InciWebIncident Publication
Superior National Forest Fire Information Fact Sheet
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Publication Type: News
Date: Wednesday, July 28, 2021 10:00 a.m.
East Zone Fire Information: 218-386-2750 or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
West Zone Fire Information: 218-214-7844 or 2021.westzone@firenet.gov or online at InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior or the Superior National Forest Facebook Page: Superior National Forest Facebook
Delta Lake Fire: Fire crews have, after weeks of arduous work, managed to achieve an estimated 92% containment of the 62-acre Delta Lake Fire. Aircraft continue to monitor the fire; no smoke has been detected in the last few days. Suppression repair and mop up operations are on-going.
Phantom Creek & Bear Creek Fires: The 10-acre Bear Creek Fire is located north of Mud Creek Road. The 3.5-acre Phantom Creek Fire is north of Wolf Lake Road, on the east side of Lake Vermilion. Both fires are within the BWCA Wilderness. Fire crews have laid hose lines around the firmly established perimeter.
Fourtown Lake Fire: The Fourtown Lake Fire, located within the BWCAW in the current closure area, is 12 miles north of Ely. The fire was initially detected during a monitoring flight on July 25. Gusty winds and higher temperatures on Sunday spurred the fire’s growth to its current size. Aerial surveillance continued Monday and a fire crew was flown in to assess the perimeter. Access was a challenge given the location, and firefighters’ safety was and remains the top priority. Fire managers weighed several management alternatives and determined the best course of action was to conduct an aerial “burn-out” operation in order to lead the fire to a natural barrier in a controlled manner. The weather window for such an operation was relatively brief, but yesterday’s weather conditions were favorable for the mission. The smoke that resulted from the deployment of the plastic sphere dispenser (PSD) that were used to ignite the aerial fire operation were visible from Ely and surrounding areas. The PSD is mounted on a helicopter and drops Ping Pong-like balls through a chute leading out of the helicopter. The balls, which contain a chemical oxidizing agent, ignite 25-30 seconds after being released from the helicopter. Once they hit the ground, they quickly ignite the vegetation on the ground.
Other Superior West Zone Fires: The Sundial South Fire, detected on July 21, still shows smoke and is currently being monitored, though not staffed. This area is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels.
Two new fires were recently discovered: The Ima Fire is approximately five miles east of Snowbank, and the Slowfoot Fire is located one mile southeast of the Delta Fire. Two firefighters were in-place yesterday to assess the Ima Fire. The Slowfoot Fire will be continuously monitored, but not staffed. Any new starts in these areas will be fully suppressed by available initial attack provided by the team and local resources.
East Zone Fires: The Agamok Fire, located .25 miles east of the Kekekabic Trail, in the BWCAW on the Gunflint Ranger District was detected on July 25. It is currently 1-acre. Crews are constructing a saw line and a hose lay is in place. The Beth Fire was detected on July 26 near a portage between Grace Lake and Beth Lake, about three miles SW of Sawbill Lake in the BWCAW on the Tofte Ranger District. The fire is 2-acres in size. It is burning in hardwood litter and blowdown, and smoldering and creeping. Aircraft is being requested for bucket drops.
Canada Fires: The Quetico Provincial Park has several fires burning north of the international border from the BWCAW. Three of the fires have the potential to spread across the border into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. The Superior National Forest continues to monitor and assess these fires daily.
Air Operations: Two Fire Bosses (fixed-wing aircraft) are committed to the Forest to perform water drops as needed. Flying drones over the fire is prohibited. Air operations will stop if drones are detected in the area.
West Zone Complex Fire Update July 29 2021
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Publication Type: News
Date: Thursday, July 29, 2021 12:00 p.m.
East Zone Fire Information: 218-386-2750 or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
West Zone Fire Information: 218-214-7844 or 2021.westzone@firenet.gov or online at InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Description: Minnesota’s forests and grasslands continue to be plagued by drought and are thus primed for an abnormally robust and problematic fire season. There are nine active fires on the Superior National Forest two on the East Zone (Gunflint and Tofte districts) and seven on the West Zone (Kawishiwi, LaCroix and Laurentian districts).
Delta Lake Fire: Fire crews have, after weeks of arduous work, managed to achieve an estimated 92% containment of the 62-acre Delta Lake Fire. Aircraft continue to monitor the fire; no smoke has been detected in the last few days. Suppression repair and mop up operations are on-going.
Phantom Creek & Bear Creek Fires: The 10-acre Bear Creek Fire is located north of Mud Creek Road. The 3.5-acre Phantom Creek Fire is north of Wolf Lake Road, on the east side of Lake Vermilion. Both fires are within the BWCA Wilderness. Fire crews have laid hose lines around the firmly established perimeter.
