AUGUSTA – The Maine Forest Service will host the 9th Annual Maine State Wildfire Training Academy next month, featuring a new course on wildland fires that threaten homes.

The academy provides training for Maine’s wildland firefighters, according to MFS officials. Preference is given to firefighters associated with Maine fire departments, but classes are open to anyone 18 years or older, according to Kent Nelson, MFS fire prevention specialist.

“This year, we are offering a new course called ‘Maine Firewise,’ which will help structural firefighters identify risk factors associated with wildland fires near homes,” Nelson said. “They also will learn how to conduct wildfire risk assessments on homes and help homeowners understand the importance of maintaining 30 feet of defensible space between their home and any forested area.”

The academy will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 4-5, and Saturday and Sunday, June, 11-12,  at Thomas College in Waterville. Registration fees range from $20 to $40, including lunches and break refreshments.

Classes on basic wildland firefighting and the use of portable pumps will be taught, as will a class on advanced tactical decision-making in wildland fire situations and basic air operations, Nelson said.

“Participants will develop a thorough understanding of wildland firefighting techniques that will benefit both their departments and their communities,” the MFS fire prevention specialist said.

A physical fitness test will be administered each weekend for those participants interested in obtaining national qualifications to fight wildfires in Maine or out-of-state, Nelson said.

For more information on the event, call 287-4990 or go to: http://www.maine.gov/doc/mfs/fpd/downloads/2011_MSWTA_APPLICATION.pdf

For more information about the Maine Forest Service, go to: www.maineforestservice.gov