Idaho Smoke Map

Idaho Smoke Map Legend

**(Preliminary Data Warning: Data found on the map shown below is preliminary and is subject to change. Data is in local standard time format - no adjustment for daylight savings time.)

Monday, August 19, 2013

8/19/13 Cooperative Smoke Message


News Release –

Cooperative Smoke Message

Date:  August 19 , 2013

During the summer and fall, local and regional fires affect air quality.  Prescribed (man-made) fire is an important tool for both the forestry and agricultural communities.  Fire benefits the ecosystem by destroying diseases, stimulating growth, and reducing the potential for catastrophic wildfires.

However, smoke is a byproduct of all sources of fire.  Therefore, when managing smoke a number of factors are considered to determine if burning will be allowed.  These include:
§  the number of fires burning or planned in the area
§  the amount of smoke already present in the airshed
§  the current and projected weather and air quality conditions
§  coordination between agencies that conduct and/or oversee burning

It’s important to know that smoke can travel long distances, so fires in other areas can also affect local air quality.  Our agencies are working together to manage smoke and share information with the public. 

For all smoke comments and complaints, call the following number:

Smoke Hotline: 800-345-1007

To find out about potential wildfire smoke in your area, visit the following website:

Idaho Smoke Information Blog:  http://idsmoke.blogspot.com/


Visit These Websites for Air Quality & Burn Information:
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality:

Montana/Idaho Airshed Group: http://www.smokemu.org


United States Forest Service and Idaho Department of Lands:  http://gacc.nifc.gov/nrcc/dc/idgvc/index.htm

Additional Contacts:
Melissa Bacon, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, 208-799-4370
Johna Boulafentis, Nez Perce Tribe Air Quality, 800-720-4089
Laura Smith, Clear/Nez Fire Zone (Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests), 208-983-5143
Dave Summers, Idaho Department of Lands, 208-935-2141

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