A look down Appleton Street in Appleton during wildfire haze. July 16, 2026. PC: Fox 11 Online
(WTAQ-WLUK) — The six Republican members of Wisconsin’s House delegation — including both of Northeast Wisconsin’s representatives — are asking the Environmental Protection Agency to address wildfire smoke coming from Canada.
The smoke drifting over Wisconsin has led to air quality advisories for the past three days. The air on Thursday reached the unhealthy category, closing swimming pools and amusement parks, driving people to cancel outdoor plans and seek indoor activities.
Wisconsinites shouldn't have to suffer because Canada refuses to practice responsible wildfire management.
We are calling on the EPA to address the impacts of these ongoing wildfires and ensure Canada lives up to its end of the U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement. https://t.co/y7P0IxoZmM
— Rep. Tony Wied (@RepTonyWied) July 17, 2026
The representatives’ letter to EPA administrator Lee Zeldin asks for action to be taken under the U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement.
“In recent years, the Canadian government has elected to reduce the number of controlled or prescribed burns,” they wrote.
“Responsible wildfire management, such as controlled burns, is critical to reducing the frequency and severity of wildfires and protect families from harm. We encourage the EPA to utilize tools in the U.S.-Canada AQA to support responsible wildfire management strategies by the Canadian government and to protect Americans against similar occurrences in the future.”
Reps. Bryan Steil (1st District), Derrick Van Orden (3rd District), Scott Fitzgerald (5th District), Glenn Grothman (6th District), Tom Tiffany (7th District) and Tony Wied (8th District) signed the letter.
Four members of Michigan’s congressional delegation sent a letter to Canada’s prime minister on Wednesday demanding action.
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