Washington burning through its wildfire budget fighting 'large and costly fires'

The briefing

Washington is on track for a record wildfire spending year, topping last fiscal year's estimated $285.9 million. Agencies have spent about $207 million on 20 wildfires since July 1, including $42.1 million on Kaiser Canyon, $37.8 million on Little Giant and $33 million on Sinlahekin. DNR spokesperson Michael Kelly said large fires can cost upwards of $1 million a day, and the state will likely seek federal reimbursement through the Clarke-McNary Act.