Background Information
The Marshall fire was the most destructive fire in Colorado's history. From December 30, 2021 until January 2, 2022, the fire burned over 6,000 acres and destroyed over 1,000 buildings in Boulder County, Colorado. While wildfires are a regular occurrence in Colorado, the location of this fire at the urban-rural interface was unique and has raised novel questions about the public health impacts of fire smoke and ash in urban areas.
What was CO Tracking’s role?
The Colorado Tracking Program worked collaboratively with the CDPHE Office of Emergency Response, Colorado APPLETREE program, Boulder County Public Health, and academic researchers to develop a response plan. The plan involved the collection and assessment of environmental data to understand potential health risks, as well as the identification of health metrics that can be surveilled during future fires to better understand the health impacts.
What product or output came from CO Tracking’s role?
The information collected by the response team has supported the development of education and outreach materials to reduce risks from smoke and ash during wildfire recovery.
What was the outcome of this action or decision?
Reduced risks from smoke and ash.