Evergreen Forest (MNMNS)

Wildfire Status:

The Evergreen Forest Fire, detected on October 17, 2024, near the Chengwatana State Forest in Pine City, Minnesota, has grown to 167 acres in size. This wildfire has primarily affected remote areas of lowland swamp and dense timber. In response to the fire, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been at the helm of firefighting efforts, supported initially by the Pine City Fire Department. A Type 3 Incident Management Team (MNICS Team C) was also requested to oversee operations and coordinate various resources from multiple agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service.

Firefighting efforts in the initial 48 hours included aerial support from multiple aircraft equipped for water and fire retardant drops, which aided the ground teams in controlling the fire's spread. As of now, the fire has reached 100% containment, allowing for a transition from active firefighting to recovery and assessment phases. However, the region continues to grapple with moderate to severe drought conditions, which have complicated suppression efforts and posed ongoing risks for wildfire development.

Weather conditions have improved since the initial red flag warnings issued at the fire's outbreak. The DNR is now focusing on restoring access to the affected areas and improving road conditions that may have been impacted by fire suppression activities. Although the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the success of the response has led to the lifting of temporary closures within the Chengwatana State Forest. Overall, the response to the Evergreen Forest Fire demonstrates effective interagency collaboration and resource management in the face of challenging environmental conditions.

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Containment History:

Fire Growth History: