Fort Ellis Fire Department responds to two fires over busy weekend

Crews battled a fast-moving wildland fire and a residential blaze in Bozeman area.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Fort Ellis Volunteer Fire Department responded to two separate fires over the weekend east of Bozeman. On Saturday, crews were dispatched to a fast-moving wildland fire near the Jackson Creek exit at Laurel Ranch Road, which burned approximately 40 acres and destroyed one shed. On Sunday, firefighters discovered a residential fire in the 1800 block of Fort Ellis Road, with the two-story home sustaining heavy damage, though the family cat was found safe.

Why it matters

The Fort Ellis Fire Department's response to these two fires highlights the challenges rural fire departments face in battling blazes, especially with high winds and dry conditions. The incidents also showcase the importance of coordination between multiple fire agencies to effectively contain fires and protect local communities.

The details

On Saturday, the wildland fire near Laurel Ranch Road was fueled by windy conditions, burning around 40 acres and destroying one shed, though firefighters were able to prevent the flames from reaching nearby homes. The next day, a Fort Ellis firefighter discovered a residential fire on Fort Ellis Road, with the two-story home sustaining heavy damage, though the family cat was found safe and no injuries were reported. Multiple fire departments, including Bozeman and Hyalite, responded to the residential blaze and were able to bring it under control.

  • On Saturday, Feb. 7, crews were dispatched around 3:30 p.m. to the wildland fire.
  • On Sunday, Feb. 8 around 4:45 p.m., a Fort Ellis firefighter discovered the residential fire.

The players

Fort Ellis Volunteer Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the two fires east of Bozeman over the weekend.

Bozeman Fire

One of the fire departments that assisted Fort Ellis in responding to the residential fire on Sunday.

Hyalite Fire

Another fire department that helped Fort Ellis contain the residential blaze on Fort Ellis Road.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Fort Ellis Fire Department's response to these two fires demonstrates the critical role rural fire departments play in protecting their communities, even when facing challenging conditions like high winds and dry weather. The coordination between multiple agencies was also key to effectively containing the blazes and minimizing damage.