BLUFFTON, S.C. () – The Wildland Crew for the Bluffton Township Fire District (BTFD) worked alongside the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC) to help contain a brush fire in Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge that burned 29 acres Tuesday afternoon.

The fire was reported after 3:00 p.m. by an off-duty firefighter following a lightning strike near Clubhouse Trail and the Bull Point area. BTFD dispatch received additional calls as smoke intensified and became visible from Highway 278 and across Skull Creek on Hilton Head Island.

Firefighters from multiple BTFD stations responded and began initial operations. BTFD held command of the scene, later transferring it to USFWS representatives since the fire was located on federally managed land.

Access to the fire was limited, preventing standard fire apparatus from reaching the flames. Using drip torches, the crew set controlled fires along trail systems that served as natural fire breaks, ultimately stopping the fire’s spread.

“This incident demonstrates how vital it is to work closely with our partner agencies during wildland fire responses,” said Stephen Combs, Public Information Officer for BTFD. “The Wildland Crew’s specialized training, combined with excellent coordination on the ground, made it possible to contain the fire quickly and safely.”

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Fire Management Officer Adam McCullough confirmed the fire burned 29 acres in the affected unit. As of this morning, light smoke remains in the area, but the fire is fully contained.

No injuries were reported, and no structures were threatened.