Capitol News

Firefighters have made significant progress in containing the Benzie Road Fire near Houghton Lake, which is now about 95% contained after a half-inch of rain overnight. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported that fire crews were using a drone equipped with thermal imaging on Tuesday morning to search for remaining hot spots across the 101-acre area affected by the fire, which includes marshland and mixed pine and hardwood forest.

Jeff Vasher, resources protection manager for the DNR, commented on the challenges faced during the response. “It has been a good effort with some tough conditions Sunday and Monday,” Vasher said. He noted that dry conditions, unseasonable heat, and gusty winds made firefighting efforts more difficult.

The fire was first reported early Sunday afternoon east of Old U.S. Highway 27, near the Clare-Roscommon county line. Multiple resources were deployed to contain the blaze, including DNR firefighters, local fire departments, bulldozers, fire engines, and drone aircraft.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Officials caution that despite recent rainfall, dry conditions persist in much of Michigan. Residents are advised to check online for burn permits or call 866-922-2876 before burning yard debris. Additional fire safety information is available at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.