Fourtown Lake Fire: The Fourtown Lake Fire, located within the BWCAW in the current closure area, is 12 miles north of Ely. The fire was initially detected during a monitoring flight on July 25. Gusty winds and higher temperatures on Sunday spurred the fire’s growth to its current size. Aerial surveillance continued Monday and a fire crew was flown in to assess the perimeter. Access was a challenge given the location, and firefighters’ safety was and remains the top priority. Fire managers weighed several management alternatives and determined the best course of action was to conduct an aerial “burn-out” operation in order to lead the fire to a natural barrier in a controlled manner. The weather window for such an operation was relatively brief, but Tuesday’s weather conditions were favorable for the mission. This plan to remove fuel and create a holding line was executed successfully. Crews on the ground will be strengthening this firebreak by removing vegetation and putting down hose lines. Monitoring this fire by air will continue.
Other Superior West Zone Fires: The Sundial South Fire, detected on July 21, still shows smoke and is currently being monitored, though not staffed. This area is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels.
Two new fires were recently discovered: The Ima Fire is approximately five miles east of Snowbank, and the Slowfoot Fire is located one mile southeast of the Delta Fire. Two firefighters were in-place yesterday to assess the Ima Fire. The Slowfoot Fire will be continuously monitored, but not staffed. Any new starts in these areas will be fully suppressed by available initial attack provided by the team and local resources.
East Zone Fires: The Agamok Fire is located .25 miles east of the Kekekabic Trail in the BWCAW. It is currently 1-acre. Yesterday crews completed laying hose around the fire. The Beth Fire is about three miles SW of Sawbill Lake in the BWCAW. The fire is 2-acres in size and 20 percent contained. Aircraft dropped water on it yesterday morning which helped suppress the fire while crews continued mop up. In the early afternoon firefighters were pulled off both fires due to the severe storms passing through northern Minnesota. Crews will continue responding when conditions are safe.
Canada Fires: The Quetico Provincial Park has several fires burning north of the international border from the BWCAW. Three of the fires have the potential to spread across the border into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. The Superior National Forest continues to monitor and assess these fires daily.
Air Operations: Two Fire Bosses (fixed-wing aircraft) are committed to the Forest to perform water drops as needed. Flying drones over the fire is prohibited. Air operations will stop if drones are detected in the area.
West Zone Superior Fires July 31 2021
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Publication Type: News
East Zone Fire Information: 218-386-2750 or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
West Zone Fire Information: 218-214-7844 or 2021.westzone@firenet.gov or online at InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Fourtown Lake Fire: This fire, first detected on July 25th, is in the current closure area within the BWCAW and is twelve miles north of Ely. While there has been no new growth of the fire in the last several days, re-mapping has determined a better approximation of size is 265 acres. Crews on the ground continue to strengthen the firebreak by removing vegetation and putting down hose lines. Monitoring by air will continue.
Sundial South, Ima, and Slowfoot Fires: Sundial South Fire, detected on July 21, still shows smoke and is currently being monitored, though not staffed. This area is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels. The Ima Fire, approximately five miles east of Snowbank, was declared controlled and there are no longer fire people on site. This will be the last report for the Ima Fire. The Slowfoot Fire remains at a tenth of an acre and will continue to be monitored, but not staffed.
New Fires: On July 30, two new small fires were detected. The Bunggee Fire is located east of Sundial South Fire, is approximately one acre in size, and is 70% active. Potential action is being assessed. The Vivid Fire is southwest of Vivid Lake and is approximately five acres. A Type 1 helicopter and seven firefighters are currently working on this fire.
East Zone Fires: The Agamok Fire is located a quarter mile east of the Kekekabic Trail in the BWCAW. The fire was called controlled and final mapping had it at 1.25 acres. It is no longer staffed. The Beth Fire, three miles SW of Sawbill Lake in the BWCAW and two acres was called out. This will be the last report on the Beth Fire.
Canada Fires: The Quetico Provincial Park continues to manage several fires burning north of the international border from the BWCAW. Three of these fires have potential to spread across the border into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. The Superior National Forest continues to monitor and assess these fires daily.
Air Operations: Two helicopters are committed to the Forest to perform water drops as needed. Two fire bosses are available to help if needed. We request the public not fly drones over the fire area as it is a safety hazard to aircraft and is prohibited. Air operations will stop if drones are detected in the area.
