* On the evening of Aug. 3, Yellowstone’s Mount Washburn fire lookout detected a wildfire near the eastern boundary of the park likely caused by lightning. That area has received substantial lightning over the past two weeks.
* While performing an aerial reconnaissance on the morning of August 4, Shoshone National Forest fire staff located the fire in the vicinity of Pollux Peak.
* Mapped at 29 acres, the remote fire does not pose an immediate threat to established trails, backcountry campsites, or patrol cabins.
* Fire managers intend to monitor the Pollux Fire.
* They also will prepare long-term management plans that address firefighter and public safety, protection of structures (a patrol cabin is located about 4 miles northeast of the fire) and natural and cultural resources.
* Smoke from this wildfire may be visible in the areas of Sunlight Basin, Wyoming, and Crandall, Wyoming.
* The Greater Yellowstone area is a fire-adapted ecosystem. Fire plays an important role in maintaining the health of this area’s wildlife habitat and vegetation.
* Pollux Fire photos are available on Flickr.
* The park will provide Pollux Fire information as activity warrants.
* Stay informed about current fire activity in Yellowstone.
Tags: wildfire
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
