Canada faces pressure from US over wildfire smoke

A group of U.S. lawmakers is calling on Canada to take stronger action on wildfires, citing serious health concerns caused by drifting smoke.

In a letter to Canada’s ambassador to the U.S., six members of Congress from Minnesota and Wisconsin ask what steps Canada is taking to reduce wildfire activity and mitigate smoke impacts on American communities.

Experts, including Canadian wildfire scientists and health professionals, say the concerns are valid—but emphasize that the issue is complex and deeply connected to climate change and forest management.

“This is a complex problem, it’s going to need careful consideration and not simply finger pointing.” UBC Wildfire Scientist Lori Daniels told Global News.

“We’re learning now that with climate change, we have to rethink and adapt some of our forest management.”

While Canada’s embassy has acknowledged the concerns and says a response is coming, some experts feel the letter lacked empathy for Canadians who have lost homes or been forced to evacuate.

Global News’ Adam MacVicar reports.