The USDA Forest Service plans to implement several prescribed fire projects on the Superior National Forest, including the Galaxy units. The Galaxy Units (490 acres) are located approximately five miles east of the community of Isabella along Forest Road 172 in Lake County, MN (Township 59N, Range 7W, Section 6). Fire staff plan to begin ignitions on the prescribed burn at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 2, 2023, and continue for multiple days. Smoke may be visible in the area.

Recent wetter weather and higher humidity recovery at night has moderated conditions on the Forest. Weather factors including fuel moisture, relative humidity, temperature, and wind will be used to determine the actual date of ignition. The Galaxy Prescribed Fire units are expected to be within prescription or parameters for burning due to recent rainfall and higher humidity levels.

Long-term objectives of this burn are to maintain, encourage and enhance old growth red and white pine characteristics by restoring the ecological process of fire to the site. Low to moderate-intensity surface fire beneath mature red and white pines will enhance growing conditions and protect canopy trees by reducing balsam fir or ladder fuels in the understory. Higher intensity fire in the open areas will improve and prepare the site for young regenerating pine by reducing slash and adding nutrients to the soil. Prescribed fire treatments create a patchwork or mosaic of fire-resistant forest stands on the landscape helping reduce the intensity of future wildfires.

Fire staff will use precise ignition methods to start the fires. Natural topographic features and constructed lines will be used to control and hold the fires. Hose-lays supplied by water pumps or other water delivery equipment will supplement the holding actions where needed. Fire crews will monitor the prescribed fire until it is declared out. 

For information on the prescribed fire, please contact the Tofte Ranger District Office at 218-663-8060.