Alabama is currently in the midst of the Fall fire season. It is nothing like it was in 2016 when Alabama was in a drought. However, Forestry officials say droughts are not necessary for an active fire season, and that conditions can become favorable for them within a week's time. There are approximately 20 fewer people employed by the Alabama Forestry Commission than there were at this time last year. Most of that has been because of retirements, and the positions haven't been filled.