Fire danger lowered; campfire restrictions still in effect
Some area closures lifted
September 19, 2006
Fire managers have lowered the fire danger rating down a notch from Extreme to Very High, thanks to some recent moisture and cooler temperatures. Restrictions on campfires remain in effect, however, with campfires allowed only in developed campgrounds.
"It’s hard for people when they see the snow and the rain to understand why we still have restrictions. But it will still take a significant event to bring enough moisture to have us lift the restrictions," said Nan Stinson, Bridger-Teton National Forest Public Information Officer for the Jim Creek Fire. "This is an interagency restriction between the Forests and Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. It is being reviewed. Right now, campfires are not allowed in dispersed sites with a rock ring."
Below is the status of fires near Pinedale:
PURDY FIRE (On Union Pass) - Fire not out, but has significantly less activity now.
Road closures for the Purdy Creek Wildfire have been lifted on forest roads #670 Leeds Creek, #637 Raspberry Creek, and #672 Strawberry Creek. Area closure remains in effect beyond the end of these roads for public safety. The Union Pass Road and Lake of the Woods are open.
JIM CREEK FIRE (Wildland fire for resource benefit)
The fire received over an inch of rain during the last several days. People will still see some smoke at times until significant moisture is received. This fire began on June 26 from lightning, 24 miles north of Pinedale.
Status: 3,725 acres.
Objective: To provide for public and fire personnel safety, and to allow the fire to burn where it won't threaten private property, facilities, or other developments.
Jim Creek Fire Closures: The Pot Creek Roads # 714 & 713 are both closed. Boulder Basin. Road #716 is closed past the #717 junction and Jim Creek Road #710 is closed past #711 junction for public safety. Hunters and hikers are urged to stay out of the area and respect the closures.
Current Strategy: The fire is still being monitored by a Fire Use Manager and a local engine. The fire will likely burn until snow puts it out.
BATTLE MOUNTAIN FIRE (3 miles southeast of Green River Lakes and east of the Moose-Gypsum homes)
100% Contained, 1,370 acres
All road closures have been lifted on these roads. Please drive slowly and carefully on these roads.
Cause: Started by lightning on August 23.
Note: Forest users are alerted to be very careful about hiking or hunting in or near burn areas around any recent fire. There may still be hot spots in the burn areas and falling snags are a real danger. Anyone traveling in or near a fire area should be aware of hazards in these areas such as falling snags, rolling rocks and logs, smoke, smoldering areas and stump holes.
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