Wildfire danger in Flathead rated as 'high'

Wildfire danger in the Flathead National Forest has been elevated to a “high” rating as hot and dry conditions persist.

A human-caused fire was detected July 22 in the Bob Marshall Wilderness at an area known as Independence Park. Officials say the fire likely started from a campfire that was not properly extinguished.

The fire is about one acre in size and resources are providing initial attack.

There have already been more than a dozen human-caused fire starts on the Flathead National Forest. Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers are investigating these fires.

Forest Service officials warn that when the fire danger is "high” fires can start easily from most causes, and small fuels such as grasses and needles will ignite readily. Unattended campfires and brush fires are likely to escape.

There are stiff fines and the possibility of jail time for being careless with your campfires, cigarettes and other ignition sources, officials warn.