News Release

Grass fire contained at Wind Cave National Park

NPS Photo

News Release Date: January 13, 2021

Contact: Tom Farrell, 605-745-1130

Contact: Lennie Ramacher, 605-745-1131

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, SD – Local personnel from the National Park Service and South Dakota Wildland Fire responded to a grass fire in Wind Cave National Park at 3:13 p.m. on Tuesday, January 12. The fire burned about 1.3 acres and was controlled by 5:30 p.m. The human-caused fire is under investigation.

“This event shows that dry conditions persist, regardless of the season,” said Wind Cave Superintendent Leigh Welling. “It’s a reminder to exercise caution when using equipment and be diligent about watching burn piles.”

Ten personnel from Wind Cave National Park and Custer State Park controlled the blaze. Three Type 6 engines were used. No structures were threatened by the fire.