July 17, 2024
RAND, Ore. (July 17, 2024) – Firefighters have been responding to several fires along the lower portion of the Rogue River following thunderstorms on Tuesday night. Resources are engaged on 10 small fires in Josephine County, with the majority located on Bureau of Land Management public lands on both sides of the river northwest of Rand and Galice. The fires range in size from 1/100 of an acre to one acre. These fires have likely remained small due to rain that came with the weather system, as well as an aggressive initial attack from firefighters. Aircraft has been key on these incidents, as all fires are in remote areas or in difficult terrain. Firefighters are hiking as far as two miles to reach fires on steep, dangerous ground.
The current list of fires are as follows:
- Crooks Creek Fire, caught at one acre. Currently 100% lined and 100% mopped up. Located in the hills above Crooks Creek Road, north of Dryden and east of Selma.
- Horseshoe Bend Fire, holding at an estimated quarter-acre. Located north of Horseshoe Bend Campground, north of the Rogue River. Firefighters are on scene and using helicopters due to remote location and no road access. The U.S. Forest Service Rogue-River Siskiyou National Forest and ODF are encouraging people to avoid camping at all Horseshoe Bend campsites while fire operations use the river for helicopter-bucket dipping and working in the area.
- Howard Creek Fire, extinguished by aircraft at an estimated 1/100 of an acre. Located northwest of Rand and south of the Rogue River. Firefighters continue to monitor this area.
- East Fork Big Windy Fire, estimated to be 1/100 of an acre. Located east of East Fork Big Windy Creek and south of the Rogue River on steep, remote county with limited access. ODF firefighters are on scene with one 20-person crew hiking into the fire area.
- Big Windy Creek, estimated to be a quarter-acre. Located on steep, remote ground just north of the East Fork Big Windy Fire. Tree fallers and a 20-person crew are assigned to the incident and hiking in.
- Trout Creek Fire, estimated to be half an acre. Located north of Trout Creek and south of the Rogue River, southwest of the Zane Grey Cabin. This fire is a two-mile hike from the nearest road. Two 10-person crews are assigned to the fire, along with a bulldozer. Firefighters are cutting a significant amount of dead trees to clear a path to the incident.
- Long Gulch Fire, estimated to be a quarter-acre. Located southwest of the Trout Creek Fire. This fire is 100% lined and 85% mopped up. Resources will continue until the fire is completely extinguished.
- Missouri Creek Fire, estimated to be half an acre. Located north of Bear Camp Road and south of the Zane Grey Cabin. Firefighters are hiking down to the fire.
- Montgomery Creek Fire, caught and extinguished at 1/100 of an acre. Located southwest of Rainie Falls and south of the Rogue River. Currently 100% lined and 100% mopped up.
- Hewett Creek Fire, estimated to be just under a quarter-acre. Currently 10% lined and 100% plumbed with fire hose for water access. Located south of BLM road 32-10-36. A 20-person crew is on scene and actively working on lining the rest of the fire.
An additional two fires, the Anna Creek and Cowley Creek Fires, were initially reported but not found by firefighters and are likely duplicate reports. Firefighters and aircraft will continue to monitor the area for additional fires.
Chances for thunderstorms are once again predicted for this weekend. While these fires cannot be prevented, many can. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of human-caused fires in our communities. Additional information is available here:
July 17, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 17, 2024) – Dry fuels and dangerous fire weather patterns forecast across forestlands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Southwest Oregon District has made it necessary to increase the fire prevention measures on industrial operations, such as logging sites and other commercial operations. As a result, Industrial Fire Precaution Level III (IFPL 3) will take effect Friday, July 19, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. This regulation increase impacts industrial operations in Jackson and Josephine counties only.
For the general public, ODF Southwest’s fire restrictions remain in effect and unchanged with a fire danger level of “extreme” (red).
Under IFPL III, the following are prohibited between 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.:
- Power saws at loading sites;
- Loading or hauling of any product or material;
- Blasting;
- Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal;
- Any other spark emitting operation not specifically
In addition, the following are permitted to operate overnight to the morning, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., where mechanized equipment capable of constructing fire line is immediately available to quickly reach and effectively attack a fire start:
- Ground-based operations (tractor/skidder, feller-buncher, forwarder, or shovel logging operations);
- Power saws on ground-based operations;
- Rotary head saw feller-bunchers with a continuous Firewatch;
- Non-rotary head saw feller-bunchers;
- Tethered logging – winch-assisted, cable-assisted, traction-assisted, etc. systems, which enable ground- based timber harvesting machines to operate on steep slopes
This is considered a restricted shutdown and the following activities are not permitted at any time, except as noted:
- Cable yarding systems, except that gravity operated logging systems using non-motorized carriages or approved motorized carriages may operate between 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., when all blocks and moving lines are suspended at least 10 feet above the ground (except the line between the carriage and the chokers).
