All Wildfires In And Around BCWAW Contained, Superior National Forest Preparing For Seasonal Closures

(KNOX/Learfield) –All the wildfires that have been burning in and around Minnesota’s Boundary Waters are now fully contained after two months of trying to extinguish them. The fires started from lightning strikes in July, burning over 62,000 acres in northern Minnesota and another 9,000 acres in Canada. The last remaining fires were the Sioux, Bear Trap and Thumb fires. Recent rainfall helped firefighters reach full containment. Most Boundary Waters campsites have reopened and burning restrictions have been lifted, although portions of the Echo Trail and some fire-damaged campsites remain closed.

Meanwhile, Campgrounds across the Superior National Forest are starting to get ready for seasonal closures as fall begins soon. The Forest Service says closures will take place throughout September and October, with gates at affected recreation sites locked until spring. Some campgrounds will remain open without fees or services temporarily, which include water and garbage collection. Dispersed and backcountry camping, along with many trails and boat ramps, will remain available. Several Gunflint and Tofte district campgrounds will continue operating with fees through October 18th.