Lightning Sparks Numerous Fires

Several more lightning-caused fires showed up on the Bridger Teton National Forest and in the two national parks late last week and were kept to minimal sizes.  The Sled Fire was discovered west of Bondurant on the Big Piney Ranger District and was contained within less than an acre and controlled by Thursday night.  Crystal Creek Fire discovered Saturday in Gros Ventre Wilderness is considered out and involved a single tree.  The Butte Creek Fire in the Teton Wilderness is being managed for its resource benefits. In Grand Teton National Park, the Diamond L Fire near Uhl Hill Fire was contained Saturday at ¼ acre and the Blacktail Fire on the northwest side of Blacktail Butte was contained at less than 1/10 acre.  Two fires in Yellowstone Ranger District of Gallatin National Forest are being suppressed,  both under ¼ acre, and a small fire on Livingston Peak in Park County Montana is also being suppressed.  Fire danger remains at “high” and lightning storms through the area have been readily sparking new fires.  Officials say with so many naturally caused fires showing up now, human-caused fires will only further strain the limited resources and they again urge the public to be careful.