For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s fire season public and industrial restrictions, visit our Facebook page @ODF Southwest Oregon District, or call the Southwest Oregon District unit office nearest to you:
- Medford Unit, 5286 Table Rock Rd., Central Point | (541) 664-3328
- Grants Pass Unit, 5375 Monument Dr., Grants Pass | (541) 474-3152
July 17, 2024
FINAL update
Incident contact information:
SWO.SaltCreekFire.2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-2161
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Incident Management Team 1 remains engaged on the Salt Creek Fire today, but a transition back to the local districts is now in the works. The fire is 100% lined at 4,102 acres and is 84% contained this morning. Today will be the final day shift for IMT personnel and as of 7:00 a.m. Thursday morning, the team will disengage and return command of the fire to a local Type 3 team.
Even during this transition, work continues on the fire and mop-up remains the main focus for resources on the line. The increasing containment illustrates the amount of work that firefighters have been able to complete in the last couple days. Repair work also continues across the fire as firefighters put in water bars and rehab other areas that may have been affected by the firefighting efforts.
Just under 700 personnel remain assigned to the fire for Wednesday’s day and night shift, including 25 crews, 20 engines, 12 water tenders, five bulldozers and seven helicopters of various types. As resources continue to work today and following the transition light smoke may be visible within the interior of the fire, however resources are still engaged.
Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices remain in effect for zones JAC-316, JAC-317 and JAC-325-A. Any changes to evacuations will made by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
This will be the final update from Team 1. Further updates will be
available from local agencies:
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Final Fire Size: 4,102 acres
Containment: 84%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $13.5 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 695
Hand Crews: 25
Engines: 20
Water Tenders: 12
Dozers: 5
Helicopters: 7
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry
Incident Management Team 1
July 16, 2024
Incident contact information:
SWO.SaltCreekFire.2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-2161
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – The Salt Creek Fire continues to gain containment as firefighters push forward on mopping up; it’s now 100% lined and 73% contained. Due to this progress, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Incident Management Team 1 is beginning the process of transitioning the fire back to the local districts to continue working on the incident. During this time, resources will begin to demobilize, allowing some of those personnel and equipment to be reassigned to other fires burning across the region.
With this transition, 961 personnel are assigned to the fire for Tuesday’s day and night shifts, including 37 crews, 28 engines, seven bulldozers and 17 water tenders. Aircraft include four Type 1, one Type 2 and two Type 3 helicopters, and additional aircraft will be ordered if necessary.
These resources will continue to mop up into the interior of the fire and get as much of the fire contained as possible before turning it back over to the local districts.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management have canceled two of the Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices for zones JAC-19 and JAC-21. The rest remain in effect at this time. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
The current fire danger level is extreme; follow all fire restrictions to help prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 4,102 acres
Containment: 73%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $11.8 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remain closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 961
Hand Crews: 37
Engines: 28
Water Tenders: 17
Dozers: 7
Helicopters: 7
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry
Incident Management Team 1
July 15, 2024
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Containment increased to 58% on the Salt Creek Fire as firefighters continue mop up. The northern portion of the fire has 300 feet of cold black adjacent to the fireline in most areas, and crews are beginning to remove hose and other equipment from the fire while patrolling and monitoring the fire. Firefighters in other areas of the fire continue to locate hot spots and mop up fuels, like burning roots and down material.
Crews are conducting repair activities, such as minimizing soil erosion and protecting water quality, across the fire area. On steep slopes, water bars will be placed on control lines and roads to divert water to areas with natural vegetation, minimizing soil disturbance. Crews began dispersing berms made from soil displaced from fireline construction. Removing berms allows for natural water drainage.
A red flag warning is in effect today for abundant lightning and isolated to scattered thunderstorms across the region. Dry fuels and strong, erratic winds could cause rapid growth for any new fires.
Resources from the Salt Creek Fire are ready to support initial attack for any new starts.
