JJ Castro lost his home, tools and family memories in the Rowena Fire. Now, with planning help and new rules coming, he’s pouring foundations of hope — rebuilding for his wife and children, his future, his community. The Gorge Commission’s recent vote intends to clear red tape so families like his can come home faster.

Firefighters continued to gain ground Tuesday on the Burdoin Fire, which is now 69% contained and measured at 11,192 acres following more accurate mapping. Crews are reinforcing firelines across rugged terrain and have begun shifting to patrol, repair, and recovery work in several divisions. Meanwhile, the Snyder Canyon Fire remains fully contained at 53 acres and is under regular patrol.

Fire crews, supported by aircraft, successfully conducted tactical firing operations Wednesday, July 23, to close gaps in the perimeter. But fire officials warn that isolated torching continues in many areas and full containment will take time.

As the Burdoin Fire burns into its sixth day, firefighters are racing against rising temperatures and wind to contain the estimated 11,000-acre blaze threatening homes, infrastructure, and public lands in the Columbia River Gorge. New fires are also complicating efforts to protect people and structures.

Nearly 850 firefighters and support personnel are battling the Burdoin Fire east of White Salmon, which has scorched nearly 11,000 acres since igniting Friday and remains uncontained.