By Blake Jackson
Spring marks a season of renewal across the natural world. Birds begin building nests, bees search for early blooms, young animals are born, and plants push out fresh leaves and shoots.
According to Penn State Extension Forest educator Scott Weikert, this period of renewal also extends to people, who often spend time cleaning up their yards-removing fallen branches, clearing leaves from flower beds, and getting gardens ready for the growing season. However, these routine activities can unintentionally increase the risk of wildfires.
In Pennsylvania, wildfire incidents tend to rise sharply during the spring. In 2025, the state recorded 1,536 wildfires that burned 5,527 acres, exceeding the 10-year average of 1,257 fires and 4,312 acres. Notably, 1,120 of these fires occurred during the spring months alone, highlighting the heightened seasonal risk.
The primary reason for this increased danger lies in changing weather conditions. While spring often brings rain, dry periods can quickly follow. Low humidity levels, combined with breezy conditions, can dry out leaves, twigs, and other debris on the ground.
With trees still lacking full foliage, sunlight reaches the forest floor more easily, accelerating the drying process. In fields, leftover dry grass from the previous year becomes highly flammable, even if the soil beneath remains damp.
Human activity plays a major role in wildfire outbreaks. In fact, 99% of Pennsylvania’s wildfires in 2025 were caused by people, with debris burning identified as the leading source. Even a small ember can ignite dry vegetation and spread rapidly under windy conditions.
To reduce the risk, residents are encouraged to compost yard waste instead of burning it. It is also important to monitor weather conditions, check for local burn bans, and carefully consider whether burning is necessary at all.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imagixian
Categories: Pennsylvania, General, Rural Lifestyle