9:30 am Sky Lakes Wilderness 790 Fire Update

Release Date: Aug 24, 2014

Contact: Scott Blower, (541) 471-6745

Fire activity continues to be moderate. Crews yesterday were successful in keeping the eastern fire spread to a minimum of which primary fire growth was to the south of Big Ben Creek. The fire is currently measured at 1,311 acres. Today crews continue to construct and reinforce line on the eastern flank of the fire. Weather today is expected to have variable north eastern winds with temperatures in the mid 70’s.

A segment of the Pacific Crest Trail and many others in the area remain closed due to fire activity. This trail closure is from State Highway 140 to the Crater Lake Boundary. No trail re-route through the Sky Lakes Wilderness currently exists.

A Type 3 Incident Management Team (Edwards) continues to adjust strategies for full fire suppression efforts of the 790 Fire. Currently assigned for fire suppression are 26 wildland firefighters, 10 rappellers, and 17 smokejumpers which are supported by a 10-mule pack string and eight helicopters.

The 790 Fire is located in the Sky Lakes Wilderness with a primary southern edge of Big Ben Creek and east to Snow Lakes. This fire resulted from the lightning activity that occurred July 31, 2014 and is located in an area difficult for crews to access safely. The terrain is rugged and rocky with much blow down debris and standing snags, which prevent firefighters from safely and actively engaging with the fire perimeter.

Archery Season will soon open. Hunters are asked to be aware of fire conditions as fuels continue to dry and warmer weather is forecasted this week. Hunters shall also understand fire regulations prior to entering the forest which can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/rogue-siskiyou.