Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Update – July 31, 7:00 a.m.
Redmond, Oregon – The McKay Butte Fire, burning northeast of McKay Butte on the Deschutes National Forest, is now 60% contained. More accurate mapping now shows the fire at 170 acres.
Fire personnel will continue mop up operations to ensure the fire stays within its existing containment lines. 130 personnel are currently assigned to the incident representing federal, state, county, municipal and private contracting resources.
The Level 1 (BE READY) evacuation notice for the McKay Crossing, Ogden, and Prairie Campgrounds on the Deschutes National Forest was lifted at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 30.
Road closures for FSR 9736 north of Paulina Creek and FSR 9735 remain in place and can be expected to continue through the weekend and likely into next week. There are no trail closures associated with the incident at this time.
The McKay Butte Fire (Incident #527), south of Forest Road 9735, was reported by Lava Butte Lookout at 3:00pm on Sunday, July 28. Approximately 160 fire personnel are currently assigned to the incident.
The fire is still under investigation.
The public is reminded to be careful with any ignitions on public lands. Central Oregon is in HIGH fire danger, meaning fuels are very receptive to ignitions. If you are recreating on public lands, remember to remain diligent about ensuring all fires are ‘dead out’ and cold to the touch, all spark arrestors are properly installed, and trailer chains are secured.
