Fire crews are making progress on several wildfires burning across the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, though some areas remain active.
Cutaway Fire: The Cutaway Fire, located about eight miles southwest of Georgetown Lake, held at 30 acres overnight with minimal growth. The fire is burning near the East Fork Trail, about a mile from the trailhead. Crews are scouting for safe access points to begin handline construction and are preparing helispots for potential medical evacuations. Firefighters will camp near the trailhead as they continue work. Two helicopters dropped water from East Fork Reservoir on Monday, helping keep the fireโs head and northern flank in check. Officials urge the public to avoid the reservoir and trailhead to allow safe firefighting operations. A Temporary Flight Restriction is also in place.
Cloudrest Fire: The Cloudrest Fire, burning 15 miles northwest of Virginia City, grew slightly after gusty winds from a passing thunderstorm on Sunday night. A two-acre flare-up in the Noble Fork drainage produced smoke, tree torching, and a small run up a ridge. Helicopters cooled the area to prevent downslope spread toward the creek. Heavy equipment known as โskidgensโ are being used to reduce fuels and protect nearby private structures. The fire is currently 3,148 acres and 54% contained.
Bivens Creek Fire: Suppression repair work is underway on the Bivens Creek Fire, located 15 miles north of Virginia City. Crews and heavy equipment are restoring dozer and hand lines to more natural conditions, guided by resource advisors. That work includes covering fire lines with vegetation and constructing water bars. The fire burned 2,126 acres and is now 100% contained.
Timber Butte Fire: Three engine crews remain on the Timber Butte Fire, located six miles west of Dell, conducting mop-up along the fireline. Firefighters continue to work through heat in deep duff and timber pockets, which may produce visible smoke. The fire stands at 2,245 acres and 56% containment.
