Superior National Forest Update: August 14

Hello, I’m Chelsey Coley, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Planner for the Tofte and Gunflint Ranger Districts, with this week’s edition of the National Forest Update. This includes information on conditions affecting travel and recreation in the Tofte and Gunflint Districts of the Forest. For the week of August 14th, here’s what’s going on around the Forest.

The forest is now considered below normal precipitation for this time of year due to the lack of moisture in July. Our fire indices have been in the moderate range with an occasional windy day being in the high. Without good precipitation in August, those indices may continue to rise into the high levels and even have days in the extreme level if we have wind. Therefore, people need to continue to be careful with campfires.

A wildfire at Silver Island Lake started on Wednesday the 12th in Township 61 N, Range 6 W, and Section 33. At this time the ignition source is unknown. Two Forest Service engines and 45 Forest Service fire personnel are on scene along with aerial support. The current personnel on the scene are making good progress in containing the fire; it is estimated that the containment is at approximately 50%. There was a quarter-inch of rain last night that helped with suppression efforts. The crews will continue to line the fire using dozers, hand tools, and hose lays. Due to fire personnel and smoke in the area of Lake County Road 7, please avoid travel and encourage others to stay clear of the area for their safety and the safety of our firefighters. 

We also had an escape campfire on Larch Lake last week indicating that there is potential for unattended campfires to creep out of the fire ring. Fortunately, the fire just crept around and did not become an issue. Local resources are assisting with the western fire effort as much as possible while still covering our local needs. We have firefighters in Montana, Idaho, and Oregon right now.

The Tofte District is fairly active this week, when it comes to timber sales. Visitors to the Forest could expect to see logging traffic on the Honeymoon Trail (FR 164) near White Pine Lake, on the Caribou Trail (Cook County 4) near Holly Lake, on the Four Mile Grade (FR 170), on Lake County 7 near Harriet Lake, and on the Wanless Road (FR 172) near Hogback Lake.

Bears have been frequenting the McDougal Lake Campground on the Tofte District, so please be “bear” aware and keep all food out of sight, in approved containers or locked inside a hard-sided vehicle. Deposit garbage in refuse containers or store it the way that you would store food.

If you plan to provide a commercial guiding service on National Forest System land, roads, or trails, you need to apply for a special use outfitting and guiding permit. To obtain a permit, please contact Christy Tampio at our Tofte or Gunflint offices.

With all of that being said, I hope you that you all will enjoy your weekend and this has been Chelsey Coley with the National Forest Update.