Double Creek and Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires
September 3, 2022
Daily Update – 8:00 AM

Highlights: Pacific Northwest Team 2 assumed command of the Double Creek and Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires (Sturgill, Nebo, and Goat Mountain) at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 3.

Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires: There are four lightning caused fires within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Goat Mountain 1 is less than one acre and currently not active. The Sturgill, Nebo, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires are active and have been managed to protect values at risk, such as public and private infrastructure, while playing a natural role within designated Wilderness. Firefighters will use strategies to protect public and private structures and infrastructure where necessary and safe to do so.

Sturgill Fire: 6,564 acres | 0% contained | 35 personnel assigned The Blacktooth Wildland Fire Module (WFM) is working with Eagle Cap WFM at Minam River Lodge to complete structure protection assessments for private inholdings along the Minam River. Smokejumpers are working on the east side of the fire to help check fire spread in the Bear Creek drainage. Firing operations will continue to be used to promote backing fire in Threemile Creek drainage and to help limit the potential for uphill runs.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the 70s on ridgetops and 80s on the lower elevations with relative humidity values of 15-20 percent on the ridges and 8-14 percent in the drainages. South winds will be 10-20 mph on ridges and 7-14 mph on the lower slopes. There is a slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Temperatures will cool to the mid-50s in the evening with relative humidity values of 50%.

Smoke: An Air Resource Advisor has been ordered to assist in the development of localized smoke forecast outlooks. The smoke forest outlooks, when available, will be posted to the Smoke Forecast Outlooks website and on InciWeb. Air quality information is also available on the PurpleAir website.

Evacuations: There are currently no evacuations for the Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires.

Closures: There are currently trail and road closures in effect for the Double Creek Fire as well as the Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires. Closure Orders and Maps are available on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest Fire Incident Updates page. Wallowa County issued an Order to restrict use by the general public of the Upper Imnaha Road from Imnaha to the junction of Upper Imnaha Road and Forest Service Road 39.

Air Space: Several Notice to Air Missions (NOTAMs) have been issued for areas surrounding the Double Creek and Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires. NOTAM 2/0826 and NOTAM 2/0849 have been issued to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft. Do not operate drones near wildfires. If public drones are flying in areas of wildfire activity, tactical firefighting aircraft will be grounded.

Restrictions: Forest Order #06-16-00-22-04 covers Phase B Fire Restrictions for all National Forest System Lands within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, except for the area within a ¼ mile of the Snake River between Hells Canyon Dam, River Mile 247.5, downstream to the Oregon-Washington border at Snake River Mile 176.0, which is regulated by Forest Order #06-16-04-22-01.

Fire Information:
Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Phone: 541-216-4579
Email: 2022.doublecreek@firenet.gov
Sturgill Fire InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8364/
2022 Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires Facebook: www.facebook.com/eaglecapwildernessfires2022
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbA2Wt0syaYv4Vh4g9_Ungg

BAKER CITY, Ore. (September 1, 2022) – The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest will be hosting a public meeting in response to the Wallowa-Whitman Wildfires on September 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Joseph Community Center in Joseph, OR.

During the meeting, presenters from the U.S. Forest Service, will discuss updates to each fire status and future planning. The overall goal of the meeting is to keep the public informed about fires occurring on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest and answer potential questions residents may have.

This Briefing will also be held virtually on the Wallowa-Whitman Facebook by going to https://www.facebook.com/events/1012863212727400/ 

Community members are also encouraged to visit InciWeb for continued updates on the Nebo, Sturgill, and Double Creek fires.

Fire Updates as of 07:00am September 1, 2022

Nebo Fire

· SIZE: 3,086 Acres

· CONTAINMENT: 0%

· CAUSE: Lightning

· PERSONNEL: 29

· LOCATION: Lick Creek Drainage

· Fire type: Manage Wilderness Fire utilizing suppression efforts to protect private property and USFS infrastructure.

Sturgill Fire

· SIZE: 4,815 Acres

· CONTAINMENT: 0%

· CAUSE: Lightning

· PERSONNEL: 10

· LOCATION: 15 Miles SW of Enterprise, OR.

· Fire Type: Managed Wilderness Fire utilizing suppression efforts to protect private property and USFS infrastructure.

