Wausau Pilot & Review

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) asks the public to stay vigilant and avoid all outdoor burning this weekend due to elevated fire danger across the state. 

Thirty-five fires burned approximately 300 acres on Saturday alone – the single most active wildfire day this year. Several fires had potential for large fire growth in the northwest part of the state. The DNR moved resources, including an incident management team, around the state to respond to these wildfires, one of which was reported in Marathon County.

The forecast suggests another active day Sunday, April 14, with fire danger anticipated to reach Very High. Burn permits will be suspended in several counties. 

On windy, dry days, embers from any fire, especially burn piles and campfires, can easily get out of control and cause a wildfire if not properly extinguished. Please avoid all burning until conditions improve. 

DNR burn permit restrictions and fire danger vary from county to county. However, the DNR will suspend annual burn permits in these critical areas where the DNR has burn restriction authority.

Outdoor enthusiasts should also be extra careful with off-road vehicles or equipment that can create a spark and start a fire. With changing weather conditions, fires can quickly get out of control.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

  • Avoid outdoor burning until conditions improve. 
  • Operate equipment (chainsaws, off-road vehicles, lawnmowers, etc.) early in the morning or late in the day to avoid sparks at peak burn hours.
  • Secure dragging trailer chains.
  • Report fires early and call 911.

Check current fire danger, wildfire reports and burning restrictions on the DNR website.

Updates On Significant Fires Across The State

WASHBURN COUNTY – SMITH BRIDGE FIRE

The DNR responded to a wildfire with significant growth potential near the Town of Minong at approximately 3:15 p.m. on April 13. The fire, now contained, burned an estimated 200 acres. It is located west of Hwy 53 (south of East Flowage Road, east of Smith Bridge Road, near Gilmore Lake). It is still active, though not advancing as progression has slowed.

One structure was reported lost and several more were threatened. Evacuations occurred with an Evacuation Center established at the Northwoods School north of Minong on Hwy 53.

The fire burned in the crowns of the trees and in slash on the ground and moved in a northeasterly direction. Several spot fires occurred but were subsequently suppressed.

The DNR had over 10 engines, 8 tractor plows, 1 heavy dozer, 2 patrol planes and 2 Minnesota fire bosses, an aircraft with water scooping capability, working the fire.

The DNR will remain on-scene and continue mop-up operations into the evening. The fire remains under investigation.

DOUGLAS COUNTY – APPLE FIRE

The DNR responded to a wildfire with large growth potential at approximately 3 p.m. on April 13 in the Town of Wascott. The fire is now contained.

This fire started just south of Apple Lake (west of Hwy 53, south of Lost Lake Road, east of South Apple Lake Road) and burned in pine plantation. Currently at approximately 20 acres, the fire moved in a northeasterly direction and threatened several structures.

DNR resources are on-scene and mop-up operations will continue into the evening. The fire remains under investigation.