Fire crews respond to multiple wildfires in Fort Totten area; no structures lost

FORT TOTTEN, N.D. (April 23, 2026) — The Spirit Lake Fire Department and wildland fire crews responded to multiple wildfire incidents in the Fort Totten area between the evening of Wednesday, April 22 and the early morning hours of Thursday, April 23. According to a press release from the Spirit Lake Nation, a fire reported shortly after 5 p.m. on April 22—estimated at approximately 200 acres—prompted a community alert due to potential risk to nearby homes. That fire was successfully contained, and no structures were lost or damaged.

Just after midnight on Thursday, crews responded to additional fire activity, including the largest fire of the incidents, estimated at approximately 900 acres. That fire also posed a risk to nearby structures; however, no homes were damaged. Despite the scale of these incidents, the fire was contained, and no residential structures were lost.

Fire Chief Joe Jetty emphasized that current environmental conditions are contributing to an elevated wildfire risk across the region. “With the current dry conditions, high winds, and lack of precipitation, our area is at a heightened risk for wildfire,” he said. “We are asking the public to stay clear of active scenes and report any fires immediately by calling 911 so we can respond as quickly and safely as possible.”

Wildfire season in the Fort Totten area occurs all year round, with peak activity typically from March through June. In 2025, the Spirit Lake Fire Department responded to approximately 200 fire incidents, underscoring the elevated risk during peak months.

Due to ongoing conditions—including dry fuels, high winds, and limited precipitation— fire danger remains high across the region. Emergency responders have also experienced challenges with individuals approaching or entering active fire scenes, creating additional safety risks.

The Spirit Lake Tribal Council, alongside the Spirit Lake Fire Department, has implemented a burn restriction across the Spirit Lake Reservation.

Under this restriction:

• · Open burning is prohibited unless authorized by the Spirit Lake Fire Department
• · A burn permit form must be completed in person at the Spirit Lake Fire Department, located at 118 2nd Ave N, Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• · No burning is allowed at night under any circumstances, with the exception of recognized ceremonial or traditional practices, which do not require a permit.
• · Community members are reminded that immediate reporting is critical. If you see a fire, call 911 immediately to ensure a full emergency response.

Spirit Lake Chairwoman Lonna J. Street expressed appreciation for response efforts and emphasized community responsibility.

“We are grateful for our Spirit Lake Wildland Firefighters and the additional responding agencies who assisted in protecting our community, and we are thankful that no lives were lost. Current conditions present a high risk for fire, and this is a critical time for community education and awareness. The Spirit Lake Tribe has implemented a burn restriction until further notice—we need to keep our communities safe.”