Double Creek Fire

· SIZE: 1,500 Acres

· CONTAINMENT: 0%

· CAUSE: Lightning

· PERSONNEL: 127

· LOCATION:

· This fire is not a managed wilderness fire and is receiving full fire suppression efforts to protect nearby properties and resources.

Download a full copy of this Order here 08-31-2022 Sturgill Closure Order 

ORDER NO. 06-16-05-22-08 STURGILL FIRE TRAIL CLOSURE

WALLOWA-WHITMAN NATIONAL FOREST

Pursuant to 16 USC 551, 36 CFR 261.50 (b), the following prohibition is established within the Eagle Cap Ranger District of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. This order is effective at on August 31, 2022, through October 1, 2022, or the order is rescinded, whichever is sooner.

PROHIBITION:

Being on any National Forest System trails that have been closed due to wildfire. 36 CFR § 261.55(a)

WILDFIRE AREA TRAIL CLOSURE:

The wildfire Emergency Trail Closures includes Forest Service trails:

·       The Minam river trail (1673), starting from the junction of Bear Mt. trail (1655) heading south to the junction with the Rock creek trail (1905).

·       The North Minam trail (1675), from the junction of the Minam trail (1673) and North Minam trail (1675) to the junction with the Bowman trail (1651).

·       Green Lakes Trail (1666), from the junction of the North Minam trail (1673) to the terminus of the trail at Green Lake.

·       Little Pot Creek Trail (1919), from the junction of the Minam trail (1673) to the junction of the 1918 trail.

See Exhibit A for trail closure map.

EXEMPTIONS:

Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this order:

(1)   Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation Order), specifically exempting them from this order.

(2)   Any Federal, State, or local Officer or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.

(3)   Forest Service employees performing official duties.

These restrictions are enacted for public health and safety.

These restrictions are in addition to those prohibitions enumerated in Subpart ‘A’ of 36 CFR 261 and any other special restrictions pertaining to the described lands.

Violations of these prohibitions are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or

$10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or both (16 U.S.C. § 551; 18 U.S.C. §§ 3551, 3559, 3571, and 3581).

Assessment of Need and Enforcement Plan

1.     Prohibition Objective: The intent of the following order is to provide for public and employee safety by restricting access to the area described in Exhibit A. The area is currently impacted by uncontrolled wildfire and closing the trails to access will provide for public and employee safety.

2.      Public Notification Plan: Information associated with the closure will be made available to the public through media releases, partner organizations, and at Forest Service offices. The affected area will be posted with signs indicating the trail is closed to public entry.

3.     Enforcement Plan: Forest Service LEOs and FPOs will patrol and enforce the order in cooperation with the other agencies. All signing will be maintained to ensure that the public is informed and to facilitate support by concerned citizens.

Enforcement Plan:

Action

Responsible Official

Date

Prepare proposed order

Eagle Cap Ranger District

8/31/22

Review proposed order (Law Enforcement)

Patrol Captain

8/31/22

Approve proposed order

Forest Supervisor  

Post order in accordance with 36 CFR 261.51

District Staff Officer and Staff   Prepare news release for local media describing the order and management objectives Public Affairs Officer   District staff will be responsible for the management and enforcement of this closure. Any enforcement actions will be within normal policies and procedures established by the LEI Patrol Captain for the zone. District Staff  

 

CIVIL RIGHTS IMPACTS ANALYSIS

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Pacific Northwest Region (R6) CIVIL RIGHTS IMPACT ANALYSIS

Prohibited Acts:

 

1. Being on any National Forest System trails that have been closed due to storm damage. 36 CFR § 261.55(a)

 

Purpose

The purpose for developing a civil rights impact analysis is to provide the Forest Service decision maker information concerning potential civil rights impacts of the proposed action. Civil rights impacts are those which could affect the agency's ability to ensure equal opportunity in employment and in delivery of programs and services.

Favorable Impacts

The proposed action would:

·       Enhance Forest visitor safety.

·       Bring USFS enforcement efforts into alignment with the Regional Law Enforcement Plan.

·       Reduce disparate application of laws and regulations, and safeguard Forest user’s civil rights by ensuring consistent application of USFS regulations across the Region.

·       Align USFS regulations more closely with similar State laws.

