Wildland Fire Research to Protect Health and the Environment
Fires occur naturally and play an important role in promoting healthy ecosystems throughout the United States. While the number of wildland fires (i.e., wildfire and prescribed fire) over the past several decades has remained relatively constant, larger wildland fires in the western U.S. have become more frequent and more severe. This change can be attributed to several factors, including more than 100 years of fire suppression that has resulted in a build-up of burnable material, and hotter and drier conditions. In addition, as the wildland-urban interface (WUI) continues to grow, so does the risk that wildland fires will threaten communities.
While many fires promote healthy ecosystems, high-severity wildfires – with their rapid spread and intense heat – have negative consequences for ecosystems and humans. In the aftermath, burned areas are prone to flooding and erosion. Ash and contaminants from smoke can settle in water reservoirs, streams, and lakes, and pollute drinking water and aquatic ecosystems. The smoke from wildland fires is a complex mixture of pollutants that can travel a great distance, and exposure can worsen respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, in some cases resulting in death.
EPA has completed research on the effects of wildland fire smoke on air quality, the effects of wildland fire on water quality and ecosystems, the effect of smoke on public health, and actions that can be taken to reduce exposures to smoke.
Research Areas
Featured Research and Activities
- Air, Climate, and Energy Research Webinar Series - view recordings and upcoming events
- WSMART Air Monitoring Equipment Loans for 2025 wildfire season