wildfire smoke

If wildfire smoke is making farm work rough in Washington, workers have options. Labor and Industries requires employers to provide clean-air spaces when fine particle pollution crosses dangerous thresholds.

Smoke from regional wildfires has been a real obstacle for wheat farmers this season, but harvests across Washington, Idaho, and Oregon are moving faster than usual — Oregon jumped from 48% to 73% in just one week.

The 2024 wildfire season in Oregon was the worst on record and the impacts of the smoke were felt across the state.

Wildfire season is right around the corner, and it’s not too early to prepare for smoky conditions.  Jennifer Horton, with the Oregon DEQ, suggests downloading the “Oregon Air” mobile app.   “Keep an eye on the air quality in your area and on any advisories that are being posted, because then you’ll be able to close your windows and doors at night, if there’s smoke expected to come in and impact y

For people sensitive to wildfire smoke, many are struggling now.

National Weather Service Meteorologist Steve Bodnar says the chance for fires here is much lower, even with incoming hot weather.

University of Oregon researchers are studying community smoke management plans and how local governments can better prepare the public for fire season.  Student researcher Stuart Warren said management plans can allow communities to get exemptions from current prescribed fire rules.   “...

The University of Idaho and Boise State University are conducting a two-year study that probes how wildfire smoke impact potatoes crops.  Farmers have reported smaller yields and worse quality during active wildfire seasons that produce a lot of smoke.  Univers...

Oregon OSHA recently announced new permanent rules the agency say swill protect workers during extreme heat and smoke events. Ira Cuello-Martinez with PCUN, a farm worker union, is pleased to see new guidelines for things like water and shade access ...

With the Washington Legislative Session set to get underway in a few weeks, the state’s farming community is reminded to be proactive and share their story. Pam Lewison with the Washington Policy Center said it will be vital for farmers to engage with those who are different or think differently. She ...