Fire team poses with mobile van laboratory

SMART FireS researchers at the University of Montana turned this van into a mobile laboratory capable of taking air quality measurements near prescribed burns, wildfires, and other remote pollution sources.

About the SMART FireS Project

SMART FireS is a five-year, $20 million initiative funded by the National Science Foundation’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR). Its mission is to strengthen Montana’s research infrastructure by integrating Montana State University’s expertise in optical technologies with the University of Montana’s leadership in environmental sciences. The project also actively involves satellite campuses, tribal colleges, and community colleges across the state to ensure broad participation and impact.

Research Focus

SMART FireS explores prescribed fire through a multidisciplinary lens, including:

  • Fire Science: Advancing understanding of fire behavior and ecology.
  • Smart Optical Sensors: Developing cutting-edge tools to collect real-time data on fire and smoke.
  • Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Processing complex datasets and building predictive risk assessment models to support fire management decisions.
  • Social Science & Ethics: Investigating the societal impacts of prescribed burning and smoke exposure on Montana communities.

Broader Impacts

The Science Math Resource Center contributes to the project by leading communications and outreach efforts. A key focus is bringing SMART FireS research into K–12 classrooms across Montana, fostering STEM engagement and environmental awareness among students statewide.

To learn more about the project, visit the Montana EPSCoR website.