Wildland Fire

Fire can be challenging to live with at times, but it is a natural part of Glacier’s environment. Like windstorms, avalanches, floods, or insect outbreaks, it is a force of disturbance that resets the ecological clock. Fire footprints across the park allow for a diversity of plant species and ages, which in turn supports a diversity of habitats where wildlife can thrive. However, climate change is shifting the balance of when, where, and how often our forests burn.

People are a part of this landscape, and part of managing fire too. Explore these pages to learn more about fire’s ecological role, how managers respond to new starts and decide where and when we want fire in the park, and how to stay safe with your own campfire. If you’re looking for information on active incidents, see Current Fire Information.