Officials at Grasslands National Park near Val Marie are cautiously optimistic they have a huge grass fire under control.
The fire started a few kilometers west of the west block of the park on Saturday at noon before huge gusts of wind pulled it into the park itself.
Superintendent Katherine Patterson told Swift Current Online the fire burned a 20 kilometer long swath that varied from 1 to 5 kilometers deep until the crews were able to contain it.
She estimated throughout the day over 200 volunteers from all around the region came out to help fight the blaze. The park is now officially closed to any visitors and they aren't requesting more volunteers at this time.
There is still a risk heavy winds could re-ignite the fire. Patterson noted they have a large perimeter and are monitoring the hot spots so they can deal with flare ups as quickly as possible.
Officials from the Village of Val Marie are helping organize food and lodging for the volunteers who have come in from out of town at the Community Hall.
Thu, May 16, 6:30 PM
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