Condon fire causes concern

A forest fire burning about four miles northeast of Condon has raised concerns among some locals because of increased burning activity in recent days.

The lightning-caused fire was detected on July 28, but it was mostly inactive through last week. This week, however, weather conditions changed, and on Wednesday the fire grew to about 150 acres.

“With continued hot weather it is expected the fire will exhibit significant growth through the remainder of the week, particularly in the afternoon and early evening burning periods,” an update on the fire states. “Smoke will likely remain quite visible from the fire for some time.”

Wade Muhlhof, the Flathead National Forest’s public affairs officer, said there is concern among Condon area residents about the potential for the fire to burn downslope toward cabins and homes in the Swan Valley.

A meeting to update the public on the status of suppression efforts will be held at 6:30 p.m. Sunday in the Swan Valley Community Hall in Condon.

So far, the fire remains within established containment lines built in the Dog Creek and Condon Creek drainages along Forest Road 10513. A dozer is assigned to improve existing roads at the heel of the fire for firefighter and engine access.

One light helicopter is assigned to the fire with a medium helicopter available in Ferndale. Two engine crews and one 20-person hand crew are on the fire, and a Type 3 management team is scheduled to take over management of the fire Saturday.