How wildfire smoke impacted Milwaukee Zoo animals and Apostle Islands economic activity

Wildfire smoke from recent record-setting blazes enveloped Wisconsin, affecting both wildlife and human activities. At the Milwaukee Zoo, animals experienced stress from the thick haze, leading to restricted outdoor time to keep them safe and calm. Meanwhile, in the Apostle Islands, the smoky conditions hurt tourism, a key economic driver, as visitors stayed away from the normally bustling outdoor spots. The situation underscores how severe environmental events can ripple through ecosystems and economies alike, highlighting the need for better disaster preparedness and response.