Moonshine Fire Reaches 61% Containment

(WHEATLAND, Wyo.) — The Moonshine Fire has burned 7,325 acres and is now 61% contained as crews continue mop-up and suppression repair work, fire officials reported.

There are 132 personnel assigned to the incident.

Recent scattered thunderstorms and nearly completed suppression repair work have reduced the threat posed by the fire. Infrared flights have detected minimal remaining heat, and fire officials report secure conditions along the fire perimeter.

Crews are working farther into the burned area, checking for remaining heat and extinguishing hot spots well inside established control lines. The process, known as mop-up and cold trailing, involves locating and cooling hidden heat to reduce the potential for fire spread.

Operations Thursday focused on suppression repair. Equipment operators smoothed dirt access roads to reduce erosion, while crews refilled ponds and other water sources used during firefighting operations. The work is being completed under land-use agreements with property owners to restore water resources used by fire engines and helicopters.

Unmanned aircraft were scheduled to conduct mapping flights Friday to look for lingering hot spots and any new fires caused by lightning. Fire managers will use the information to direct crews to specific areas requiring additional attention.

A specialized wildland fire module will remain at Bookout Ranch to monitor any remaining threats. The small, self-sufficient crew is trained to manage localized fire behavior and protect property. Bookout Ranch is currently the only private property near the active incident boundary.

Firefighters also report early grass regeneration within the burned area. Recent rainfall and nutrients in the ash left by burned vegetation are supporting new growth as unsettled weather continues.

More information is available through the Moonshine Fire information page or by calling (307) 295-2770.