To help Anchorage residents protect their properties against wildfires, the Mayor’s Office, Anchorage Fire Department Wildfire Division and Solid Waste Services (SWS) are partnering together to open the local wood lots for free to Anchorage residents clearing their properties this spring and summer. From March 29 to Sept. 30, no Anchorage residential loads of woody debris will incur fees.
“I live in South Anchorage, so I know firsthand our need to prepare for wildfire risk. People want to take action, and they want to contribute to the effort,” Mayor Suzanne LaFrance said in a media release from the Municipality of Anchorage. “I’m excited we can offer an effective, concrete way to help people protect themselves and their neighbors from fire.”
“The potential for a devastating wildfire in our backyard is a real threat. We encourage residents to begin cleaning/clearing their properties as soon as possible,” said Anchorage Fire Department Wildfire Division Chief Jon Glover in the media release. “Clearing yards of woody debris and creating defensible space around homes is the best way to prevent a home from catching fire in the event of a wildfire.”
An unusually low snow year means fire danger is high this season, and SWS is stepping up to help. SWS is offering free access to both of its wood lots for Anchorage residents throughout 2025.
“As a core value, SWS is deeply committed to being a strong community partner,” said SWS Director Kelli Toth. “We recognize the heightened fire danger and want to offer an easy and impactful solution. By providing free access to our wood lots, we aim to support the safety and well-being of our community during this critical time.”
In addition to free wood lot access, SWS continues to enhance its operations. Last year, SWS invested in a new, larger shredder, which will significantly increase operational efficiency and allow for more effective waste management. The wood chips produced will be used as alternative daily cover at the landfill and will be a key component of piloting composting programs.
