Oklahoma Wildfire Preparation Plan Highlighted by Governor Stitt
- mike33692
- 22 hours ago
- 1 min read
Oklahoma wildfire preparation plan emphasized as year-round effort
Governor Kevin Stitt used a recent public appearance to spotlight the state’s Oklahoma wildfire preparation plan, reminding residents that wildfire season in Oklahoma is not limited to spring but remains a year-round threat.
Stitt pointed to coordinated response efforts between state and local agencies, including Oklahoma Forestry Services, which oversees wildfire response and mitigation planning statewide.
The Governor said Oklahomans must remain “cautious,” especially during periods of high winds and low humidity that can rapidly fuel grassfires across western and central regions.
Coordination with emergency agencies
Officials say wildfire readiness involves collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management, local fire departments, and county emergency managers. Preparation efforts include equipment staging, interagency communication, and public awareness campaigns.
The Governor’s office also highlighted improvements in wildfire response resources over the past several years, including aerial support and cross-county mutual aid agreements.
However, questions remain about leadership continuity within the state’s forestry oversight system.
State forester position remains unfilled
The Oklahoma wildfire preparation plan discussion comes as the state has yet to permanently fill the State Forester position. The vacancy follows the dismissal of former State Forester Mark Goeller nearly a year ago.
The State Forester role traditionally works within Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry to oversee wildfire policy, prevention programs, and coordination with rural fire districts.
Lawmakers and emergency officials continue to monitor staffing and long-term wildfire planning as dry conditions persist in parts of the state.