USDA Forest Service Seeks Public Help in Fire Investigation at Lake Cushman

OLYMPIA, Wash., July 31, 2025 — The USDA Forest Service is asking for the public’s help in an active investigation regarding the ignition of the Bear Gulch Fire.

The fire occurred the evening of Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Lake Cushman along FS-24 near the Bear Gulch Day Use Area, within the Olympic National Forest. The cause is currently under investigation by Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations, and officials are asking anyone who may have been in the area on the 6th to share any information that might assist the inquiry.

The Forest Service said they are interested in hearing from anyone who may have seen or heard something or have any information or details no matter how small. They said any information could help them better understand what happened.

Members of the public with information are encouraged to contact the Forest Service Tipline by phone at 541-618-2154 or by email at SM.FS.R6TipHotLine@usda.gov. Tips submitted via email should have the subject, “Bear Gulch.”

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