KAMIAH, IDA Local, tribal, state, and federal firefighting crews responded quickly to a series of recent storms that swept across the area and started several small wildfires on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.
The Grangeville Interagency Dispatch Zone has had 23 verified new fire starts in the last week, burning a total of 14.5 acres, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Lightning was the primary cause of most of the fires, however several were also ascribed to unintentional human activity.
According to Josh Bransford, Fire Staff Officer for the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, everything is going well so far. The operational requirements of these new starts on both our forest and our partner’s lands can currently be met by our resources, but that might quickly change if there is a higher priority start with structures or other important items at danger.
Bransford stressed the value of working together with partner organizations such as the Clearwater-Potlatch Timber Protection Association, the Bureau of Land Management, the Nez Perce Tribe, and the Idaho Department of Lands. In order to make sure that the resources we do have available are used as effectively as possible and that the highest priority fires are addressed first, we are collaborating closely with our interagency colleagues, he said.
Many of the fires have already been contained or put out as a result of the initial attack efforts. Although there may still be smoke in some areas of the area, officials say containment operations are going well.
Through the weekend, daily showers and thunderstorms are predicted, with the possibility of heavy rain and dry lightning close to storm edges. There is a 50–60% chance of widespread wet rain and more structured storms due to a low-pressure system that is expected to move in on Thursday and Friday.
There are currently no fire restrictions in effect. Interagency fire managers, however, meet once a week to assess the changing situation and, if required, discuss imposing limitations.
Both locals and guests are urged to exercise caution and fire safety. Visit InciWeb for updates on major fires. The Nez Perce-Clearwater Fire Information Line can be reached at 208-935-6134 for local fire information.
