7/9/2017 Lone Pine Fire

The Lone Pine Fire began burning just before noon on the Crooked River National Grassland approximately 2 miles east of Gray Butte. The fire was burning primarily brush and grass when it began.

Visitors to Skull Hollow Campground, which was near the fire, were made aware of the fire, but were not evacuated. However, a portion of Lone Pine Road was closed to allow for fire traffic.

By late afternoon, the fire had burned approximately 1,000 acres, though estimates of its size varied.

Resources dispatched to the fire include 3 single-engine air tankers with retardant, 2 helicopters dropping water, 10 engines, and a water tender. By mid-afternoon the right flank of the fire had a retardant line around it, which helped with suppression efforts.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Crook County Health Department warned that people who have chronic respiratory or heart issues should avoid the area or stay inside to avoid the smoke.  The public needs to be aware that driving or parking on dry grass can easily start a wildfire in Central Oregon’s current fuel conditions.

Contact:  Media Desk at 541-316-7711                      

Email:  Centralorfireinfo@gmail.com

Twitter:  @CentralORfire                                             

Blog: CentralORfireinfo.blogspot.com