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How Do Wildfires Impact the Environment?

Forestry and Environmental Resources Research

Close-up of bright orange flames and thick gray smoke rising, capturing the intensity of a fire. - Hurricane Helene's Aftermath Fuels Heightened Wildfire Risk in Western North Carolina - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Nov 4, 2025

Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath Fuels Heightened Wildfire Risk in Western North Carolina

The region faces lasting wildfire danger as storm debris fuels flames and complicates recovery efforts.
A view of a snow-covered mountain, trees in the foreground. - When Public Lands Get Political: What a Hatch Act Complaint Says About the Future of Conservation - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Oct 15, 2025

When Public Lands Get Political: What a Hatch Act Complaint Says About the Future of Conservation

A Hatch Act complaint highlights growing political influence in public land management and its potential impact on conservation and bipartisan support.
Longleaf pines in the Croatan National Forest, North Carolina - Hurricanes Can Increase Wildfire Risk, Expert Says - College of Natural Resources News at NC State University

Oct 14, 2025

Reviving a Southern Icon: How Science is Securing the Future of Longleaf Pine

A collaborative research effort is underway to enhance the genetic diversity and adaptability of longleaf pine for future forests.
Aerial view of Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina during autumn - Fall Foliage in North Carolina: What to Expect This Year - College of Natural Resources News at NC State

Sep 15, 2025

Fall Foliage in North Carolina: What to Expect This Year

Fall foliage will likely peak in the mountains in mid-October, followed by the Piedmont region in late October and the Coastal Plain region in early November.
Flames and smoke curtain of a forest fire in the Brazilian Amazon. - Wildfires: Expert Answers to Your Burning Questions - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Jun 25, 2025

Wildfires: Essential Facts and Insights

NC State researchers address some of the most frequently asked questions about wildfires — from what causes them to how they can be stopped.
Black Footed Ferret - Endangered Species Act Revision Could Weaken Habitat Protections for At-Risk Wildlife, Experts Say - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Jun 11, 2025

Endangered Species Act Revision Could Weaken Habitat Protections for At-Risk Wildlife, Experts Say

College of Natural Resources professors Chris Moorman and Roland Kays discuss how a proposed revision to the law could heighten the risk of extinction for certain threatened and endangered species across the United States.
A river flows over rocks, surrounded by green trees and dense foliage. - Development, Agriculture Present Risks For Drinking Water Quality - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

May 7, 2025

Development, Agriculture Present Risks For Drinking Water Quality

A new study finds that conversion of forests to urban development or agriculture near streams can have harmful effects on water quality downstream, presenting both health concerns and raising the cost of water treatment.
A weasel stands in a patch of grass. - Why Scientists Are Worried About Weasels - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Mar 28, 2025

Why Scientists Are Worried About Weasels

When monitoring the health of mammal populations, scientists often use camera traps to observe the animals in their habitats. But weasels are so sneaky they’re rarely caught on camera – leaving scientists with questions about this population of predators.
An oak tree in springtime. - Ready for Spring Allergies? Here's What You Need to Know - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Mar 18, 2025

Ready for Spring Allergies? Here’s What You Need to Know

Tree pollen is often the cause of most spring allergy symptoms, according to NC State professor Robert Bardon.
A distant view of a forest fire, with flames and smoke rising against the backdrop - How Do Wildfires Impact the Environment? - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Feb 21, 2025

How Do Wildfires Impact the Environment?

In addition to altering vegetation patterns and destroying wildlife habitats, wildfires can degrade water and air quality.