Bitterroot Fire Danger is High – Idaho Smoke Arrives

The Bitterroot National Forest has moved back into the "High" fire danger rating, as of Friday July 22.

Also, a forest fire 23 miles northwest of Hamilton in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness has started sending smoke into the Bitterroot.

The Cedar Fire was spotted this past weekend and was five acres in size Monday. Now, with hot temperatures and no rain, the fire has grown to 50 acres. The fire is near other previously burned areas and is remote, so it will be monitored, according to a news release earlier this week from the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest officials. They say action will be taken if it endangers the Elk Summit Guard Station, Kooskooskia trailhead, Graves Peak lookout, or two wilderness bridges. Those planning to visit the area should check with the Lochsa/Powell Ranger District at (208) 942-3113.

Bitterroot Fire Management Officer Mark Wilson said High fire danger on the Bitterroot National Forest means that grasses and pine needles will ignite easily. Unattended campfires and brush fires are likely to escape.

Wilson said there have been 10 lightning-caused fires and nine human-caused fires so far this season. All but the Observation Fire have been extinguished.

And a reminder - make sure your campfire is out cold before leaving your campsite.