Chall Creek Fire Road Closures in effect – Wednesday, Sept. 19
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
September 20, 2012
Wednesday, September 19, 5:11PM:
The Bridger-Teton National Forest has issued an Emergency Road Closure for the Chall Creek Fire burning on the Big Piney Ranger District 30 miles west of Pinedale, Wyoming.
The Sublette County Sheriff's Office has closed the Merna-North Beaver Road (County 115) at the junction of Siems Road (County 163). The Bridger-Teton National Forest temporary closure includes the following Forest Service roads; North Beaver Road(FS#10359), North Fork of Middle Beaver Road (FS#10143) and Coyote Gulch Spur Road (FS#10362).
The purpose of the closure is for public and firefighter safety. Crews and equipment are constructing control lines along the flanks of the fire and engines and fire traffic will be working along the roads. Hazardous conditions exist in or near the actively burning wildfire. The public is being asked to avoid traveling or recreating near the fire area. Drivers should use caution when traveling on Horse Creek Road due to heavy firefighting activity traffic and road construction on Hwy 354.
Evacuations for North Beaver Road, Timberline Lodge, County Road 115/Merna-N. Beaver road, and County Road 163-the Siems road will be lifted Thursday, September 20 at 8:00 p.m. at which time residents will be allowed back in their homes. Closures at the forest boundary will remain in effect until further notice.
The Chall Creek Fire started on Sunday, September 16, 30 miles west of Pinedale, WY. The fire began on Forest Service lands and spread quickly to adjacent private property. The fire is 400 acres burning in timber and sage. Cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Residents and others in the area are asked to be aware of current fire restrictions and exercise caution as fire conditions can rapidly change. Fires are prohibited except in fully enclosed stoves with chimney equipped with spark arrestor. Violators could face criminal charges if found negligent. Fire danger on the Bridger Teton National Forest is Very High and stage one fire restrictions are in place. For additional Fire information and maps visit www.tetonfires.com.
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