Grasshopper Fire Crews Expand Containment Strategy as Battle Shifts to Long-Term Control
The Dalles, Ore., July 31, 2026 — Firefighters battling the Grasshopper Fire are expanding from direct firefighting to a broader containment strategy, constructing backup fire lines north of the blaze while continuing to strengthen defenses protecting Pine Hollow and Sportsmans Park.
Although the fire has grown to more than 21,000 acres and remains 0% contained, incident commanders said Friday that crews have made significant progress securing portions of the southern edge. Firefighters have contained spot fires that crossed roads earlier this week, completed successful firing operations through Badger Creek, and continue mopping up areas where containment lines are holding.
The biggest change now is what firefighters call contingency lines—backup fire lines built well ahead of the fire in terrain where crews may eventually be forced to abandon direct attack.
Along Forest Roads 20, 27 and 30 and near Flag Point, heavy equipment is widening road corridors, removing vegetation and preparing indirect handlines that could be used if rugged terrain prevents firefighters from safely working directly on the fire's edge. The strategy would allow crews to conduct additional firing operations if necessary and create a larger containment box around the northwest side of the incident.
Meanwhile, Oregon State Fire Marshal task forces continue structure protection work in the Sportsmans Park, Pine Hollow and Friend areas. Firefighters are clearing combustible material around homes, improving access for engines and checking structures while mopping up remaining heat. Fire officials described conditions on the southern end of the fire as encouraging, though work remains before containment can be established.
The Grasshopper Fire has burned more than 21,000 acres since it was reported July 23. Level 3 evacuation orders remain in effect for communities nearest the fire, while Level 2 notices continue for Tygh Valley and surrounding areas.
Elsewhere in the region, firefighters continue making progress on the Little Buck Fire, Ten Mile Fire and Deep Canyon Fire, with containment increasing on all three incidents as resources become available.
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