Air Quality: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued an air quality alert for all of Minnesota. This is an unprecedented significant air quality event for Minnesota, extending over many days. The alert takes effect Friday, July 30, beginning at 12 p.m. and runs until Tuesday, Aug. 3, at 12 p.m. The affected area includes all of Minnesota, and the tribal nations of Grand Portage, Fond du Lac, Upper Sioux, Leech Lake, Red Lake, Mille Lacs, and Prairie Island. For information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage. You can find additional information about health and indoor and outdoor air quality at the agency's Air Quality and Health webpage.
West Zone Complex Fires August 2 2021
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Publication Type: News
East Zone Fire Information: 218-386-2750 or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
West Zone Fire Information: 218-214-7844 or 2021.westzone@firenet.gov or online at InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Bunggee Fire: Detected 7/30, and located south of Crooked Lake, is approximately 1.5 acre in size. Access is difficult and all resources need to be helicoptered in. Eleven people will be heading there today.
Vivid Fire: Detected 7/30, located east of Snowbank Lake and approximately five acres. Firefighters made good progress in the last few days and fire officials called this fire 100% contained yesterday afternoon.
East Zone Fires: The Agamok Fire is located a quarter mile east of the Kekekabic Trail in the BWCAW. The fire was called controlled and final mapping had it at 1.25 acres. It is no longer staffed.
Canada Fires: The Quetico Provincial Park continues to manage several fires burning north of the international border from the BWCAW. Three of these fires have potential to spread across the border into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. The Superior National Forest continues to monitor and assess these fires daily.
Fourtown Lake Fire: This fire, first detected on July 25th, is in the current closure area within the BWCAW by Fourtown Lake. Current size is 265 acres. Crews on the ground continue to strengthen the west and northwest firebreak by removing vegetation and putting down hose lines. Monitoring by air will continue.
Sundial South and Slowfoot Fires: Sundial South Fire, detected on July 21, still shows smoke and is currently being monitored, though not staffed. This area is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels. The Slowfoot Fire remains at a tenth of an acre and will continue to be monitored, but not staffed.
Air Operations: Two helicopters are committed to the Forest to perform water drops as needed. Two fire bosses are available to help if needed. We request the public not fly drones over the fire area as it is a safety hazard to aircraft and is prohibited. Air operations will stop if drones are detected in the area.
Air Quality: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued an air quality alert for all of Minnesota. This is an unprecedented significant air quality event for Minnesota, extending over many days. The alert takes effect Friday, July 30, beginning at 12 p.m. and runs until Tuesday, Aug. 3, at 12 p.m. The affected area includes all of Minnesota, and the tribal nations of Grand Portage, Fond du Lac, Upper Sioux, Leech Lake, Red Lake, Mille Lacs, and Prairie Island. For information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage. You can find additional information about health and indoor and outdoor air quality at the agency's Air Quality and Health webpage.
West Zone Complex Fires August 4 2021
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CLOSURE UPDATE: Due to continued fire activity and no significant change in conditions, the current Closure Order will continue until at least August 13. Permit holders have been notified. The Forest Service understands how this impacts our visitors and businesses. We will be evaluating the closure areas daily to determine next steps based on weather conditions and fire activity.
East Zone Fire Information: 218-386-2750 or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
West Zone Fire Information: 218-214-7844 or 2021.westzone@firenet.gov or online at InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Description:, Minnesota’s forests and grasslands continue to experience drought conditions. With no major precipitation received over the last few days and increased winds in the forecast; fire behavior is predicted to increase. Concerns remain for a continued problematic fire season. Prioritization of personnel and resources is being done based on firefighter and public safety, in addition to resources at risk.
Bunggee Fire: This fire, detected July 30 and located south of Crooked Lake, is approximately three acres in size. Access is difficult and all resources need to be helicoptered in. An eleven person crew is now on the ground and is making great progress in containing this fire.
Fourtown Lake Fire: This fire, first detected on July 25th, is in the current closure area within the BWCAW approximately 12 miles north of Ely. Current size is 265 acres. Crews on the ground focused on mop-up and strengthening the north and west holding lines in anticipation of southerly winds today. Monitoring by air will also continue.
Sundial South: Sundial South Fire, detected on July 21, maintains some smoke and is currently being monitored, though not staffed. This fire is within the existing closure area and is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels.
Slowfoot Fires: Slowfoot is approximately one mile southeast of the Delta Fire. Aircraft have put water on this fire since it was discovered but it continues to burn slowly. There is now a crew on the ground building containment line and running hose lays.
Other West Zone Fires: Three other fires in the Wilderness are now 100% contained: Vivid, Bear Creek, and Phantom Creek Fires. The Delta Lake Fire, outside of the Wilderness and near Snowbank Lake, is now 100% contained. Fire personnel have moved to other priority fires. This will be the last report on these fires.
