Lightning, chain saw identified as causes of recent BWCAW-area wildfires

BOUNDARY WATERS — Lightning is believed to be the cause of three wildfires reported over the weekend in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

The U.S. Forest Service reported the largest of the three is about 11 miles east of Crane Lake and was first detected Saturday, June 7, during a routine fire patrol flight.

It covers about 10 acres, and helicopters were used to make water bucket drops on Sunday to set up safe access for wildland firefighters. The fire was observed to be creeping and smoldering with light winds.

A few nearby wilderness campsites may be closed for safety but there are no other closures in the Boundary Waters. There is, however, currently a ban on campfires within the wilderness area because of dry conditions.

A 1-acre fire at the east end of Lac La Croix near the Canadian border also required a small fire crew, and a quarter-acre fire caused by a tree struck by lightning about 12 miles away from Tower was being monitored.

Birch Bay Fire caused by chain saw

The Forest Service also reported the cause of the Birch Bay Fire — first reported June 1, northwest of Ely — was determined by a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources investigator.

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U.S. Forest Service-Superior National Forest via Facebook

The 30-acre fire likely originated from a chain saw during work by Forest Service personnel to reduce fuel and prepare for a prescribed burn. Chain saws can easily ignite wildland fuels with hot engines, scorching exhaust, or sparks from chain strikes. Even brief contact with these fine fuels can trigger a fast moving wildfire, the news release stated.

“The Birch Bay Fire has had an impact on local communities, visitors, and natural resources,” stated Drew Stroberg, acting forest supervisor of the Superior National Forest. “We are committed to transparency regarding the findings of this investigation and to reviewing the incident to identify lessons learned that can help inform future operations.”

At the time of the fire’s ignition, crews were working within the Geraldine Prescribed Fire project area, conducting chain saw operations to prepare and maintain control lines for the future prescribed fire. Using chain saws to prepare lines is common to ensure safe access for firefighters, reduce the amount of fuel material near the control lines, and to ensure the control lines are secure for holding the prescribed fire. No other prescribed fire burning activities were underway.

The Forest Service requires chain saw operators to complete training and certification requirements and follow national safety standards. Chain saws used on National Forest System lands must meet equipment standards, including the use of functioning spark arresters and other safety features.