California’s King Fire started tearing through the Sierras on Sept. 13 and burned more than 97,000 acres. Although damage to the forest was massive, the effects of the burn go far beyond the charred acreage east of Pollock Pines.

Substantial loss to wildlife and basic forest ecosystems are given consequences of a burn as massive as the King Fire, but many may not realize the effects from the fire directly impact those in the valley.

Sacramento State professor David Rolloff of recreation and parks, and tourism administration agreed the King Fire’s impact went far beyond the physical reach of the burn and many discount when they hear of a fire.

“There are broader recreational impacts,” Rolloff said. “Fires have direct impacts on people’s quality of life for sure.”

He explained that all of Sacramento’s water comes form the Crystal Basin off Highway 50 near Placerville. The smoke and ash from the fire could definitely affect the water quality.

Rolloff said there is a “huge question mark” surrounding the quality of our drinking water after the fire, but it will take time to determine the exact impact.

Smoke-related air quality warnings were still sounding off in Sacramento on Sept. 26, according to Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District.

Tahoe’s Ironman on Sept. 21 was canceled just as athletes began zipping up their wetsuits because of poor air quality.

Thousands of athletes showed up to compete, but Placer County health officials advised Ironman coordinators to cancel the event because nearly two-thirds of the course was covered in smoke.

Sac State’s Peak Adventures even had some trouble with air quality on trips.

Kelsey Fulop works for Peak Adventures and is a sophomore communication studies major. She said despite the fire, none of the trips were canceled but smoke did raise some concern.

“We did have to send out some reminders about air quality,” Fulop said.

She said one or two people dropped out of scheduled trips because of sensitivity to the smoke.

“This is our backyard,” Rolloff said. “Our lives here are directly impacted by the national forest.”

Rolloff said many are often misinformed by the impact of a fire.

“I have relatives out of state that have the impression that all of California is on fire,” he said. “Their impressions are far over-blown.”

California is exceptionally dry because of the drought and fires do happen. The effects can be widespread, but it is important to stay informed about health conditions that may impact outdoor activities.

Kate Grover from Sac State’s Ski and Snowboard Club said they are just as excited as any other year to hit the slopes in Tahoe.

Despite the burn, Rolloff said he has high hopes for ecosystem recovery.

“The forest will heal itself,” Rolloff reassured. “Wildflowers will grow back and animals will return home.”