WILDFIRE TOOLKIT

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WSDA Fire Season Kit for Agricultural Producers

Download the full toolkit for more important materials! (PDF, 3MB)

Plan, prepare, and stay alert

The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) created this toolkit to help agricultural communities prepare for the upcoming wildfire season. By sharing these materials, you can help raise awareness and promote important wildfire preparedness messaging before the season begins!

How you can help:

  • Post our suggested content on your social media channels.
  • Add our wildfire preparedness tips to your newsletters.
  • Share our wildfire preparedness web page: agr.wa.gov/wildfires
  • Display our poster in offices, barns, and other high-traffic areas.

CONTACT

If you need tailored messaging, contact: samira.guirguis@agr.wa.gov | erin.coyle@agr.wa.gov

WSDA resources for wildfire and agriculture: agr.wa.gov/wildfires

WSDA Emergency Management: agr.wa.gov/services/emergencymanagement/disasters

WSDA website: agr.wa.gov

Email: emergencymanagement@agr.wa.gov

For farmers and ranchers

  • Emergency Planning
    Create a wildfire evacuation plan for family, workers, and animals. Share the plan and contact info with neighbors and employees. Post maps showing gates, water sources, and escape routes.
  • Defensible Space & Fire Breaks
    Clear dry brush, weeds, and dead vegetation around all buildings. Maintain at least 100 feet of defensible space around key structures. Install or maintain fire breaks around fields, fences, and barns.
  • Livestock & Animal Readiness
    Identify and prep safe zones for animals to go during a fire. Prepare trailers and halters for fast animal transport. Mark or tag animals with ID in case of evacuation or escape.
  • Equipment & Water Sources
    Check that water tanks, pumps, and hoses are ready and working. Keep irrigation systems accessible and functional. Store fuel, tools, and equipment away from flammable areas.
  • Communication & Alerts
    Sign up for local fire alerts (text, app, or listen to local radio). Keep a battery-powered radio on hand. Charge phones and keep emergency contact list updated.
  • Documents & Emergency Supplies
    Store insurance papers, ID tags, and animal records in a fireproof box. Prepare emergency kits for family, workers, and animals. Keep extra fuel, batteries, flashlights, and first aid supplies on hand.

Sign up for wildfire warnings

Sign up today for local and state weather alerts at mil.wa.gov/alerts#local to get the latest updates on wildfire risks in your area.

These alerts provide early warnings when conditions are dangerous or expected to become hazardous due to high temperatures, dry weather, or strong winds.

Staying informed is one of the most important ways you can stay safe during wildfire season.

Are you insured?


To stay protected, make sure your property and livestock are properly insured.

Register your land and animals with the USDA to qualify for disaster assistance if a wildfire occurs. Visit your local USDA office or visit www.farmers.gov/protection-recovery/wildfire#protectyouroperation for more details.

Make sure you understand exactly what your insurance policy covers. Review your policy to know what’s included, and ask your provider about any gaps in coverage that could leave you vulnerable.

Reduce fire hazards on properties

Trim weeds around buildings and pastures, use metal fence posts with grounded wires, and check haybale moisture content. Have fire tools like shovels and extinguishers nearby, and use spark arresters on your equipment.

MITIGATION

  • Clear brush
  • Create a defensible space
  • Use fire-safe fencing

PREPARATION

  • Create evacuation plans
  • Pack go-bags
  • Mark water source

RESPONSE

  • Implement your plan
  • Move animals
  • Spray structures

At least 30 feet of defensible space around homes, barns, and structures is the minimum to prevent fire spread, with all combustible materials cleared. For better protection, a buffer zone of 100 to 200 feet is more effective.

If your farm or ranch has been affected by wildfire, you re not alone and support is available. Here are key programs that can help you recover:

Local and County Help:

Local emergency management office – Emergency shelters, animal feed, and additional support may be available.

Regional Conservation District Office – Various services and programs to help communities and landowners reduce the risk of wildfires, improve their resilience to fire events, and support recovery.

State Programs:

Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) – Provides guidance and may help connect you with federal aid.

Washington Department of Natural Resources – Post-Fire Recovery Program – Funding and resources for communities to support post-fire recovery activities.

Washington State University – Technical assistance regarding agricultural and forestry wildfire recovery including wildfire recovery.

Regional and Federal Programs:

The American Red Cross – Provides emergency assistance in the immediate aftermath of a disaster including overnight shelters, emergency meals, comfort kits, first-aid, mental health services, and financial assistance.

USDA Farm Service Agency – Various financial assistance programs to help farmers, ranchers, communities, and businesses affected by disasters and adverse events.

USDA Risk Management Agency – Offers wildfire-related coverage. Check your policy details.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) EQIP Program – May fund efforts to prevent future fire damage.

FEMA Assistance – After a major disaster, the federal government may declare Individual Assistance for certain damaged areas in a state. If you live in one of these areas, you may qualify to apply.

Include the following text in your May or June newsletter!

Wildfire season is near — now’s the time for Washington farmers and ranchers to get ready

With wildfire season fast approaching, now is the time for Washington farmers and ranchers to get ready. Have a fire plan, know your evacuation routes, and prepare your animals, equipment, and team for a fast response.

Evacuating without a plan can escalate an emergency especially in Washington, where wildfires move fast.

But wildfire preparedness goes beyond having a plan or reacting in the moment it also means knowing where to turn before, during, and after a crisis. In high-stress situations, finding the right help can feel overwhelming. That s why connecting with support services ahead of time is so critical.

To make wildfire readiness easier and more accessible, WSDA has gathered all the key resources in one place: agr.wa.gov/wildfires

Reach out to your local Conservation District, USDA Farm Service Agency, county Emergency Management office, and WSDA for help with risk assessments, emergency planning, and recovery support. Knowing who to call and what help is available can provide clarity and confidence in the middle of chaos.

Preparedness today protects your land, your animals, and your well-being tomorrow.

Need support or have questions? Contact WSDA Emergency Management at Emergencymanagement@agr.wa.gov.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL TOOLKIT FOR MORE IMPORTANT MATERIALS!

(PDF, 3MB)