Single Publication

Mop-up Operations on Salt Creek Fire Progress, Containment Increases to 24%  07-12-2024

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/

The current fire danger level is extreme; follow all fire restrictions to help prevent fires. Learn more at:

• The ODF Southwest Oregon District: https://swofire.com/ 
• The RRSNF Alerts and Notices page www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/rogue-siskiyou/alerts-notices  and website homepage www.fs.usda.gov/rogue-siskiyou 
• The BLM OR/WA Fire Management Page: 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.