05/29/2026
Good afternoon, everyone. We have taken several calls and in-person questions asking about the current fire danger in the county. Below is the information provided. Be safe.
Fire Council & Fire Warden Update – Open Burning Remains Closed
Based on current fuel moisture conditions and recommendations from the Musselshell County Fire Council and Fire Warden, open burning remains closed throughout Musselshell County and will remain closed until further notice.
Recent fuel moisture readings continue to show concerning conditions in several key fuel types. While some areas have seen slight improvements, fine fuels (grasses), timber fuels, and 1000-hour fuels remain dry enough to support rapid fire growth and increased fire danger.
We understand that there is potential for precipitation this weekend, and any moisture is certainly welcome. However, a single weather event is unlikely to significantly improve overall fuel conditions. Sustained moisture over an extended period will be necessary to increase fuel moisture levels in grasses, timber, and larger dead fuels.
Current conditions indicate:
• Fine fuels remain capable of carrying fire rapidly.
• Timber fuels continue to support fire spread and resistance to control.
• 1000-hour fuels remain dry enough to contribute to long-duration burning and increased fire intensity.
For these reasons, the county-wide open burning closure will remain in effect. Unless there is a substantial and lasting improvement in fuel moisture conditions, it is anticipated that the closure will remain in place for much of the summer fire season.
What Is Still Allowed?
At this time, the following activities remain allowed as we are not in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions yet:
✅ Recreational campfires and fire pits used for cooking, warmth, or recreation.
✅ Burn barrels equipped with a properly installed screen designed to prevent the escape of sparks and embers.
Anyone conducting these activities is encouraged to use caution, have a water source readily available, and never leave a fire unattended.
The Fire Council and Fire Warden will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide updates as conditions change.
We appreciate everyone's cooperation and commitment to preventing human-caused wildfires and protecting our communities, firefighters, and natural resources.
Fuel Moisture Trend Summary
Fuel Type Steamboat Horsethief Interpretation
1000-Hr 8% 13% Dry to very dry heavy fuels
Grass 73% 32% Transitional vs. critically cured
Silver Sage 207% 216% Still relatively moist
Wyoming Sage 154% 151% Approaching critical seasonal transition
Rocky Mountain Juniper 73% 79% Dry and increasingly available
Ponderosa Pine 84% 85% Moderately dry live woody fuels
