Forest rangers say at least 23 fires in the last week were deliberately set in the Big Sandy region and the number of arson increases every day.

The State Division of Forestry is offering a one thousand dollar reward for information leading to arson arrests.

Foresters say the arson fires have burned more than 1,200 acres total across six counties

They hope the reward will lead them to catch those responsible for starting them.

Forest rangers say there is plenty of proof at least 23 fires in the Big Sandy region the past week were intentionally set.

They even witnessed someone starting one fire in Martin County.

“We saw an arsonist light a fire who was on a four-wheeler,” Tad Norris said.

Suspicious activity is being reported before dozens of other fires in the six counties.

“We have many, close to eyewitness accounts where they would see the fire start and then see someone come off the hill or see a truck take off,” Norris said.

Rangers say there is no doubt more fires are arson.

“There will be multiple sets. Three or four times they've set it,” Norris said.

“It's definitely a crime. We want to catch these people,” Trooper Mike Goble said.

Both Police and Rangers are searching for suspects after the fires have already destroyed more than 1200 acres of timber.

“It's really ridiculous that anyone would set one of these fires because of all the damage they do,” Norris said.

The Division of Forestry is offering a one thousand dollar reward to anyone with information leading to arrests.

“We need information. We need to get these arsonists out of the field, and out of the woods, and behind bars,” Norris said.

They hope the fires will stop.

You can call the Arson hotline to report information and be eligible for the one thousand dollar reward.

The number is 1-800-27-ARSON.