Rising Wildfire Risks in Southern Arizona: How Invasive Species Are Transforming Our Desert

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The Sonoran Desert in southern Arizona is now more susceptible to frequent and severe wildfires. This change is mainly due to invasive plant species that have transformed the desert landscape. Researchers, including desert ecologist Ben Wilder from Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona, are studying these changes to help land managers and policymakers prepare for more common wildfires in the future.

Recent findings from the Southwest Fire Science Consortium, released on May 22, show that the Sonoran Desert, which historically saw few fires, now faces increased fire risk because of invasive plants. These plants, boosted by wet winters, provide new fuel sources. They become highly flammable as they dry out in early summer heat, especially during the fire season marked by higher temperatures and winds.

The year 2024 poses a significant concern. A wet spring has caused a surge in invasive plants, now drying and heightening the risk of major wildfires. Firefighters are currently fighting the Wildcat Fire in the Tonto National Forest, and the state has issued several red flag warnings due to the dry, windy conditions. Molly McCormick from NAU’s School of Forestry points out that the abundance of dry, invasive plants could lead to an active fire season.

The research also shows that wildfire risks vary across Arizona, influenced by the dominant invasive species in each area. In the Phoenix area and the Mojave Desert, fires are more likely due to winter annuals like red brome and stinknet. In Tucson, the risk is linked to summer rainfall and invasive grasses like buffelgrass and fountain grass. These regional differences require customized wildfire management and prevention strategies.