June 14, 2018 Willow Creek Fire Update
The Willow Creek Fire, located north of Highway 40 and Strawberry reservoir on the Heber-Kamas Ranger District has burned 1,400 acres, and is 25% contained. The fire has been determined as lightening caused and was reported on June 6th. There are no threats to structures, campgrounds, or powerlines.
Firefighters are using confine and contain suppression techniques. These techniques are being used to help regenerate aspen growth and minimize fire effects in critical sage-grouse habitat. Today fire crews will continue to monitor the fire and use suppression efforts if necessary. The use of aerial tactics will not be utilized today. Fire crews will continue suppression efforts with some hand ignitions in certain areas. Smoke is still visible in the area increasing in the afternoon. Please use caution when driving in and around the area. Public and firefighter safety is the main priority.
Personnel and resources assigned include three engines, one 20-person hotshot crew, one 20-person initial attack crew and one helicopter. Total personnel on the fire is 91.
A temporary area closure has been implemented north of Highway 40, west of Co-op Creek road (area closure includes Forest Service roads #451 and #393), south of Bjorkman Hollow road and east of Strawberry River road (area closure includes Forest Service roads #389 and #735). This area will be closed for public and firefighter safety. The Bjorkman Hollow road is closed. Co-Op road will remain open up to the seasonal closure gate. Strawberry River road will also remain open. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) has been implemented
