BLM and partners advise caution in areas with active wildfire suppression activities

BILLINGS, Mont. – As western Montana continues to experience more late-summer fire activity, the Northern Rockies Incident Management Team 6, in coordination with other agencies and groups, is sourcing water from Ruby Reservoir to support suppression operations for wildfires in southwest Montana. 

Work using scooper aircraft to collect large amounts of water from Ruby Reservoir is already underway. These activities may continue for several days, depending on the severity, timeline and location of wildfires in the area. Currently, the water scooped from Ruby Reservoir is largely supporting efforts to quell the Bivens Creek and Cloudrest fires, just north of the reservoir itself. The water collected may also be used for other fire response activities, based on every incident’s severity and access to resources. 

We ask that all visitors exercise caution and remain conscientious of their surroundings while recreating in this area. Crews collecting water via scooping aircraft announce themselves using visual methods, such as circling the reservoir before beginning a job, and audible methods, including sirens that announce their presence. Please heed these notifications and follow all instructions to ensure your safety while these procedures take place. 

By working together, we can ensure that Ruby Reservoir and its surrounding areas remain beautiful, productive and enjoyable to visitors and recreators. Thank you for your coordination as we respond to wildfires across the country while maintaining open and accessible recreation spots for all.