Idaho is juggling seven large active fires as of September 16, 2026, even as the state's fire suppression debt climbs to nearly $40 million — a financial strain that has prompted calls for greater federal reimbursement and long-term funding reform.

Active Fires in Idaho

The Cascade Fire in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests remains one of the most active incidents in the state, having burned 7,475 acres about 19 miles east of Lowell. It is 50% contained as of the latest NIFC reporting, with crews working to establish and hold containment lines in steep, heavily forested terrain.

Additional large fires are burning across southern and central Idaho, including in areas east of the Cascade Mountains where fuels are critically dry and fully cured following another dry summer. The Crooked Fire in the Boise National Forest, at 10,081 acres and 93% contained, is approaching full control. The Silver Fire burned 2,593 acres before being contained in early September.

$40 Million Suppression Bill

The Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) reports that the state has spent approximately $40 million fighting wildfires on public lands this summer. The bulk of that spending went toward personnel, with aircraft and supplies also consuming significant portions of the budget.

IDL Director Dustin Miller said approximately $14 million will be reimbursed by the federal government and partner agencies — leaving roughly $25.5 million on the state's tab.

"We are now in the latter part of what's been a very active fire season in the West," Miller said. "While fire activity is beginning to moderate in some areas, significant fire potential remains across the Pacific Northwest, the Northern Rockies and the Great Basin."

Human Causes Dominate

As of late August, 218 fires had ignited on Idaho endowment lands, burning roughly 10,000 acres. Of those, all but 40 were caused by humans — a sobering statistic that fire officials say underscores the need for public vigilance even as temperatures cool and some fires wind down.

Outlook

The state forecasts above-average temperatures for the remainder of September, along with a slightly above-normal chance for precipitation. NIFC's seasonal outlook warns that above-normal fire potential persists across central and southern Idaho through the end of the month, with drying trends expected to return following brief precipitation windows.

  • Above-normal fire danger remains for central and southern Idaho through September
  • Idaho has 7 large fires tracked by NIFC as of September 15
  • Residents should check local fire restrictions before recreating on public lands
  • Visit inciweb.wildfire.gov for current incident information