Crews contain 24-acre wildland fire in Almond, underlines need for more volunteers
By Brandi Makuski
ALMOND – A large wildland fire burned more than 24 acres of grassland and corn stubble near County Highway EE on Tuesday afternoon before it was brought under control by multiple fire departments.
The fire was reported at about 2:30 p.m. on the 7700 block of County Hwy. EE. According to Almond firefighter Greg Otto, the blaze began when someone attempted to burn yard waste near an open field. The fire spread through low grasses and corn stalks, creeping toward a wooded area.
“Luckily, it was kind of a slow and low-flame fire,” said Otto, who has been with the Almond Fire Department for 13 years. “We got out there and had it controlled pretty quickly. Most of it was just mopping up and making sure all the flames were out.”
No structures were threatened, and no injuries were reported. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources assisted with aerial observation and deployed heavy equipment to the scene. Mutual aid was provided by the Bancroft, Plover, and Wisconsin Rapids fire departments.
Otto estimated the fire covered a little over 24 acres in total.
At the time of the initial page, only three Almond firefighters were available to respond, highlighting an ongoing challenge for rural departments relying on volunteer responders.
“As it went on, we had more people show up,” Otto said. “We have quite a few members who work in both Almond and Bancroft, but like every department, we’re really hurting for members—especially during weekday hours.”
Otto noted that many local volunteers are farmers, who may not be able to immediately leave their fields or equipment when a call comes in. He emphasized the importance of employer support and encouraged anyone interested in joining to reach out.
“We understand people have busy schedules, but even if someone can only make it to a few calls or training nights, it still helps,” he said.
Crews were released from the scene shortly before 6 p.m. on April 8. A DNR unit returned Wednesday morning to double-check the area for remaining hot spots.
Otto also offered a reminder for those planning any outdoor burning.
“If anyone plans on doing any burning, even if it’s just like a campfire, we ask if they can to please have a water source nearby,” he said. “And before they leave it unattended, make sure it is thoroughly out. If there’s ever questions on fire conditions or burning requirements, they have all that on the Wisconsin DNR website updated.”
Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a firefighter is encouraged to call the Almond Fire Department at (715) 366-7181 or contact the department via Facebook.