Abstract:
Although wildfire costs are commonly discussed
in natural resource policy and research,
how wildfire suppression spending
affects local economies has received relatively little
attention. Wildfires can have multiple and complex
impacts on local economies. Emergency response
can create work stoppages in natural resource sectors
and sectors that rely on natural resources. Poor
air quality and risks to human life and property can
reduce tourism and recreation in areas affected by
wildfire. In contrast, wildfires can support local
businesses through suppression contracts and procurement
of goods and services needed to support
the suppression effort. How and where suppression
spending is distributed may determine whether the
direct economic impacts of a wildfire are more negative
or positive.