"Toxic chemicals linger in the scorched soils even longer, and can make their way into water sources, said Ann Willis, California regional director with American Rivers, a nonprofit focused on protecting clean water resources. Those toxins - including heavy metals such as lead, zinc and copper - could be harmful if consumed, said Willis, a scientist who's led a program seeking to implement stream conservation strategies across California. "We really want people thinking about not just the immediate impacts of wildfire or when the immediate rebuilding will be complete and out of mind, but that these can be persistent problems that can show up for years and the health impacts are considerable," Willis said."
"Cal Fire and other agencies are currently responding to at least 16 fires across the state, according to Cal Fire data. They include the Gifford Fire, which has burned about 131,614 acres in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, and the TCU September Lightning Complex, in which 13,869 acres have burned near the Don Pedro Reservoir in Toulumne, Calaveras, Stanislaus and San Joaquin counti"
Wildfires in California are increasing in intensity and frequency, often burning near reservoirs and important watersheds. Burned landscapes require years to rebuild and scorched soils retain toxic chemicals that can migrate into water sources. Persistent toxins include heavy metals such as lead, zinc and copper, posing potential harm if consumed. These contamination risks can persist for years and present considerable public health impacts, especially where watersheds feed urban areas. Major events like the 2018 Camp Fire and the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex exemplify the trend, and state agencies are responding to numerous active fires statewide. More proactive preventative and long-term mitigation measures are necessary to protect water resources.
Read at The Mercury News
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