More than 1,000 personnel are assigned to the fire, including 41 20- person crews, 30 engines, 19 water tenders, seven tree fallers and seven dozers. Released resources may return to their home units or reassigned to other incidents across the state.
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management remain in effect. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
The current fire danger level is extreme; follow all fire restrictions to help prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 4,102 acres
Containment: 58%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $10.1 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, JAC-321 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 1,056
Hand Crews: 41
Engines: 30
Water Tenders: 19
Dozers: 7
Helicopters: 7
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry
Incident Management Team 1
July 14, 2024
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
Fire Facts: 4,081 acres | 41% contained
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Firefighters on the Salt Creek Fire continue to mop up, expanding the cold black area adjacent to the fireline. Mop up depth ranges from 50 feet in some areas to more than 200 feet in other parts of the fire. During mop up, crews use heat-sensing detection cameras and hover the back of their hands over the ground to methodically locate hot spots. Firefighters then use water to cool these areas and remove any threat of rekindling the fire. The goal for mopping up to secure the fire is 150 feet in grassy fuels and 300 feet in heavier fuels, such as timber. Potential overhead hazards, such as snags and burned trees, are being felled before firefighters enter areas for mop up.
Today, cloud cover will help to moderate the heat slightly, but also brings the threat of potential thunderstorms. Extremely dry fuels in the area and wind from these storms could cause any new fires to rapidly expand. Firefighters and equipment from the Salt Creek Fire are available to support initial attack response in the local area.
More than 1,000 personnel are assigned to the fire, including 39 20-person crews, 35 engines, 22 water tenders, 13 tree fallers, 15 dozers and various types of logging equipment. This includes day shift and night shift personnel. Resources that are no longer needed for operations on the Salt Creek Fire are being released to be reassigned to other incidents across the state.
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management remain in effect. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 4,081 acres
Containment: 41%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $8.4 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, JAC-321 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 1,044
Hand Crews: 39
Engines: 35
Water Tenders: 22
Dozers: 15
Helicopters: 7
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry
Incident Management Team 1
July 13, 2024
Salt Creek Fire Facebook – Experiencing technical difficulties
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – With the entire perimeter lined, work on the Salt Creek Fire is now focused on mop up for the remainder of the incident. Updates to mapping put the fire at 4,081 acres, and an infrared (IR) flight across the whole area is scheduled for this evening to confirm a final acreage.
Overnight, firefighters used multiple types of IR devices to search for hot spots, or smoldering patches of vegetation, roots and coals that could later reignite in hot conditions. With these specific locations identified and marked on maps, today’s day shift resources will be better able to find and extinguish these areas holding leftover heat.
“We’ve worked incredibly hard in a short amount of time to get to this point where the fire is lined and holding,” Joe Hessel said, IMT 1 Incident Commander. “The work that’s left will require us to be methodical and thorough.”
Today, resources will pick up where night shift left off and build on the progress that has already been made around the perimeter. Mop up totals range from 50 to 200 feet deep into the interior of the fire, which illustrates how wide and secure the line itself is in each area.
Today, more than 750 personnel are assigned to the fire for Saturday’s day shift, including 27 20-person crews, 22 engines, 12 water tenders, 13 tree fallers, seven dozers and various types of logging equipment.
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management remain in effect. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 4,081 acres
Containment: 32%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $6.5 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, JAC-321 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 1,154
Hand Crews: 42
Engines: 41
Water Tenders: 23
Dozers: 21
Helicopters: 11
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry, IMT 1
July 12, 2024
This will be the final evening update unless conditions significantly change.
Salt Creek Fire Facebook – Experiencing technical difficulties
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Firefighters working on the Salt Creek Fire were able to hold all lines today despite hot, windy conditions in the afternoon. The fire is now 100% lined after firefighters worked to contain a small area where the fire crossed over this morning. The acreage remains 3,990 acres since the last full IR flight over the fire. Handheld IR and IR drones will also be used in smaller sections to find areas still holding heat. This data will be used to conduct thorough mop-up operations moving forward.
Mop up continued across the majority of the fire on Friday, and as a result, it’s now 32% contained. On the north portion of the incident, some areas are mopped up 200-feet into the perimeter. On the northeast side, mop-up operations have reached 100 feet in, and on the southeastern side, firefighters have reached 50 feet in. This area has been a focus for resources the last couple days, as rocky terrain has made progress difficult, however these efforts will continue tonight. On the west side of the fire, mop-up operations have reached 150 feet in.
