ODF says the Collings Mountain Fire is now 100% lined following the dayshift on Thursday, and slow but steady progress is being made on the mop-up efforts, now 65% complete. Following accurate GPS mapping, the final size of the fire was found to be nine acres. The fire is located on private land approximately 1.5 miles west of Applegate Lake. The cause remains under investigation.
During Thursday’s day shift, rolling debris caused a breach in the fire line, and a new quarter-acre spot kept crews busy. They were able to reconstruct the fire line and extinguish and mop up the new fire. ODF firefighters encountered a few rattlesnakes, and continue to be challenged by the steep, rocky terrain and hazardous trees and boulders; these concerns are slowing down operations, as crew leaders focus on the safety of the firefighters. However, ODF remains dedicated to constant progress in mop-up work.
Tonight, two 20-person crews will be continuing these efforts, along with two type six engines, a water tender and ODF overhead personnel. For tomorrow’s day shift, three new 20-person crews will be assigned to the incident, as well as two type 6 engines, four water tenders and a tree faller. Authorities say due to status of this incident, this will be the final update unless conditions significantly change.
The ODF Southwest Oregon District will be bringing on the first of its aircraft beginning on Friday; a severity type 2 helicopter will be stationed at the Grants Pass airport and ready to respond to calls. ODF also maintains ‘call when needed’ list for additional aircraft. One such Type 2 helicopter is stationed at the ODF Table Rock Rd base.
Friday also marks the start of Moderate fire danger in Jackson and Josephine counties.
Courtesy of ODF
