The 244 Fire, burning since Monday just west of Keystone on the grounds of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, is now 100% contained.
Incident Commander Eric Allen says the declaration was made this morning at 7:30 with the fire at 136 acres.
Some resources are demobilizing, but Allen and a roughly 40-memberType 4 incident organization remain in place to continue mop-up and rehab of fireline, and patrol lines to guard against any potential wind-driven rekindle.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which reopened yesterday for the first time since the fire began, is now open with no restrictions – although Allen asks motorists to please drive carefully and be on the lookout for fire traffic along HWY 244.
Hwy 16A, Iron Mountain Road, does remain closed today but will reopen tonight at 7:00.
Allen says the firefighters and Mount Rushmore staff appreciate the patience and understanding of local residents and visitors as they work diligently to safely reopen all areas affected by the 244 Fire.