The photo shows the smoke plume from the East Troublesome Fire, as seen from Tabernash. Photo by Jerry Nissen.
We think of wildfires burning trees, meadows and homes but fire’s impact on water can be devastating. Fires can destroy the ground cover that reduces erosion into streams. Soil, ash, silt, branches, trees and even boulders often are swept into rivers after fires. The character of the river itself and the nature of it’s water can change after fire.
Listen to an excellent 25 minute audio report connecting fire and water released on November 13, 2020. It’s from KUNC’s water reporter Luke Runyon, click here to go to the site. While you’re on the site, peruse Luke Runyon’s other stories. You’ll find something you like!