LAKEVIEW, Ore. – This weekend the Bootleg Fire reached 100 percent containment and was transitioned to a Type 3 Incident Management organization that will continue to work on the fire.
While the fire is contained, there is still active fire burning within the interior. With ongoing fire activity in other areas this season, as well as the overall size of the fire, patrols within the fire perimeter will be limited. There are currently five engines assigned for the 413,717-acre fire area.
There will still be some suppression activity within the interior as resources become available later in the season.
Smoke will continue to be visible within the fire perimeter likely until winter snows. There are also numerous hazards within the fire area. This includes fire-damaged trees, standing dead trees and downed trees blocking roads. Cattleguards, roads and other infrastructure have also been damaged by the fire and suppression activities.
Forest resource specialists and crews are actively working to identify and address hazards or needed repairs in the fire area. However, due to additional fire activity and limited staff, this work is expected to last at least through the season.
Updates on the Bootleg Fire will be provided weekly unless there is a significant change or event. Stories from within the fire area will also be shared as they develop, including restoration work, repairs, treatment areas, current conditions and more.
The Bootleg Fire Emergency Closure Area remains in effect for public safety due to ongoing wildfire activity and hazards within the fire perimeter. It is also for employee and firefighter safety as work continues within the fire area and near the perimeter.
The closure order is formally referenced as Order Number 06-02-21-08. Violations of the prohibitions are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or both.
Area residents and visitors are reminded that Public Use Restrictions are in effect throughout the SCOFMP area. Please visit www.scofmp.org to verify the restrictions for the landscape you plan to work or recreate on. Everyone is asked to be careful with anything that could spark a wildfire and to report suspected wildfires immediately by calling 911.