East Zone Fires: There are currently no active fires on the East Zone of the Superior National Forest. The Agamok and Beth Fires are contained and controlled as of July 30. Aircraft will continue to monitor these fires and look for any new starts.
Canada Fires: The Quetico Provincial Park continues to manage several fires burning north of the international border from the BWCAW. Three of these fires have potential to spread across the border into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. Resources in Canada are stretched thin due to large fires threatening homes and communities leading to evacuations. As a result, there are limited suppression efforts for some of the fires in the park.
Forest Service and Canadian personnel are monitoring the fires near the border by air and report seeing some growth to the south. These crews also discovered two new fires north of Crooked Lake and Lac La Croix. Canadian crews are on the ground engaged in initial attack with these new fires.
The Superior National Forest continues to monitor and assess these fires daily. For more information on the fires in Ontario and for an interactive fire map visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-fires
Air Operations: Two helicopters are committed to the Forest to perform water drops as needed. Two fire bosses are available to help if needed. We request the public not fly drones over the fire area as it is a safety hazard to aircraft and is prohibited. Air operations will stop if drones are detected in the area.
Air Quality: The air quality alert issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has extended the current air quality alert until Wednesday, August 4, at 9 p.m. for the northern half of Minnesota. The air quality alert for the rest of Minnesota expired as scheduled, Tuesday at 3 p.m.
A significant and long duration air quality event has been occurring across Minnesota over the past several days. Smoke from Canadian wildfires has remained over most of Minnesota since Thursday. An area of high pressure has allowed for smoke across the southern half of Minnesota to clear, but smoke will continue to linger through Wednesday evening across northern Minnesota.
Fine particle levels are expected to reach the Red AQI category, a level considered unhealthy for everyone, across far northern Minnesota today. This area includes International Falls, Grand Portage, Grand Marais, Baudette, and the tribal nations of Grand Portage.
Fine particle levels are expected to reach the Orange AQI category, a level that is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, for north central, northeast, and northwest Minnesota today. This area includes Duluth, Ely, Two Harbors, Brainerd, East Grand Forks, Moorhead, Detroit Lakes, Hinckley, Roseau, and the tribal nations of Leech Lake, Fond du Lac, Upper Sioux, and Red Lake. Fine particle levels are not expected to be above alert levels across southern Minnesota.
For information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage. You can find additional information about health and indoor and outdoor air quality at the agency's Air Quality and Health webpage.
Closures: Closures remain in place on the Kawishiwi and LaCroix Ranger Districts adjacent to the Canadian border in BWCAW. For details, visit the Superior National Forest webpage at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/superior/alerts-notices. With continued fires, the closure allows firefighters to take immediate action on existing fires or any new starts.
Due to continued long-term drought conditions and limited fire-fighting resources, the Superior National Forest is not allowing campfires within the Forest boundary, including the BWCAW. Propane devices with an on/off switch are permitted, including lanterns, stoves, and firepits. Campfires are NOT allowed at any BWCAW campsites, backcountry campsites, or rustic campgrounds, even in designated fire rings or grates. Please see Fire Restrictions Order and our Campfire Restrictions FAQ for more information.
West Zone Complex Fires August 6 2021
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CLOSURE UPDATE: The current Closure Order will continue until at least August 13. Permit holders have been notified. The Forest Service understands how this impacts our visitors and businesses. Closure areas continue to be considered daily based on weather conditions and fire activity.
East Zone Fire Information: 218-386-2750 or the Superior NF website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
West Zone Fire Information: 218-214-7844 or email: 2021.westzone@firenet.gov through Saturday, then 218-365-7600. Current fire information is also available online at: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior NF website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Bunggee Fire: This fire, detected July 30 and located south of Crooked Lake, is approximately three and a half acres in size. All resources need to be helicoptered in due to difficult access. A ten-person crew has a line around the fire and has made great progress. Firefighters assigned here will decrease after today.
Fourtown Lake Fire: This fire, first detected on July 25th, is in the current closure area within the BWCAW approximately 12 miles north of Ely. Current size remains 265 acres. Twenty-one firefighter on the ground are focusing on putting out interior smoke and strengthening the northwest holding lines. Monitoring by air will also continue. Number of personnel will be reduced after today.
Sundial South Fire: This fire, detected on July 21, and .25 acre, had no smoke when flown yesterday and will continue to being monitored. It is located within the existing closure area and is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels.
Slowfoot Fire: This small fire is .08 acre in size and is approximately one mile southeast of the Delta Fire. It was declared contained on August 4th. It will be called controlled today and firefighters will pull out this morning.
