Virginia has a typical humid, subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Not much happens here in terms of our weather. However, Virginia has been getting hit with bad climate news in recent years. In the past 20 years, the state lost over 7,000 hectares of forest due to wildfires. These devastating fires are a danger to humans and a threat to Virginia’s keystone species, such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, white-tailed deer, and grey bat. By endangering these animals, we are putting our very fragile ecosystem in jeopardy. But not all hope is lost for our Virginia keystone species. Laws have been put in place to avert the possible crisis of accidental wildfires. For example, the “4 pm Burning Law” bans all open fires until after 4 pm. This law will last from February 15 to April 30, which is spring wildfire season in Virginia. We can prevent uncontrolled wildfires and protect our environment ourselves by doing simple things like never playing with fire equipment, always watching fires, ensuring fires are completely extinguished before leaving them, and practicing vehicle safety. Though there’s still work to be done, Virginia can battle climate change with the correct efforts and consideration.