8/8/2017 Bear Butte Fire Update

Bear Butte Fire Update, Aug. 8, 2017 at 1 p.m.

Firefighters have made good progress to suppress several spot fires and improve fire lines. The fire expanded slightly due to burnout operations along bulldozed fire lines. To better manage the fire, crews are using a specialized water system on the north fire line. The water has made suppression efforts more effective and enhanced firefighter safety. Helicopters assigned to the incident have helped hold the fire with water drops until the water system was fully in place. 

A total of 395 personnel have been assigned to the Bear Butte Fire. It is 30 percent contained with 489 acres burned.

Last night, a public meeting was held at the Haines Elementary School, 400 School Street, Haines, Oregon. Approximately 50 people attended the meeting to learn about fire operations and to ask questions.

Fuels in eastern Oregon forests, including the vicinity of the Bear Butte Fire, have reached maximum recorded dryness over the past 20 years for this date; similar to 2013 and 2015. Low fuel moisture and humidity create extreme fire danger. The public is urged to use extreme caution when handling fire or flammable materials outdoors.

The Anthony Lakes area along Highway 73 remains closed. The Anthony Lakes Resort has been evacuated. The U.S. Forest Service has closed a forest area around the fire. Learn more.