From timber to tinder: NC forestry officials worry about growing fire dangers, fewer workers

By: Clayton Henkel

Outlets: North Carolina Newsline

Published: March 12, 2026

Words: 717

Last Updated: 4 months, 3 weeks ago

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When Hurricane Helene swept through western North Carolina, forestry officials conservatively estimated the storm damaged 822,000 acres of timber. Now satellite imagery showing changes in forest cover suggests the extent of damage was much greater.

Nearly 18 months after Helene, forestry officials and the state fire marshal warned legislators Thursday that North Carolina needs to be much better prepared to battle wildfires.

Deputy Forester Kevin Harvell with the North Carolina Forest Service said from the …

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