News Release

Cypress Camp Trail Fire Receives Precipitation

Helicopter Flies Over Cypress Camp Trail Wildfire

Michael Gue

News Release Date: April 9, 2023

Contact: Riki Hoopes, 786-886-9342

Contact: Scott Pardue, 239-695-1107

OCHOPEE, FL – Fire behavior on the Cypress Camp Trail Fire in Big Cypress National Preserve has decreased significantly today with precipitation over the fire area. Creeping and smoldering continues to be observed in the prairies and pines. Current mapping puts the fire at 9,749 acres and containment has increased to 67%.

Suppression operations continue on the eastern perimeter of the fire where access has proven to be difficult. Crews are actively constructing and scouting control line options and developing tactics for containment on the southeast corner of the fire. Similar operations will continue tomorrow as ground and aviation resources assess possible access as well as direct and indirect attack opportunities that will best meet full suppression objectives. Crews will also continue to hold and improve containment lines on the north, west, and south side of the fire.

Closures continue to remain in effect for the fire area including west of Nobles Grade, north of I-75, east of SR-29, and south of the northern Big Cypress National Preserve boundary line.

Despite the precipitation over the fire today, visitors may continue to see fire and smoke from the roadways and the risk of smoke continues to remain the biggest concern. Travelers should use caution throughout the impacted area.