East Zone Fires: There are currently no active fires on the East Zone of the Superior National Forest. The Agamok and Beth Fires are contained and controlled as of July 30. Aircraft will continue to monitor these fires and look for any new starts. This will be the last report on these two fires.
Air Operations: Two helicopters are committed to the Forest to perform water drops as needed. Two fire bosses are available to help as well. We request the public not fly drones over the fire area as it is a safety hazard to aircraft and is prohibited. Air operations will stop if drones are detected in the area.
For information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage. You can find additional information about health and indoor and outdoor air quality at the agency's Air Quality and Health webpage.
West Zone Superior Fires Update for August 8 2021
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Publication Type: News
CLOSURE UPDATE: The current Closure Order will continue until at least August 13. Permit holders have been notified. The Forest Service understands how this impacts our visitors and businesses. Closure areas continue to be considered daily based on weather conditions and fire activity.
East Zone Fire Information: 218-386-2750 or the Superior NF website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
West Zone Fire Information: 218-365-7600 or online at: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior NF website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Description: Drought conditions persist throughout Minnesota and Canada. Higher humidity and chances of precipitation will keep fire behavior moderated over the next week. However, the moisture deficit will continue to worsen as significant rainfall is not predicted in Northern Minnesota.
Bunggee Fire: The Bunggee Fire was first detected on July 30th and is located within the current closure area. The 3.5-acre fire has saw line and hose lay around it and very minimal fire activity has been observed the last few days. The fire is currently unstaffed and will be continually patrolled and monitored.
Fourtown Lake Fire: The Fourtown Lake Fire was first detected on July 25th and is located within the BWCAW approximately 12 miles north of Ely. The current size is 265 acres and continues to hold within containment lines. There are currently six firefighters staffing the fire.
Sundial South Fire: This Sundial South Fire was detected on July 21, and remains at .25 acre. It is located within the existing closure area and is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels. Fire activity remains minimal, but will be continuously monitored by air.
Slowfoot Fire: The Slowfoot Fire was detected on July 26th and is .08 acre in size. It is located approximately one mile southeast of the Delta Lake Fire. It has been declared contained and will be placed in monitored and patrolled status today. This will be the last report on the Slowfoot Fire.
Moose Camp Fire: The Moose Camp Fire was detected on August 4th and is located approximately 16 miles NNE of Ely. It is about 80% contained and is currently staffed with several firefighters.
Nira Creek Fire: The Nira Creek Fire was detected on August 4th and is located approximately 12 miles SE of Ely. It’s size remains at 2.7 acres and was contained on August 4th. Firefighters continue to patrol and monitor this fire.
East Zone Fires: There are currently no active fires on the East Zone of the Superior National Forest. Aircraft will continue to monitor previous fires and look for any new starts.
Canada Fires: The Quetico Provincial Park continues to manage several fires burning north of the international border from the BWCAW. Three of these fires have potential to spread across the border into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. In the last few days, these fires have not grown significantly, but fire activity remains moderately active. Resources in Canada are stretched thin due to the many fires throughout the country. As a result, there are limited suppression resources. The Superior National Forest continues to monitor and assess these fires daily. For more information on the fires in Ontario and for an interactive fire map visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-fires
Air Quality: There are current air quality alerts in place for today. For information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage. You can find additional information about health and indoor and outdoor air quality at the agency's Air Quality and Health webpage.
Closures: Closures remain in place on the Kawishiwi and LaCroix Ranger Districts adjacent to the Canadian border in BWCAW. For details, visit the Superior National Forest webpage at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/superior/alerts-notices. With continued fires, the closure allows firefighters to take immediate action on existing fires or any new starts.
Due to continued long-term drought conditions and limited fire-fighting resources, the Superior National Forest is not allowing campfires within the Forest boundary, including the BWCAW. Propane devices with an on/off switch are permitted, including lanterns, stoves, and firepits. Campfires are NOT allowed at any BWCAW campsites, backcountry campsites, or rustic campgrounds, even in designated fire rings or grates. Please see Fire Restrictions Order and our Campfire Restrictions FAQ for more information.
West Zone Superior Fires Update for August 12 2021
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Publication Type: News
UPDATE: The Superior National Forest has taken over management of all fires and will be providing updates on the fire situation and the closure area every other day or as needed. The Forest continues to have outside resources assisting in suppression and patrol and monitoring.
Superior National Forest Fire Information: Please call the local ranger district office or online at: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior NF website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Description: Near-critical fire weather conditions are expected today for portions of Minnesota due to low humidity and gusty northwest winds. A high-pressure system will develop over the area through the weekend, keeping skies mostly clear. The moisture deficit will continue to worsen as significant rainfall is not predicted in Northern Minnesota. The next chance for precipitation is predicted for Tuesday evening into Wednesday.
