forest fires

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — A Plum Creek Timber Co. official says the company hopes to recover what it can from the forest burned in western Montana wildfires.

The Minor Paradise Complex Incident consists of four fires, Emigrant, North Eightmile, Horsetail and Sheep Creek, South of Bozeman. The cause of the fire is reported to be lightning and is currently over 11,800 acres in size at 55% containment. More info on closures and fire containment inside.

The fires are still unpredictable and growing in the Miner Paradise Complex Fire. Officials are encouraging all Park County residents to sign up for Emergency Notifications with their cell phones. All landlines in the area are automatically signed up for the alerts.

The fire is believed to have been ignited by a thunderstorm on Wednesday afternoon south of Emigrant Peak in Paradise Valley south of Livingston, MT. The fire is approximately 30 acres as of 7pm on Sunday.

DENVER (AP) — A new wildfire in the foothills southwest of Denver is forcing the evacuation of dozens of homes.

BUTTE, Mont. (AP) — A 200-acre fire driven by "horrific winds" forced the evacuation of residences in a forested area about four miles southeast of Philipsburg.

Smoke from any burning object can be very hazardous to your health. Living in Bozeman we tend to live outdoor lifestyles amidst rain, snow and shine but we forget sometimes that we can't be active without our good friend O-2. Inside you will find the most recent update on our air quality in the valley and surrounding areas.

The Gallatin County Fairgrounds is working with local Emergency Services and the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office  to provide a safe place for animals that may need a temporary home due to evacuations caused by wild fires.  The plans and facilities are ready and in place to house all species of animals at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds should the need arise.

There will be a public information meeting open to anyone who would like to attend at Hope Lutheran Church on 2152 West Graf in Bozeman at 6pm tonight August 30th. The meeting will cover information regarding the fire burning south of Bozeman in the Millie/Storm Castle region.

Photos by Michael Blessing As of 7am this morning, the Bear Trap 2 fire is 57% contained is still being battled by four 20-person crews. More information on road closures and details of the fire inside.