Chrandal Creek Fire Update [AUDIO]

Current size: Estimated at 1,200 acres

Containment: 0%

Fire Activity: Fire growth was moderate yesterday due to minimal winds over the fire area. There was some single tree torching and slowly spreading ground fire. There are some spot fires reported up to one mile outside the main fire perimeter.

Resources on Fire: Approximately 150 personnel including 120 firefighters. Fire crews include two type I ‘hotshot’ crews from the Lolo and Helena National Forests. 4 helicopters, 2 feller-bunchers, excavator, skidgeon.

Terrain Info: Fire is burning in extremely remote, steep and rugged terrain on the Montana/Idaho border in subalpine fir and beetle killed lodgepole pine. 40-60% of the trees in some areas have been killed by bark beetles. Fire location is approximately 5 miles east of last summer’s Saddle Complex fire and 12 miles SW of the Lost Trail Ski Area.

Special Concerns: Snags are a major safety concern and will have to be felled/cleared in areas to provide safety zones and escape routes for firefighters. The fire is burning on ridges located at 7,500-8,000 feet with very limited access, roads, and safety zones/escape routes.

Bitterroot National Forest spokesman Todd McKay