting important work done,” said Department of Forestry and Fire Management Director Tom Torres. “The 35,000 acres treated is record setting for the agency. It is a direct result of our team’s dedication to work with engaged partners as well as continued support from Governor Hobbs and legislative leaders. This reflects a collaborative commitment to protecting Arizona’s communities and our critical natural resources.”
DFFM continues to seek innovative approaches to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This year, for the first time, a DFFM Forestry Crew completed herbicide application training and successfully utilized the technique on a 39 acre project. This specialized knowledge, combined with other new methods, will be critical as DFFM strives to meet its goal of treating 40,000 acres annually.
For more information contact Public Information Officer Matthew Wilcox (602-556-6502) or by email at mwilcox@dffm.az.gov.
