Flathead National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this spring, pending all required approvals. This work may occur from March through June, as weather conditions allow. Prescribed fires reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from uncharacteristically high severity wildfires.
Prescribed fire is planned for the following areas:

• Cold Jim – 79 acres – Swan Valley, west of Montana highway 83
• Valley Bottom – 100 acres – Swan Valley, south of Swan River State Forest
• Bigfork Admin – 10 acres – Swan Lake Ranger Station administrative site
• Dateline – 98 acres – West of Olney in Alder and Good Creek drainages
• Mr. Rogers – 33 acres – West of Olney in the Gregg Creek drainage
• Burnt Grouse – 40 acres – West of Olney in the Good Creek drainage
• Reed Divide piles – 50 acres – Southwest of Whitefish in Reed Divide area
• Hungry Horse Admin – 5 acres – Hungry Horse Ranger Station administrative site
• Coram Pasture Admin – 20 acres – Coram Pasture administrative site
• Silver Mule – 99 acres – Spotted Bear Mountain
• Horse Ridge – 100 acres – Horse Ridge near Spotted Bear Ranger Station

Please see the accompanying map for prescribed fire locations.

We evaluate conditions prior to beginning prescribed fire operations and only commence operations if weather, air quality and fuel conditions are favorable. County emergency management officials are notified prior to the start of burning operations. 
Residents and visitors may see or smell smoke during these operations. For current air quality information, visit AirNow.gov or download the AirNow mobile app. Visitors are advised to watch for posted warning signs along roads near prescribed fire areas and to follow all closure notices for public safety. 

Source: U.S. Forest Service

Photo: Megan Strickland Sacry 2025