Re: Some Perspective on Wildfires and Fire Management Policy
Author: Bruce Kelly
Date: 10-25-2007 - 10:41
I forgot to mention that the 1910 fire also prompted the OR&N (UP predecessor) and NP to run several "rescue trains" (more like escape trains) out of the Wallace area. OR&N's ran west to Harrison on Lake Coeur d'Alene while NP's had to climb east over the flaming Bitterroots via Lookout Pass. Historical accounts say one of the NP trains braved its way past tunnels shrouded in smoke and trestles partly on fire. As for Smokey the Bear, I wouldn't totally write him off. He just needs to learn when to put that shovel to use, and when not to.