Seeley Fire (Wildfire)

The Seeley Fire began on the Manti-LaSal National Forest with a lightning strike on June 26 and was reported at about 6 a.m. that day. The fire gained intensity as it entered areas containing large components of decadent standing beetle-killed timber, dead and down fuels. Area residents and visitors saw large columns of smoke for several days. The fire was not contained until July 18. It had burned 48,050 acres. The area of the fire is characterized by extremely steep slopes, and highly sought after recreation areas. In the past the area has provided opportunities for scenic viewing, camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The area supports several local industries including coal mines, power production, livestock production, and gas wells and distribution pipelines. State Route 31 through Huntington Canyon is the only paved commuter route across the Wasatch Plateau from east to west, and is a National Scenic Byway. In the aftermath of the Seeley Fire the area has been a hazardous...