A clear picture of smoke: Bluesky smoke forecasting.

Abstract

Over the last several decades, the overall air quality goal in the United States has been to protect public health and clear skies by reducing emissions. At the same time, however, the risk of catastrophic fire has been rising in forests around the country as overly dense trees and understory brush crowd the stands. Prescribed fire—planned, controlled burning within specified conditions—is one important tool used to reduce hazardous fuels in forests, woodlands, and grasslands. Land managers are faced with the challenge of reducing fire risk while meeting air quality standards.

Citation

Rapp, Valerie. 2006. A clear picture of smoke: Bluesky smoke forecasting. Science Update 14. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 12 p