Wildfire smoke signals a growing climate crisis

To the editor:

Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI) recently sent a letter to the Canadian government, alleging that its forest management practices are responsible for Michigan’s air quality problems.

Notably, the letter fails to mention climate change. However, although fire-management practices can play a role in these megafires, climate change also has a profound impact. In the words of Natural Resources Canada: “Warmer-than-average temperatures, decreased levels of snowpack, low soil moisture and elevated drought conditions are indicators that climate change is impacting the frequency, size and range of wildland fires in Canada. For example, the number of over-wintering fires is increasing.”

It’s also important to take note of a 2015 issue of the U.S. Forest Service’s journal, Fire Management Today, titled “Climate Change: The Future Is Here.” This publication states, “Increasing temperatures and changes in precipitation and snowmelt patterns are increasing the severity and size of wildfires in the West.” Concern is also expressed about the “occurrence of fire that is outside the range of our existing experience” and the danger this poses to firefighters and communities.

The reason is that hotter temperatures evaporate soil moisture and dry vegetation, making it more likely to burn. A fire easily extinguished now grows quickly and gets out of control.

Bergman’s letter also emphasizes, “Hospitals and clinics across my district are seeing higher rates of respiratory distress, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with preexisting conditions.”

Significantly, 184 medical and public health groups, including the American Lung Association, released a statement declaring: “Climate change is one of the greatest threats to health America has ever faced.” They cite extreme heat, floods and year-round wildfires.

In order to deal with climate-driven threats, we must first recognize them. Urgently reducing greenhouse gas emissions and funding adaptation should be top priorities for every politician who cares about public health and the future we all share.

Terry Hanson

Milwaukee

Houghton-Hancock Lions Club Thank You!

Edior:

We wish to thank all those who supported our recent fundraiser, the annual Chicken Barbecue held August 1, at the Dee.

Many thanks to Vollwerth’s, Campioni’s Festival Foods, Tadych’s Marketplace, The Printing Shop, Houghton-Portage Schools, Dee Stadium and anyone who purchased tickets.

THANK YOU.

We would also like to thank the Manderfield family for continuing the tradition started by Matt Manderfield and continued by Pete Manderfield. Now supported by the Manderfield family and friends.

With the proceeds, we are now able to support annual scholarships for both Houghton and Hancock students, Leader Dog for the blind, people with vision problems, youth cancer patients, Bay Cliff, SKY, Barbara Kettle Gundlach Home, Habitat for Humanity, Omega House, Salvation Army and 31 Back Packs.

We are a small group always looking for new members … come and join our club. Contact any member for information.

Thanks again,

Mike and JoAnn LaCourt