SELMA, Ore. (July 25, 2021) – Following an aggressive initial attack, continuous overnight work and day shift mop-up, the Redwood Highway Fire located along Highway 199 MP 23 south of Selma is now 100% contained. Firefighters were able to complete hazard tree removal and mop-up operations by 2 p.m. on Sunday, and finished a final grid of the fire by 5 p.m. The Redwood Highway Fire burned a total of 6 acres, including numerous spot fires. ODF firefighters will periodically check the area for smoke to ensure against any flare-ups for the next several days.
The Redwood Highway Fire was first reported Saturday, July 24, 2021, just before 6:30 p.m. Multiple agencies responded, including ODF Southwest Oregon District, Illinois Valley Fire District, Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire District, Applegate Valley Fire District #9, and Rogue River Fire District #1. With abundant aircraft and ground resources, firefighters were able to quickly establish a strong perimeter. Due to this quick work, the entire incident has been seen through to completion in less than 24 hours. ODF would like to thank our partner agencies for their contributions and hard work on this incident.
Firefighting activity prompted the closure of Highway 199 on Saturday night, however, it has since been reopened. A level 1 (BE READY) evacuation notice was put in place by Josephine County Emergency Management for Wild Park Lane and Terrell Way as a precaution; it has since been lifted.
The cause of this fire remains under investigation. This will be the final update unless conditions significantly change. For fire information, visit our Facebook page, @ODF Southwest Oregon District.