·       Ensure consistency with policy by ensuring OGC review and FSH direction is followed.

Unfavorable Impacts

The proposed action would:

·       Restricts some activities on the National Forest System lands pertaining to occupancy and use on Forest System Trails.

Mitigation Measures

No mitigation measures are proposed because the purpose of this order is to prevent activities that create unreasonable resource damage or threaten public health and safety.

Social Impacts

The proposed action does not impose any unreasonable adverse impacts on the civil rights of any individuals because the closure categories are of general applicability. The overall benefits are reasonable, as compared to the unfavorable impacts.

Net Civil Rights Impact

No net negative Civil Rights Impacts because the closure categories are general in applicability.

 

Digitally signed by SHAUN

SHAUN MCKINNEY MCKINNEY

Date: 2022.08.31 17:48:44 -07'00'

Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, Goat Mountain Two Fires 

September 16, 2022 

Daily Update – 8:00 AM 

Highlights: The Sturgill Fire is in patrol status as of yesterday evening. Remaining smokejumper crews and medical personnel that completed structure protection were pulled from the fire yesterday. The fire will be monitored by air until weather conditions change and firefighters can be flown in to maintain a presence at the Minam Lodge and other values, possibly as soon as today. The Sturgill and Goat Mountain 2 Fires will continue to be monitored by air as smoke and weather permit. Additional precipitation fell across the fire areas yesterday, coupled with thunderstorms and lightning. Four new fire starts from lightning strikes were reported and Pacific Northwest Team 2 was requested to respond to one with initial attack support.  

There will be a community meeting tonight to discuss the Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Joseph Event Center (102 E First, Joseph, OR) and streamed live on Facebook.  

Today is the final day of Pacific Northwest Team 2’s assignment. The Southern Area Blue Team will assume command of the fires at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 17. 

Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires  

There are three lightning caused fires within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires are being managed to protect public and private infrastructure, while playing a natural role within designated Wilderness.  

Nebo Fire: 12,588 acres | 0% contained | 92 personnel assigned 

The Nebo Fire received almost half an inch of rain accompanied by lightning strikes yesterday. Crews were pulled from the 39 Road chipping project as a safety precaution after lightning touched ground close to an engine. They will work to complete chipping on the remaining one mile of 39 Road today in order to move those resources to fireline projects to the north and east.  

Weather: Cool, cloudy, and wet weather was observed on Thursday. Showers and thunderstorms moved across the Wallowa Mountains and over the ICP in Joseph through much of the morning and afternoon hours. Rainfall totals across the Nebo and Sturgill fires ranged from just a trace to almost half an inch. Less rainfall was observed across the Double Creek, where generally less than a quarter inch of rain was observed. Today is expected to be sunnier and warmer but light precipitation is forecasted again for the weekend.  

Smoke: A smoke outlook for northeast Oregon is available from the wildland fire air quality program. Additional information can be found at PurpleAir website.  

Evacuations: The Wallowa County Sheriff’s Office rescinded all evacuation levels at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 14.  

Wallowa Whitman National Forest Temporary Area Closures:  
The Wallowa Whitman National Forest issued Temporary Area Closures for the Double Creek Fire, Nebo Fire, and Sturgill Fire (includes Goat Mountain 2 Fire). Closure Orders and Maps are available on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest Fire Incident Updates page. 

Road Closures: 
Lostine River Road from Moffitt’s south is closed. Highway 350 (Little Sheep Creek Highway) at mile marker 6.5 is closed due to the following closures: Lower Imnaha Road and Dug Bar Road are closed, Upper Imnaha Road is closed, Hat Point Road is closed, and FS 39 Road is closed from Target Springs Junction to Ollokot Campground [including the Canal Rd (3920) and Lick Creek Road (3925)].  

Airspace: A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place for the Double Creek Fire (TFR 2/5592) to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft operations over the fire. The Sturgill Fire TFR (TFR 2/3189) was released on September 15 after the fire was placed in patrol status. Flight restrictions also apply to drones. Drones flying in areas of wildfire activity will cause firefighting aircraft to be grounded.  

Restrictions: Forest Order #06-16-00-22-04 covers Phase B Fire Restrictions for all National Forest System Lands within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, except for the area within a ¼ mile of the Snake River between Hells Canyon Dam, River Mile 247.5, downstream to the Oregon-Washington border at Snake River Mile 176.0, which is regulated by Forest Order #06-16-04-22-01. 

