Fire retardants have known toxicological outcomes on aquatic organisms when introduced into flowing freshwater systems and have been evaluated in USFS Environmental Impact Statements; however, affects on still-water aquatic environments such as ponds and wetlands are poorly understood. This fact sheet reviews the impacts of a commonly-used fire retardant on aquatic macroinvertebrates.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly changing decision-making, modeling, and data management in forestry and natural resource management. AI’s use as a tool in forestry comes with ethical and technical challenges that require ongoing research and discussion. This fact sheet covers promising applications, challenges and considerations for integrating AI into forestry and natural resource professions.
Fire has shaped the diverse landscapes of the Southwest for thousands of years. This series explores the fire regimes of different vegetation types, examining historical fire frequency, intensity, extent, and seasonality. We also discuss how modern fire suppression, climate change, and management strategies impact these ecosystems today. By understanding the natural role of fire, we …
Fire has shaped the diverse landscapes of the Southwest for thousands of years. This series explores the fire regimes of different vegetation types, examining historical fire frequency, intensity, extent, and seasonality. We also discuss how modern fire suppression, climate change, and management strategies impact these ecosystems today. By understanding the natural role of fire, we …
Watersheds in the Southwest can be greatly impacted by wildfire events. This fact sheet provides a quick overview of the sections and materials in our May 2025 synthesis. Check it out and learn about nature-based solutions, case studies, and other resources that can help ameliorate post-fire flooding. Find the full working paper here.
Wildland fire prevention is underfunded despite its proven value. This fact sheet covers best practices of prevention education, engineering, enforcement, and administration.
Most wildfire prevention science is over thirty years old and as such needs to be updated to reflect today’s diverse recreationalist user groups. Read our fact sheet to learn more about what kind of studies are needed to connect with those who visit our wildlands.
Scientists, land managers, and students gathered at the 4th Southwest Fire Ecology Conference to discuss the challenges posed by the alterations to the historic fire regime in the Sonoran Desert. This fact sheet summarizes the key insights and proposed solutions that emerged from these discussions, highlighting the urgent need for informed and adaptive fire management …
Read more “Community discussion: Changing fire regimes in the Sonoran Desert”
Recent research shows that fuel treatments can benefit the understory in southwestern forests. Grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs contribute to the overall health of a forest. What happens to these plants after thinning and prescribed fire? Read our fact sheet to find out!
Short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO are increasing across the Southwest. While beneficial for local economies, many visitors are unaware of the state’s wildfire risks or how to stay informed. To address this, the Southwest Fire Science Consortium and the Arizona Wildfire Initiative created a wildfire information packet for short-term rentals. This customizable resource educates …