JACKSON — Fire resources from the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Grand Teton National Park responded to a report of smoke on Shadow Mountain north of Jackson, on the afternoon of June 7th.
Through methodical detection, Forest Service fire investigators have determined the Antelope Springs fire to be a human caused fire. The first fire of the season was discovered at the base of the Shadow Mountain area and reported to Teton Interagency Fire Dispatch Center. Several resources responded to the fire for full fire suppression engagement.
Primarily burning in aspen understory of thatch grass and dead logs, the early season fire grew to over 9 acres before firefighters and the local interagency helicopter where able to completely secure fire line around the perimeter.
Chris Vero, Assistant Fire Management Officer for the North Zone of the Bridger-Teton NF, commented “The Jackson Hole area has not seen significant rainfall this spring and since snowmelt, the area fuels have been drying for several weeks. Live fuels are lush and green, but don’t be surprised to see fire activity spreading in the dead forest fuels, until the area receives significant rain.” Fire danger rating in the Teton interagency area is currently “LOW’.” A low fire danger rating means fires are not easily started and when burning in open cured grassland may burn freely a few hours after rain, but fires burning in forested areas spread slowly by creeping or smoldering.
Shadow Mountain is an area of concern for fire management staff and forest protection officers. Last summer alone, over 97 campfires were found on the North Zone of the interagency area, 43 of those fires where in the Shadow Mountain area. With spectacular views of the Tetons and miles of trails for mountain bikers and ATV’s, the area is host to several overnight campers and day use visitors. With no formal camping facilities, water is scarce for aiding to put campfires out. Campers visiting this area need to bring enough extra water and a shovel with them when planning on enjoying a campfire. Fireworks can also ignite an unwanted fire and are never allowed on federal land or within Teton County. As of today, the Interagency Fire Dispatch has reported 18 campfires left abandoned or unattended.
Fire Investigators are seeking any information regarding the Antelope Spring fire. To report any information or for more fire information contact 307-739-5424 or visit www.tetonfires._
–From a Teton County Sheriff”s Office press release
