Idaho embraces satellite fire detection innovation

Idaho is once again in the national spotlight for its willingness to innovate and modernize. The latest effort? Fighting fires from space. During the 2025 Legislative Session, AI cameras for detecting fires became a "hot" topic of discussion.

Ultimately, these revolutionary systems obtained funding from lawmakers, giving nearby firefighters the ability to pinpoint a wildfire in real time. Idaho also recently became the first state to use a satellite-based wildfire detection system over its entire territory. This means Idaho is working cohesively with satellite technology to discover fires deep within the wilderness and Idaho's most remote lands.

 As OroraTech described in its announcement: “Idaho is the first state to implement wildfire satellite detection on a statewide level.” That’s not just a milestone for Idaho, but for the entire country.

Mountain States Policy Center has been encouraging policymakers to embrace technology to help fight wildfires.  In our blog post last year titled "Artificial Intelligence can be our first line of defense in limiting the effects of wildfires," we provided legislators the information needed to consider the possibility that AI may save money by detecting fires sooner and providing valuable data to emergency responders.

We also discussed how Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Wyoming could apply AI and identify areas most likely to be affected by wildfires and strategically allocate firefighting resources, including personnel, equipment, and aerial support. 

It is exciting to see Idaho lead the charge in a bold move not yet taken by any other state in the U.S. By adopting these systems, Idaho is proving that innovation works when states are willing to take action. AI detection cameras and satellite-based systems are tools that deliver faster detection, pinpointed responses, and ultimately lead to safer communities. By adopting these technologies, Idaho is moving the needle for the entire country and proving that government can partner with innovators to solve real problems without overspending taxpayer money.

It is now up to other states to follow Idaho’s example. Our neighboring states share the same risks from wildfire, dry summers, vast wilderness stretches, and communities that rely on a quick response. They also have the same potential to apply AI, satellite-based systems, and public-private partnerships in building an innovative fire detection machine. The technology is available, the models are tested, and the price of implementation only increases with each fire season and rising demand to modernize.

The rest of the country can learn from Idaho's bold innovation. By building on the Gem State’s example, our region can become a national leader in wildfire resilience, protecting families, communities, and the natural beauty that defines our highly desired way of life.