The moisture, ether extractive, and energy content of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Laws.) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii L.) foliage were measured during two fire seasons. The moisture content of l- and 2-year-old needles was found to rise throughout the summer. The ether extractive content was highest in the fir foliage at the end of summer when fire severity is generally thought to be highest. Pine foliage extractive content was high throughout the sample period. The energy content of the extracted leaves and the extractives varied through the summer. There may be a relationship between the extractives and crown fire potential in these species.