Firefighters from Bridger-Teton National Forest, along with personnel from the Bureau of Land Management Wyoming High Desert District, Sublette County Unified Fire, and the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office, are actively working to contain the Merna Butte Fire. The fire, which started on August 10, 2024, has now grown to 77 acres and is burning in heavy timber and downed fuels on Merna Butte, within the Big Piney Ranger District.
Yesterday’s firefighting efforts included the deployment of three air tankers, two helicopters, helitack crews, six fire engines, and a fire module. Firefighters are focusing on preventing the fire from spreading towards infrastructure near the Forest boundary. Retardant lines were dropped around the fire area to slow the spread of flames, and crews are working to reinforce these lines with hose lines, natural holding features, and fence lines.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. The Sublette County Sheriff’s Office has issued pre-evacuation notices. Residents within a one-mile radius of Merna Butte are in the “Set” stage for possible evacuation, while those within a five-mile radius are in the “Ready” stage and should remain vigilant for further updates.
An emergency road closure is in effect for Roberts Road, located off Daniel-Merna Road (CR-23-112). Firefighters are using Horse Creek Road (FS 10389) for access, and the public is asked to avoid the area to allow for safe firefighting operations.
For more information and updates, visit the Bridger-Teton National Forest website or follow their social media channels.
