Florida forestry officials blame arsonists for 320 wildfires in 2017

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Forest Service officials say arsonists in Florida have started about 320 wildfires that have burned more than 20,000 acres so far in 2017.

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam said severe drought conditions have increased the wildfire threat across the state, but that arson causes many blazes.

In a statement Friday, Putnam said that nearly 400 wildfires were started by arson in 2016.

Polk County Fire Rescue is still seeking the arsonists suspected of starting the 700-acre Indian Lake Estates brush fire that destroyed several homes in late April.

To report suspicious wildfire activity, contact the forestry department’s Arson Alert Hotline at 1-800-342-5869.

Cox Media Group