‘Big Mud Fire’ ravages Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge

A lightning-sparked wildfire is burning in Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge, in the state’s interior.

The Big Mud Fire, burning 55 miles southwest of Tanana, was discovered yesterday by civilian aircraft. A BLM Alaska Fire Service aircraft responded from Fairbanks and flew over the lightning-caused fire. The fire is estimated to have burned about 300 acres, mostly along a ridgeline north of the Big Mud River. (Photo courtesy of Alaska Fire Service)
The Big Mud Fire, burning 55 miles southwest of Tanana, was discovered yesterday by civilian aircraft. A BLM Alaska Fire Service aircraft responded from Fairbanks and flew over the lightning-caused fire. The fire is estimated to have burned about 300 acres, mostly along a ridgeline north of the Big Mud River. (Photo courtesy of Alaska Fire Service)

The blaze, dubbed the “Big Mud Fire,” was discovered Wednesday by a civilian aircraft about 55 miles southwest of Tanana.

It’s estimated at around 300 acres.

According to a BLM press release, a U.S. Forest Service cabin is about 2 miles south of the fire, but does not appear to be threatened, currently.

BLM will continue to monitor the fire.

Josh is the Statewide Morning News Reporter/Producer for Alaska Public Media | jedge (at) alaskapublic (dot) org | 907.550.8455 | About Josh

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