Recent warm and breezy weather conditions have contributed to several debris and grass fires spiraling out of control on private properties in north Lincoln County. The Kootenai National Forest reported four fires within the Rexford/Fortine Ranger District last week, occurring on April 6 and April 11, with sizes ranging from half an acre to seven acres. These incidents were predominantly grass fires on private land, and all were successfully managed, controlled, and extinguished by the same day.
The fires on April 6 were identified as Berger, Burke, and Alder, while the one on April 11 was named Fortine Creek. Additionally, another fire, the Salish Spring Fire on April 15, reached a size of 10 acres. Windy conditions were cited as the main factor in the fires escaping the control of homeowners. However, volunteer fire departments from Eureka and Trego-Fortine-Stryker, alongside U.S. Forest Service crews, effectively extinguished the fires. Eureka’s Volunteer Fire Department addressed the Berger, Burke, Alder, and Fortine Creek fires, while the Trego Fortine Stryker team worked with federal crews on the Salish Spring blaze.
District Ranger Seth Carbonari emphasized the importance of local partnerships, as multiple fires on the same day can stretch resources thin. Residents are urged to be mindful of weather conditions and have necessary tools or water readily available to manage fires effectively.
A weather shift brought rain and snow to Northwest Montana on Wednesday; however, warm and sunny conditions are expected to return from Thursday through Saturday. There is a chance of rain forecasted for Easter Sunday and Monday, offering some respite.
Fire Adapted Kootenai provides valuable guidance for those planning controlled burns:
- Avoid burning during dry, windy weather when the surrounding vegetation is dry and susceptible to fire.
- Conduct burns only during daylight hours and ensure they are attended until fully extinguished.
- Fires are considered out only when they are cold to the touch with no visible flame or smoke.
- Ensure sufficient tools, water, equipment, and personnel are available to control unexpected changes in fire behavior.
- If a fire becomes unmanageable, contact emergency services immediately.
- Debris burning can affect air quality; compliance with air quality regulations is mandatory.
- Ensure burn piles are constructed with dry, dirt-free materials and maintain adequate firebreaks around them.
- Do not use burn barrels for garbage; only natural vegetation and wood materials are appropriate for burning.
For those considering alternatives to burning, options include composting, tilling waste into soil, using debris for firewood, chipping, or utilizing landfill services.