Fire Information 

Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM  

Phone: 541-216-4579 

Email: 2022.doublecreek@firenet.gov  

• Nebo Fire InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8363/  

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/SturgillNemoGoatMountain2Fires 

• YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/Eagle-Cap-Wilderness-Fires 

Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, Goat Mountain Two Fires
September 15, 2022
Daily Update – 8:00 AM

Highlights: The Wallowa County Sheriff’s Office rescinded all evacuation levels yesterday after reviewing the increased containment level on Double Creek Fire, progress made on the fires in Eagle Cap Wilderness, and moderating weather. The thunderstorms, and associated lightning, that passed through the area on Tuesday resulted in three new fire starts. Initial attack responded to two fires south of the Double Creek Fire yesterday and one to the north. Pacific Northwest Team 2 is committed to supporting initial attack in the region and will continue to monitor the area for any new starts in the coming days. There will be a community meeting to discuss the Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires on Friday, September 16 at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Joseph Event Center (102 E First, Joseph, OR) and streamed live on Facebook.

Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires
There are three lightning caused fires within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires are being managed to protect public and private infrastructure, while playing a natural role within designated Wilderness.

Nebo Fire: 12,563 acres | 0% contained | 90 personnel assigned
Crews were able to continue chipping operations yesterday after the fire received more than 0.10 inches of rain on Tuesday. About one mile of chipping still needs to be completed on the 39 Road. The dozer line to the north of the fire and the line to the southeast of the fire are still focal areas on the Nebo Fire. Crews will work to wrap up the chipping and clean up on 39 Road today and continue to push forward on the northern and southeastern lines.

Weather: Cooler temperatures and precipitation have moderated fire activity in the region, but the rain did not reach all areas of the fires. Some areas received significant wetting rains while others remain dry. Residual moisture and cooler temperatures will help dampen fire spread potential until sufficient drying occurs. Additional thunderstorms are forecast today and crews will remain on alert for potential new starts and any initial attack response needs.

Smoke: A smoke outlook for northeast Oregon is available from the wildland fire air quality program. Additional information can be found at PurpleAir website.

Evacuations: The Wallowa County Sheriff’s Office rescinded all evacuation levels at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 14 after reviewing the increased containment level on Double Creek Fire, progress made on the fires in Eagle Cap Wilderness, and moderating effects of recent weather.

Wallowa Whitman National Forest Temporary Area Closures: The Wallowa Whitman National Forest issued Temporary Area Closures for the Double Creek Fire, Nebo Fire, and Sturgill Fire (includes Goat Mountain 2 Fire) on Monday. Closure Orders and Maps are available on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest Fire Incident Updates page.

Road Closures: Lostine River Road from Moffitt’s south is closed. Highway 350 (Little Sheep Creek Highway) at mile marker 6.5 is closed due to the following closures: Lower Imnaha Road and Dug Bar Road are closed, Upper Imnaha Road is closed, Hat Point Road is closed, and FS 39 Road is closed from Target Springs Junction to Ollokot Campground [including the Canal Rd (3920) and Lick Creek Road (3925)].

Airspace: Airspace restrictions have been issued for the Double Creek, Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Temporary Flight Restrictions were updated for the Double Creek Fire (TFR 2/5592) and the Sturgill Fire (TFR 2/3189) to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft operations over the fires. Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) 08/234 and NOTAM 08/235 were issued to provide safe airspace for the Nebo and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Flight restrictions also apply to drones. Drones flying in areas of wildfire activity will cause firefighting aircraft to be grounded.

Restrictions: Forest Order #06-16-00-22-04 covers Phase B Fire Restrictions for all National Forest System Lands within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, except for the area within a ¼ mile of the Snake River between Hells Canyon Dam, River Mile 247.5, downstream to the Oregon-Washington border at Snake River Mile 176.0, which is regulated by Forest Order #06-16-04-22-01.

Fire Information
Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Phone: 541-216-4579
Email: 2022.doublecreek@firenet.gov
Nebo Fire InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8363/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SturgillNemoGoatMountain2Fires
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/Eagle-Cap-Wilderness-Fires

The Wallowa County Sheriff's Office issued an updated evacuation notice for today (Tuesday, September 14, 2022) at 10:00 a.m.

