Local News

Containment Expected this Afternoon on Small BLM Fire Near Canadian Border

Apr 21, 2015

Firefighters expect to reach containment this afternoon on the US portion of the small fire at the United States-Canadian Border north of Chopaka Mountain. The fire is under unified command between United States and Canadian Governments. It is on lands managed by the United States Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management.

The incident resulted from a prescribed burn, initiated by private landowners in Canada on April 11. British Columbia wildfire managers initiated suppression actions on the fire on April 19.

Resources assigned to the United States portion of the fire include two engines and firefighters from the Tonasket Ranger District as well as the Entiat Hotshots. The portion of the Fire in the United States is about 2.3 acres.

On the Canadian side, the fire is about 80 hectares (about 200 acres) and staffed firefighters supported by a helicopter.

Firefighters in Canada implemented burnout operations yesterday afternoon. High temperatures, low relative humidity levels and steep slopes are all factors. Information about the incident, including an interactive map, is online at www.bcwildfire.ca.

To report a fire, please call 911. For more information, please contact the Tonasket Ranger District at 509-486-2186.