RCFD Responds to Afternoon Grass Fire

Fire is the second in the area in less than 24 hours.

Rapid City, S.D. - Rapid City Firefighters from Stations 1, 4 and 7 responded to the area east of 21 E. Knollwood Drive just after 2:30 pm this afternoon for a report of a grass fire. Before arriving, a large, dark plume of smoke was clearly visible from most areas of Rapid City. The large column prompted multiple calls to Pennington County 9-1-1.  

When crews arrived they found an area that was approximately one acre in size that was actively burning. The area is comprised of grass, trees and a marshy area with a large amount of broadleaf cattails growing in it. When burned, broadleaf cattail marshes tend to produce thick, dark smoke and burn hot despite being in somewhat of a wetlands area. This was certainly the case this afternoon.

Fire crews took advantage of favorable weather conditions, adequate resources on scene, and fuel breaks to conduct a controlled burn out operation. The burn out operation reduces hazardous fuels in the area and may help reduce future problems later on. The burn out operation also helped to improve the fire area aesthetically by “squaring up” the burn area. The area should see a green-up effect in the spring as a result of the burn out operation.

Once burn out operations ceased and the fire was contained and mopped up, the burn area covered approximately three acres. As of 4:00 pm, the fire was 100% contained.

The fire is believed to have been human caused and will remain under investigation. The fire today occurred in the same area as another fire at around 7:00 pm last night. The fire last night is also believed to have been human caused.

Unseasonably warm and dry conditions are expected to persist into the foreseeable future. The Rapid City Fire Department will take this opportunity to remind the public to be cautious with sources of ignition. As hunters and outdoor enthusiasts take to the field, be aware of where vehicles with hot exhaust are parked. Avoid parking in tall, dry grass. Be mindful when smoking materials are discarded.

No further updates related to this incident are anticipated at this time. For questions or comment related to this release, please contact Lt. Jim Bussell, Public Information Officer for the Rapid City Fire Department at (605)-394-4180.

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