Upper Applegate Fire Reaches 890 Acres as More Personnel Arrive

Applegate, Oregon- Overnight, fire crews successfully conducted burning operations on the eastern edge of the Upper Applegate Fire. These efforts were aimed at bringing the fire edge closer to the indirect containment lines established around the perimeter. Mop-up operations are continuing along the southern section of the fire.

The fire currently remains at 890 acres, but further acreage increases are anticipated in the coming days as burn operations within the containment lines progress. Crews are also preparing the northern side of the indirect lines for additional back burns. These back burns, scheduled to occur over the next 48 hours during night operations when burn intensity is lower, will help bring the fire closer to containment lines.

Residents can expect to see increased fire activity at night and more smoke in the mornings.

A total of 485 personnel are assigned to this incident, including 21 20-person crews, six engines, five tree fallers, four bulldozers, and numerous overhead support staff. Four helicopters of various sizes are currently assigned to the fire, with additional helicopters and air tankers available as needed.

Level 2 “BE SET” evacuation notices remain in effect for Zones JAC-434 and JAC-436, as issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management. More information about the affected zones and locations can be found here.

The Upper Applegate Fire is affecting private lands, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) territories, and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. The fire was first reported on the afternoon of Thursday, June 20. The fire danger level on the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District is currently moderate (blue), with regulations in place.

Community members are urged to be aware of and follow all current fire restrictions to help reduce the risk of additional fires.