Bullock discusses fires, finances and school re-openings in press conference

At a press conference Thursday afternoon Gov. Steve Bullock provided updates on Montana’s ongoing fire season and the pandemic situation in Montana, as well as announcing new guidelines for K-12 schools regarding potential outbreaks of COVID-19.

As of Monday, Bullock said, the state has seen 1,835 fires and burns, with over 257,350 acres affected. He said the state’s fire suppression costs have totaled $6.3 million, including emergency funds obtained through grants.

Bullock said the state has seen extreme fire growth and significant impacts to communities especially in wildlands-urban...