Tonight, 420 personnel are assigned to the fire for Friday’s night shift including 14 crews, 18 engines, 10 water tenders and 12 bulldozers. Mop up work will continue overnight as firefighters continue to push toward more containment. This will be the final evening update unless conditions significantly change.
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management remain in effect. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 3,990 acres
Containment: 32%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $4.5 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, JAC-321 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 1,112
Hand Crews: 41
Engines: 38
Water Tenders: 24
Dozers: 22
Helicopters: 12
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry, IMT 1
July 12, 2024
Salt Creek Fire Facebook
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Containment continues to increase on the Salt Creek Fire as firefighters push forward on mop-up operations across the incident. At this time, the fire is 24% contained, which is a jump from Thursday’s report. Containment indicates the amount of line that has been mopped up, which strengthens and further secures that portion.
Overnight, the fire crossed a small section of line on the southwest corner of the incident, but firefighters were able to catch it at an estimated two acres. This morning, resources remain in that area mopping up and securing the fireline. There is still the potential for flare-ups, especially in areas within the fire perimeter that still have unburned vegetation, and firefighters are watching closely for increased fire activity and potential spot fires.
Today, 750 personnel are assigned to the incident for Friday’s day shift, including 27 crews, 19 engines, nine bulldozers, 12 water tenders and eight tree fallers. Snags, or hazard trees that are primed to fall, remain a safety concern on the line and fallers will be removing them throughout the day as firefighters continue to mop up.
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management remain in effect. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 3,990 acres
Containment: 24%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $4.5 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, JAC-321 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 1,112
Hand Crews: 41
Engines: 38
Water Tenders: 24
Dozers: 22
Helicopters: 12
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry, IMT 1
July 11, 2024
Salt Creek Fire Facebook
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Today, in the southeastern area of the fire, firefighters were able to tighten the fireline by using strategic firing operations in steep, rocky terrain to bring the fire edge to the constructed line. In this area, the fireline was built indirect where firefighters would be better able to hold the fire. The smoke from this activity was visible from Hwy 140. Aircraft were available throughout the day to support the operation to keep the fire within the perimeter.
Overnight, firefighters will continue to work into the interior of the fire, increasing mop up to 150 feet in the northwest area of the fire. In the southeastern corner, firefighters will monitor fire activity and continue the strategic firing operations to eliminate fuel between the fire’s edge and the indirect fireline. Firefighters have already laid hose for water access in this area in preparation for mop up activities.
Tonight, more than 300 firefighters are assigned to the incident, including 12 20-person crews, 19 engines, 10 bulldozers and 11 water tenders.
BLM Medford District has temporarily closed BLM-managed lands in the area for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation notices issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management remain in effect. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 3,891 acres
Containment: 16%
Cause: Under Investigation
Estimated Cost: $2.97 million
Evacuations
Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, JAC-321 and JAC-325-A.
Road Closures
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
All Resources
Total Personnel: 1,065
Hand Crews: 39
Engines: 38
Water Tenders: 24
Dozers: 22
Helicopters: 12
Large Airtankers & Single Engine Airtankers are available upon request.
Incident Commander:
Joe Hessel Oregon Department of Forestry, IMT 1
July 10, 2024
Salt Creek Fire Facebook
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Containment on the Salt Creek Fire has increased to 7% as firefighters continue to push forward on progress overnight. Mop-up operations on the west side of the fire has allowed for the change, and as these lined areas become more secure, resources that have been dedicated there will be strategically reassigned to other portions of the fire.
An infrared (IR) flight was conducted Tuesday, mapping the fire at 3,651 acres. This indicates slight growth from yesterday when conditions were pushing the fire in three significant areas. Firefighters have focused on building up those portions of line and will continue to bolster them today. With this work, 80% of the fire has line built around it, and as these boundaries are strengthened, containment will continue to increase.
For Wednesday’s day shift, 555 personnel are working on the fire, including twenty 20-person crews, 21 engines, 12 bulldozers, 13 water tenders. A Rogue Valley Task Force made up of local resources is also available if needed.
