Helena, Montana – In a season marked by intense wildfire risk and continued threats to homes, ranches, and forests, Montana leaders are highlighting the results of a coordinated response effort that helped limit destruction and safeguard billions in property value. Governor Greg Gianforte recently commended the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation for its performance during the 2025 wildfire season, noting that rapid response and proactive management played a critical role in containing fires before they grew out of control.
“Montanans expect the state to be prepared when wildfire threatens our homes and communities,” Gov. Gianforte said. “The results of this past fire season demonstrate how effective forest management, historic investments, strong partnerships, and the dedication of our wildland firefighters make a real difference across the state.”
Rapid Response Limits Fire Growth
During the 2025 season, Montana recorded 2,424 wildfires that burned a combined 75,099 acres. Officials reported that lightning sparked 32 percent of those fires, while 68 percent were caused by human activity or had undetermined origins. Despite the number of incidents, early detection systems and aggressive initial attack strategies enabled crews to contain 94 percent of fires on state-protected land to 10 acres or fewer.
Fire managers emphasize that quick containment is essential in preventing small fires from becoming catastrophic events. By mobilizing crews quickly and coordinating air and ground resources, the DNRC limited spread and reduced risks to communities and infrastructure.
According to data from the Montana Department of Revenue, the wildfire response effort helped protect an estimated $36.67 billion in value on private lands and an additional $424.49 million on non-private lands. Officials say these figures illustrate the economic importance of strong wildfire suppression efforts alongside the human safety benefits.
“Thanks to the swift and strategic response of our dedicated wildfire response professionals, the DNRC protected nearly $37 billion in property value during last year’s fire season,” said DNRC Director Amanda Kaster. “This proves once again that proactive initial attack isn’t just effective policy, it’s the frontline defense to saving lives, homes and our natural resources.”
Firefighters Praised for Professionalism and Dedication
Wildland firefighters, dispatchers, aviation crews, and support personnel worked across varied terrain and weather conditions to protect communities statewide. DNRC Fire Protection Bureau Chief Matt Hall praised the teamwork and professionalism shown throughout the season.
“The success of the 2025 season reflects the exceptional skill, professionalism and dedication of wildland firefighters, dispatchers and support personnel,” Hall said. “Their efforts across the state and on the ground helped protect communities when they needed it most, reflecting the spirit and resilience that define the best of Montana.”
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Wildfire continues to rank as Montana’s most serious natural hazard. Officials stress that suppression alone is not enough and point to ongoing investments in prevention and preparedness. These efforts include prescribed burns, fuel reduction projects, homeowner risk mitigation, and community planning initiatives designed to reduce wildfire intensity before ignition occurs.
State leaders say engaging communities is a vital part of wildfire readiness. Education campaigns encourage residents to create defensible space around homes, maintain fire-safe properties, and remain aware of fire restrictions and weather conditions.
Governor Gianforte concluded by recognizing the long-term strategy guiding Montana’s wildfire response and prevention work.
“Montana’s approach to wildfire suppression and prevention continues to be a model of proactive planning and decisive action. On behalf of a grateful state, I say thank you to the DNRC and our wildfire response professionals for their tireless work protecting this place we call home.”
The State of Montana provides wildland fire protection across roughly 60 million acres of state, private, and federal lands. Protection efforts rely on trained fire crews, aviation resources, and the County Cooperative Program, which brings together state and local partners to respond quickly when fires ignite.
Officials say the 2025 season demonstrated that preparation, cooperation, and decisive action remain the strongest tools for protecting lives, property, and the landscapes that define Montana.
