HOUGHTON LAKE — The Benzie Road Fire near Houghton Lake in Roscommon County is 100% contained, though fire crews continued Wednesday to douse 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 Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
The fire was reported early Sunday afternoon east of Old U.S. Highway 27 near the Clare-Roscommon county line in a marshy area with mixed conifer and hardwood forest. Crews battling the blaze included DNR firefighters, local fire departments, bulldozers, fire engines and drone aircraft support.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
People cause nine out of 10 wildfires in Michigan, according to the DNR. Conditions are expected to remain dry in the coming days.
Before burning yard debris, check online for a burn permit or call 866-922-2876 to confirm if burning is allowed. More fire safety tips are available at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.
