[env-trinity] Water Deeply: Fire retardant use and fish risk

[Sari Sommarstrom]

https://www.newsdeeply.com/water/articles/2017/11/27/fire-retardant-use-expl
odes-as-worries-about-water-wildlife-risk-grow

 

Fire Retardant Use Explodes as Worries About Water, Wildlife Risk Grow

"Chemical fire retardants are considered a vital wildland firefighting tool,
helping to slow the spread of flames while ground crews move into position.
But as their use increases, the harmful side effects of these chemicals are
coming under increasing scrutiny.

The chemicals, usually dropped from low-flying aircraft, largely consist of
ammonia compounds, which are known toxins to fish and other aquatic life.
Studies have shown retardants can kill fish, alter soil chemistry, feed
harmful algae blooms and even encourage the spread of invasive plants. Yet
there is little regulation of their use, and no safer alternatives on the
market.

In California, state firefighting crews have applied 15.3 million gallons of
chemical fire retardants so far this year, according to data provided by
CalFire, the state's wildland firefighting agency. That's a new record, and
double the amount used just three years ago." 

[read more]

 

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