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Benzie Road Fire containment near Houghton Lake holds at 100% as Michigan DNR crews mop up remaining hot spots and urge caution amid continued dry conditions.
HOUGHTON LAKE, Mich. — Michigan Department of Natural Resources officials said the Benzie Road Fire in Roscommon County is 100% contained, with firefighters continuing to put water on remaining hot spots along the perimeter. “They will be out there for the next several days, mopping up to make sure the fire remains contained,” said Jeff Vasher, resource protection manager for the DNR. (Updates reported by regional outlets citing DNR officials.);
After moving to full containment, Michigan DNR continues perimeter patrols and hot-spot suppression through the week
The wildfire was first reported on Sunday afternoon, east of Old U.S. 27, near the Clare–Roscommon county line, in a mixed conifer and hardwood forest with marshy terrain. Earlier this week, the DNR said a half-inch of overnight rain helped firefighters gain control and reach 95% containment, aided by bulldozers, engines, local departments, and drone aircraft for mapping and thermal imaging.
With Benzie Road Fire contained, officials stress caution as people spark nine in ten Michigan wildfires
The cause remains under investigation, the DNR said. Officials repeated a standing warning: people cause nine out of 10 wildfires in Michigan, often from escaped yard-debris burns during dry, windy weather. Residents should confirm daily burn status before lighting debris piles. Check the DNR’s burn-permit map or call 866-922-BURN (866-922-2876).
Practical steps for Michigan residents: verify burn permissions, watch the wind, and keep suppression tools ready
Michigan residents planning a yard cleanup should verify burn permissions for their county and township, avoid burning on windy days, clear flammable materials around piles, keep water and tools on hand, and never leave a fire unattended. The DNR posts daily updates by 10 a.m. Eastern on its online burn-permit map and provides statewide guidance on safe open burning.
Related context for Michigan readers: drought, seasonal fuels, and why local coordination matters
Persistent dry stretches elevate wildfire risk in the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula, leading to burn-permit limits and advisories in recent months. State officials urge residents to monitor local fire-weather conditions and follow community restrictions that may exceed state guidance.
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