Expensive Air Shows

The Business and Politics of Firefighting

By Jonathan Weber , 7-29-08

	Aircraft attack a fire in Malibu (Los Angeles Times photo)

With fires raging in many parts of California, the Los Angeles Times is running a big series on the growth in wildfires and the cost of containing them. Part one provides lots of interesting detail on just how much those fire camps - a familiar site in Rockies these days - cost to operate. (We’re pretty sure that most firefighters aren’t sleeping in air-conditioned trailers with chamber-maid service, but some are, apparently.)

Part two is even more interesting, alleging that choppers and air tankers ore often deployed for political reasons, against the better judgement of fire commanders. Last year’s Sun Valley blaze is cited as a prime example of a fire where political pressure trumped firefighter judgement.

What’s a reasonable amount to spend fighting wildfires? That, ultimately, is the policy question at hand, and kudos to the LA Times (my one-time employer) for providing a lot of solid reporting that helps inform the issue. We look forward to the rest of the series.

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