Single Publication

Start Date: July 11, 2024

Cause: Under Investigation

Size: 2,037 acres

Percent Containment: 8%

Helicopters: 6

Scooper Planes: 2

Engines: 14

Crews: 9

Total Personnel: 346

The diligent efforts of fire crews have resulted in achieving 8% containment on the Bench Lake Fire. Structure protection efforts at Redfish Lake Lodge and adjacent facilities are proving successful. Pumps and hoses continue to spray water increasing the relative humidity, making it harder for any fire embers to ignite adjacent fuels. Crews near the upper Bench Lakes have made substantial progress building containment lines in the extremely rugged terrain. 

Yesterday, the national wildfire preparedness level reached its peak. During this time national resources such as hotshot crews and aviation resources are shared or assigned to incidents with the greatest need. Mapping regularity on the Bench Lake Fire may be impacted by competing priorities for infrared fire detection flights. However, specialized aviation resources dedicated to the fire including scoopers continue to support firefighting efforts on the ground. 

If you see firefighters driving on road systems near your home or property, don’t be alarmed. Crews are proactively assessing road systems and strategically identifying contingency plans well in advance of potential fire growth. 

Restrictions: The Sawtooth National Forest has initiated Stage 1 fire restrictions within the National Forest System lands boundaries on the Sawtooth and Cassia zones. Under these restrictions, campfires are allowed only in recreation sites within metal or concrete fire pits. Fires of any kind are not allowed in any dispersed camping areas.