(WWJ) – Officials with the Michigan DNR say wildlife has begun returning to the areas destroyed by the Blue Lakes Fire.
Officials said Wednesday crews were in the final stages of fighting the fire, continuing to identify and mop up hot spots within the 2,516-acre area affected by the fire.
While the fire is mostly contained and the area has begun to open back up, people still need to be careful in the area.
That includes slowing down while driving through the area. DNR officials say drivers should reduce their speed and watch for increased movement of wildlife.
It is common for wildlife to move from their home areas to avoid flames and seek new habitat, according to the DNR.
Since the fire has begun to settle, the DNR says a variety of wildlife has been seen returning in the burned-over area, including elk, deer, porcupines, turkeys and a scarlet tanager.
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DNR officials also say people in the area should be aware of snags – burned trees that can fall without warning – especially when it’s windy.
“It’s normal to see some smoke in the blackened area and it isn’t a cause for alarm,” officials said in a press release. “Both people and pets should avoid walking in blackened areas, as there may still be hot spots. Stay on the roads and keep pets on leashes.”
The fire started with a lightning strike on May 11, which smoldered for a couple of days until nearby brush, leaves and other fuels dried out enough to catch fire and spread the blaze.
The DNR got a lot of help in fighting the fire – located northwest of Atlanta in Montmorency and Cheboygan Counties.
“We’d like to express appreciation for the assistance and support of all the partners and cooperators involved,” said Kerry Heckman, public information officer for the DNR’s Incident Management Team.
Among those assisting were DNR Law Enforcement; USDA Forest Service; Montmorency County Sheriff’s Department and Emergency Management; the Tri-Township, Hillman Area, Lewiston, Vienna, Albert Township, Charlton Township and Onaway fire departments; the Canada Creek Ranch Fire Brigade; Onaway, Hillman Area, Tri-Township and Cheboygan EMS and the Michigan State Police.
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