Fire burning NW of Bemidji ¼-mile west of Cardinal Road NW and Radar Road

UPDATE: The DNR has lifted the evacuations as of 6:15 PM. Only residents who reside in this area are being allowed back in. There are a lot of people attempting to see where the fire was. PLEASE do not travel to this area to observe the fire, you will hinder fire response.

Air planes will continue to collect water from Lake Bemidji into the evening. The Sheriff reports numerous boats trying to watch the water collection and are getting in the way. Boaters are asked to avoid the area of the north side of Lake Bemidji while plans make water collections.

The fire is roughly 75 acres burning in grass and pine heading southward.

Several homes were evacuated. There are no additional evacuations at this time, subject to change.

The origin of the fire is being investigated.

Fire-fighting resources on the ground include 15 engines, ground crews and equipment, as well as air resources that include several air tankers and three helicopters.