Fire has potential to grow

The Cardinal Creek Fire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness has burned more than 2,000 acres — and it has considerable potential for future growth, according to Spotted Bear District Ranger Deb Mucklow.

The lightning-caused fire was first detected Sunday and it has been burning in heavy timber in the Gordon Creek drainage about 19 miles southeast of Condon.

Largely because of its extremely remote location in the heart of the wilderness, along with a goal of using fire for resource benefits, no suppression action has been taken so far.

“I think there is potential for more growth ... and depending on whether we get a high pressure system with winds and high temperatures, or if it stays cool, that will really influence the fire’s potential,” Mucklow said.

There are some natural barriers in the fire’s path, such as rocky ridges and areas burned by fires in 2003, 2007 and 2009, she said.

One Forest Service administrative cabin eventually could be threatened.

“Down the road, it may require some structure protection, and we are getting ahead of the curve to be ready in case we need to implement that,” Mucklow said.

The fire also has prompted the closure of several wilderness trails.

“Fire is going to benefit many resource areas,” Mucklow said. “Sometimes it may be a short-term benefit and sometimes there may be long-term benefits ... We are trying to minimize short-term impacts to forest users.”

Backcountry routes closed by the fire include the Gordon Creek Trail from the Westside Trail to Shaw Creek Trail; Cardinal Creek Trail; Cardinal Peak Trail; Kid Mountain Trail; Pilot Peak Trail and the Cabin Creek Trail.