Bunggee Fire: The Bunggee Fire was first detected on July 30th and is located within the current closure
area. The 3.5-acre fire has control line around it and very minimal fire activity has been
observed the last few days. The fire is being patrolled and monitored.
Fourtown Lake Fire: The Fourtown Lake Fire was first detected on July 25th and is located within the
BWCAW approximately 12 miles north of Ely. The current size is 265-acres and continues to hold within
containment lines. Six firefighters are staffing the fire and continue to mop up and secure containment lines.
Sundial South Fire: The Sundial South Fire was detected on July 21, and is a quarter-acre in size. It is
located within the existing closure area and is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote
location and hazardous fuels. Fire activity remains minimal, but will be continuously monitored by air.
Moose Camp Fire: The Moose Camp Fire was detected on August 4th and is located approximately 16
miles NNE of Ely. It is a quarter-acre, 100 percent contained and is in patrol and monitor status. This will be the last report of the Moose Camp Fire.
Nina Creek Fire: The Nina Creek Fire was detected on August 4th and is located approximately 12 miles
SE of Ely. It is 2.7-acres and is 100 percent contained. A hose line remains around the perimeter and the fire will be placed in patrol and monitor status. This will be the last report of the Nina Creek Fire.
Ole Fire: The Ole Fire was detected later in the day on August 10th and is located west of the North Arm of Burntside Lake. The fire is at .2 acres and has containment line around the perimeter. Firefighters will continue to secure these lines and begin mop up operations.
Pelt Lake Fire: The Pelt Lake Fire was detected on the afternoon of August 10th and is located approximately 2 mile NW of Isabella Lake. It is estimated to be less than an acre in size. Firefighters were able to access the fire yesterday to begin establishing control lines and mopping up. The fire is 20 percent contained.
Canada Fires: Quetico Provincial Park continues to manage several fires burning north of the
international border from the BWCAW. Three of these fires have potential to spread across the border
into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. Due to the last few days of drying, fire activity has been observed to be active. The Forest continues to conduct daily monitoring flights over the fires and coordinate with counterparts in Ontario. For more information on the fires in Ontario and for an interactive fire map visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-fires.
Air Quality: Air quality is expected to be good across much of the state today. For more information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage. You can find additional information about health and indoor and outdoor air quality at the agency's Air Quality and Health webpage.
Closures: Closures remain in place on the Kawishiwi and LaCroix Ranger Districts until at least August 16. Closures are adjacent to the Canadian border in BWCAW. For details, visit the Superior National Forest webpage at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/superior/alerts-notices. With continued fires, the closure allows firefighters to take immediate action on existing fires or any new starts.
Fire Restrictions: Due to continued long-term drought conditions and limited fire-fighting resources, the Superior National Forest is not allowing campfires within the Forest boundary on National Forest lands, including the BWCAW. Propane devices with an on/off switch are permitted, including lanterns, stoves, and firepits. Campfires are NOT allowed at any BWCAW campsites, backcountry campsites, or rustic campgrounds, even in designated fire rings or grates. Please see Fire Restrictions Order and our Campfire Restrictions FAQ for more information.
The MN DNR activated additional burning restrictions for areas within state jurisdiction in Cook and Lake counties, beginning 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, August 10. Under the additional restrictions, all campfires and recreational fires are banned and the use of welding devices and other torches is prohibited when in proximity to combustible vegetation (unless special permission is granted). While the DNR's restrictions do not control tribal lands, the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa has restricted burning on its lands. Under these additional restrictions, the campfire and recreational fire ban in Cook and Lake counties now includes all public and private land. In the backcountry, and at campsites, only gas or propane camp stoves are allowed. Gas and charcoal grills are allowed at occupied homes, cabins and resorts. Charcoal and gas fires must be in devices designed for grilling. Please see MN DNR Wildland Fire Information for details.
West Zone Superior Fires Update for August 14 2021
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UPDATE: Superior National Forest personnel are managing all fires on the Forest and will be providing updates on the fire situation and the closure area every other day or as needed. The Forest continues to have some outside resources assisting in suppression, patrol, and monitoring. There were three new fires on the Forest since the last update two days ago. These have a star by them. There are two additional new fires on the East Zone just called in by aircraft this afternoon. One is just north of the Lady chain. More to come as we hear additional information.
Superior National Forest Fire Information: Please call the local Ranger District office or online at: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior NF website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior
Description: Another period of high fire danger conditions are expected today for northeast Minnesota due to low humidity and gusty southwest 18-22 mph winds. Skies are expected to be clear and sunny through the weekend, with highs near 90 degrees on Sunday and Monday. The next chance for precipitation is predicted for Friday, August 20.
