A year after the Matts Creek wildfire burned over 11,000 acres, experts reflect on its unexpected ecological benefits and stress the importance of fire prevention.

Forestry leaders are surveying the damage after they announced the Matt’s Creek wildfire was fully contained on Monday.

Firefighters are spending time away from their families and friends to help protect the communities around Matts Creek.

People are showing their appreciation for first responders battling the flames from the Matts Creek Wildfire.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is back open after crews worked to clear debris from the Matts Creek wildfire, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

School leaders made some changes to their workday on Monday to protect kids from the Matts Creek wildfire smoke.

Thanks to Lara Wilson for today’s Picture of the Day of the Matts Creek Wildfire in Bedford County.

As crews continue to battle the Matts Creek wildfire, residents in the surrounding areas are being impacted by the smoke.

Crews working around the clock to contain the Matts Creek wildfire.

The fire has grown to nearly 6,000 acres and continues to be only 2% contained.

Fire officials say more crews are coming. Friday, they have about 250 on scene and more on the way to help fight the Matts Creek Fire.

The U.S. Forest Service said Matts Creek Wildfire has grown to 5,148 acres and is two percent contained.

Wildfires continue to blaze across the Commonwealth, with the Matts Creek wildfire in Bedford County spanning about 3,600 acres as of Thursday night.

Senator Tim Kaine and Senator Mark Warner are weighing in on the Matts Creek wildfire available federal assistance.

People living near the Matts Creek wildfire are growing more fearful by the minute.

Officials with the U.S. Forest Service say more than 100 firefighters are battling the blaze and the fire is burning where motorized equipment isn't allowed, except in emergencies.

The Matts Creek wildfire, which broke out Sunday, has grown to 2,700 acres, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

The fire spans about the size of 1,900 football fields.