Annual Spring Forest Fire Warden Training
The annual spring forest fire warden training took place April 8, 2021. Thank you to all who were able to tune in, it was great to "see" everyone! To watch the recording click here 2021 Vermont Forest Fire Training.
Forest Fire Warden Survey Results - Take a look at the results of the 2020 Forest Fire Warden Survey Results.
Resources for Vermont Town Forest Fire Wardens:
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Vermont Online Wildland Fire Reporting System
- Vermont Online Wildland Fire Reporting System User Guide (.pdf)
- How to access and fill out a fire report instructional video
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Backyard Burning - Resources from the Department of Environmental Conservation's Air Quality and Climate Division
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Request VT Forests, Parks & Recreation assistance for on-going wildfire
- Vermont Town Forest Fire Warden Handbook
- E911 Maps and Data
The Town Fire Warden System was established in 1904 to give the responsibility of forest fire prevention and suppression to each individual town under the authority of a town Forest Fire Warden. Forest Fire Wardens are appointed by the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation, with the approval of the town selectboard, and serve a 5-year term or the balance of any former warden’s term, with an unlimited number of reappointments possible (subject to approval by the Commissioner or designee, see Title 10 VSA Chapter 83 §2641).
Numerous wardens are directly in charge of fire suppression in their town, however, it is an accepted practice that most towns designate their town fire department to engage in fire suppression. When a fire department receives a wildland fire call, regardless of the caller, the fire department is considered officially summoned by the town forest fire warden. It is also recognized that town fire wardens often delegate some of their authority to fire department chiefs so that fire suppression efforts are more responsive. Ultimately, town forest fire wardens have complete authority and jurisdiction over wildland fire suppression activities in their towns.
