Document Type
Report
Publication Date
10-2026
Disciplines
Agricultural and Resource Economics | Leisure Studies | Nature and Society Relations | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Regional Economics
Abstract
This study was designed to better understand how residents respond to wildfire smoke in their community, and the associated impacts it has on their travel and outdoor recreation behavior (if any at all). The Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research (ITRR) conducts resident studies quarterly to better understand current topics across the state. In a year marked by a lack of winter snowpack and warm spring temperatures, 2026 was an ideal time to broach the topic of wildfire smoke in Montana.
Respondents were asked whether they check current smoke conditions before leaving for a trip and at what level of smoke (e.g., a certain air quality index rating) they begin to adjust their outdoor recreation activities. In addition, respondents were asked if the expectation of wildfire smoke would cause them to adjust their summer travel plans, if they had canceled or changed trips because of wildfire smoke, and what in particular makes it difficult to change their travel plans due to smoke.
Keywords
Wildfire Smoke, Outdoor Recreation, Travel
Rights
© 2026 ITRR
Recommended Citation
Bermingham, Carter, Schultz, Megan, Weddell, Melissa. (2026). Montana Resident Report, Q2 2026. Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research, University of Montana. Missoula, Montana. 21p.
Included in
Agricultural and Resource Economics Commons, Leisure Studies Commons, Nature and Society Relations Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Regional Economics Commons