Fire, Fuel, and Smoke Science Program: 2012 Research Accomplishments

Abstract

In 2012, the nation experienced one of the largest wildland fire seasons in US history. More than 9 million acres burned, overwhelming fire-suppression budgets, burning homes and other structures, and taking the lives of both firefighters and civilians around the country. In Montana alone, 1.1 million acres burned, resulting in the largest wildfire year since 1910. As changing climate, insect infestations, exurban development, and other external stresses impact the nation's forests and other wildlands, many anticipate we could experience even longer and more severe fire seasons, and that wildland fires could behave in new and unpredictable ways.

Citation

Smith, Diane M.; Hardy, Colin C. 2012. Fire, Fuel, and Smoke Science Program: 2012 Research Accomplishments. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory. Online: http://www.firelab.org/Publications/2012_FFS_Annual_Report.pdf