Bunggee Fire: First detected on July 30th, this fire is located within the current closure area. The 3.5-acre fire has control line around it and very minimal fire activity has been observed in the last week. Fire continues to be monitored.
Fourtown Lake Fire: This fire was first detected on July 25th and is located within the BWCAW approximately 12 miles north of Ely. The current size is 265 acres and continues to stay within containment lines. Six firefighters are staffing the fire and continue to mop up and further secure lines.
Sundial South Fire: Detected on July 21st, this fire is a quarter-acre in size. It is located within the existing closure area and is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels. Fire activity remains minimal and will continue to be monitored by air.
Ole Fire: This fire was detected late in the day on August 10th and is located west of the north arm of Burntside Lake. The fire is .2 acres and has been contained and controlled. Firefighters will continue to patrol and monitor.
Pelt Lake Fire: This fire was detected on the afternoon of August 10th and is located approximately 2 miles NW of Isabella Lake. It is estimated to be one acre in size. The fire is now contained and in monitor status.
*Clara Island Fire: Discovered on August 12th, fire is 1.5 acres and is located 10 miles NNW of Lutsen. Crews have contained this fire and it is now being monitored.
*Tomlinson Fire: Also discovered on August 12th, this fire is .75 acres and is 16 miles north of Finland. Crews have contained and are continuing to put out smokes and monitor.
*Homestead Fire: This fire is .1 acre fire, also found on August 12th and was contained on the same day and controlled on August 13th.
Canada Fires: Quetico Provincial Park continues to manage several fires burning north of the
international border from the BWCAW. Three of these fires have potential to spread across the border
into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. Due to the last few days of drying, fire activity has been observed to be active. The Forest continues to conduct daily monitoring flights over the fires and coordinate with counterparts in Ontario. For more information on the fires in Ontario and for an interactive fire map visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-fires.
Air Quality: Air quality is expected to to be good across the state today. For more information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage.
Closures: Closures remain in place on the Kawishiwi and LaCroix Ranger Districts until August 20 and will continue to be evaluated. For details, visit the Superior National Forest webpage at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/superior/alerts-notices. With continued fires and a shortage of firefighting resources, the closure allows firefighters to take immediate action on existing fires or new starts without having to evacuate wilderness campers.
Fire Restrictions: Due to continued long-term drought conditions and limited fire-fighting resources, the Superior National Forest is not allowing campfires within the Forest boundary on National Forest lands, including the BWCAW. Propane devices with an on/off switch are permitted, including lanterns, stoves, and firepits. Campfires are NOT allowed at any BWCAW campsites, backcountry campsites, or rustic campgrounds, even in designated fire rings or grates. Please see Fire Restrictions Order and our Campfire RestrictionsFAQ for more information.
The MN DNR activated additional burning restrictions for areas within state jurisdiction in Cook and Lake counties, beginning 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, August 10. Under the additional restrictions, all campfires and recreational fires are banned and the use of welding devices and other torches is prohibited when in proximity to combustible vegetation (unless special permission is granted). The Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa has also restricted burning on its lands.
Under these additional restrictions, the campfire and recreational fire ban in Cook and Lake counties now includes all public and private land. In the backcountry, and at campsites, only gas or propane camp stoves are allowed. Gas and charcoal grills are allowed at occupied homes, cabins, and resorts. Charcoal and gas fires must be in devices designed for grilling. Please see MN DNR Wildland Fire Information for details.
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Superior Fires Update for 8162021
Related Incident:
Publication Type: News
Superior National Forest Fire Information: Please call the fire information number at 218-214-7844 the local Ranger District office or online at: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ or the Superior NF website: www.fs.usda.gov/superior For Greenwood Fire Information, please call 218-499-9441.
West Zone Fires:
Bunggee, Fourtown Lake, and Sundial South Fires: All three fires are located within the closure area of the BWCAW. The Bungee Fire was first detected on July 30th. The 3.5-acre fire has control line around it and very minimal fire activity has been observed in the last week. The Fourtown Lake Fire was first detected on July 25th and is located within approximately 12 miles north of Ely. The current size is 265 acres and continues to stay within containment lines. Six firefighters are staffing the fire and continue to mop up and further secure lines. The Sundial South was detected on July 21st, this fire is a quarter-acre in size. It is particularly inaccessible to fire crews due to the remote location and hazardous fuels. Fire activity remains minimal and will continue to be monitored by air.
Ole Fire: This fire was detected late in the day on August 10th and is located west of the north arm of Burntside Lake. The fire is .2 acres and has been contained and controlled. Firefighters will continue to patrol and monitor. This will be the last report on the Ole Fire.
