Firefighters dig 75 percent of line around Fir Mountain Fire

The Columbia sits at The Dalles Municipal Airport in Dallesport Thursday morning. Several others were also lined out on the blacktop to the east of the main terminal. Helicopters were used extensively on Tuesday to prevent the fire from spreading.

ODF Central Oregon District press release:

THE DALLES, ORE. -  Firefighters continue to make progress on the Fir Mountain Fire.  Overnight the fire was held within the existing footprint and this morning the fire has fireline around 75% of the perimeter.  Today fire resources will focus on completing construction of containment lines using existing roads and heavy equipment.  Crews will continue developing hoselays for water distribution throughout the fire.  Strengthening firelines and securing the perimeter is a priority today, as winds are expected to increase throughout the day.  Helicopters will be available today to drop water on hot spots as needed by ground crews.  Mop-up activities will progress from the fire perimeter into the interior to further secure the fire.  The fire is 313 acres with 30% containment.

For public safety road closures are in place for Godberson Road and Fir Mountain Road due to fire suppression activity.  Evacuation information for the eastern flank of the fire is available at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff.

A vehicle accident involving a firefighter, not engaged on the fireline, occurred Tuesday evening.  The firefighter was not injured and will return to duty on the fireline today.

The fire was first reported August 1, 2020 and remains under investigation.

ODF’s Central Oregon District continues to serve landowners and the public as an essential service for Oregonians.  Please call or email to talk with our staff or schedule an appointment.  For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.