SAM Magazine - Red Lodge, Mt., August 5, 2008 - With the Cascade wildfire 66-percent contained, crews are starting mop up operations at Red Lodge. The Cascade wildfire continued to burn overnight toward natural barriers to the west and south, but crews were pulled off the blaze at midnight on Sunday. Helicopters have also flown out 11,200 pounds of cargo, reflecting the drawdown of the operation. At its height, the wildfire threatened the Red Lodge Ski Resort, and involved approximately 750 fire fighters and support staff. Additional air resources were also used to battle the blaze, which has burned over 10,173 acres.

Currently 18 hand crews (20 people each), 18 engines, 6 water tenders, and 8 helicopters remain assigned to the blaze, for a total of 638 personnel. Closures remain in the area due to the fire, including the ski area. \