Single Publication

Information: (541) 321-0369
Email: imt2.fireinfo@odf.oregon.gov
Incident Links: https://linktr.ee/WindingWatersComplex2024

Strategic firing operations are underway to secure the Winding Waters Complex
WALLOWA, Ore. – Strategic Firing operations along the Deer Creek drainage of the Big Canyon fire began this afternoon and will run into the evening.  The steep and rocky terrain, prone to rolling rocks and debris, has been a concern. “This is unforgiving country for firefighters” says Matt Howard, Incident Commander, “and I appreciate creative ideas and tactics that reduce firefighter exposure.” Instead of exposing crews to the risk of working below possible rolling debris, the firing operation and subsequent installation of a sprinkler system to secure the fire’s edge protects firefighters and the fire perimeter. There is a fire Weather Watch in effect from Friday morning through Friday evening, for hot dry and unstable conditions.
On the remaining fires in the complex, crews continue patrol and mop up efforts. The Winding Waters Complex is comprised of the following fires, listed by name and Acres:

Big Canyon: 288 Acres
Charlie Brown: 69 Acres
Courtney Creek: 59 Acres
Mountain View: 318 Acres
Water: 18.5 Acres
A community meeting will be held at the Wallowa High School commons adjacent to the gymnasium on Thursday (8/01) at 7pm. A live virtual attendance option will be available by using the Incident Links address above.

 
Public use and industrial restrictions remain in effect on both ODF and USFS jurisdictions. Above normal temperatures are forecast to return by Thursday.
Contact Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center at (541) 963- 7171 or dial 9-1-1 to report a fire or smoke. Stay informed about current fire-related updates in the Blue Mountains by visiting http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/