Wildfire - Hazards and Pollutants

Wildfire - Restoration or Devastation?

The Fires of 2007

The Fires of 2003

“The effects of smoke range from eye and respiratory tract irritation to more serious disorders, including reduced lung function, bronchitis, exacerbation of asthma, and premature death. Studies have found that fine particles are linked (alone or with other pollutants) with increased mortality and aggravation of pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease.”

"Studies have shown that particle pollution is associated with increased respiratory symptoms and decreased lung function in children,…”

"The Flathead experienced air quality ratings at or above “Unhealthy for Sensitive” for 40 out of 44 reporting days from 7/30 to 9/18"

“New modeling efforts by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reveal that each year wildfires emit more PM2.5 (1.5 to 2.5 million tons) than do the traditional sources that EPA monitors and regulates: fuel combustion (700,000 tons), industrial processes (900,000 tons), and transportation (400,000 tons).”

WHAT IS THE LARGEST AIR AND WATER POLLUTER IN THE WEST?

THE FIRE DRAGON

WildFire Hazards and Pollutants

In the Air

CO2, Ozone, Carbon Monoxide, Atmospheric Mercury, Volatile Organic Compounds, Worst of All Small Particulates - PM2.5

Some of these pollutants are health hazards and some are greenhouse gases.

On the Ground

Organic material and beneficial soil organisms are baked. The soil becomes less pervious to water which combined with the removal of vegetation results in damaging erosion. The soil also undergoes chemical changes.

In the Water

Chemicals from fire altered soils and ash leach into the lakes and streams. Large pulses of sediment flow into streams with fall rains and spring runoff.

To Wildlife

Many animals are killed outright - especially the smaller animals and the young ones. Those who escape must find new homes. They may have to travel for miles only to find the new habitat already occupied to its full capacity. Overcrowding results and individual animals and species compete for food water and shelter.

To Humans

	Injury and even death
	Evacuations
	The destruction of homes and outbuildings and the belongings they contain
	Economic losses from a decline in tourism, the loss of recreation and natural resource jobs and the expense and wage loss of evacuation, business and highway closures.
	Billions of tax payer dollars gone up in smoke fighting fires ineffectually.
	Lost recreation opportunities

We have written a three part report on these impacts.

Wildfire - Restoration or Devastation?

Part I - Health Hazards

Part II - Impacts on Climate, Wildlife and Water
Coming Soon

Part III - Social and Economic Disruption
Coming Soon