Small fire near Grand Marais extinguished

The one-tenth acre Little Devil Fire near Grand Marais and outside the BWCAW was spotted on Saturday and quickly extinguished. The Forest Service says it remains on patrol status. Other small fires were also reported, including one northeast of Isabella near Lake Polly and Windy Lake.

Various closures are in effect due to the Parley and Hoist Bay fires, as well as the Canadian Emerald Lake Fire near Knife Lake. Fire restrictions remain in effect in the Boundary Waters. Campfires are allowed only between 7 p.m. and midnight.

Wind direction is expected to be from northwest today, pushing smoke from these fires toward populated areas and increasing the potential for noticeable smell of smoke, especially on the upper Gunflint Trail. Until the recent rainfall, conditions remained dry and fire danger is very high across the Forest. Assessment of the rain impact will be made today.

The Fort Francis 59/Emerald Lake Fire between Knife Lake and Emerald Lake is estimated at 525 acres and continues to be active. The fire remains on the Quetico side and a Canadian fire crew is on the scene. Forest Service Crews are monitoring this fire and are prepared to actively support Canadian fire crew as needed.

The Minnesota Incident Command Center is asking civilian pilots to voluntarily stay 5 miles and 5,000 feet from fires so airborne firefighting craft have clear air space.