The December Driptorch Digest is Now Available

The red-cockaded woodpecker, a species once listed as endangered, is showing significant recovery thanks to decades of dedicated prescribed fires and conservation efforts. The U.S. Forest Service reports that the population of this iconic bird has steadily increased, with current efforts focused on restoring habitat, implementing prescribed fire programs, and monitoring nesting sites. The red- cockaded woodpecker has now been down listed from Endangered to Threatened. Collaborative efforts between federal, state, and private landowners have been vital to repopulation.

This positive news highlights the progress made toward ensuring a sustainable future for the red-cockaded woodpecker. Although challenges remain, the population rebound is a testament to the effectiveness of habitat restoration and management practices aimed at preserving biodiversity in southern pine forests. As recovery efforts continue, the species' improved outlook offers hope for other endangered species reliant on similar ecosystems.

The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left much of the South at increased risk for wildfires. The storm caused widespread damage, leaving behind downed trees and debris that have heightened wildfire potential across several states.

The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) has forecasted above-normal wildfire risk for the region this fall and into early winter, particularly in areas affected by the hurricane. The Forest Service is closely monitoring conditions and urging caution with prescribed burns. The storm’s impact on the landscape—especially the abundance of fallen trees and debris—requires careful planning to reduce wildfire risks while maintaining forest health.

For ongoing updates, check relevant social media channels and refer to the map of affected areas. For more forecasts and information on wildfire potential, visit NIFC’s predictive services outlook here.

A video showcasing a new generation of prescribed fire practitioners, supported by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), has been nominated for a 2024 Emmy in the Suncoast (Fla.) regional awards. Produced by Magic Kumquat Productions, "Young Fires: The Future of Firelighting" features partners like DNR's Wildlife Conservation Section, The Longleaf Alliance, and TERN, with nominations for Laura Albritton, Maurice “Zickie” Allgrove, Shan Cammack, and Nicole Malanga.

In the Southeast U.S., landowners are increasingly adopting prescribed burns to reduce wildfire risk and enhance ecosystem health, but challenges like limited resources and training remain. Indigenous burning practices, which have long been used to manage land and prevent large-scale wildfires, are gaining recognition for their effectiveness in maintaining biodiversity and promoting resilient landscapes. As awareness grows, experts emphasize the need for more investment in resources and education to help both Indigenous and non-Indigenous landowners safely implement these traditional fire techniques.

Coffey County's environmental advocate, Kevin Coffey, was recently honored by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) for his exceptional contributions to environmental conservation, particularly his work in wildfire management and prescribed fire practices. His dedication to restoring ecosystems through fire management has made a significant impact, enhancing forest health and wildlife habitats across the state, and this award highlights his ongoing commitment to protecting Tennessee's natural resources.

Multiple NRCS Funding Programs

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service offers several funding programs that may be used to support prescribed burning. Many private landowners in the South have already taken advantage of these programs but this year there may be more funding available than in previous years. Programs vary by area, so check out the information pages listed below.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

Longleaf Landscape Stewardship Fund

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has announced the 2025 Longleaf Landscape Stewardship Fund RFP, offering approximately $31 million in funding for projects that accelerate longleaf pine restoration on both private and public lands, with an emphasis on wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, water quality, and forest resilience, while also supporting bottomland hardwood restoration and engaging local communities, including underserved landowners.
All proposals must specifically address how projects will directly and measurably contribute to the longleaf pine and associated species goals outlined in the Longleaf Forest and Rivers Business Plan.
Full proposals are due Wednesday, February 5, 2025, by 11:59 PM EST.
Applicant webinar on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 3-4:30 EST. Registration required- register here.

Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service is now accepting applications for the third round of the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program, part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, with up to $200 million in funding available to help at-risk communities, including tribes, mitigate wildfire risks and implement wildfire resilience projects. Grants can range from $250,000 for planning to $10 million for projects, with priority given to areas with high wildfire hazard potential, low-income communities, and those impacted by past disasters.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to develop proposals in consultation with state or Forest Service regional cooperative fire contacts listed in the Notices of Funding Opportunity.
Applications will be accepted until February 28, 2025, 11:59 PM EST
There are several two-hour applicant webinars about the grant application process. Webinar dates and information will be posted on the Community Wildfire Defense Grant webpage. Register at https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/fire/grants/cwdg.

The Driptorch Digest is distributed by NC State University as a project of the Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability (SERPPAS) Prescribed Fire Working Group.

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This newsletter is made possible through a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, with support from the USDA Forest Service and the Department of Defense.