DCR Forest Fire Control
Massachusetts Open Burning
Permit Required
January 15th thru May 1st
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Since 1911, the DCR Massachusetts Forest Fire Control
has been providing aid, assistance and advice to the Commonwealth's
cities and towns in the prevention, detection and suppression of
forest fires. This web site details these and other services that
the Bureau provides as it works towards the protection of 3.5 million
acres of state, public and private wooded lands, and over 100,000
acres of municipal drinking water reservoirs that lie within Massachusetts.
The Bureau is an active participant with all municipal fire departments
in this endeavor. It also enjoys close cooperation with county and
local forest warden committees, town and city foresters, state and
local law enforcement agencies, and the Commonwealth's county and
statewide civil defense and mutual assistance organizations.
Over time, these combined efforts have contributed to a safer Massachusetts.
In 1911, over 34 acres were burned on average during each occurrence
of forest fire. Since then that figure has been reduced to 1.17
acres (based on Bureau records). This generous reduction has occurred
while the state has tripled the area of its wooded lands, more people
have built homes within forested environments, and recreational
opportunities in the Commonwealth's many forests and parks have
exploded. | 
