Jack Bergman

ALPENA — U.S. Representative Jack Bergman, R-Watersmeet, sent a letter to Canadian Senator Michael MacDonald urging the Canadian government to take action regarding the wildfire smoke entering northern Michigan. Michigan Congress members have shared their support for Bergman’s actions.

Bergman’s letter urges the Canadian government to take immediate action to address the ongoing wildfire smoke pollution in the U.S., a press release from Bergman’s office states.

In the letter, Bergman expressed deep concern about the wildfire smoke that has affected northern Michigan for the third consecutive summer. Bergman called upon Canadian officials to implement stronger forest management policies and more accountability, according to the release.

“For three summers in a row, residents in my District have dealt with hazardous air quality, limited outdoor activities, and real threats to public health — all caused by wildfires burning across the border,” Bergman stated in his letter. “It’s time for Canada to take this seriously and implement the forest management strategies needed to protect both their citizens and ours.”

Bergman also stated in his letter that the effects on public health due to the Canadian wildfire smoke “have been especially troubling.”

According to Bergman, medical facilities across the district have seen an influx of respiratory distress, specifically among vulnerable populations (children, elderly, and those with preexisting conditions).

“The combination of chronic exposure and limited local control over the source of the problem has left many of my constituents feeling frustrated and forgotten,” Bergman stated in his letter.

Also in the letter he sent to Canadian officials, Bergman noted his commitment to working with Canada in ensuring that all communities are protected.

State Representative Cam Cavitt, R-Cheboygan, released a statement on Monday in support of Bergman’s letter and demands of the Canadian government.

“Our communities are once again being forced to breathe in smoke we didn’t cause and can’t control,” Cavitt said in the release. “I’m grateful to Congressman Bergman for standing up for the people of Northern Michigan and demanding real accountability. We shouldn’t have to endure another summer like this. Canada must act.”

Cavitt said he agrees with Bergman’s concerns about the threat to public health.

“The smoke is coming from across the border, but we’re feeling the impact here in Northern Michigan and beyond,” Cavitt said in the release. “Congressman Bergman is absolutely right. It’s time for Canada to take wildfire prevention seriously. That means using modern tools like prescribed burns, forest thinning, and fuel reduction to stop these fires before they grow out of control.”

State Senator Michele Hoitenga, R-Manton, also shared her support for Bergman’s call to action, telling The News that the Canadian government needs to take forest management seriously.

“The smoke from the Canadian wildfires continues to permeate our skies, impacting countless families across Michigan,” Hoitenga said. “While wildfires are inevitable, we can no longer accept the status quo. It is essential for Michigan and all affected states to call on the Canadian government to prioritize effective forest management strategies and policies that mitigate wildfires and improve air quality. We must unite with Canada in our efforts to protect our communities and ensure that future summers can be enjoyed without the threat of toxic air.”

Kayla Wikaryasz can be reached at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.