CUSTER, S.D. – Officials in Custer State Park say the Mine Draw Fire is now 100-percent contained.
Heavy rain had fallen in the area Thursday afternoon.
In a Facebook post, Custer State Park stated:
“All aircraft have been released from the incident. Fire Managers are currently evaluating resource needs for tomorrow with plans for greatly reducing staffing on the fire.
We’re extremely grateful for the hard work of the multi-state, multi-agency efforts of the firefighters on the ground.”
***THIS IS AN UPDATE TO OUR EARLIER STORY FOUND BELOW***
CUSTER, S.D. – The Mine Draw Fire remains active today in Custer State Park between Hwy 16A and Center Lake. The fire started on June 24, 2020 at approximately 11:15 a.m. and the cause remains under investigation. It’s estimated to be approximately 60 acres and 25% contained.
The safety of the public and firefighters will continue to be the primary objective of this incident. Additional objectives are to minimize growth of the fire and keep the fire North of Shop Draw Road, East of Highway 87, and West of Mine Draw Road.
There are 117 firefighters on scene, with additional resources available should they be needed. There are two, Type 1 Helicopters and one air attack plane being used on the fire, with additional air resources also available.
Temperatures Thursday afternoon are expected to be in the 80’s, with a thunderstorm possible, mainly after 5:00 p.m.
Currently, Highway 87 North is closed from the junction of 16A and Needles Highway to Playhouse road. This will remain closed to avoid road congestion and aid firefighters in accessing the fire to increase containment. Visitors can still access the iconic Needles and Center Lake Campground from American Center Road or Iron Mountain Road.
Custer State Park remains open, however, Grace Coolidge Walk-in Fishing Area, Center Lake beach and lake access are closed due to bucket usage for helicopters. Fire managers will continue to reevaluate closures and open areas as soon as it’s safe to do so. Park Managers request that visitors respect these closures for the safety of the public and firefighters.