All fire evacuations have been rescinded.

All ROAD CLOSURES remain in effect. (Open to Residents Only)

Road Closures
o Lostine River Rd from Moffitt's south Closed
o Hwy 350 at mile marker 6.5 is closed due to the following closures:
o Lower Imnaha Rd & Dug Bar Rd Closed
o Upper Imnaha Rd Closed 
o Hat Point Rd closed
o FS 39 Rd is closed from Target Springs Junction to Ollokot Campground including the Canal Rd (3920), and Lick Creek Rd (3925).

Sheriff Joel Fish 

Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, Goat Mountain Two Fires
September 14, 2022
Daily Update – 8:00 AM

Highlights: Showers and thunderstorms lingered throughout the area most of Tuesday. Lower temperatures, higher relative humidity values, and precipitation resulted in minimal fire behavior. Containment of the Double Creek Fire increased to 22 percent. Crews on the Nebo Fire continued chipping along the 39 and 3925 Roads. Firefighters and heavy equipment worked on a shaded fuel break in the Lostine corridor.

Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires
There are three lightning caused fires within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires are being managed to protect public and private infrastructure, while playing a natural role within designated Wilderness.

Nebo Fire: 12,563 acres | 0% contained | 55 personnel assigned Firefighters continued chipping along the 39 and 3925 Roads yesterday to remove available fuels. More than 2.5 miles of chipping has been completed. Today, crews will continue to chip the remaining three miles along the road system. Some resources will be reassigned to higher priority areas beginning today. 

Weather: Showers and thunderstorms lingered throughout the area most of Tuesday. Rain amounts varied from 0.10 – 0.50 inches across the four fires. Lower temperatures, higher relative humidity values, and precipitation resulted in minimal fire behavior. For the remainder of the week temperatures will continue to decrease and relative humidity values will increase. Winds will remain light and variable.

Smoke: The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Advisory that is in effect until 1:00 p.m. Wednesday for Wallowa County. A smoke outlook for northeast Oregon is available from the wildland fire air quality program. Additional information can be found at PurpleAir website.

Evacuations: Level 3 “Go Now” is in effect for Fence Creek north to Dug Bar and Freezeout south to the 39 Road. Level 2 “Get Set” is in effect for lands west of Imnaha River to Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to intersection of power lines and Harl Butte Road; Upper and Lower Imnaha Road from Fence Creek to Freezeout; and for Lostine River Road from Fir Road south to Two Pan (including all campgrounds and trailheads). Level 1 “Be Ready” is in effect for lands west of Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to power lines and Harl Butte Road, and for Lostine River Road from Highway 82 to Fir Road.

Wallowa Whitman National Forest Temporary Area Closures: The Wallowa Whitman National Forest issued Temporary Area Closures for the Double Creek Fire, Nebo Fire, and Sturgill Fire (includes Goat Mountain 2 Fire) on Monday. Closure Orders and Maps are available on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest Fire Incident Updates page.

Road Closures: Lostine River Road from Moffitt’s south is closed. Highway 350 (Little Sheep Creek Highway) at mile marker 6.5 is closed due to the following closures: Lower Imnaha Road and Dug Bar Road are closed, Upper Imnaha Road is closed, Hat Point Road is closed, and FS 39 Road is closed from Target Springs Junction to Ollokot Campground [including the Canal Rd (3920) and Lick Creek Road (3925)].

Airspace: Airspace restrictions have been issued for the Double Creek, Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Temporary Flight Restrictions were updated for the Double Creek Fire (TFR 2/5592) and the Sturgill Fire (TFR 2/3189) to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft operations over the fires. Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) 08/234 and NOTAM 08/235 were issued to provide safe airspace for the Nebo and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Flight restrictions also apply to drones. Drones flying in areas of wildfire activity will cause firefighting aircraft to be grounded.

Restrictions: Forest Order #06-16-00-22-04 covers Phase B Fire Restrictions for all National Forest System Lands within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, except for the area within a ¼ mile of the Snake River between Hells Canyon Dam, River Mile 247.5, downstream to the Oregon-Washington border at Snake River Mile 176.0, which is regulated by Forest Order #06-16-04-22-01.

