IPNF weekend wildfire update

August 17, 2017

Stage 2 fire restrictions are in effect until further notice in all state, federal, and private forestland and rangeland in Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, Shoshone, and Latah Counties. This also includes public lands in Washington and Montana that are administered by the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Please visit http://www.idahofireinfo.com/p/fire-restrictions.html for a detailed map and specifics regarding fire restrictions or contact the local land management office. Firefighters have been successful in containing many small wildfires across the forest. All fires that have been contained will be monitored until significant rainfall occurs over the area. Current active fires on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests includes the North Fork Hughes Fire and the Buck Fire. The North Fork Hughes Fire (1,403 acres) is located just north of Hughes Meadows in the Salmo Priest Wilderness on the Priest Lake Ranger District. Sparked by a lightning storm on June 28, the fire is believed to have smoldered for a few days before being located on July 4. Firefighters will continue to run a sprinkler system in Hughes and Jackson Creeks as well as scout possible areas east of the current fire perimeter where the fire can be safely suppressed. Weather is forecasted to bring gusty winds midweek out of the southwest that may result in increased fire activity. Please check with the Priest Lake Ranger District: (208) 443-2512 and the Sullivan Lake Ranger District: (509) 446-7500 for current fire information as well as any trail and road closures associated with the North Fork Hughes Fire and Noisy Creek Fire (near Sullivan Lake). The Buck Fire (132 acres) is located 17 miles southeast of Avery on the St. Joe Ranger District. Reported August 7, the cause is under investigation. Jason Svancara’s Type 3 IMT is managing this fire. Fire growth has been minimal, however, the forecasted continued dry weather is of concern as the fire threatens private industrial timberland. Crews have made significant progress towards containment (40-percent) by establishing and maintaining handline along the west flank and fuels treatments along Forest Service Road #201. Road, trail, and area closures are in effect for public and firefighter safety until the fire situation allows safe access and passage. For current closure and fire information contact the St. Joe Ranger District, Avery Office (208) 245-6200, or St. Marie’s Office (208) 245-2531. Despite slightly cooler temperatures and some precipitation, fire danger across the Idaho Panhandle is extreme and people are advised to be cautious. Human caused starts, particularly in the Wildland-Urban Interface, pose a threat to the public as well as requires valuable firefighting resources that may be needed elsewhere. For additional information or updates on fire activity on the forest, please contact Jennifer Russell, Public Information Officer, at (208) 661-5292.