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The Lutz Fire, located 20 miles west of Philipsburg, has grown to more than 1,500 acres. More than 4,500 acres remain contained on the west face of Emerine Ridge. Area and trail closures are in effect to provide for safety of forest visitors.

Forty two people are fighting the Lutz Fire, which was caused by lightning on Aug. 6. Due to fire, smoke and debris, Skalkaho Highway to Highway 38 remains closed.

The Copper Mountain Fire was caused by lightning on Aug. 25 and has now torched 673 acres. It is located 27 miles southwest of Philipsburg.

The Copper Mountain Fire is being managed. Retardant and water was dropped on the northeast edge of the fire to slow the spread towards the Copper Creek drainage. Also a fire line is being implemented on the ridge at the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness boundary. Three helicopters are being used for water drops and hot shot crews have been called in.

A third fire, the lightning-caused Stewart Fire southeast of Wisdom, is now at 1,600 acres. The fire burned very actively to the south and east today when humidity levels dropped.

The blaze is being managed and firefighters are working to protect private land, historic structures and an outfitter camp. Plans are being made for structure protection on the Bear Lake Cabin and the building at Martin Mine.