Temperatures are again expected to be in the triple digits and windy conditions are expected in the afternoon. Increased fire activity is projected during this time and firefighters will be on the lookout for spot fires and areas where fire may cross established lines. Structural firefighters remain dedicated to protecting nearby homes that have been placed in Level 1, “BE READY,” evacuation zones by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
July 9, 2024
Salt Creek Fire Facebook
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Firefighters working on the Salt Creek Fire are continuing to be challenged by hot temperatures in the triple digits and afternoon winds. This heat poses a hazard in combination with the hard manual labor required to build line, and hydration has been key for all personnel.
Heat also contributed to fire activity throughout day and caused minimal growth on small portions of the fire on the southwest, southeast and northeastern edges. Firefighters reacted quickly and were able to engage in these areas with aircraft and resources on the ground. The fire is still estimated to be around 3,300 acres, however another infrared (IR) flight is scheduled for this evening and any new growth will be recorded and reported tomorrow morning.
Tonight, 11 20-person crews, 23 engines, 11 bulldozers, 12 water tenders and various overhead are assigned to the fire, totaling more than 300 personnel working overnight. Resources will continue to build on current line on the northeast and south portions of the fire and mop up areas on the west side. Additionally, structural engines from Lake Creek Fire Department and Jackson County Fire District 3 are providing structure protection to homes nearby.
A new Level 1, “BE READY,” Evacuation notice was issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management for zone JAC-325-A. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
July 9, 2024
Salt Creek Fire Facebook
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Taking advantage of nighttime temperatures, nightshift crews working the Salt Creek Fire were able to tie together, build and improve line around the fire, pushing containment to 2%.
After an overnight infrared (IR) flight, officials used more accurate mapping to place the estimated size at 3,300 acres.
Today, resources will focus on holding and securing existing line and building more where possible. Officials expect vegetation and topography to largely drive the fire along steep terrain and draws. Hazardous trees remain a threat to firefighter safety, as does dehydration when working in these extreme conditions. The incident has no reportable accidents or injuries at this time.
IMT 1 Incident Commander Joe Hessel applauded local firefighting efforts, saying “Crews made great progress working to construct and improve line. Your local initial attack crews gave the team an amazing head start. Now, our goal is to finish the job as safely as possible.”
Level 1, “BE READY,” Evacuations issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management remain in place for some zones. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
Extreme fire danger is in effect; follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
July 8, 2024
Salt Creek Fire Facebook
Incident contact information:
saltcreekfire2024@gmail.com
(541) 622-3834
EAGLE POINT, Ore. (July 8, 2024) – Firefighters working the Salt Creek Fire, located approximately 10 miles east of Eagle Point, were able to largely hold it in its current footprint on Monday, despite another day of triple digit heat and windy conditions. A few spot fires were found on the eastern portion of the incident, and fire began to cross a line on the southern border, however resources caught each of these issues and were able to stop any further spread. Fire activity began to pick up at the change of shift at 6 p.m. and a column of smoke once again stood up, however firefighters will be engaged throughout the night to limit further growth. Tonight, the fire is still estimated to be around 1,500 acres; an overnight infrared (IR) flight has been ordered and will likely be able to give a more accurate size of the fire in the morning.
Despite challenges on the line today, progress was made and the fire is now an estimated 60% lined. Mop up efforts have also begun on the west side of the fire and are 5% complete. Tonight, there are 290 personnel assigned to the incident, including eight 20-person crews, 14 engines, nine bulldozers, seven water tender, and five task force leaders. Resources will focus on holding and securing existing line and building more where possible. Hazardous trees remain a threat to firefighter safety, as does dehydration when working in these extreme conditions.
As of 6:00 p.m. on Monday, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Incident Management Team 1 has taken command of the Salt Creek Fire. This transition is relieving local agencies to be able to respond to any new fire starts that are reported. The Type 1 IMT brings extensive staff, allowing it to continue to safely and aggressively stop the spread of this fire, provide information to the community and support the fire personnel of southern Oregon in the response of potential new fire starts.
IMT members were briefed of the fire’s status at 10:00 a.m. and immediately began shadowing the established resources; this transition spans from the firefighters on the ground to the finance, logistics, planning, incident information portions of the incident and more. A dedicated Facebook page for the fire has been established, as well as an Inciweb page. Beginning tomorrow, updates will be posted daily on these new platforms.
