Small fire near Pete Ridge Monday afternoon

A fire was reported in the area of Rhodes Draw, northwest of Bowser Lake Monday afternoon. West Valley Fire Department, Montana DNRC, Flathead National Forest, and Flathead County responded and found a fire above the Bowser Lake Road. In all, five engines, one Air Attack, one helicopter, four single engine air tankers (SEAT), and miscellaneous heavy equipment responded to the incident. Cause of the fire is currently under investigation. The crews quickly responded and were able to stop the forward rate of spread. The current fire size is approximately one acre. Crews will remain on scene to contain the fire. Some smoke may still be visible from interior stumps for the next few days. Please avoid the fire area to allow the firefighters to access the area. The DNRC reminds the public that our forests are drying out with these hot temperatures and to help prevent wildfires.

Fire Danger is currently HIGH. To check current Fire Restrictions statewide, visit www.mtfireinfo.org.