The Benchmark Fire, west of Augusta, forced the evacuation of a number of private, commercial, and forest service cabins earlier this week. The evacuation order remains in effect.

Hand crews working Thursday with support from helicopter bucket drops, built off of progress made Wednesday and constructed additional fire line. The fire did not grow substantially and remains at an estimated 50 acres. A Type II Incident Management Team  assumed management of the fire this morning.

There are numerous backcountry and trail closures in the Bob Marshall Complex. This situation continues to evolve as fires grow. Anyone seeking information regarding entering or traveling through this area should contact the appropriate Ranger District for current information.

More From KSEN AM 1150