Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality FAQs
At North Cascades Institute, our mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through transformative learning experiences in nature. Those experiences happen in real landscapes with real conditions, and wildfire smoke has become a seasonal reality in Washington State’s new normal, especially in late summer and early fall.
Because our work takes place outdoors, we rely on a thoughtful risk management philosophy that helps us operate responsibly and meaningfully in changing environments. It’s the same approach that allows us to teach in snowy conditions, run canoe programs, and guide participants on wilderness hikes. We don’t eliminate risk in nature, we manage it with intention, expertise, and clear communication.
When it comes to smoke and air quality, that means:
- Following WA State guidelines and staying aligned with current public-health recommendations
- Monitoring conditions continuously so we can anticipate changes, not just react to them
- Making program adjustments when needed to keep experiences supportive and empowering
- Providing participants with the information and options they need to make choices that feel right for their own health and comfort
This FAQ explains how we monitor air quality, how we make decisions, and how we support participants during smoky conditions. Our goal is to keep you informed, prepared, and confident so you can participate in a way that feels comfortable for you.
How does NCI keep track of air quality?
We follow Washington State guidelines and monitor air-quality conditions continuously. We also look ahead at daily forecasts to plan in advance. If air quality begins to change, our team is alerted right away so we can respond quickly.
What happens when smoke levels and AQI rises?
When the air quality reaches levels that may pose health risks—especially for children, elders, or anyone with asthma or other sensitivities—we take proactive steps to manage that risk and help participants stay comfortable:
- We may move some activities indoors or to cleaner-air spaces
- We offer free N95 masks for anyone who wants one
- We email incoming participants so they know what to expect
- Staff on site receive regular updates
If programs are at the Learning Center, how do you maintain air quality?
When outdoor AQI rises we focus on maintaining indoor air quality with the use of air filters throughout the campus. Each lodge room is equipped with an air filtration unit.
Will programs ever be changed or canceled?
Yes—but only when necessary to manage risk to the health and well-being of participants and staff. Potential changes could include:
- Shifting or adapting outdoor activities to indoors and/or shifting them to cleaner air spaces
- At the Learning Center we could cancel some programs such as the big canoe or hikes and may close the outdoor seating in the dining hall and/or adapting meals
If we are unable to maintain indoor air quality and/or move to cleaner air spaces, we may need to cancel programs.
Do you provide masks?
We offer free N95 masks for anyone who would like one. They help filter smoke particles and can make outdoor time more comfortable.
My child or someone in my family is sensitive to smoke. Can you help?
Washington State guidance notes that a wide range of people can be more sensitive to wildfire smoke, including children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with asthma or heart and lung conditions. Because sensitivities vary so much from person to person, we focus on providing options, clear information, and flexibility so families can make the choices that feel best for them.
What is my role?
Participating during smoky conditions means tuning in to your own comfort and health needs and making decisions that support your wellbeing. This is a shared responsibility:
- We offer up-to-date monitoring, communication, masks, cleaner-air spaces when available, and adjustments to activities.
- You stay aware of your own health cues and choose what feels right—resting indoors, masking, requesting modifications, or opting out of activities.
Our goal is to support you and your family with care, flexibility, and clear information so you can participate in the way that feels healthiest for you. Because wildfire smoke conditions can change quickly, we provide real-time updates and guidance; however, each individual is responsible for assessing conditions and making the decision that feels safest for themselves.
What is North Cascades Institute's refund policy for impacted programs?
You’ll receive a full refund if the Institute cancels your program. If you elect to cancel or leave a program early due to smoke, a refund will be determined on a case by case basis.
Who can I talk to if I have questions?
Our team is always happy to help. Reach out to your program organizer or call our main office at (360) 854-2599 during office hours Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm or our Learning Center office at (206) 526-2599 during office hours on Saturday-Sunday 9:00am-5:00pm.
Our policies and procedures may evolve as laws change and our understanding of wildfire and smoke continues to grow. These guidelines reflect our best practices as of 2026, and we will update this page as needed to help ensure the health and safety of our community.