The Salt Creek Fire was first reported Sunday afternoon just after 4 p.m. Both ODF Southwest Oregon District and Lake Creek Fire District initially responded, as well as resources from Jackson County Fire District 3, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Land Management, the Rogue River-Siskiyou Interagency Hotshot crews, contract resources from across southern Oregon and numerous large landowners in the area. This effort created a strong and robust initial attack group that worked into the night and early morning hours, and allowed resources to line 40% of the fire within the first 16 hours of the incident.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management issued an Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, and JAC-321. These zones are north of Highway 140 approximately 12 miles east of Eagle Point in the Lake Creek area- East of Salt Creek Rd, North of Hwy-140, South and West of Fish Lake Rd, including the Willow Lake area. There are no structures threatened at this time. To find your evacuation zone, visit Genasys Protect: https://protect.genasys.com/
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed to the public at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open at this time.
Temperatures of 105 degrees and wind contributed to the initial growth of the Salt Creek Fire, along with the dry vegetation in the area and steep slopes. The National Weather Service is now predicting temperatures in the triple digits through next weekend, which will naturally increase fire behavior. Any new fire starts will thrive in these conditions as well. Please be aware of the increased risk of fires starting and spreading, and help reduce the risk by following all current fire regulations.
Starting tomorrow, the fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District and BLM lands will increase to extreme, and regulations will be in place. Stage 2 campfire restrictions will also be implemented for the Wild portion of the Lower Rogue River starting tomorrow. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Additional information is available here:
July 8, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 8, 2024) – Due to dry vegetation, hot conditions, and numerous active fires in the region, the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Jackson and Josephine counties will increase to “extreme” (red) at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. These regulations impact 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management lands protected by ODF’s Southwest Oregon District. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will remain at two (2).
Beginning Tuesday morning at 12:01 a.m., the following public fire restrictions will take effect:
- The use of power saws is prohibited, excluding electric chainsaws.
- The cutting, grinding and welding of metal is prohibited.
- The mowing of dry or dead grass is prohibited.
- The operation of any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine not specifically mentioned above is prohibited.
The following fire prevention regulations are currently in effect and will remain in effect until the fire danger level drops significantly:
- Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, and designated locations.
- Debris burning, including the use of burn barrels, is prohibited.
- Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except in approved fire rings at designated campgrounds. In other locations clear of vegetation, portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.
- Fireworks on or within 1/8th of a mile of ODF-protected land are prohibited. Fireworks are also prohibited on all BLM lands.
- Any electric fence controller in use shall be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or be certified by the Department of Consumer and Business Services; and operated in compliance with the manufacturer’s fire-safe instructions.
- The use of exploding targets is prohibited.
- The use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base is prohibited.
- Motor vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, may only be used on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except when used for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
- Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required while traveling, except on state highways, county roads and driveways: one shovel and one gallon of water or one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher. All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher.
For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District’s fire season restrictions, visit our Facebook page @ODF Southwest Oregon District.
July 8, 2024
EAGLE POINT, Ore. (July 8, 2024) – Firefighters assigned to the Salt Creek Fire, located approximately 10 miles east of Eagle Point, made significant progress last night, lining 40% of the fire. The fire is burning on steep ground along Salt Creek Road, and is currently estimated to be 1,500 acres. It’s currently affecting both private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 1, a Type 1 IMT, has been ordered and will be in-briefed at 10 a.m. They will shadow the current resources today and take command of the incident at 6 p.m. tonight. This will bring in additional resources and allow the local districts to be ready for any additional starts that may occur.
Fire activity naturally decreased last night when the sun went down and temperatures dropped. With this advantage, resources overnight were able to put in a mix of bulldozer and hand line constructed with tools along the entire northern portion, as well as the southwest border of the fire. The eastern and southeastern portion remain largely unlined and will be the focus of Monday’s day shift. Today, 321 personnel are assigned to the fire, including 12 20-person crews, nine engines, 10 water tenders, seven bulldozers, and six tree fallers. Snags, or hazard trees, are present throughout the fire and may fall unexpectedly. This, along with steep terrain and hot conditions are hazards for firefighters on the line today. Aircraft will be heavily used again today as soon as possible, including one Type 3, two Type 2 and three Type 1 helicopters that are exclusively assigned to this incident. Air tankers will be ordered again as needed.
