Wildfire Smoke and Rain Impact Upper Peninsula Agriculture
In Michigan's Upper Peninsula, recent rains mixed with wildfire smoke are affecting local agriculture and forests. According to James DeDecker, Director of the MSU Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center, the smoke and ash from wildfires can alter soil composition and affect plant growth and taste. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that wildfire smoke contains various pollutants, which can mix with rain and impact the environment. While some benefits may occur in acidic soils due to the alkaline nature of ash, the overall impact is more detrimental, particularly to farmers' health. 
