Kootenai Creek Fire Update

October 6, 2009

Today, a crew with an engine are knocking down smokes in the Larson drainage. Another crew is working with land owners to rehab fire lines on private land.

There has been no significant fire growth on this fire. It remains at 6,690 acres, and is currently 45% contained. Until significant moisure is received on the fire, expect to see smoke, especially on the Brooks Face and Kootenai Creek area.

The Kootenai Creek Trail remains closed temporarily to the public. Crews have been working to clear the trail, and anticipate having it cleared by the end of the week if the weather cooperates.

Forest officials remind folks to use caution when traveling in or near burned areas. Recently burned slopes can be unstable, generating rolling rocks that may end up on trail tread or on road beds. Snags are an ever-present hazard in both new and old burned areas; they can fall with little warning or provocation so forest travelers are advised to travel through burned area with great care.

For more information, call the Stevensville Ranger District at 406-777-5461.