The Salt Creek Fire was first reported Sunday afternoon just after 4 p.m. Both ODF Southwest Oregon District and Lake Creek Fire District initially responded. When firefighters arrived on scene, it was estimated to be 2-5 acres and growing quickly in the hot, dry and windy conditions. Numerous resources were ordered, including engines, bulldozers, water tenders and multiple types of aircraft. The fire grew to an estimated 10 acres within the half hour, and 200 acres an hour and a half into initial attack. Six helicopters, two Large Air Tankers (LATs) and a Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT) were ordered, and numerous retardant drops helped to box in the fire by creating temporary retardant lines around the majority of the incident. This allowed firefighters the upper hand on solidifying containment lines overnight.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management has issued an Evacuation Level 1: BE READY for Zones JAC-316, JAC-317, JAC-319, and JAC-321. These zones are north of Highway 140 approximately 12 miles east of Eagle Point in the Lake Creek area- East of Salt Creek Rd, North of Hwy-140, South and West of Fish Lake Rd, including the Willow Lake area. There are no structures threatened at this time. Deputies are on scene to provide door-to-door notifications to houses in the areas. To find your evacuation zone, learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road are closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open at this time.
Temperatures of 105 degrees and wind contributed to the growth, along with the dry vegetation in the area and steep slopes. These conditions are continuing through Wednesday across the Rogue Valley. The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning, which extends into Tuesday night. Fire naturally thrives in these conditions, and any new starts will have the same potential to grow. Please be aware of all current fire regulations to help reduce the risk of new fires starting in southern Oregon. Today, the fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is high (yellow) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Information is available here:
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
July 5, 2024
ASHLAND, Ore. (July 5, 2024) – Firefighters working on the Dead Indian Memorial Road Fire, located in the hills northeast of Ashland, made excellent progress on Friday, solidifying lines and mopping up 50% of the fire. During these operations, resources were able to extinguish hotspots, which are vegetation or coals that could later reignite, up to 250-feet into the perimeter around the entire incident. The fire remains 100% lined and 43 acres in size.
Tonight, 78 personnel are assigned to the fire, including three 20-person crews, three engines, two water tenders and various overhead. These resources will continue to work on mopping up the interior of the fire. A Red Flag Warning is in effect until 8 p.m. due to triple-digit temperatures, wind and low relative humidity, however these conditions have not affected the fire as much as expected, and little to no smoke is being detected. Firefighters will continue to monitor the conditions into the evening and be prepared for any changes on the line.
One lane of Dead Indian Memorial Road has been open today with a lead pilot car, however it is expected to be fully reopened this evening. Please be aware of firefighters working near the road when traveling in this area. Due to the location of the fire, no homes were threatened, and no evacuations were issued. Evacuations are determined by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management. Find your evacuation zone and additional information here: https://protect.genasys.com/
Tomorrow, three 20-person crews are already ordered, and they will continue mop up efforts. Due to the current status of this incident, this will be the final update unless conditions significantly change. The cause remains under investigation.
Hot temperatures well into the triple-digits are expected through the weekend, which naturally increases fire behavior. Please be aware that a spark can easily start a fire in these conditions. The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is currently high (yellow) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Information is also available on our Facebook page.
July 5, 2024
ASHLAND, Ore. (July 5, 2024) – Firefighters were able to stop the progress of a new fire that started late Thursday night, completely lining the entire perimeter and stopping its growth despite steep slopes, overnight wind and extremely low relative humidities. The Dead Indian Memorial Road Fire, located northeast of Ashland, is now 100% lined and has been GPS mapped at 43 acres. The cause is currently under investigation.
The fire was originally reported at 10:15 p.m. along the 5400-block of Dead Indian Memorial Road, but when firefighters arrived and began working, it was determined to be closer to the 4500-block. Numerous engines from the ODF Southwest Oregon District, Jackson County Fire District 5 and Ashland Fire and Rescue responded initially. More resources were quickly ordered, including three 20-person crews, three engines, a bulldozer and a 10-person crew. A wildland task force made up of resources from Josephine County was dispatched as well. Additional resources were also ordered for Friday morning.
Today, six 20-person crews, two bulldozers, six engines, four water tenders, two tree fallers and overhead personnel are assigned to the fire. Firefighters will work to strengthen and further secure lines, as well as begin mopping up and extinguishing hotspots that may reignite later. Conditions today will be working against firefighters, including predicted temperatures of 104 degrees, relative humidity in the single digits and possible wind. These factors naturally increase fire behavior, and resources will be monitoring for any changes as the day continues.
Dead Indian Memorial Road is currently closed near the fire due to a large amount of firefighting personnel and equipment in the area. Resources are working to open one lane of the road with a lead pilot car when possible later this morning, and are anticipating the road to be fully opened by the end of shift if favorable progress continues.
