In the face of increasingly intense wildfire seasons across the American West, a powerful ally has emerged to support firefighters: artificial intelligence and drones. This transformative technology is reshaping how wildfires are managed, offering new hope and safety for both responders and communities.
Earlier this summer, the Banana Lake Fire near Plains, Montana scorched over 850 acres. Firefighters responded with a “total suppression” strategy, deploying engines, helicopters, bulldozers, and skilled personnel. But what truly marked a turning point was the integration of drones into the operation.
Since 2018, the U.S. Forest Service has embraced unmanned aerial systems (UAS), thanks to the leadership of Dirk Giles. Drone usage has surged from 734 flights in 2019 to an estimated 17,000 in 2024. These drones, equipped with thermal imaging, help identify hot spots and guide crews more efficiently, especially in hazardous conditions like nighttime or heavy smoke.
As Ry Phipps, a division supervisor, puts it: “You can replace a drone. You can’t replace a person.”
Beyond emergency response, drones are proving invaluable in prescribed burns—controlled fires used to reduce fuel loads and prevent future wildfires. Innovative drones now drop “dragon eggs,” ignitable clusters that help manage land safely and effectively. In 2024 alone, this method helped treat 189,000 acres.
Projects like SMART FIRES, funded by the National Science Foundation, are using AI and advanced sensors to analyze prescribed burns and improve safety. Led by John Sheppard, the initiative also emphasizes community involvement, ensuring fire management is both effective and inclusive.
Despite their deep-rooted expertise in land stewardship, Indigenous communities like the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes face barriers in accessing drone technology. Fire management officer Ron Swaney and UAS pilot Justin Underwood highlight the need for equitable access, blending ancestral wisdom with modern tools.
The integration of AI and drones into wildfire management is more than a technological leap—it’s a movement toward safer, smarter, and more inclusive fire response. As Montana’s experience shows, innovation paired with collaboration can lead to a brighter, more resilient future.