Local Skillet Fire grows as neighbors argue over preferred firewood

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 08:11:47 +0000

The Skillet Fire, which has now expanded to cover 2,494 acres of scenic ridgeline near the Gallatin Valley, continues to provide a significant amount of ambient heat for the local area. While emergency responders have requested that people avoid the immediate vicinity, many residents have taken to their porches to monitor the situation with binoculars and cold beverages.

“It’s just a bit dry out there, really,” says local mountain enthusiast Dave “Duff” Henderson, who is currently packing his Land Cruiser in case the wind shifts toward his property. “I’ve been telling everyone that if we’d all just properly managed our downed timber during the spring, the flames wouldn’t have such a high-quality fuel source. It’s about being prepared.”

Wildfire on The Bozeman Daily Bee

Local Skillet Fire grows as neighbors argue over preferred firewood