Fighting wildfires before they start in Southern Colorado
November 7, 2025
In Huerfano County, thoughtful planning has reduced wildfire risk and improved conditions at the Cucharas River headwaters.
Forest Management
Alert: Mountain Pine Beetle Outbreak
We’re monitoring a mountain pine beetle outbreak on the Front Range of Colorado. Access key resources for managing mountain pine beetles in your trees and stay informed about the outbreak.
Forest Management
Access educational resources and technical assistance for managing forests.
The Colorado State Forest Service can help you achieve your goals.
The Colorado State Forest Service supports thousands of residents, communities and partners every year in managing Colorado’s forests. Through responsible actions grounded in science, we can steward and protect Colorado’s diverse forests and the benefits they provide.
Managing Colorado's forests
Overly dense and unhealthy forests are susceptible to destructive wildfires and outbreaks of bark beetles and other forest pests, especially in Colorado’s warm, dry climate. Different strategies and approaches are needed to manage the various types of forests in Colorado to improve their health and resilience to wildfire, insects and diseases.
Forest plans and reports
The Colorado State Forest Service provides the following plans, tools and reports for guiding forest management and stewardship in Colorado.
News about Forest Management
Reducing wildfire risk in Mesa County
October 2, 2025
Landowners and the Rifle Field Office worked together to lower the risk of wildfire over a few hundred acres of Gambel oak and serviceberry. Bonus: Deer and elk have easier access for forage and cover.
Forestry project to protect Front Range drinking water kicks off in July
July 11, 2025
Forest health project kicks off in Colorado State Forest, near Cameron Pass.