On Thursday morning at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Mankato Fire Department was called to a fire that started at 1/2 mile north of Highway 36 at 170 Road. The fire was caused by a controlled burn of a brush fire that was done at the end of December. The high winds Thursday reignited the fire.

Mankato Fire Department called for mutual aide from Esbon, Burr Oak and Jewell. There were also three local farmers who helped by offering their tractors and discs. Midway Co-op provided water support. Eldon Pate also brought a water tank for support.

The fire was contained by approximately 4:30 p.m. after spreading south east to approximately 1/2 mile south of Highway 36. The fire covered close to 400 acres. It spread a mile north and south.

All of who helped contain the fire were back to their fire houses by 7 p.m. on Thursday. There were some small hot spots on Friday, but it didn't take long for the fire departments to control them.

"I would like to remind everyone who wants to do a controlled burn to check with their local fire department to receive permission," Brian Shulda, Mankato fire chief, said. "At this time I do not recommend doing any controlled burns. We are lucky this fire didn't get out of hand. I am thankful for those fire departments that responded and helped control the fire."