HEBER-KAMAS RANGER DISTRICT, Utah, June 12, 2018 (Gephardt Daily) — Two fires are burning in the Strawberry Reservoir area, one caused by lightning and the other still under investigation.
Willow Creek Fire
The larger of the two is the Willow Creek Fire, which has consumed 650 acres, up from 453 acres Monday night, and is still 10 percent contained.
The lightning-caused wildfire, north of Highway 40 and Strawberry Reservoir, was reported on June 6, and according to a news release from Utah Fire Info, there are no threats to structures, campgrounds or powerlines.
Modified suppression techniques are being used on the fire, and certain areas will continue to burn while being monitored by fire crews, the release says. An increase in smoke may be seen in the afternoon because of these tactics.
Utah Fire Info said the Willow Creek Fire “will help regenerate aspen growth and minimize fire effects in critical sage-grouse habitat. In other areas of the fire, firefighters will continue suppression efforts, to preserve the values at risk.”
Strawberry River Fire
The Strawberry River Fire is now 45 percent contained, and more is expected in the next few days, according to a tweet from Utah Fire Info. It has stayed at about 100 acres for the last three days, and is still smoldering, but not much smoke is being produced.
The cause of this fire is being investigated. It is not related to any controlled burn or prescribed fire.
Road Closures
A temporary area closure has been put in place north of Highway 40, west of Co-op Creek road (area closure includes Forest Service roads #451 and #393), south of Bjorkman Hollow road and east of Strawberry River road (area closure includes Forest Service roads #389 and #735), according to the release. This area will be closed for public and firefighter safety.
The Bjorkman Hollow road is closed. Co-op Creek road will remain open up to the seasonal closure gate. Strawberry River road will also remain open. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) has been implemented.
The river road and 11900 Road to Timber Canyon are closed until further notice. Visitors to this area are cautioned to be extra careful and aware of firefighting operations on the roads.
For information on these fires and any others in the area, click here.
