Progress made on Palmer Gulch Fire

By: 
Leslie Silverman
First reported at 12:49 p.m.  Saturday, Oct 29, the Palmer Gulch fire still burns as of press time.
 
The fire is located about three miles southeast of Hill City and is estimated at 87 acres with 40 percent containment.
 
According to Great Plains Fire Dispatch blog, “the fire is burning in heavy dead and down fuels in steep terrain. Heavy smoke and snags continue to be a concern for firefighters.”
 
The fire is described as an active ground fire with 4 “four to six feet flame lengths and occasional tree torching.”
 
Valley bottoms along Palmer Creek Road and on the ridge above have been scorched. 
 
“Forward progress of the fire has been stopped and crews are working to secure the fire perimeter in preparation for incoming weather,” said Todd Hoover, Hell Canyon Ranger District’s fire management officer.
 
The fire is being fought from both the sky and the ground. Locals can see  water being taken from Horsethief Lake and hear the sound of helicopters in the vicinity.
 
The threat of increased winds are a top concern as the week progresses. The area is under a red flag warning from Tuesday afternoon to Wednesday evening, with winds expected to gust between 20-30 mph.
 
Palmer Gulch Road is currently closed as are trails in the Black Elk Peak Wilderness area.
 
In order to assist firefighters in their efforts the public is asked to avoid roads and foot travel in the vicinity.
 
Numerous anecdotal posts on social media state the fire may have been caused by a campfire in the area but officially the  cause of the fire is under investigation.
 

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