The Beeskove Fire in the Rattlesnake Recreation area north of Missoula was mapped at 0.6 acres, with no new growth overnight. A Facebook post from the Lolo National Forest says hotshot crews cut an access line into the fire yesterday and established a saw line up and around the entire fire perimeter.
Wednesday, firefighters focused on clearing vegetation from the initial saw-line to strengthen containment.
After this is complete, they'll begin to mop-up the fire by extinguishing hot spots within the fire perimeter to reinforce the containment line.
A helicopter is aiding firefighter efforts by delivering tools as well as possible bucket drops from Beeskove Lake.
The fire will likely be producing wisps of smoke for the next 3-4 days.
There are no area closures in place but the public is asked to avoid the area.
Yesterday's story incorrectly reported the size of this fire. The fire was actually 0.5 acres when discovered, not 5 acres. We regret the error.
Get the latest wildfire, fire management and air quality news for Western Montana and the Northern Rockies, on your radio during our morning and evening newscasts, via podcast, or in your inbox each day.
