For 2022 the Utah Smoke Award goes to Mike Byers for his work on aerial ignition assignments in 2022, and lots of other years. In recognizing Mike, he would be the first to say it couldn't be done without Wasatch Helitack, pilots, vendors, equipment gurus such as Gary Ravenberg, and many others whose efforts make aerial ignition a possibility. This is a key tool for smoke management due to the ability to control ignition patterns and fire intensity, resulting in a high-lofting plume, and reduced impact to Utah communities.

The 2021 peoples choice edition of the Utah Smoke Award goes to Brad Washa and Linda Chappell for "Lifetime Achievement", Brad and Linda served on the Utah Airshed Workgroup, which steers the smoke program, for a combined 20+ years. Kudos to them both on their recent retirements, and for their mentorship and interest in all things smoke and air quality.

Paul Plemons, prescribed fire and fuels specialist for BLM Canyon Country, is the winner of the 2020 Utah Smoke Award! Many, many people helped on the joint land manager/DAQ smoke study, and thanks to all of them. However, Paul is the only one had to go out and de-ice the monitoring equipment so it could continue working.

2019 Utah Smoke Award winner: Eric Eastep. Eric was the fuels AFMO for the Dixie National Forest, Cedar City ranger district, now retired. How did he win? He was at the top of the all-time list for most smoke forms submitted to the Utah smoke website! That statement speaks realms about his dedication to prescribed fire, love for public lands, and sound smoke management decision making.