Teton Interagency Firefighters are actively monitoring a fire in Grand Teton National Park, located about one mile above Leigh Canyon from the west side of Leigh Lake at about 7,600 feet in elevation. The Leigh Canyon Fire was detected Saturday, September 16, 2018, burning in downed trees and avalanche debris, with isolated torching in a remote area in the park. On Sunday, the fire was much less visible. The Leigh Canyon fire remains at an estimated three and a half acres in size with some spotting, showing minimal growth despite being under red flag conditions for the second day in a row.
Fire management staff are continuing to monitor the fire and assess management options for the long term management of the fire. The fire cause is unknown.
Firefighters are currently on scene monitoring the fire. Priority is firefighter and public safety.
On Saturday, Grand Teton National Park evacuated three Leigh Lake backcountry campsites including 16, 14A, and 14B on the west shore of Leigh Lake. Backcountry permits are not being issued for the CMC camp on Mount Moran, campsites near Leigh Lake, Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes, Bearpaw Bay, and Little Grassy Island as a precautionary measure. Campers and hikers using Paintbrush Canyon and to southern Leigh Lake should be alert and prepared to modify their plans if fire behavior changes.
Dry, warm and breezy weather is expected to continue, and smoke may be visible from the Teton Park Road.
Fire plays a vital role in the ecosystem. Many tree and other species are adapted to fire, and surface fire reduces fuel loads, allowing future fires to not grow as rapidly. Fire management objectives include firefighter and public safety, and protection of park infrastructure, while monitoring the fire as it fulfills its natural role on the landscape. Management strategies will adjust to changing conditions.
Visit the Teton Interagency Fire website at tetonfires.com for updates on the Leigh Canyon Fire and to learn more about fire safety and current fire status. To report a fire or smoke in the immediate area, call the Teton Interagency Fire Dispatch Center at 307.739.3630.
Attachment: 18-62 Leigh Canyon Fire Update
The Jackson Hole Radio staff has been covering news in Teton County, WY since 1963. Our editorial team is committed to providing readers, and listeners, with first-hand accounts of everyday life in one of America's most beautiful towns.
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