9/6/2025 Moon Complex Update

From U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou NF 

Firefighters are working to contain several fires on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. These fires are burning in extremely steep, rugged and remote areas of the Wild and Scenic area of the Rogue River. Crews are working toward full suppression on active fires, as well as performing air and ground reconnaissance for any additional lightning-caused fires. 

Aircraft are being utilized to slow fire spread. Extremely smoky conditions limited aerial capabilities in the area yesterday. Resources from Coos FPA are providing structure protection and other support in these firefighting efforts. US National Weather Service Medford Oregon has issued a Red Flag Warning for abundant lightning on dry fuels for areas along and east of the I-5 corridor to the Cascade Crest. Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are expected, and when combined with dry fuels, could lead to several new fire starts. 

As a result of the Kelsey Peak Fire burning on Bureau of Land Management land to the east of the Moon Complex, the BLM has temporarily closed a portion of the Grave Creek to Marial Backcountry Byway near the Rogue River Ranch for firefighter and public safety. More information here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19w83tRLXi/ More impacts to popular recreational areas and roadways are likely. Please check back for updates and closure information. 

Great Basin Team 5 will assume command of the Moon Complex at 6:00 PM tonight (Saturday, September 6th). Please follow https://www.facebook.com/SWORFireInfo/ for fire updates beginning tomorrow. The Moon Complex includes: 

Pinnacle Fire (#389) and the Stair Fire (#390), which grew to approximately 635 acres overnight. Crews on the ground are engaged in structure protection in the Half Moon Bar area as well as construction of containment lines.

Backbone Fire (#388) and Paradise Fire (#387), which grew to over 700 acres overnight. These fires are burning in extremely steep and rugged terrain, difficult to access from the ground. Air resources were unable to reach the fire yesterday due to visibility. Structure protection operations are underway in the area of Paradise Lodge.

The Brushy Fire (391) grew to 136 acres overnight. It is two miles southeast of Half Moon Bar Lodge. Dozers have opened old roads into the fire area to give crews access. Initial Attack resources are engaged this morning.

The Tate Fire (#392) is 5 miles southeast of Half Moon Bar Lodge. The size has been adjusted to 19 acres after better mapping. Resources on scene include multiple engines, two 20-person hand crews, and three water tenders. Containment line and hose lays have been established around the perimeter. Falling modules have been working to remove hazard trees while crews strengthen containment lines.