Controlled burns reduce wildfire risk, but they require trained staff and funding − this could be a rough year

Uncertainty from Washington along with staff and budget cuts have created turmoil for the US Forest Service’s fire management efforts.

Laura Dee, Associate Professor of Ecology, University of Colorado Boulder • conversation
April 23, 2025 • ~8 min

Despite the climate crisis, Scotland is burning as much carbon-rich peatland as it did in the 1980s

Nearly a third of all moorland burning in Scotland occurs on peat soil – a vital carbon sink.

Dominick Spracklen, Professor of Biosphere-Atmosphere Interactions, University of Leeds • conversation
Jan. 22, 2024 • ~7 min

6 wildfire terms to understand, from red flag warning to 100% containment

Dry, windy conditions have fueled devastating fires in Texas. Understanding these terms can help people in at-risk areas prepare.

David Godwin, Director of the Southern Fire Exchange, University of Florida • conversation
March 21, 2022 • ~7 min

Humans ignite almost every wildfire that threatens homes

Wildfires aren't always wild. Many of the most expensive and damaging fires happen in suburban areas, and nearly all blazes in these zones are started by humans.

Jennifer Balch, Associate Professor of Geography and Director, Earth Lab, University of Colorado Boulder • conversation
Sept. 18, 2020 • ~5 min

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