NIMO Takes Command as Jenkins Creek and Horse River Fires Persist in Minnesota

May 28, 2025

Drew Kerner,

BRIMSON, Minn. — On Wednesday, the National Incident Management Organization (NIMO) assumed command of both the Jenkins Creek and Horse River Fires.

Jenkins Creek fire in the distance. Camp House fire in the forefront.

The Jenkins Creek Fire is still 84% contained and is has burned 16,089 acres. Unstaffed Aerial System (UAS/drone) flights detected multiple heat sources in the south and one in the north of the fire. Firefighters responded quickly, especially near the perimeter of their containment lines.

Resources from the nearby Camp House Fire have been reassigned to support fire suppression efforts.

The Jenkins Creek Fire is contained on its southern edge, but crews continue to patrol for heat, spot fires, and flare-ups on the open northeast edge.

Chipping along 137 Road and Skibo Road is ongoing to reduce fire risk, control erosion, and aid recovery. These operations should be finished by the end of this week.

Horse River Fire May 23, 2025

(Via Wildfire.gov)

The Horse River Fire in the BWCAW remains active with 0% containment. The fires’ size is around 20-25 acres.

Two wilderness rangers are nearby the Horse River Fire informing visitors about the danger and promoting fire safety.

Fire crews are continuing to use aerial monitoring to identify hotspots. To aid suppression, two Wildland Fire Modules — which are small, specialized crews for remote areas — have been ordered. These crews of 7-10 firefighters work independently in remote areas, using hand tools and helicopters to contain fires, construct fire lines, and safeguard public safety.

The Superior National Forest Supervisor Tom Hall has issued an emergency closure order for wildfire activity in the BWCAW Horse River area, on the Kawishiwi Ranger District. This closure closes the area to visitors, currently only affecting the winter route between Jackfish Bay and Lower Basswood Falls and the immediate fire area of the Horse River Fire.

There are no new updates on the Camp House Fire, which was last reported at 90% contained with fires battling large fuel deposits near the open gaps along the containment lines.