East Zone Fires:
John Elk Fire started with a lightning strike and is in a remote area 2.5 miles south of Little Saganaga Lake in the Wilderness. No fire-fighting crews have been sent in due to difficult access, limited helicopter resources and safety concerns. A helicopter with water drops is being used to knock down flames and limit the spread. It is currently at 10 acres and is observed to be smoldering and creeping with some single tree torching. On August 15th, a 2 person wilderness ranger crew paddled in from Little Sag to make contact with BWCAW permittees to inform them on the John Elk Fire, and update them on fire conditions.
The Whelp Fire, another lightning-caused fire, is 4 miles west/northwest of Sawbill Lake. Similar to the John Elk Fire, this fire is in a remote area of the Wilderness. No fire-fighting crews have been sent in due to difficult access, limited helicopter resources and safety concerns. Aircraft will perform water drops to suppress this fire as we continue to gather information. On August 16th, a 2-person wilderness ranger crew will paddle the Louse River to contact permittees near the Whelp Fire. It is currently at 5 acres.
Pelt Lake Fire: This fire was detected on the afternoon of August 10th and is located approximately 2 miles NW of Isabella Lake. It is estimated to be one acre in size. The fire is now contained and in monitor status.
The Clara Island Fire is located 10 miles NNW of Lutsen and outside of the Wilderness. This fire was discovered on an island on August 12th and is the result of an illegal campfire. It is still contained to the island but continues to put up smoke. Aircraft dropped water on this fire on Sunday and but will continue to patrol and monitor.
The Tomlinson Fire was discovered on August 12th, this fire is .75 acres and the result of a lightning strike. This fire is outside of the Wilderness, sixteen miles north of Finland and northwest of Dumbbell Lake. This fire is now contained and controlled and will continue to be monitored daily.
The Homestead Fire is the result of an illegal campfire located approximately ¼ mile SE of Homestead Lake, south of the Wanless Road and outside of the Wilderness. It was contained and controlled as of August 13th but will continue to be patrolled and monitored.
Canada Fires: Quetico Provincial Park continues to manage several fires burning north of the
international border from the BWCAW. Three of these fires have potential to spread across the border
into areas near Crooked and Iron Lakes. Due to the last few days of drying, fire activity has been observed to be active. Active fire behavior is predicted throughout this week. The Forest continues to conduct daily monitoring flights over the fires and coordinate with counterparts in Ontario. For more information on the fires in Ontario and for an interactive fire map visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-fires.
Air Quality: Air quality is expected to to be good across the state today. For more information on current air quality conditions in your area and to sign up for daily air quality forecasts and alert notifications by email, text message, phone, or the Minnesota Air mobile app, visit MPCA’s Air Quality Index webpage.
Closures: Closures remain in place on the Kawishiwi and LaCroix Ranger Districts until August 20 and will continue to be evaluated. For details, visit the Superior National Forest webpage at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/superior/alerts-notices. With continued fires and a shortage of firefighting resources, the closure allows firefighters to take immediate action on existing fires or new starts without having to evacuate wilderness campers.
An Emergency Closure Order is in place for the McDougal Lake Campground, the McDougal Lake Boat Ramp, the McDougal Lake Picnic Area and the McDougal Lake Trailhead and Trail (trail 71078). An Emergency Closure Order will be posted today for the Little Isabella Campground and….For updated information, visit the Superior National Forest webpage at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/superior/alerts-notices.
Fire Restrictions: Due to continued long-term drought conditions and limited fire-fighting resources, the Superior National Forest is not allowing campfires within the Forest boundary on National Forest lands, including the BWCAW. Propane devices with an on/off switch are permitted, including lanterns, stoves, and firepits. Campfires are NOT allowed at any BWCAW campsites, backcountry campsites, or rustic campgrounds, even in designated fire rings or grates. Please see Fire Restrictions Order and our Campfire Restrictions FAQ for more information.
The MN DNR activated additional burning restrictions for areas within state jurisdiction in Cook and Lake counties, Tuesday, August 10. Under the additional restrictions, all campfires and recreational fires are banned, and the use of welding devices and other torches is prohibited when in proximity to combustible vegetation (unless special permission is granted). The Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa has also restricted burning on its lands.
Under these additional restrictions, the campfire and recreational fire ban in Cook and Lake counties now includes all public and private land. In the backcountry, and at campsites, only gas or propane camp stoves are allowed. Gas and charcoal grills are allowed at occupied homes, cabins, and resorts. Charcoal and gas fires must be in devices designed for grilling. Please see MN DNR Wildland Fire Information for details.