This graph shows the direct relationship between rapidly increasing US wildfire acreages and USFS suppression costs since 1987. Changed USFS fire management policies may have some bearing here, too.

Data used in these graphs were assembled with the help of Douglas W. MacCleery, Senior Policy Analyst Forest Management, National Forest System, who obtained the most recent information from Khon Viengkham, Budget Coordinator, US Forest Service WO - Fire and Aviation Management, and Lenise Lago, US Forest Service Director, Program & Budget Analysis.  Historical data was also provided by MacCleery, via Cheryl Oakes, Librarian/Archivist for the Forest History Society.

Datasets were initially plotted and analyzed for accuracy and consistency by Forester/Biometrician Mike Dubrasich, Executive Director of the Western Institute for Study of the Environment (http://westinstenv.org/).  Finished graphics supplied by E. T. Hinchcliffe, Art Director, TEK Printing.

Total U.S. Wildfire Acres 1960 - 2008 and USFS Fire Suppression Costs 1970 - 2008