10/23/11 – Fire operations have mostly shut down in Ely, and crews are being sent home. With so many crews using gear from so many outfitters, it is a logistical nightmare for the Forest Service to attempt to return everything to its rightful owners. When crew members Luke Opel and Jessica Hemmer went on a mission to pick up some of our canoes near Forest Center, they got a chance to drive roads that have been closed since the fire ran its course. The barren landscape shows how powerful mother nature can be, and serves as a reminder that things in the wilderness are always changing. It will be interesting to see these areas become green again in the years to come! -Liz

Luke holds a sign burned in the fire

No green to be seen