
Super Scoopers: Montana’s Impact on CA Wildfire Battles
When wildfires roar through California, it’s easy to feel like the battle is far away, but Montana is stepping up in a big way to help. You might have heard about the CL-415 “Super Scooper” planes, the incredible machines that many of us have personally witnessed scoop up thousands of gallons of water and dump it on raging fires. But did you know some of the pilots flying these missions are from right here in Montana, working for Bridger Aerospace in Bozeman?
Tim Sheehy, who is now the U-S Senator from Montana, recorded a video explaining the scoopers' operation while he was still CEO of Bridge Aerospace. Picture this: these planes skim across lakes and reservoirs, scooping up over 1,600 gallons of water in just 12 seconds. Then they soar through smoky skies to douse flames and give ground crews a fighting chance. I witnessed these impressive planes at work much of last Summer, as they scooped water out of Flathead Lake to drench multiple fires in Western Montana.
Read More: Sheehy: California Fires Will Move Firefighting Reform
It’s not just the planes that are impressive, it’s the people behind them. The pilots and crews at Bridger Aerospace bring Montana’s grit and courage to the skies over California. This isn’t your average workday. It’s a dangerous, high-stakes mission to save lives, homes, and forests.
Knowing Montana’s role in these firefighting efforts is a powerful reminder of how connected we all are. Fires may be burning in California, but our state’s talent and technology are right there in the fight, proving that we’re stronger when we work together.
Next time you see footage of these planes in action, take a moment to feel proud. Montana’s not just watching the news, we’re part of the solution, one water drop at a time.
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Gallery Credit: Ashley