MINONG, Wis. (WJMC) — More details are known about the Smith Bridge wildfire in Washburn County.
The Department of Natural Resources said two trailer homes and five outbuildings were destroyed. Another ten homes and 23 outbuildings were threatened but saved from the fire that burned an estimated 191 acres near Gilmore Lake, northwest of Minong. No injuries were reported.
Fire crews first responded Saturday afternoon, and involved 12 local fire departments, 10 DNR firetrucks, 9 plows and four firefighting aircraft, including two aerial water tankers. Local properties were evacuated, but residents were able to return Sunday morning after the fire was under control. The cause was under investigation.
Fire danger remained high across much of the state. Burn permits are suspended in many areas, and burning discouraged in areas exempt from permits. Check fire danger levels and see active wildfires at the DNR’s website, apps.dnr.wi.gov/wisburn.