Sunday, October 5, 2014

Firefighters Continue Control Efforts on Mt Harris Fire



The Oregon Department of Forestry is using a variety of resources in continuing efforts to contain and control a wildfire burning East of La Grande. The cause of the fire is still being investigated. Fire size is estimated at approximately 260 acres. The increase is in size is due to better mapping and being able to see the entire fire in the light of day. The fire is currently at 40% containment.


A small fire camp has been established near the fire and will support firefighting efforts for several days. Again, the public is reminded that fire traffic in the area will remain heavy for the next few days. Currently, the Mt Harris Road is still closed due to heavy firefighting activity and traffic. Fire traffic is also using the Market Lane, Lower Cove Road and Alicel areas heavily. If travel in the area is necessary, people are urged to use extreme caution.

Firefighting resources that are supporting the efforts are eight engines, four tenders, seven hand crews, one dozer and several other resources. The firefighters are working to strengthen control lines and begin mopping up hotspots on the fire. Due to areas of heavy fuels, this process will take some time.

The current near term forecast is calling for the weather pattern to stay the same, with warm and dry temperatures throughout the week.

Oregon Department of Forestry is still under a modified Regulated Use Closure. No campfires are allowed on lands protected by ODF. Open burning is allowed only by permit. For other regulations or to obtain a burn permit, please check with your local Oregon Department of Forestry office.

More information for fire danger in Northeast Oregon can be found at http://bmidc.org/index.shtml

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