News Release

Moon Fish Fire Burning in Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park

News Release Date: May 7, 2020

Contact: Everglades: Allyson Gantt, 786-610-8023

Contact: Big Cypress: Laurie Humphrey, 786-390-2575

Ochopee, Fla. – A new wildfire was discovered in Big Cypress National Preserve on May 7 at approximately 4 p.m. The fire is located in the southeast corner of the preserve, just south of Loop Road and along the shared boundary with Everglades National Park. Firefighters are currently investigating. The cause and amount of acreage are unknown at this time.

The fire is actively burning in sawgrass prairie and cypress strands. Full suppression actions are being taken given the current drought and wind conditions.

Personnel from Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park are working the fire along with interagency assistance from Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, and Miami Dade Fire to protect structures in the area.

South Florida is currently experiencing hot, dry conditions typical of this time of year. Everyone can help prevent wildfires by fully extinguishing cigarettes, reporting smoke and fire immediately, and carefully monitoring and fully extinguishing any outdoor fires.

Updates will be provided on Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park websites and social media.