NISLAND—Firefighters from several area departments responded Monday afternoon, July 13, to a grass and hayfield fire northeast of Nisland that burned approximately 20 acres.
According to Butte County Sheriff Fred Lamphere, the fire was reported around 4 p.m. and is believed to have been sparked by a piece of farm equipment. The fire ignited dry vegetation, crossed U.S. Highway 212, and spread into a nearby hayfield.
Fire departments from Nisland, Newell, Vale, Belle Fourche, Spearfish and Whitewood responded to the scene and worked together to contain the blaze. By Tuesday morning, the fire had been brought under control, though firefighters remained at the scene extinguishing hot spots and several hay bales that continued to burn.
Authorities estimate the fire caused approximately $10,000 in damage, with the majority of the losses attributed to destroyed hay bales. No injuries were reported. One individual who reported the fire was evaluated by emergency medical personnel at the scene but did not require transportation to a hospital.
Sheriff Lamphere reminded residents that current dry conditions continue to create an elevated wildfire risk throughout the area, and even properly functioning farm equipment can produce sparks capable of igniting dry grass. Lamphere encourages the community to always keep water in vehicles, and be sure that vehicles are not hot before entering tall grass.
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