07-09-2015 Horseshoe Fire AM Update

Firefighters at the Horseshoe Fire burning in the Mt. Adams Wilderness west of Mt. Adams are using light impact suppression techniques to contain the fire at its current 250-acre size.  Pumps and hose lays are in place, providing water to cool and extinguish smoldering fuels burning 30-60 feet within the perimeter. This action will secure a direct fire line and reduce the risk of the fire spreading later this summer when forest conditions are drier and firefighting resources are limited.   

“We are using minimum impact suppression tactics (MIST) to minimize fire size and our impacts on the wilderness,” said Brian Gales, incident commander of Washington Interagency Incident Management Team #4.

MIST techniques include incorporating natural barriers, minimizing snag cutting, and limiting pruning of trees along the fire line.  Firefighters are using water to extinguish the fire perimeter, rather than the traditional digging and chopping of a fire line on the ground.  “Incident managers are committed to protecting Wilderness values while minimizing firefighter exposure and
achieving fire containment,” he emphasized.

To enable increased productivity and reduce risks associated with road travel and a three mile hike into the fire area, crews are camping near the fire, gathering for meals, but sleeping in a more dispersed pattern to be light on the land. Long line sling-loads of firefighting equipment and meals are being delivered by helicopter.  All trash and unused equipment are being removed. Fire crews have also been creating a shaded fuel break, cutting and chipping brush and small trees within fifty feet of Forest Road 23.  The fuel break is a contingency line to provide opportunities for future fire control should it become necessary.  The road is open.  Drivers should use low speeds and be
aware of firefighting activity as they move through the area.

Local weather will be changing today as a low-pressure front moves over the region, bringing cooler temperatures and higher humidity.  The risk of thunderstorms is increasing through the day, bringing the potential for erratic winds, abundant lighting and rain or hail.  Firefighters will be monitoring weather changes such as cumulus clouds and wind shifts.

Recent fire behavior has been minimal, with smoldering and occasional torching of individual trees and no significant fire spread.  Until containment is complete the fire could still flare up and spread.  Containment objectives are expected by Tuesday, July 14.