We Stand with Our Partners in California During These Deadly Wildfires

“Wildfires have burned a deadly path through California, devastating urban and rural communities and destroying a wide swath of farmland and wildlife habitat in both the Northern and Southern parts of the state. Severe smoke is posing a serious health risk to millions of Californians.  

“Environmental Defense Fund expresses profound sympathy for those affected. Our California offices are within close proximity to some of the fires. Many of us live, work and play in the affected areas, and many have loved ones who have lost their livelihoods, their properties, even their lives.

“In these moments of crisis we need unity and collaboration. The effects of the fires on our communities and our agricultural economy will be felt for years to come. While the fires still burn, we send our thoughts and prayers to the families and businesses affected and the firefighters who are the best hope of saving lives.  

“As the urgency turns toward rebuilding, Environmental Defense Fund will be there. EDF staff members in California are already organizing a relief effort, and we will work with our partners as the recovery unfolds. We know that our changing climate has accelerated the frequency and severity of extreme events. I am grateful to all of our partners – ranchers, farmers, policymakers, business leaders – who are working to strengthen human and natural system resilience and reduce climate pollution. We are in this together.”

            - Fred Krupp, president, Environmental Defense Fund