Contact Information:
Zachary Bashoor, (406) 369-5162, zbashoor@mtforests.com
Bayley Butler, (406) 596-7299, bayley.butler@mtforests.com

PRESS RELEASE: Prescribed Burn Planned in Missoula Area
A local firm, Montana Forest Consultants, in coordination with Whitehorse Forestry and local fire agencies, will be conducting a prescribed burn starting Wednesday, October 8, 2025 in the Big Flat Road and Saddleback Lane vicinity. This start date is tentative and contingent on favorable conditions for burning.
Smoke will be visible from the greater Missoula area. The burn will take place on 70 acres of private land as part of a larger 250 acre project funded by the Montana DNRC Montana Forest Action Plan grant for the Big Flat Forest Restoration Project.
Studies show prescribed burns create fire, insect, and disease resilient forests, benefiting the local ecosystem. Additionally, prescribed burns are a tool to reduce wildfire risk to values and property in the Wildland Urban Interface. The ongoing Big Flat Forest Restoration Project will continue to treat forested areas, and the goal is to utilize prescribed fire and reforest the area with native seedlings.
The Big Flat Forest Restoration Project is a multi-year, coordinated effort on private land between Montana Forest Consultants, Montana DNRC, forestry contractors, as well as other local, state, and federal organizations.
Burn-related traffic may congest areas of Big Flat Road, Horseback Ridge Road, and Saddleback Lane. No road closures are expected. The burn area will be closed to the public.
Ample resources will be on-site, including but not limited to: a Type 6 fire engine, large capacity water tender, various water pumps, and ground and aerial support.
For more information, contact Zack Bashoor at Montana Forest Consultants at (406) 369-5162 or zbashoor@mtforests.com. Learn more about Montana Forest Consultants at mtforests.com