ROGUE RIVER, Ore. (August 14, 2026) – ODF Complex Incident Management Team 1 has been in-briefed on the Fielder Mountain Fire and is in place to take over management of the incident. The fire remains estimated at 550 acres and is now 7% contained.
As of Friday morning, firefighters had completed line around approximately 70% of the fire, marking substantial work by Southwest Oregon District firefighters and partners in less than 24 hours. Throughout the morning, crews have continued building on that work by strengthening existing line, extending hose uphill and working toward securing the remaining portions of the fire.
One of the biggest challenges continues to be the steep, rocky terrain. Firefighters are climbing difficult slopes and constructing hand line in areas where heavy equipment cannot safely access. Crews also responded to a spot fire this morning and quickly constructed line around it.
The transition to Complex Incident Management Team 1 provides dedicated management for the Fielder Mountain Fire while allowing Southwest Oregon District resources to shift back toward initial attack readiness across the district. With thunderstorms in the forecast and the potential for new fire starts, having district resources available to respond quickly remains a priority.
The Fielder Mountain Fire began shortly after 3 p.m. Thursday, August 13. ODF Southwest Oregon District, Rogue River Fire District, Grants Pass Fire Rescue and Rural Metro Fire were dispatched to reports of grass fires along northbound Interstate 5 near Mile Marker 51. Initial reports indicated tires on a semi-truck were on fire and flames had spread to nearby vegetation. The official cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Multiple Level 1 (BE READY), Level 2 (BE SET) and Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuation notices remain in place in Jackson and Josephine counties. Residents should continue checking readyjacksonco.com for the latest evacuation information and maps.
An evacuation shelter for people and pets is available at North Middle School, 1725 NW Highland Ave., Grants Pass. Individuals needing additional medical care or assistance can call 541-776-7206. A livestock shelter is available at Jackson County Expo, 21 Peninger Road, Central Point. For livestock assistance, call 541-864-0546.
The public is asked to continue avoiding the fire area and give firefighters and emergency vehicles room to work.
The next update is expected this evening unless significant changes in fire activity warrant an earlier update.
For more information, including current fire regulations, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest, or our website, www.swofire.com.
