The Impact of Forest Wildfires on Water Quality in Southern California
Abstract:
Forests are one of the most vital ecosystems to exist on the planet and damaging them has caused further environmental damage to our air quality and water supply. 50% of the worlds water supply is sourced from Forest land and it has been put at risk by the rapid growth of wildfires. The forest tree roots keep our water clean by absorbing chemicals that would pollute our water, and keep sediment away from our streams. Wildfires interfere with the cycle and produce ash that contaminate the freshwater. Studies have shown that 85% of wildfires are caused by humans; meaning, 85% of wildfires can be prevented. Forest fire prevention laws have been in place but if we provide homes in the presence of land and vegetation with a proper fire extinguisher, citizens can diffuse fires before they spread and cause irreversible damage. Requiring it in business’ and rental properties has contained 80% of fires created in commercial buildings. People may act quicker on acres of land if their family homes were required by law to have one. Forests are an essential ecosystem to human existence that can be protected by having proper fire prevention tools especially in homes connected to vegetation and large acres of land.
Keywords: Wildfire, vegetation, ecosystems, water supply
Authors:
Eliyah A Valencia, CSU San Bernardino; Submitting Author / Primary Presenter