US Lawmakers Blame Canada for Midwest Wildfire Smoke

Six Republican lawmakers from Minnesota and Wisconsin sent a letter to Canada’s U.S. ambassador, blaming lax Canadian forest management for wildfire smoke affecting summer activities and air quality in the Midwest. The lawmakers urged Canada to enhance wildfire prevention, citing the record-breaking 2023 wildfire season's impact on both countries. Canadian officials responded by highlighting efforts such as the Kananaskis Wildfire Charter and reaffirming their commitment to wildfire management. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew criticized the U.S. lawmakers, arguing they trivialize ongoing firefighting efforts, including assistance from American crews. Canadian officials and researchers noted that both poor forest management and occasional arson, as well as climate change, have worsened the crisis. The Canadian government acknowledged the concerns and is reviewing the letter.