Crews on the ground continue to make steady quality progress controlling the
Speirs Fire. Yesterday was warm and clear, with light winds coming from the
north. These conditions allowed crews to initiate previously planned burning
operations, producing more smoke than in previous days. Burn-out operations
will contribute to a stronger containment line and increase firefighter safety.
Incident Commander Brett Waters stressed the importance of planning for the
future, “It is my expectation that we work slow and steady through containment
and mop up to ensure the Ashley National Forest is set up for success in the
long-term management of this fire." Crews have made significant progress in
containing the fire while prioritizing the health and safety of firefighters and the
public.
Today’s operational plans include using tactics similar to those employed in the
past few days, aggressively suppressing the fire, using mostly direct
containment line construction. Crews are further fortifying existing containment
lines by expanding fuel breaks and using water to mop up heat sources near the
fire’s edge. If burning operations resume, the increased smoke will again be
visible this afternoon. Increasingly warm temperatures and dry conditions are
expected to increase fire behavior.
For more information, please visit our Facebook page, Inciweb site, or
contact us on the fire information line at 435-709-8209 which is staffed
6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Closures:
Being on or within the following campgrounds, roads, and trails are prohibited on
the Flaming Gorge Ranger District on the Ashley National Forest: Firefighters
Memorial Campground, Greendale Group Campsite, Forest Service Road (FSR)
610, FSR 689, Lowline trail FST103 its junction with the Pipe Creek Trail, FST
003. Forest Service Trail 003 from the beginning at the junction with FST 103 to
the junction of Forest Service Trail 004 and Forest Service Trail 004 to Greens
Draw Road 049. For more information on existing closures, please visit the Ashely
National Forest website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ashley/alerts-notices
The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area remains open to the public for
recreational opportunities.
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR): A TFR is in effect over the Speirs Fire area.
Using uncrewed aerial systems (UAS)/drones is illegal within the TF