Commissioner Upthegrove Applauds Legislature for Restoring Wildfire Funding

The State Legislature’s supplemental budget, passed on March 12, restores $60 million in wildfire prevention, preparedness and community resilience funding that had been cut from the Department of Natural Resources' budget last year. “Wildfire touches everyone in Washington. I commend legislators for recognizing that and – even in a difficult budget year – finding ways to make sure we’re prepared for wildfires when they start and can help prevent them before they even do,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove​​​​. Learn more

What's New

A strong partnership with the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance made the new trails in Naneum Ridge State Forest possible, with more to come.

The…

Survey covered only 75% of forested acres following staff reductions at the USDA Forest Service and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife;…
May 2 is also National Community Wildfire Preparedness Day

This May, Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove and the Department of Natural…

Four campgrounds will fully close for the season, several others will see shortened seasons for public access.

The Washington State Department of…

Commissioner Upthegrove

Commissioner of Public Lands

Commissioner Dave Upthegrove is focused on protecting clean air, clean water, and habitat, continuing to improve wildfire prevention and response, and building more equitable access to recreational opportunities. Every day Dave brings four key values to his leadership of this agency: Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, and Joy.  

He is dedicated to leading with a strong focus on equal rights and fair treatment, including honoring the sovereignty of Washington’s tribes. He is honored to lead the talented and driven staff at the Department of Natural Resources. And he is proud to support these 2,200 employees as they manage Washington’s lands and resources and meet challenges head-on, with the strength, optimism, and determination that defines our state. Learn more about Commissioner Upthegrove