Canoe Crews Battle Wildfires In The Boundary Waters Canoe Area

Wildfires continue to burn in Northern Minnesota, and specialized fire crews have been called in to help suppress the fire in remote areas. Some of them repel by helicopter, and others actually have a very Minnesota way to fight the fire.

Horse River Wildfire In BWCA

The current fire near Horse River in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area is very remote. The U.S. Forest Service-Superior National Forest office yesterday said the Horse River Fire had grown to 20-25 acres. The fire is being fueled by thick duff and dead balsam fir trees. If you've been to the BWCA, you know there are plenty of downed trees and brush that can burn.

They initially responded to the fire with 8 personnel who rappelled into the area from a helicopter. They assessed the situation and were then extracted from the fire yesterday. Rangers are also in the area informing backcountry visitors of the fire and promoting safety. Aerial monitors are continuing to identify hotspots and communicate with ground crews.

Read More: See Drone Footage Of Wildfire Devastation In Minnesota

Firefighters Use Canoes To Access Fires

Wildland Fire Modules have been ordered. They are a crew of 7-10 firefighters who work independently in remote areas. They often use canoes to access the remote backcountry of the BWCA, carrying hand tools and calling in aerial drops to suppress fires.

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They also work to construct firelines and safeguard resources, and help with public safety.

MPR shared photos of how these hotshot crews fight the fires. The quickest way to navigate the BWCA is by canoe in many cases.