7/19/2018 South Umpqua Complex Update

Last night’s infrared flight showed a total of 1030 acres burned by fires within the South Umpqua Complex. Six of the higher priority fires are listed below:

The Miles Fire, 2.5 miles west of Hawk Mountain and east of Tison Road, grew to about 300 acres in spite of retardant drops and dozer work. Douglas Forest Protective Association is overseeing the work on the private side of this fire.

The Cripple Creek Fire, 3 miles south of Cougar Butte and 1 mile north of Jackson Creek, is 35 acres and lined.

Railroad Gap Fire, in northern Jackson County, 3 miles NNE of Round Top, has burned 33 acres and needs additional work before mop-up begins.

The Columbus Fire will eventually burn together with the HD Fire, about 2 miles south of Cover Campground. These two fires have burned 200 acres to date and no containment has been achieved. Lines constructed during last year’s High Cascades Complex will be re-opened to contain the fires.

The Snowshoe Fire, located in Jackson County, 2.5 miles SSW of Threehorn Mountain, has burned 25 acres and is about one-third contained. Burning logs and debris falling down steep slopes are a challenge to firefighters.

Ponderosa, a small fire 1 mile west of Acker Rock, is 80% contained. Two snags with fire in them need to be dropped before full containment can be achieved.

The Initial Attack group responded to two newly discovered fires on Wednesday.

The Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe is sponsoring a Powwow on the Tiller District this weekend, expecting 1000 people and 350 vehicles. In addition, a community garage sale and an art fair are planned in the area. Please stay alert when traveling in the area!