Grassfires Threaten to Devastate Forests in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

<p>Grassfires constitute a formidable environmental threat in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Wild seasonal grasses dry out soon after the region enters its long dry period, usually from the middle of spring. Hundreds of grassfires occur every year in the KRI and cause significant damage to the environment, especially the burning of forests. The forest trees largely exist in isolation from each other; hence, they do not burn in large numbers except when ignited through the grassfires. This paper examines the problem of grassfires in the KRI. It explains that, besides climatic factors, anthropogenic factors are the leading causes of grassfires in the KRI. The paper also highlights the human cost of grassfires and urges the government to take urgent and appropriate action.</p>