High intensity, fast-moving wildfires are burning forests and towns.
In the aftermath, officials and researchers are finding polluted watersheds and damaged water supply systems.
With Wildfire-Prevention Work, Flagstaff Seeks to Avoid the Next Devastating Flood
A severe fire in the cityโs central watershed could lead to $2.8 billion in damages.
Billions in Federal Assistance after New Mexicoโs Largest Wildfire. But Little Money to Repair Streams
Stream restoration beset by lack of money and workers.
New Mexicoโs Largest Fire Wrecked This Cityโs Water Source
Era of megafires endangers water supplies in American West.

After Paradise Burned
When the Camp Fire swept across Californiaโs Sierra Nevada foothills flames nearly leveled the town of Paradise. More than nine out of 10 buildings were destroyed, and 86 people were killed.
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The town of Las Vegas is eligible for up to $140 million for drinking water treatment facilities.
In New Mexico, Partners Collaborate to End Siege from Megafires
Initiative in the Rio Grande basin intends to thwart catastrophic wildfires that wreck watersheds.
Western Wildfires Damage, Contaminate Drinking Water Systems
As they tear through forests and developed areas, fires in California, Oregon, and Washington have destroyed water infrastructure and released chemical contaminants.
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California Fire Danger Mounts in Sierra Nevada Forests
Bark beetles, water scarcity, and dying trees herald a region in ecological transition during the height of state’s four-year drought.

