North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park still closed due to wildfire

The Horse Pasture Fire has burned about 5,000 acres in North Dakota

MD-87 drops on the Horse Pasture Fire in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, April, 2021.
MD-87 drops on the Horse Pasture Fire in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, April, 2021. Photo courtesy of NPS.

The National Park Service said Tuesday morning that the Horse Pasture Fire which has required the closure of the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, has grown to about 5,000 acres. A portion of the 2,000-acre increase over the size announced Monday is a result of burning out to secure firelines. The fire is also burning in the Little Missouri National Grassland north of the park.

The cause is still under investigation. Light winds Monday night and expected on Tuesday had fire personnel optimistic as they continue to contain the blaze. At this time, there is no reported structure damage, but the CCC campground and other infrastructure in the park are still at risk, as well as some private residences on the north end of the fire.

As of 6 p.m. Tuesday afternoon the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park was still closed due to the fire.

Map of the Horse Pasture Fire
Map of the Horse Pasture Fire showing heat detected by a satellite as late as 3:06 p.m. MDT April 5, 2021.

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Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.