Bitterroot National Forest

1801 N. 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7100

NEWS RELEASE
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Tod McKay
Public Affairs Officer
(406) 363-7122
531-1130 (cell)
tgmckay@fs.fed.us
Date: July 22, 2010

“Nine Lightning Caused Fires Keep Crews Busy”

Hamilton, MT. - Fire crews have been on the scene of nine small fires started overnight by lightning in the
Bitterroot National Forest. All of the fires are small, approximately 1/10 acre each in size. The first fire was
discovered at 6:00 p.m. last night as a storm moved across the area with dry lightning.

Fire crews were dispatched and worked the blazes overnight and continue to monitor the fires today. Four of
the fires have been declared out and one is controlled. Firefighters remain on scene of four fires that continue to
smolder in timber. Six of the fires occurred on the West Fork Ranger District and three on the Sula Ranger
District. The Forest had a total of 19 firefighters and two engines working to contain the fires.

In addition to these lightning caused fires, one human caused fire has been discovered in the Tin Cup area on
the Darby Ranger District. Investigators are currently on scene trying to determine the cause.

For more information, contact the Bitterroot National Forest at (406) 363-7100.

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