In the west and northwest portion of the fire, crews focused on mopping up the previous days burn out activities. In the south and southwest sections of the fire boundaries, firefighters finished prepping cabins for potential fire movement and patrolled for increased activity. In the eastern boundary, hotshot crews continued to build line by hand and strengthened with small burn out operations.
Wednesday’s fire strategies included an extension of Tuesday’s tactics with continued patrol and mop-up operations. Aerial ignition will continue as needed in the eastern portions of the fire between Johnson’s Cabin and White Creek.
The Burned Area Emergency Response Team (BAER) is working closely with the fire team to gain access to areas once they are safe to assess. Upon completion of the assessment, funding will be requested to implement treatments designed to reduce threats to life, property, water quality, and deteriorated ecosystems that are likely to occur when monsoonal rains hit the fire area.
In Mogollon, Catron County Sheriff’s Office lifted the evacuation order to residents and business owners. Residents should be cautious when driving in the vicinity.
If you are planning to visit the forest, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect. Additional closures are still are in effect in several areas; please go to the Gila National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/gila for current information or contact the Forest directly at 575-388-8201.
Fire Facts:
Date Started: 05/16/2012 | Number of Personnel: 1050 including |
Cause: Lightning | 13 hotshot crews, 7 hand crews |
Size: 263,589 acres (412 square miles) | Equipment: 52 engines, 29 Water Tenders, 7 Dozers |
Percent Contained: 22 | Aircraft: 9 Helicopters |