As fire suppression tactics have increased containment and lowered the risk to structures, the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s resources will be released around noon today. The Oregon Department of Forestry team will remain with local resources to continue mopping up and monitoring any remaining hot spots.
Resources on the fire today are: 7 Hand crews, 6 Helicopters, 33 Engines, 1 Dozer, 8 Water tenders and 395 personnel. The estimated containment is 60% and 2,143 acres. Today’s warmer temperatures and lower relative humidity may cause the fire to show more
activity. Fire fighters are seeing juniper trees torch in the interior of fire. Air attack resources are available today to drop water on those trees if needed.
Lake Chinook Chief Don Colfels said, “Given the intensity of the fire and the strong winds driving it east, the fire had potential to leave dozens of families without a home today. Thanks to the work of our local crews, the support of other Central Oregon Agencies and state support from ODF and OSFM we were able to bring this fire to the more manageable state it is today. Additionally, because this community has worked hard to create defensible spaces many homes have been completely burned around and left intact”.
A public meeting is planned for Sunday, June 24 at 6:00 p.m. at the Chinook Store, 8241 SW Jordan Road in Culver. Residents are invited to hear from local officials to learn more about the fire and what they can do to protect their homes and lands in the future.