Fire Information
Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Phone: 541-216-4579
Email: 2022.doublecreek@firenet.gov
Nebo Fire Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8363/ 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SturgillNemoGoatMountain2Fires 
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/Eagle-Cap-Wilderness-Fires 

Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, Goat Mountain Two Fires
September 13, 2022
Daily Update – 8:00 AM

Highlights: Firefighters completed containment lines around the spot fire on the west side of the Imnaha River. Higher relative humidity, cooler temperatures, and light winds are forecast for the rest of the week, and firefighters feel confident the containment lines will limit further fire growth in that area. Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, and infrared flights flew last night to check for heat around the spot fire. Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) task forces have completed their structure preparation and protection operations and will demobilize today.

Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires
There are three lightning caused fires within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires are being managed to protect public and private infrastructure, while playing a natural role within designated Wilderness.

Nebo Fire: 12,365 acres | 0% contained | 56 personnel assigned
Firefighters continued chipping along the 39 Road yesterday to remove potential fuel. Crews assessed the need to improve dozer and handlines yesterday. Firefighters from the Nebo Fire assisted with the effort to contain the spot fire on the Double Creek Fire. Today, chipping and road improvement work will continue on the 39 Road, as will work to improve dozer line on the north side of the fire.

Weather: Weather conditions moderated on Monday. Wind was light and variable. Relative humidity levels rose throughout the day under mostly overcast conditions. Light winds led to another day of poor smoke dispersion. Dry rain showers, or virga, moved northeast across the area which contributed to occasional gusts with variable wind direction. Additionally, there will be a chance for showers and thunderstorms on Tuesday and Wednesday. Generally light rainfall is expected as these showers and thunderstorms persist throughout the week, though isolated high rain amounts are possible.

Smoke: The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Advisory that is in effect until 1:00 p.m. Wednesday for Wallowa County. A smoke outlook for northeast Oregon is available from the wildland fire air quality program. Additional information can be found at PurpleAir website.

Evacuations: Level 3 “Go Now” is in effect for Fence Creek north to Dug Bar and Freezeout south to the 39 Road. Level 2 “Get Set” is in effect for lands west of Imnaha River to Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to intersection of power lines and Harl Butte Road; Upper and Lower Imnaha Road from Fence Creek to Freezeout; and for Lostine River Road from Fir Road south to Two Pan (including all campgrounds and trailheads). Level 1 “Be Ready” is in effect for lands west of Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to power lines and Harl Butte Road, and for Lostine River Road from Highway 82 to Fir Road.

Wallowa Whitman National Forest Temporary Area Closures:
The Wallowa Whitman National Forest issued Temporary Area Closures for the Double Creek Fire, Nebo Fire, and Sturgill Fire (includes Goat Mountain 2 Fire) on Monday. Closure Orders and Maps are available on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest Fire Incident Updates page.

Road Closures:
Lostine River Road from Moffitt’s south is closed. Highway 350 (Little Sheep Creek Highway) at mile marker 6.5 is closed due to the following closures: Lower Imnaha Road and Dug Bar Road are closed, Upper Imnaha Road is closed, Hat Point Road is closed, and FS 39 Road is closed from Target Springs Junction to Ollokot Campground [including the Canal Rd (3920) and Lick Creek Road (3925)].

Airspace: Airspace restrictions have been issued for the Double Creek, Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Temporary Flight Restrictions were updated for the Double Creek Fire (TFR 2/5592) and the Sturgill Fire (TFR 2/3189) to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft operations over the fires. Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) 08/234 and NOTAM 08/235 were issued to provide safe airspace for the Nebo and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Flight restrictions also apply to drones. Drones flying in areas of wildfire activity will cause firefighting aircraft to be grounded.

Restrictions: Forest Order #06-16-00-22-04 covers Phase B Fire Restrictions for all National Forest System Lands within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, except for the area within a ¼ mile of the Snake River between Hells Canyon Dam, River Mile 247.5, downstream to the Oregon-Washington border at Snake River Mile 176.0, which is regulated by Forest Order #06-16-04-22-01.

