WSDA Blog

Wildfire season in Washington state is in full swing, and farmers and ranchers should be prepared in the event of wildfire.

If you live in Washington, you know wildfires can pose a significant threat. Various factors contribute to their occurrence, including both human activities and natural causes that can lead to devastating wildfires. Although the ignition process is often out of our control, we can control how well we are able to withstand or recover from wildfires.

Erin Coyle, Emergency Manager at the Washington State Department of Agriculture, emphasizes the importance of taking action now to protect property and livestock from the increasing risk of wildfire events. Coyle highlights the need for livestock owners to stay informed and take appropriate actions to safeguard their property and animals' health during wildfire season.

The frequency and severity of wildfires can vary from year to year based on weather conditions and fire fuels, impacting air quality and livestock safety. Smoke from wildfires can lead to respiratory issues, reduced feed consumption, eye and skin irritation, as well as behavioral changes in livestock.

Farmers and ranchers can take proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of wildfire smoke on their livestock by providing shelter, ensuring proper ventilation, supplying ample water and feed, and monitoring animals closely. During wildfire events, agricultural partners may issue guidelines or advisories to assist farmers and ranchers in protecting their livestock.

Having a plan ahead of time including how to ensure animals are able to be identified, who can assist with animal evacuation, reviewing insurance coverage and updating emergency contacts will help our agricultural community be more resilient in the face of disaster, lessoning or eliminating damages and speeding recovery. Local resources such as local Conservation Districts, the USDA Farm Service Agency and Emergency Management offices are available to assist. There are free programs available to evaluate wildfire risks to property, identify resources available to assist with prevention and recovery costs and technical assistance creating a plan specific to your property.

Livestock owners are encouraged to work closely with the WSDA and agricultural partners to stay informed and prepared for potential wildfire emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of their animals. By following guidance and taking proactive steps, farmers and ranchers can help mitigate the risks associated with wildfires, safeguarding both their livestock and livelihoods.
Have questions? Reach out, we are happy to help! Emergencymanagement@agr.wa.gov
“The number of large fires has doubled between 1984 and 2015 in the western United States. These hotter, drier conditions also set the stage for more human-ignited wildfires. For much of the west, projections show that an average annual rise in temperature of one degree Celsius may increase the area burned in a typical year by as much as 600 percent.
The effects of climate change that contribute to increased wildfire risk include:

• Earlier snowmelt.
• Rising temperatures which contribute to more prolonged heat waves.
• Drier summers, increased drought, lower soil moisture content.
• Spread of the mountain pine beetle and other insects that kill or weaken trees and plants.
• More fuels from dead trees and plants.”