University of Wisconsion - Eau Claire

UWEC

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Proposal

Wildfire Smoke Exposure, Health Risks and Interventions

30 hours

Community partner: UWEC Environmental Public Health
Supervisor: Crispin H. Pierce
Beginning date:
2025-06-22
Ending Date:
2026-05-31

Service-Learning Proposal Description

1.

Briefly describe the project and the community need to be addressed.

Answer Wildfire smoke exposure and health risks (ONLINE OR IN-PERSON). Climate change is driving more frequent and intense wildfire events, leading to the need for greater air monitoring, identification of vulnerable populations, and interventions including indoor air purification. This research-focused project will entail calibrating and installing air monitors and using the existing networks of Air Now and Purple Air monitors to assess wildfire smoke exposure and health risks. Students will also search literature reports, virtually attend air monitoring conferences, and test the efficiency of indoor air purifiers in protecting residents during wildfire events. Results will be shared at local and national conferences, and through a publicly-available website.

2.

What is the mission of the agency or organization?

Answer Protecting human health and environmental resources.

3.

What skills are required for this project? 

Answer Computer and online literacy, basic computational skills, ability to work in the field to attach small air monitors to poles.

4.

What are the objectives for the student learning and service?

Answer Develop skills in addressing environmental health hazards.

5.

What are the availability requirements for the student?

Answer Please contact Dr. Pierce (piercech@uwec.edu) for details.

6.

Additional information (not required).

Answer NA
Center for Service-Learning • Old Library 2100 • University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire • Eau Claire WI 54702-4004
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