Fire torches elk, trout habitat in Great Basin
The severity of the fire in Great Basin National Park is partially being blamed on climate change and past management practices. Photo/National Park Service/Gretchen Baker
By Benjamin Spillman, Reno Gazette-Journal
In addition to one human fatality the Strawberry Fire in Great Basin National Park has burned thousands of acres of wildlife habitat.
Park officials are just now beginning to survey damage from the lightning-caused fire that’s burned 4,600 acres and resulted in the death of a firefighter who was struck by a falling tree.
The fire three miles northwest of the park visitor center is 76 percent contained and full containment is expected by Friday.