Why Healthy Forests Matter

Healthy forests are essential to life in California. When forests are in balance, they quietly support daily life in ways that affect everyone, from the air we breathe to the safety of our communities.

They help filter air, store carbon, protect watersheds, and support wildlife habitats. Healthy forests are also better able to withstand wildfire, drought, and climate stress.

Fire and forest health

Many of California’s forests evolved with frequent, low-intensity fire. Over time, fire helped clear excess vegetation and maintain balance across the landscape.

When forests are healthy, fires are more likely to burn at lower intensity. This can slow wildfire spread and reduce extreme fire behavior. Healthy forests do not prevent wildfire, but they help reduce the conditions that allow fires to become destructive.

Restoring balance to fire-adapted landscapes

For decades, fire was often removed from California’s landscapes. As a result, excess vegetation built up, leaving forests more vulnerable to drought, pests, and severe wildfire.

Restoring forest health means restoring balance. CAL FIRE works with partners to reduce excess vegetation and support fire-adapted landscapes so forests are better prepared to live with fire.

Why this work matters

Forest health is not just an environmental issue. It is a public safety issue.

By improving forest health, CAL FIRE helps reduce wildfire risk, protect communities, and strengthen the ecosystems that millions of Californians depend on every day.