SEATTLE – A small fire in the Souse Gulch day-use area on Lake Koocanusa behind Libby Dam was suppressed yesterday afternoon, but some recreation areas remain closed to the public.
The fire was reported Friday evening, closing Souse Gulch to the public until 4 p.m. MST yesterday while fire suppression and monitoring were underway.
The fire impacted approximately 1.5 acres of the day-use area. The burned area and the area around picnic shelter one down to the shoreline remain closed to the public at this time.
Access to the floating dock is now open, however, contingent upon visitors respecting the closed areas.
Disc Golf course holes five and six are closed until cleanup from the fire is complete.
Fire suppression support was provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service fire personnel and a tanker helicopter. Fire officials believe it was a human caused fire, exact source unknown, with no further evidence to support an investigation.
With the recent hot, dry weather, we ask that visitors please be careful with all fire, including cigarettes, making sure any source of heat or flame is extinguished and liberally doused with water before leaving the area.
For more information, please contact Park Rangers Susan James or Alana Mesenbrink at (406) 293-5577.
Release no. 13-034