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Tawas resident surveys Brittle burn

OSCODA, Mich. — Firefighters are making progress battling the Brittle Fire.

Forest Service officials said on Sunday they’ve contained 40%  of the fire. The fire itself now covers only 5,600 acres.

Tawas resident Amanda Parks visited Lumberman’s Monument on Saturday to get a look at the fire damage for herself.

The fire came close to the park — up to the edge of the parking lot. Thankfully, firefighters managed to keep it contained to the treeline.

Parks said looking at the damage was an emotional experience.

“It was overwhelming. I mean, I couldn’t stop crying. It was a lot to take in, but at the same time it was very relieving to see how much was unharmed.”

Parks told WBKB she’s cautiously optimistic for the forest’s recovery in the years ahead.

Firefighters are currently strengthening the fire line and extinguishing hot spots that could re–ignite.

The Brittle Fire began Friday afternoon when a prescribed burn by the National Forest Service grew out of control. It takes its name from the Brittle Project under which the burn took place.