Eighty fires reported on Kootenai

Approximately 80 lightning-sparked fires have been tallied on the Kootenai National Forest over the past week, according to Forest Service officials.

The largest fire, in the Quartz Creek area, was brought under control while burning less than 15 acres. The rest, spread across the forest, have been measured in fractions of an acre.

Lookouts across the Kootenai are staffed, and two to three planes are flying to help spot fires. Four helicopters are also working fire duties on the forest.

A 20-person hotshot crew from New Mexico has been assigned to the Kootenai and split into two crews for initial attack duties, with one staging in Troy and the other at Murphy Lake.

Several agencies have indicated that they have responded to more fires in the past week than they did all of last year.

"Hard working and dedicated firefighters, as well as many private citizens and local contractors, are assisting with fire management activities," said Kootenai National Forest fire management officer Charlie Webster. "Their work is valuable and appreciated!"

Fire severity funds, which are provided to wildland fire agencies to staff additional resources during periods of high fire danger, have been instrumental in obtaining needed resources, Webster said.

"Without these funds we would not have the opportunity to prepare for and respond as needed in light of the fuel and fire behavior conditions we're encountering," he said.

Stage I fire restrictions continue for the region including everywhere within Flathead and Lincoln Counties.

The restrictions mean campfires are allowed only in developed or improved campgrounds and recreation sites. Camp stoves or gas grills are allowed in other areas. Smoking is allowed only in enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed recreation areas or in areas of at least 3 feet in diameter that have been cleared of flammable materials.