Due to the location of the fire, no homes were threatened, and no evacuations were issued. Evacuations are determined by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management. Find your evacuation zone and additional information here: https://protect.genasys.com/
Today, the fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is high (yellow) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Information is available on our Facebook page.
July 1, 2024
RUCH, Ore. (July 1, 2024) – Mop up on the Upper Applegate Fire is continuing to increase, as firefighters overnight reached 300-feet into the interior in some areas, upping the percentage complete to 35%. The fire remains 100% lined with direct line, and accurate GPS mapping has placed the fire at 1,143 acres as a final size. Today, 300 personnel are assigned to the fire, including 11 20-person crews, six engines, three water tenders, and five tree fallers. Aircraft assigned remains the same as Sunday’s fleet with two Type 2 helicopters for water bucket drops and a Type 3 helicopter operating as an air attack platform.
A scaled down Type 4 incident management team led by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will be taking command of the fire tomorrow morning. Today, the team is shadowing the current organization for a full shift to ensure a smooth transition. Key personnel, including the incident commander, have been working with current management for the past couple days. Firefighters on this team will continue to mop up and conduct suppression repairs. However, even when this work is completed, smoke may be seen within the fire perimeter for several weeks to months. This is normal and to be expected; Applegate Valley Fire District and ODF are always ready to respond if necessary, however lines built during the past week and a half, as well as mop up efforts, are designed to prevent any further spread.
The BLM has issued a closure order for BLM-managed lands in the fire area, including Grouse Creek Road; this will stay in effect as firefighters continue to work in the area. A map and additional information is available at https://www.blm.gov/orwafire. Little Applegate Road and Applegate Lake remain open, however firefighters are continuing to work in these areas as well. Please be aware and follow any reduced speed road signs in the area.
Due to the status of the fire, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management canceled all evacuation notices late Sunday morning. Learn your zone and be better prepared for an emergency here: https://protect.genasys.com/.
Due to the current status, this will be the final update on this incident unless conditions significantly change. Numerous agencies and organizations across the Rogue Valley participated in the group effort of this fire’s suppression; most notably, ODF, BLM and USFS would like to thank the Applegate Valley Fire District for their collaboration and hospitality on this incident, as well as the community of Ruch for their support.
Today, the fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District increased to high (yellow) and new regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Information is available here:
June 30, 2024
RUCH, Ore. (June 30, 2024) – The Upper Applegate Fire, located south of Ruch, is continuing to be held strong by firefighters working the incident. All lines remained intact during yesterday’s windy conditions, which is a testament to the work that has been put in on this fire. Overnight, firefighters continued to mop up, bringing the total percentage to 25%. This is considered good, steady progress, especially with the amount of hazards present, including steep terrain, dead conifer trees and falling rocks that create a dangerous environment to work in. This work will continue during Sunday’s day shift, as well as identifying where suppression repair is needed and what hazards exist near those areas.
Today, 380 personnel are assigned to the fire, including 13 crews, five engines, three bulldozers and eight water tenders. Two Type 2 helicopters remain assigned to the incident, as well as one Type 3 helicopter to provide air attack support. Additional aircraft will be ordered as needed, but it is not expected to be necessary. Weather conditions today will create less challenges for firefighters; predictions call for mid-eighties and winds ranging from one to six miles per hour with gusts up to 12, less than half of what was expected yesterday.
Due to the progress on this fire, a smaller Type 4 incident management team lead by the BLM will be taking command on Tuesday morning. Tomorrow, the team will shadow the current organization for a full day to ensure a smooth transition, however key personnel, including the incident commander are already plugged in and working with current management.
The BLM has issued a closure order for BLM-managed lands in the fire area, including Grouse Creek Road. A map and additional information is available at https://www.blm.gov/orwafire. Little Applegate road and Applegate Lake remain open, however firefighters are working near and on the side of the road 24 hours a day. Please be aware and follow all reduced speed road signs in the area. Additionally, fire-related traffic may be impacting the Provolt area; please be aware when driving this stretch of Highway 238.
Evacuation orders remain in effect, put in place by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management. Zone JAC-434 is on a Level 1 – Be Ready notice. Zone JAC-436 remains at Level 2 – Be Set. More information about zones and locations is available at: https://protect.genasys.com/.
This fire is affecting private, BLM and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. It was first reported in the late afternoon of Thursday, June 20.
The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is currently moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.