Forest Protection

Wildfire Control, Natural Resource Law Enforcement, Incident Management and Disaster Response

Download and Share New Burning Laws Flyer (PDF)
New Open Burning Laws as of October 25, 2023
View the Text of the New Burning Laws (PDF)

2025 Volunteer Fire Assistance grant applications are now available

The 2025 Volunteer Fire Assistance grant applications are now available for Maine fire departments with less than 10,000 population. The deadline to submit an application is November 15, 2024. This grant helps rural volunteer fire departments obtain wildland fire equipment and PPE. This program requires FD’s / towns match the grant funds dollar for dollar.

Starting in 2024, the Maine Forest Service has converted the VFA process to a digital submission which can be accessed at: https://arcg.is/1z1qyO1 Written applications are available as well this year.

Mission Statement

The mission of Forest Protection is to protect Maine’s forest resources and homes from wildfire, respond to disasters and emergencies and to enhance the safe, sound, and responsible management of the forest for this and future generations.

Maine Forest Ranger Honor Guard

Vision Statement

Forest Protection is recognized as the expert in the field of forest resource protection, presuppression, suppression, and investigation of fires that threaten Maine's forest and other lands.  We are forest resource professionals providing quality public service through education, assistance, and enforcement.  We create partnerships with cooperators to better serve those who live, work, and recreate in Maine's forest.  We are an educated, capable, well equipped and responsive team of resource protection professionals who use innovative technologies and management skills to make our work more efficient and our activities more effective.

Forest Protection Slideshow

Several Maine Forest Service programs are wholly or partially funded by the USDA Forest Service under various authorities.

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.)

To file a complaint of discrimination: write
USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights
Room 326-W, Whitten Building
14th and Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20250-9410
or call (202)720-5964 (voice or TDD).

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.