Single Publication

Size: 5,677 acres | Reported Date: September 7 | Cause: Lightning | Personnel: 533 | Containment: 66%

(Silver Lake, Ore.) – The Buck Creek Fire started in heavy timber within the Yamsay Mountain Semi-Primitive Area on the Fremont-Winema National Forest, about 13 miles southwest of Silver Lake, Ore. The fire spread north and east into managed timber stands on National Forest lands with brush and grass understory and remains about 11 miles from the community of Silver Lake. Although the late summer weather may contribute to an increase in fire activity, the fire remains within established containment lines as firefighters continue their work to further strengthen these barriers to fire spread.  

Buck Creek: Yesterday, UAS (an Unstaffed Aerial System or drone) with infrared technology identified more heat along the eastern fire line and firefighters immediately engaged to extinguish these hot spots. Elsewhere, mop up efforts were concentrated along the southern fire edge, northwest of Horse Antler Camp, where dense pockets of unburned fuel remain in areas of lingering heat.  This can make effective mop up difficult and time consuming. Falling crews worked to take down hazardous trees along the west edge of the fire. Road grading continued on the southeastern portions of the fire. Equipment backhaul was ongoing.  Overnight, a crew patrolled the perimeter to ensure fire did not cross constructed fire lines.

Today, most activities will continue from the previous day. UAS missions will search for hot spots near the established fire line; crews will mop up and patrol to ensure the line remains secure. Equipment operators will work on restoring roads around the fire including portions of Forest Road 036. Firefighters will continue backhauling. Helicopters are available to assist on-the-ground crews as needed. 

Weather:  Today, conditions are similar to yesterday with temperatures in the mid-70s and very low humidity in the high teens. Light winds will be terrain driven with ridgetop gusts up to 15 mph. 

Safety:  Firefighting equipment and personnel are present on local roads. For the safety of firefighters and the public, fire managers ask the public to drive carefully and remain clear of the fire areas. The public also plays an important role in preventing the next wildfire by using caution with all ignition sources. For fire prevention tips, visit: https://keeporegongreen.org. 

Closures and Restrictions: Fire danger remains high. Campfire and other restrictions are in place within the Fremont-Winema National Forest. A forest closure order is in effect for the area around the Buck Creek Fire. For the complete order and map as well as more detail on fire restrictions, go to: https://www.fs.usda.gov/fremont-winema. Christmas Valley Airport is being used as the helibase for fire operations and is temporarily closed to general aviation. A temporary flight restriction is in place over the Buck Creek Fire. 

Smoke:  Smoke from fires around the region may affect air quality. For more information on conditions and strategies on limiting exposure, go to: www.oregonsmoke.org or www.AirNow.gov.