Firefighters still battling Moonshine Fire; fire 0% contained

WHEATLAND, Wyo. — The Bureau of Land Management has issued another update on the Moonshine Fire, currently burning in Albany County in the Laramie Range, approximately 17 miles southwest of Wheatland.

A social media post from the BLM says that the primary objectives for the fire include firefighter and public safety, followed by protecting and preserving structures and ranching land, then limiting the fire’s spread and progression.

Currently, 4,869 acres have burned and the fire is 0% contained. A total of 254 personnel are currently battling the fire, which started on Sept. 7.

On Thursday, fire officials confirmed that two minor structures were lost in the fire. Red flag conditions the past two days, as well as remaining heat in the area, have limited access to assess the damage.

Successful direct extinguishment and indirect confinement strategies have allowed officials adequate time to verify impacts from the fire’s initial progression.

On the south end of the fire, from Government Peak toward Slate Creek Road, crews have continued building a fire line, strengthening containment and assessing contingency plans. Within Moonshine Gulch, crews have identified terrain features near the Laramie River that may provide additional opportunities to strengthen control lines on the fire’s western edge.

On the north end of the fire, dry conditions and Thursday’s winds have increased fire activity. While prior control lines held, fire activity flanked westward, moving northwest along Reed Creek. Throughout the day Thursday, firefighters used extensive aerial support, including helicopters, large air tankers and scoopers, to slow fire spread and limit northward progression.

On Friday morning, the night shift verified that control lines held overnight. Crews are now focused on protecting structures in proximity to the current fire footprint, reinforcing control lines and strengthening contingency resources.

Patrolling containment lines around the southeastern perimeter will continue as conditions and terrain allow.

“There is a Temporary Flight Restriction in place,” the social media post states. “Please avoid using drones in the area. If you fly, we can’t! Please continue to follow official fire information and respect all closures in the area.”

For Moonshine Fire information:

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