Bonner County commissioners have declared a local disaster emergency in the wake of the Sunset and Lightning Creek wildfires in the county, following a verbal declaration made last Wednesday.  

The declaration follows suit of the dry, windy and excessive weather conditions that have led to several wildfires in and around Bonner County.

According to the declaration of disaster, a declaration of emergency can be made when excessive weather has facilitated fires within the county, for which the wildfires are “predicted to spread” for the foreseeable future, creating a threat to structures, public utilities, private and public property and more.  

The document also indicates that the county does not have the resources for structural protection, ultimately requesting the aid of other agencies.  

Several days prior to the county declaration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency authorized the utilization of federal funds to aid firefighting costs for the Sunset Fire burning in southern Bonner County.  

According to a FEMA press release, “at the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Sagle and Careywood.” 

FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grant was approved Aug. 14 and is the first one approved in 2025. The grant provides a 75% federal cost share, covering eligible fire costs such as field camps, equipment uses and materials and supplies.