Slick Ear Fire burning slowly

PENDLETON—With cooler weather and significant rain over the area, Umatilla National Forest officials continue to monitor the Slick Ear Fire, which is gradually burning in heavy fuels in the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness on the Pomeroy Ranger District, USFS officials report.

The Slick Ear Fire was discovered on Sept. 14 following a lightning storm approximately 28 miles northeast of Elgin, Ore. Firefighters attempted to staff the fire during initial attack, but they were unable to safely engage the fire from the ground because of the difficult terrain. Since reported, the fire has been creeping and smoldering through a mixture of brush, heavy timber, and snags (dead or burned trees). Due to higher temperatures earlier this week and the heavy fuels, the fire has periodically produced visible smoke.

The fire is burning in steep and rugged terrain east of the Slick Ear Trail #3104 and about a mile north of the Wenaha River. Over the past several days, the fire has gradually backed downhill in these heavy fuels. Firefighters have monitored the fire progression and used helicopters to stop fire spread and cool hotspots when needed. The fire is currently estimated to be 157 acres in size.

Almost an inch of rain fell over the area yesterday with additional rain forecasted for today and tomorrow. Following the precipitation, fire activity has been minimal. With the favorable weather conditions, firefighters are identifying potential access to safely engage the fire and minimize further growth.

Umatilla National Forest officials remind visitors that smoke may continue to be visible in the area. The public is asked to use caution when entering the area and be aware of increased hazards, particularly snags and smoky conditions.

The current fire danger rating on the Umatilla National Forest is MODERATE and Public Use Restrictions involving chainsaw use are in effect.

For more information regarding Restrictions, please contact the Umatilla National Forest information hotline at (877) 958-9663. The latest fire information will be posted on the Blue Mountains Fire Information Blog at http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/.

More information about the Umatilla National Forest is available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/umatilla.