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Cedar Drake, NPS
Contact: Kerry Olson, 360 854-7302 Overview: Thirteen fires ranging in size from a single tree to 400 acres have been burning in the North Cascades National Park Complex since late June. All were started by lightning. The total acreage for all fires combined is over 700 acres. Five of these fires are being managed with suppression tactics to protect the public, and infrastructure in the area. The other eight fires are being managed for resource benefits. Current Situation: On Wednesday, August 26, the Brush Creek fire became more active, growing by 5 or so acres and crossing the Brush Creek trail below the fire. On Thursday, it exhibited even more growth, and smoke could be seen from several lookouts around the Park. That fire is now estimated at over 100 acres. The fire is still burning within parameters established by fire managers, although it has created several spot fires ahead of the main fire. On Thursday a new fire was discovered. The Copper Ridge fire is burning on Copper Ridge above the Chilliwack River. Fire personnel will continue to assess the fires. On Friday and Saturday, fire personnel and Rangers escorted visitors from both the area of the Brush Creek and Copper Ridge fires. Conditions and Fuels: Fires are burning in fire adapted ecosystems. Fires are in subalpine and mixed conifer forests. Weather and Fire Behavior: Continued clear and dry. Unstable atmospheric conditions may lead to additional fire growth. Resources Assigned to the Fires: Personnel: Park staff supported by additional single resources. Aircraft: 1-Type 3 (light) helicopter. Expected Actions: Fire personnel will continue to monitor the fires, and take actions as appropriate. TRAIL CLOSURES: The following trails are CLOSED, until further notice. The Panther Creek Trail is closed from the trailhead on Highway 20 to Fourth of July Pass. The Brush Creek Trail is closed from Whatcom Pass to the Chilliwack River. The Chilliwack River Trail is closed from the Copper Creek Camp northward to the Copper Ridge Loop Trail. The Copper Ridge Loop Trail is closed from the Copper Lake Camp to the junction with the Chilliwack Trail. The Company Creek Trail is closed from the Stehekin Valley into the Glacier Peak Wilderness due to a fire in Sable Creek managed by the USFS. HIGHWAY 20 is open. Park visitor facilities have not been affected by the fires, except for the trail closures Smoke: Numerous fires are burning in Canada and Washington State, causing haze within the Park. To see a map of the smoke visit: http://www.osei.noaa.gov/Events/currents/FSHScanada231_G11.jpg |
Last updated: August 11, 2017