Update on West Riverside Fire Thursday August 25 [AUDIO}

Firefighting resources will work to keep the fire north of the Blackfoot River and west of the Johnson Creek drainage. Helicopters will continue to aid the firefighting effort with water drops to cool hot spots. Air tankers that drop retardant to slow the fire spread are available if necessary. Firefighters will continue constructing fireline along the ridge to the northeast of Woody Mountain and down into the Johnson Creek drainage, utilizing the existing road system and natural barriers. Fire officials will be assessing this area for a potential burnout operation that removes fuel between the fire’s edge and the constructed fire line.

Those traveling in the fire area along Highway 200 and the Frontage Road are encouraged not to stop along the roadways for public and firefighter safety reasons. When driving, be aware of increased traffic in the area, especially at Mile Marker 5 on Highway 200 where the Incident Command Post is located. Speed is reduced to 35 mph.

Update from Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation

Here is BLM Fire information Officer Treena Mullan with an update as well