Single Publication

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cowlitzcomplex Twitter: https://twitter.com/GPNF
Gifford Pinchot National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/giffordpinchot

Cowlitz Complex Fire Update 
September 21, 2023

Current Situation: The Cowlitz Complex is 40% contained with a total of 715 acres and 296 personnel. Although crews continue to work on constructing containment lines, managing the fire is shifting to “fire suppression repair.” After firefighters complete the suppression efforts, they restore the land to a more natural condition. Fire suppression repair is a series of post-fire actions taken to repair impacts to the land and minimize the potential for soil erosion and other issues that might arise from these activities. It includes impacts caused by hand lines, dozer lines, and helispots that were used to support the crews. Improved roads and lines that create a safety barrier between the Grassy Mountain Fire and communities will remain until the fire is out. 

Safety Message: With the weekend coming, please remember that it is hunting season. If you are planning to recreate on the forest this weekend, be mindful if you are travelling off trail or in remote areas. While hiking, wear bright colors so hunters can see you. Be courteous to fellow recreationists as everyone is there to enjoy themselves. 

Background: There were 30 fires in the complex. The fires started August 25 after a lightning event across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. All fires are managed under full suppression strategy. Most have been contained. The Grassy Mountain Fire continues to be the management team’s main priority.

Fire Restrictions: Fire Restrictions remain in effect. Campfires are prohibited across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest – only propane-fueled fire pits, stoves and lanterns are allowed. Additional information is available on the forest’s website at Gifford Pinchot National Forest - Fire Management (usda.gov). The decision to lift or maintain fire restrictions depends on factors such as current and expected weather conditions, fuel moisture, the level of fire activity, and the availability of firefighting resources to respond to additional ignitions.

Closures: With the ongoing fire activity in the vicinity of the Snagtooth Fire the following roads and trails are closed to the public to reduce exposure and help ensure public and firefighter safety: Forest Roads 9300 and 9341, Boundary Trail #1 (from Elk Pass to intersection with Summit Prairie), Summit Prairie #2, Craggy Peak #3, Snagtooth #4, Quartz #5, Stabler Camp #17, Wright Meadows #80, Basin Camp #3A, Quartz #5B, Quartz #5C (French Creek), Snyder Pasture #80A. Forest Road 8410 is closed for firefighter and public safety in the vicinity of the Pothole Fire, and Forest Road 78 is temporarily closed between the 78 and the 22 junction due to hazardous debris rolling out onto the roadway.

Temporary Flight Restrictions: One TFR remains in effect during daylight hours located north of US-12 to Mount Rainier National Park. Fire aviation response is halted or delayed if an unauthorized aircraft enters the TFR. Temporary flight restrictions also apply to unmanned aircraft systems or drones.