Welcome to the Rocky Mountain Wildfire Smoke Symposium, a premier event dedicated to addressing the pressing challenges of wildfire smoke in the Rocky Mountain region. This annual gathering brings together researchers, public health professionals, community leaders, wildland firefighters, and government partners to explore the health impacts of wildfires and develop effective strategies for mitigating smoke exposure.
Through a combination of expert-led sessions and collaborative discussions, the Symposium aims to enhance wildfire resilience and foster community, state, and regional partnerships essential for adapting to a future with more frequent and intense wildfires. Join us for a dynamic exchange of ideas and solutions as we work together to build a more resilient future for our communities.
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The 7th annual RMWSS will be held October 15-16, 2026, at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Glendale Campus in Denver, Colorado.
Rocky Mountain Wildfire Smoke Symposium
2026 Symposium theme-
National problem, local solutions: community wildfire smoke preparedness
Wildfire smoke is a growing issue both regionally and nationally. However, solutions to address smoke impacts and reduce the burden on public health need to be implemented at the local level, taking into account each community’s specific needs, concerns, barriers, and motivations.
The 2026 Rocky Mountain Wildfire Smoke Symposium is focused on bringing together academic researchers, federal and state government agencies, and local-level representatives and partners. Together we must push the conversations about wildfire smoke impacts beyond the state-of-the-science research updates and move toward actionable solutions that work at a local level. Sessions will highlight evidence-based approaches to reduce community’s exposures to wildfire smoke, and emphasize how to protect and improve indoor air quality in homes and community-serving buildings during smoke events.
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Thanks to sponsorship from CDPHE through generous funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this year’s Symposium registration will be partially subsidized to encourage participation of government partners, community organizations, researchers, public health and emergency management professionals, and others working in the wildland fire space. Travel sponsorship may also be available for some attendees. More details to come!
What to expect
The Symposium will include collaborative panels, guest speakers, and interactive workshops focused on advancing practical, community-centered solutions to reduce impacts of wildfire smoke.
Networking opportunities
Meet with current and new colleagues and partners at lunch discussions, a poster session, and an evening happy hour.
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Hybrid attendance option
While we would love to see you in person, a live-stream option will be available for remote participants.
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We want to hear from you!
Help shape this year’s Symposium! We’re seeking your insights and expertise- please consider giving a short talk, presenting a poster, or leading a workshop.
Complete our interest survey to tell us what topics you’d like to see and share your interest in presenting at the 2026 Symposium!
