The Idaho Department of Lands is asking for the public's help with its investigation into two recent fires in Coeur d'Alene.

The Potlatch Hill fire on Wednesday evening above Fernan Lake burned about an acre before it was contained by firefighters, while the Saw Mill fire near East Mullan Trail Road burned about a quarter of an acre late Thursday afternoon.

Craig Etherton, Coeur d'Alene Fire Department fire marshal, said the Potlatch Hill fire was human caused.

"We're trying to determine if it was accidental or intentional," he said Friday.

The area that burned above Fernan Lake has trails used by hikers. Etherton said someone could have been walking the trails before the fire was reported about 6:35 p.m. and might have seen someone or something.

An IDL press release said "even small observations can make a meaningful difference, including details people may not initially believe are important."

The proximity of the fires — about a mile apart — and the timing — consecutive days, late afternoon and early evening — also raised concerns.

"It's curious," Etherton said.

 The public is encouraged to report:

• Anything unusual or out of place on the evening of July 29, especially between 6-7 p.m. near the Potlatch Hill Fire.

• Anything unusual or out of place on the evening of July 30, especially between 4:30-5:30 p.m. near the Saw Mill fire.

• Vehicles, individuals or activities that seemed uncommon or out of place.

• Photos, videos or security footage from the surrounding areas.

Information can be shared with IDL at 208‑666‑8697.