Highlights from our 2023 wildfire smoke season work!
  • We worked with individuals and partner organizations to learn about community needs related to wildfire smoke.
  • We educated folks about the importance of indoor air quality during smoke season.
  • We distributed dozens of HEPA portable air cleaners and DIY fan-filter combos to our neighbors most in need.
  • We began creating a community-wide wildfire smoke preparedness plan. ​
  • Much of this work was made possible by a one-year environmental justice grant we received from the EPA. Community support will be needed to continue to grow these efforts in the future.
  • Though 2023 was a light wildfire smoke season, we know longer, stronger wildfire smoke episodes are on the horizon. Helping the Missoula community prepare for this is ongoing work!
  • Read a more in-depth recap on our main Climate Smart Missoula site here.

Participants needed for wildifre smoke & health study in missoula.

​The University of Montana is seeking adult volunteers to participate in their study -- Wildfire Smoke HEALTH: Historical Exposures Affect Long-Term Health in MT.  Currently, little is known about the health effects of repeated wildfire smoke exposure here in Missoula County. By participating, you would help improve understanding of the real-world health impacts of wildfire smoke. In short, UM is seeking Missoula County residents in order to compare people with different levels of wildfire smoke exposure.  Eligible volunteers will be between 18 and 30 years old, resident of Missoula County, and no history of smoking or vaping.
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To register and complete a short screening survey, visit this site.
​Looking to purchase a HEPA air purifier? ​If you're a NorthWestern Energy residential customer, you can get a $100 rebate. Learn more HERE!​
Check out our fun & soon to be award-winning 30 second film!
 To learn about current wildfires, smoke, and air quality, head to ​the Today's Air page.  You can also visit Fire.AirNow.Gov or the Montana DEQ Air Quality site for up-to-date information on wildfire smoke.

CLIMATE CHANGE is bringing more wildfire smoke. how do we prepare?

Montana's summers are becoming hotter and drier, growing the risk of wildfires. As fires increase and as the wildfire season lengthens, the amount of wildfire smoke increases. Smoke can affect us from nearby fires, from surrounding states, and even as far as California or Canada. Planning for clean indoor air, learning about health risks, and sharing this with friends and neighbors can help reduce stress and keep us feeling good, when the skies turn from blue to gray.

 HAVE A MINUTE? WATCH OUR SHORT ANIMATED VIDEO (RIGHT): 
​Not loading? View here. 
Hum away -- our favorite wildfire smoke jingle: