WILDERVILLE, Ore. (July 22, 2022) – Mop-up work continues on the Cheney Creek Fire, located on Marble Mountain south of Wilderville. Overnight, firefighters were able to build on Thursday’s work, mopping in 75 to 100 feet in some areas, steadily putting out hot spots further into the perimeter. Cold temperatures and good overnight relative humidity recoveries aided resources by contributing to decreased fire behavior, active fire in some cases burning itself out. No new spot fires were found overnight, and the perimeter lines are holding strong. Firefighters capitalized on these conditions, pumping 10,000 gallons of water onto the fire and making excellent progress in challenging areas.
Friday’s goal are similar; crews will focus on expanding on mop-up operations to 100 feet in around the entire perimeter of the fire, strengthening lines and watching for spot fires. Nearly 150 people are assigned to the incident today, including five 20-person crews, an 8-person crew, four engines, five tree fallers, two water tenders and one bulldozer. Aircraft will be available as needed.
The Cheney Creek Fire remains an estimated 30 acres. More accurate GPS mapping may take place on Friday if resources are available. The fire is affecting Bureau of Land Management and private land south of Wilderville. The fire was first reported by the ODF Southwest Oregon Detection Center Wednesday afternoon around 4 p.m. Investigators are engaged on the incident and working to determine the cause. No evacuations were ever ordered on this incident, and there have been no injuries to firefighters, despite challenging conditions.
Due to the steady nature of progress on the fire, this will be the final update unless conditions significantly change. For more information on fire season in Jackson and Josephine counties, follow the ODF Southwest Oregon District on Facebook @ODFSouthwest.