The Gyda Fire, located on the 11000-block of Highway 238, is now 40% contained following the joint efforts of the first two shifts. Accurate GPS mapping on Wednesday has placed the fire at 54 acres. Dayshift crews have continued forward progress on mop-up operations, reaching 50 feet into the fire’s interior; firefighters assigned to the fire Wednesday evening have a goal of mopping up to 150 feet in.
Resources assigned to the fire overnight include six crews, eight engines, five water tenders and one bulldozer; personnel is near 200. Air resources are available, but have not been needed. Tree fallers have made progress on hazardous trees on the northeast corner, taking down approximately 75 snags on Wednesday. The work done will help firefighters safely get to hot spots in the area.
Houses near the fire remain without evacuations, however, travelers in the area should be aware of possible firetrucks and equipment in the area on Highway 238. The cause of this fire remains under investigation.
ODF would like to extend thanks to our partners on this fire, including the Bureau of Land Management, Applegate Valley Fire District, Jacksonville Fire Department, Jackson County Fire District 3, Rural/Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire-Rescue, Illinois Valley Fire Department, Rogue River Fire Department, the Oregon Department of Transportation, the U.S. Forest Service, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police.