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Beech Creek Fire Update

JOHN DAY, PRAIRIE CITY, and HINES, OR – (Friday, August 5, 2022) Fire crews continue to work to contain the Beech Creek Fire located nine miles south of Long Creek along Highway 395. The fire is currently 183 acres and is 35% contained. The reduction in acreage is due to more accurate mapping. There are no evacuations in place.

On the northern portion of the fire, on the east side of Highway 395, firefighters continue to mop up, strengthen containment lines, and remove hazard trees along Highway 395. On the southern portion of the fire, numerous snags and fire weakened trees continue to pose a safety risk to fire crews. Equipment and falling teams have begun working along the fires edge to remove hazard trees. If hazards can be successfully mitigated, fire crews would be able to enter the area for direct suppression.

An additional containment line utilizing roads and completed dozer line has been established on the southern portion of the fire if direct attempts are unsuccessful. Strategic firing operations would be utilized to consume the unburned fuels between the indirect containment line and the fires edge. Utilizing this indirect containment line would reduce the safety risks to firefighters. Fire managers are closely monitoring weather and fire behavior to determine which containment lines can be successfully utilized.

Travelers will continue to see smoke in the area and are encouraged to check road conditions before traveling for up-to-date information on delays or closures. The public can monitor smoke and air quality across the state by visiting: http://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com.

Fire updates will continue to be aired on KJDY and will also be posted at Chester’s Market, the DinoMart in John Day, and the Chevron station in Mt. Vernon.