Dry Conditions Contribute to Fire Activity

Multiple fires have broken out in western Wyoming on the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
The two largest fires are the Roosevelt Fire on the Big Piney District and the Marten Creek Fire on the Greys River District, both located on the national forest. Additional fires are burning in Grand Teton National Park and the Blackrock and Pinedale Districts of the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
Some forest closures are being implemented for public safety and the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation notices for the Upper Hoback area. While these fires remain many miles from the Shoshone National Forest, smoke associated with them is present over southern portions of the Forest and in the towns of Dubois and Lander.
The area has seen exceptionally dry conditions since the last appreciable rain in late August, and fuel conditions are at their driest of the season. In addition, several days of red flag warnings have elevated local fire conditions.
Shoshone National Forest Assistant Fire Management Officer Clint Dawson says that fire danger levels are considered ‘Very High’ on the majority of the Shoshone National Forest and ‘Extreme’ on the most southern portions of the Forest.
While there are not currently fire restrictions on the Shoshone National Forest, all individuals hunting, recreating, or working on the forest are asked to be extra cautious when building and attending campfires. The fine for an abandoned campfire is $225, but campers can also be held liable for suppression costs if their campfire becomes a wildfire.