Photos: Motherlode Lodge in Hatcher Pass burns

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The Motherlode Lodge burns on April 17, 2015.

The Motherlode is "probably a total loss," said Norm McDonald, fire management officer for the Alaska Division of Forestry in Palmer. Two forestry engines responded, but only to make sure no surrounding areas burned. There's still enough snow in the area that fire spreading to nearby grass or trees wasn't an issue, McDonald said.

Forestry crews were concentrating on traffic control Friday night as they watched flames consume the beloved local institution, home to events like weekly jazz nights and weddings.

"There's a lot of memories in that place," he said.

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