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2022 Mount Franklin Fire on Isle Royale

Smoke rises from a burnt hillside.
The Mount Franklin Fire was detected on the morning of August 13, 2022.

NPS / Bridget Byrne

A charred, smokey ground during a wildfire.
Fire smolders in the thick duff layers of Isle Royale's soil.

NPS / Bridget Byrne

Island Ablaze...Again

The fire was initially estimated at 10 acres. When it was detected and responded to on the afternoon of August 13, it was clear a blaze had run through the rocky outcroppings - the once brushy landscape was now barren with ash, and trees were blackened and crispy.

For the duration of the incident, fire acitivity was minimal - creeping was exhibited, with the occasional tree torching. Eventually, the burn area was mapped, and the size of the fire was adjusted to 6 acres.

Cause and Management

A wildland firefighter holding a fire hose sprays the smoking ground.
A wildland firefighter using a fire hose to spray hot spots on the Mount Franklin Fire.

NPS / Bridget Byrne

Suppression Efforts

Wildland firefighters from two agencies across two states responded to the incident. A single-engine air tanker (SEAT) from Minnesota promptly delivered suppressant by scooping water from Lake Superior and strategically dropping it over the fire. Other suppression tactics included creating firelines, monitoring, and mopping up.

The Mount Franklin Fire was declared 100 percent contained on August 26, 2022.

New plants growing in a recently burned area.
Regrowth in the Mount Franklin Fire burn area.

NPS / Bridget Byrne

Lasting Impact

The Mount Franklin Fire was on a hot, dry, rocky ridge covered in fire-adapted species, such as jack pine and blueberry. In its wake, the fire left behind many dead and down jack pine, but the species relies on fire for reproduction. The conifer's cones are serotinous - meaning they're sealed shut, only to be opened by intense, direct sunlight or fire.

Being Isle Royale's second wildfire in as many years, the Mount Franklin Fire is a reminder that the island's ecosystem is one of fire adaptation. As the six charred acres begin to regrow, what will rise from the ashes?

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    Isle Royale National Park

    Last updated: September 14, 2023