Single Publication

This will be the final daily update for the Buck Creek Fire.

After 6 p.m. today, the incident’s email and telephone will no longer be monitored. For information, see the Buck Creek Fire Inciweb page or call the Silver Lake and Paisley Ranger District for fire information at (541) 576-2107.

Size: 5,758 acres | Reported Date: September 7 | Cause: Lightning | Personnel: 256 | Containment: 98%

(Silver Lake, Ore.) – The Buck Creek Fire started in heavy timber within the Yamsay Mountain Semi-Primitive Area on the Fremont-Winema National Forest, 13 miles southwest of Silver Lake, Ore. The fire spread north and east into managed timber stands on National Forest lands with brush/grass understory and remains about 11 miles from the community of Silver Lake. The fire is now 98% contained. Smoke from burning fuels well inside the secure containment lines will be visible from surrounding areas, but fire managers remain confident fire will not reach secured containment lines at this time. An aerial reconnaissance flew several laps over the fire yesterday afternoon and no smoke or burning debris was seen outside of the containment lines.

Significant work has now been completed on the Buck Creek Fire and as the overall workload is reduced, fire managers have combined divisions for a more manageable strategic plan once the team demobilizes. Much of the repair work has accelerated using an all-wheel drive heavy machine with the capability to quickly chip and break down large wood debris. Containment lines around the perimeter of the fire are now in patrol status. Some woody debris interior to the containment lines will continue to smolder and smoke may be visible to the public.  This type of fire behavior is expected to continue until a season-ending event, such as increased precipitation or snowfall, extinguishes the flames.

On Friday at 6:00 a.m., command of the incident will transition to the local unit from the Fremont-Winema National Forest. A dedicated group of fire managers will continue to monitor and patrol the fire area once the incident management team demobilizes. Commander Steve North and the rest of NW Team 10 extend their gratitude to the local community, business owners and visitors for their unwavering support during this incident. Special thanks to the Silver Lake and Paisley Ranger District for their partnership and guidance during NW Team 10’s time on the Buck Creek Fire. 

Weather:  Expect warm sunny days, clear cool nights and light winds through the end of the month.

Closures and Restrictions: To ensure the safety of the community, Forest Closure Order No. 06-02-04-24-01 relating to the Buck Creek Fire area remains in place. Local fire managers appreciate your continued cooperation with these closures. You can find updates and maps on Forest Closure Orders at the Fremont-Winema National Forest website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/fremont-winema. The Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) over the Buck Creek Fire will be lifted at close of business today.

Smoke: For information on conditions and air quality go to: www.oregonsmoke.org or www.AirNow.gov.