Garceau Fire west of Polson grows beyond 1,500 acres
Aug. 17—A new wildfire that sprung up in the Polson area Tuesday has grown to roughly 1,554 acres.
About 245 firefighters were working the Garceau Fire, which is located about 10 air miles from Polson. The blaze was initially listed as human-caused by the Northern Rockies Coordination Center (NRCC) and officials later determined an electric fence sparked it.
Heavy air tankers, single engine air tankers and helicopters were called upon in the initial attack while ground equipment was deployed to build control lines. Crews were taking a full suppression management strategy, NRCC officials said.
The wildfire, burning through timber and grass, is listed as 0 percent contained. NRCC officials described it as exhibiting "extreme fire behavior with uphill runs and group torching."
The blaze, due west of Polson, is not threatening any structures, officials said. Irvine Flats Road toward Windy Gap is closed to through traffic.
Thus far, the blaze has cost an estimated $300,000 to fight, according to NRCC.
The nearby Elmo 2 Fire, which began in late July and was also deemed human-caused, is at 21,349 acres and is considered 76% contained.
