Ranger says thanks to the Flathead

The Bear Creek and Trail Creek Fires have been burning for over a month on the Spotted Bear Ranger District. During some very stressful times, the local Flathead community has stepped up and supported the firefighters, fire managers and personnel assisting with fire operations.

Support has come in the way of very simple heartfelt messages like “Thank you for all you do” from residents along the street, to donations of food, treats, goodies, and warm clothing for a Florida crew. It’s been a real “neighbor helping neighbor” atmosphere. Local outfitters have donated hay, equipment and transportation to outfitters who lost equipment in the fire that burned through Meadow Creek Outfitters’ corrals.

Also a well-deserved thank you goes to the local media for their timely and accurate coverage of these fires. It has really helped the public understand and be informed of fire activity and closures due to the fires. My hats off to the Flathead community for helping out and being a good neighbor — Thank you.

Deb Mucklow, of Columbia Falls, is the district ranger for the Spotted Bear Ranger District.