TOEFL Integrated Writing Practice Test 046Forest Fires

In the United States, since the late 1960s, it had been common practice not to suppress natural forest fires, following a “let it burn” policy. This approach assumed that forest fires would quickly extinguish themselves without causing significant damage. However, in the summer of 1988, forest fires in Yellowstone, the nation’s most famous national park, raged for over two months, burning more than 800,000 acres. Due to the extensive damage, many called for abandoning the “let it burn” policy in favor of extinguishing fires as soon as they appeared. Critics highlighted three main types of damage caused by this policy.

First, the Yellowstone fires caused enormous destruction to the park’s trees and vegetation. By the time the fires ended, nearly one-third of the park’s land had been scorched. Trees were left blackened and charred, while smaller plants were entirely incinerated. What had once been a beautiful natural landmark now resembled a barren wasteland.

Second, the wildlife in the park suffered significantly. While large animals such as deer and elk were seen fleeing the fires, many smaller species were likely unable to escape. There were also concerns that the destruction of habitats and disruption of food chains would prevent surviving animals from returning.

Third, the fires hurt the park’s value as a tourist destination, leading to negative effects on the local economy. With thousands of acres engulfed in flames, the tourist season was shortened, and many visitors chose to avoid the area. Consequently, local businesses that relied on park visitors experienced financial losses.