Single Publication

Incident Commander:  R. Griffin, C. Olander, (T)
Location:  10 miles southwest of Wise River, MT
Start Date: 7/25/2024 
Cause: Undetermined
Size: 3,006 acres 
Resources on Site: 2 hotshot crews; 4 type 2 hand crews; 9 engines; 2 skidgens; 1 dozer
Total Personnel:  254
 

KEY MESSAGES: 
Although precipitation occurred over the fire yesterday, fire activity and smoke will be visible in the area. The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway remains OPEN. Those recreating or traveling in the fire area are encouraged to be aware of the situation and to pay attention to increased fire traffic. If traveling in the area please slow down, drive 35 MPH, and yield to firefighting equipment, engines, and vehicles.
 

CURRENT STATUS/PLANNED ACTIONS:  
Yesterday, there was observed fire growth on the north and west flanks, toward Grouse Lakes and fire backing toward Reservoir Creek. Hotshot crews and hand crews continued constructing fire line on the east flank of the fire progressing west toward lower Grouse Lake, utilizing natural features where opportunities were available. 
Additional resources are continuing mop up operations (eliminating heat sources in the burned area) and securing the fire line near structures along Pettengill Creek towards Reservoir Creek. Smoke is still visible throughout the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway and Wise River vicinity. 
 

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR:
Monday’s temperatures were warmer with gusty winds and thunderstorms. Fire behavior was active with growth primarily on the north flank. Today, near critical fire weather is expected with minimum relative humidities and gusty winds. Active fire behavior is expected to continue with movement primarily up the Grouse Creek drainage and sub-drainages. 
 

CLOSURES AND RESTRICTIONS:
The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest has issued an Area/Road/Trail Closure (Closure #01-02-03-24-05) effective July 31, 2024. This Order is for public and firefighter safety during fire suppression efforts of the Grouse Fire. Closure information and maps are posted on the Forests’ website and the fire’s Inciweb page as they are in place. https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/mtbdf-grouse.

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area.
The Forest is in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. Campfires are allowed only in a permanent metal fire grate/ring provided by the Forest Service in a designated, developed recreation site. Smoking is restricted to vehicles, in buildings, or in an area clear of flammable materials. Devices with an on/off switch that use LPG fuels are allowed in an area clear of flammable materials within 3 feet of the device.