Fire Information
Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Phone: 541-216-4579
Email: 2022.doublecreek@firenet.gov
Nebo Fire InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8363/ 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SturgillNemoGoatMountain2Fires
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/Eagle-Cap-Wilderness-Fires

Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, Goat Mountain Two Fires
September 12, 2022
Daily Update – 8:00 AM

Highlights: Firefighters and air resources continued their efforts to contain a fire that spotted across the west bank of the Imnaha River. Air resources dropped 56 loads of retardant on that fire since it was discovered Saturday afternoon. Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) task forces worked in Big Sheep Creek to protect structures in the area. Crews are working to connect handlines to stop the fire growth on the west side of the Imnaha River. North of the Double Creek Fire, operations will begin implementing a fire line on the ridges to help keep the fire from impacting additional private lands.

Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires
There are three lightning caused fires within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires are active and being managed to protect public and private infrastructure, while playing a natural role within designated Wilderness.

Nebo Fire: 12,365 acres | 0% contained | 56 personnel assigned
Good progress was made on the Nebo Fire yesterday. Chippers began working on 39 Road and crews continued building contingency lines to the north of the fire. The dozer line to the edge of the wilderness was completed and hand crews continued with handline into the wilderness. Nebo resources continued assisting the Double Creek Fire yesterday. Chipping along the 39 Road will continue today.

Weather: Poor humidity recovery from the Saturday night resulted in drier than normal humidity Sunday morning. South wind prevailed through much of the day with gusts 15 to 20 mph on ridgetops. Lower elevations received light and variable wind, which limited smoke dispersion. Relative humidity values will be higher today with a minimum of 25 percent. There will be a chance of showers beginning Monday night, but widespread rain is not expected. Winds will be light and variable throughout the week.

Smoke: The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Advisory that is in effect until 2 PM PDT Monday for Deschutes, Umatilla, Union, and Wallowa counties. A smoke outlook for northeast Oregon is available from the wildland fire air quality response program. Additional information can be found at PurpleAir website.

Evacuations: Level 3 “Go Now” is in effect for Fence Creek north to Dug Bar and Freezeout south to the 39 Road. Level 2 “Get Set” is in effect for lands west of Imnaha River to Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to intersection of power lines and Harl Butte Road; Upper and Lower Imnaha Road from Fence Creek to Freezeout; and for Lostine River Road from Fir Road south to Two Pan (including all campgrounds and trailheads). Level 1 “Be Ready” is in effect for lands west of Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to power lines and Harl Butte Road, and for Lostine River Road from Highway 82 to Fir Road.

Wallowa Whitman National Forest Temporary Area Closures: The Wallowa Whitman National Forest issued Temporary Area Closures for the Double Creek Fire, Nebo Fire, and Sturgill Fire (includes Goat Mountain 2 Fire) on Monday. Closure Orders and Maps are available on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest Fire Incident Updates page.

Road Closures: Lostine River Road from Moffitt’s south is closed. Highway 350 (Little Sheep Creek Highway) at mile marker 6.5 is closed due to the following closures: Lower Imnaha Road and Dug Bar Road are closed, Upper Imnaha Road is closed, Hat Point Road is closed, and FS 39 Road is closed from Target Springs Junction to Ollokot Campground [including the Canal Rd (3920) and Lick Creek Road (3925)].

Airspace: Airspace restrictions have been issued for the Double Creek, Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Temporary Flight Restrictions were updated for the Double Creek Fire (TFR 2/5592) and the Sturgill Fire (TFR 2/3189) to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft operations over the fires. Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) 08/234 and NOTAM 08/235 were issued to provide safe airspace for the Nebo and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Flight restrictions also apply to drones. Drones flying in areas of wildfire activity will cause firefighting aircraft to be grounded.

Restrictions: Forest Order #06-16-00-22-04 covers Phase B Fire Restrictions for all National Forest System Lands within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, except for the area within a ¼ mile of the Snake River between Hells Canyon Dam, River Mile 247.5, downstream to the Oregon-Washington border at Snake River Mile 176.0, which is regulated by Forest Order #06-16-04-22-01.

