BILLINGS — The Mountain View Fire, burning northwest of Billings since Wednesday, is about 20% contained, according to a press release from the Montana Department of Natural Resources and & Conservation.
The fire has been burning in the Buffalo Trail area southeast of the town of Molt.
Local, state, and federal firefighting resources arrived and immediately started working together to safely contain the spread of the fire. Air resources supported firefighters by providing water and retardant where needed. The fire area is comprised of steep rocky terrain with homes along the southwest perimeter.
The fire had no growth over the evening and is holding at 2,800 acres. No structures have burned.
When crews responded Wednesday, wind and dry conditions caused the fire to spread. Thursday, fire resources were successful in keeping the fire from spreading.
The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s (DNRC) County Assist Team (CAT) arrived Thursday to assist local firefighters and provide logistical support.
Incident Commander, David Hamilton and team will be on scene and managing the fire until further notice.
On Friday, fire resources are using the cooler temperatures to build and improve fire lines, continue to hold the fire, further secure the perimeter and begin to initiate mop up activities.
Helicopters and crews are on alert to respond to any new fire starts. Additional resources are en route and will continue to arrive throughout the day.
No evacuations or warnings are in place currently.
Buffalo Trail Road, north of Lipp Road, is only open to residents and fire traffic.
There are approximately 150 homes in this area.
Resources being used include 24 engines, six water tenders, three hot shot crews (20 people per crew), two helicopters and four dozers.
