7/18/2020 Bertschi Road Fire Update

The Bertschi Road Fire is burning south of Conboy Wildlife Refuge and north of Snowden Road, south of the town of Glenwood, WA. The fire has burned 294 acres, and is now 65% contained. Approximately 144 personnel are currently assigned to this incident.The fire cause is under investigation.

The fire is burning on industrial timberland and industry cooperators have made available heavy equipment, including dozers to anchor containment lines into established roads. The fire is burning in heavy logging debris, including log decks and slash, yet no spotting has been observed outside established containment lines. A thermal flight is scheduled tonight to delineate fire perimeter and identify potential hot spots.

Our highest priority is the safety of the public and all wildland fire personnel. In coordination with local partners, state and federal fire agencies, the Wildland Fire Response Plan (WFRP) was developed to help protect firefighters and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. To keep firefighters and communities healthy and safe during the Bertschi Road Fire, all fire personnel are expected to follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This includes limiting public access to the Incident Command Post (ICP) at Glenwood High School. While COVID-19 circumstances are rapidly evolving, and federal agency guidance continues to adapt with the situation, NW Team 10 is prepared for wildland fire activity during this time.

A temporary flight restriction (TFR) is in place over the Bertschi Road Fire area, restricting public access for aircraft including drones. The public is reminded that all air operations are grounded any time a drone is sighted within the TFR, which inhibits their ability to conduct critical fire suppression efforts. Flying within the TFR is prohibited and against the law.