Fire Information
Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Phone: 541-216-4579
Email: 2022.doublecreek@firenet.gov

Nebo Fire InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8363/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SturgillNemoGoatMountain2Fires
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/Eagle-Cap-Wilderness-Fires 

Double Creek, Sturgill, Nebo, Goat Mountain Two Fires
September 11, 2022
Daily Update – 8:00 AM

Highlights: The Double Creek Fire spotted across the Imnaha River yesterday afternoon near Imnaha Grange and is approximately 500 acres. Six additional large air tankers were called in to join suppression efforts aided by the support of Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center. The air tankers worked with resources from the Double Creek Fire, Nebo Fire, Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM), local resources and tactical firefighting aircraft air attack on the spot fire. Crews from Double Creek and Nebo Fires remained on the fire into the morning, continuing suppression efforts.

Eagle Cap Wilderness Fires
There are three lightning caused fires within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires are active and being managed to protect public and private infrastructure, while playing a natural role within designated Wilderness.

Nebo Fire: 12,182 | 0% contained | 126 personnel assigned Great progress was made on the Nebo Fire yesterday and existing fire lines were secured. There was some fire activity on the north of the fire along Wing Ridge, but it does not threaten any values at this time. Most of the resources on Nebo Fire responded to the spot fire on Double Creek. They helped provide critical assistance with heavy equipment and were able to push the spot fire away from nearby structures. Crew remains assigned to the Nebo Fire to reinforce and monitor the line as needed.

Weather: Elevated fire weather conditions occurred Saturday with warm, sunny, and dry conditions. Relative humidity dropped to 10 to 20 percent for much of the area. South winds at 10 to 15 mph were observed across the ridgetops with gusts up to 25 mph. Temperatures and relative humidity values today will be similar to Saturday. Wind speeds will be strongest in the morning before weakening by 1:00 p.m., which will aid firefighting efforts.

Smoke: The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Advisory that is in effect until 2 PM PDT Monday for Deschutes, Umatilla, Union, and Wallowa counties. A smoke outlook for northeast Oregon is available from the wildland fire air quality response program. Additional information can be found at PurpleAir website.

Evacuations: Level 3 “Go Now” is in effect for Fence Creek north to Dug Bar and Freezeout south to the 39 Road. Level 2 “Get Set” is in effect for lands west of Imnaha River to Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to intersection of power lines and Harl Butte Road; Upper and Lower Imnaha Road from Fence Creek to Freezeout; and for Lostine River Road from Fir Road south to Two Pan (including all campgrounds and trailheads). Level 1 “Be Ready” is in effect for lands west of Bear Gulch Road, south of Highway 350 to power lines and Harl Butte Road, and for Lostine River Road from Highway 82 to Fir Road.

Wallowa Whitman National Forest Temporary Area Closures: The Wallowa Whitman National Forest issued Temporary Area Closures for the Double Creek Fire, Nebo Fire, and Sturgill Fire (includes Goat Mountain 2 Fire) on Monday. Closure Orders and Maps are available on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest Fire Incident Updates page.

Road Closures: Lostine River Road from Moffitt’s south is closed. Highway 350 (Little Sheep Creek Highway) at mile marker 6.5 is closed due to the following closures: Lower Imnaha Road and Dug Bar Road are closed, Upper Imnaha Road is closed, Hat Point Road is closed, and FS 39 Road is closed from Target Springs Junction to Ollokot Campground [including the Canal Rd (3920) and Lick Creek Road (3925)].

Airspace: Airspace restrictions have been issued for the Double Creek, Nebo, Sturgill, and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Temporary Flight Restrictions were updated for the Double Creek Fire (TFR 2/5592) and the Sturgill Fire (TFR 2/3189) to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft operations over the fires. Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) 08/234 and NOTAM 08/235 were issued to provide safe airspace for the Nebo and Goat Mountain 2 Fires. Flight restrictions also apply to drones. Drones flying in areas of wildfire activity will cause firefighting aircraft to be grounded.

Restrictions: Forest Order #06-16-00-22-04 covers Phase B Fire Restrictions for all National Forest System Lands within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, except for the area within a ¼ mile of the Snake River between Hells Canyon Dam, River Mile 247.5, downstream to the Oregon-Washington border at Snake River Mile 176.0, which is regulated by Forest Order #06-16-04-22-01.

Fire Information Office Hours:
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Phone: 541-216-4579
Email: 2022.doublecreek@firenet.gov
Nebo Fire InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8363/ 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SturgillNemoGoatMountain2Fires
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/Eagle-Cap-Wilderness-Fires