Black Butte Fire 20-percent contained; aerial resources provide more-accurate mapping

From U.S. Bureau of Land Management

Wildland fire-fighting crews and aerial resources working the Black Butte Fire, in north-central Montana, were able to suppress the fire's growth Thursday, with containment estimated at about 20%.

Aerial perimeter mapping conducted Thursday brought more-accurate and welcome news that the fire's total acreage is approximately 460 acres – smaller than initial ground-level visual estimates.

The wildfire located on BLM-managed lands near the Missouri River, about 20 miles west of Landusky in Blaine County, Mont., was first reported Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023, at about 1 p.m., when smoke was spotted in the Ervin Ridge area of the BLM's Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. BLM North Central Montana District wildland firefighters initially responded. A Type 3 Incident Management Team, led by the BLM, assumed command of fire operations on Wednesday, Aug. 2.

A Type 2 crew is assigned to the fire, including multiple overhead and engines. Helicopters and airtankers are also working the fire. Collectively, approximately 70 personnel from the BLM, U.S. Forest Service and Montana Department of Natural Resources are working together to fight the fire.

Helicopter bucket work conducted this morning helped knock down fire activity on the northeast side of the perimeter to allow personnel to enter and exit the area and construct hand lines around the fire. Today, most of the fire edge on the south side of the perimeter held in place when encountering ridges bare of vegetation.

The fire is located in a remote area of the monument, burning in timber, grass and sagebrush. No structures are currently at risk.

Recreationists are advised to stay clear of the area and do not operate unmanned aircraft (drones) in the vicinity. Please, do not engage in any activity that could obstruct active fire operations and increase risk to firefighters. Know before you go: check for fire restrictions before starting your outdoor adventure -- http://www.mtfireinfo.org .

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