"The fire’s rapid expansion from 176 to 354 acres in just over a month, combined with its eventual full containment, highlights the dynamic nature of natural ignition events in remote areas and the effectiveness of the USFS response."
The Cooper wildfire, located 22 miles southwest of Conner, MT in Idaho, was first discovered on 2026-08-25 and is managed by the USFS. The fire grew from 176 acres on 2026-08-28 to a peak of 354 acres on 2026-09-16, with containment remaining at 0% until 2026-09-17 when it reached 100% containment. Throughout its active period, the fire exhibited moderate to minimal behavior, primarily flanking and backing, later shifting to smoldering. Personnel involvement remained minimal with one firefighter reported at each update, and the estimated cost stayed at $1,000. The cause is listed as natural.
Official source description: 22 Miles SW from Conner, MT
Minimal; Smoldering; Backing
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Hamilton. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
The fire is now fully contained and exhibiting minimal, smoldering behavior. General wildfire safety guidance applies, but no immediate evacuation or fire danger warnings are necessary.
IRWIN ID: {63413076-55A2-4308-B77F-C8D04EAC9B51}
Discovered: Aug 25, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $1,000
Coordinates: 45.8495, -114.5689
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in ID.
The Cooper Fire has burned 354 acres as of September 17, 2026.
Yes, the Cooper Fire is fully contained (100%).
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Cooper Fire is burning in Idaho, ID.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Cooper Fire remains active.
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