A community meeting on the Gun Club Fire is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Mountain Time Sunday at Salmon River High School in Riggins.
The fire has burned 1,800 acres south of Lightning Creek, north and east of the Salmon River. It is one mile west of the Time Zone Bridge, and is visible from Riggins. It started Wednesday, August 17. The cause is under investigation.
A firefighter working on the fire suffered a minor injury earlier this week, but has returned to work on the fire line, the incident commander of the Northern Rockies Type II team said Saturday.
The fire is 30 percent contained. Crews secured existing lines and continued building fireline along the north perimeter on Friday.
The Northern Rockies Type II team assumed management of the fire Saturday morning, taking over from a Type III team.
Firefighters are working on suppressing fire that has crept into timber on the northeast perimeter.
Air resources, including four helicopters, are supporting firefighters. Rafters and others using the Lower Salmon River are advised to yield the river to helicopters that may be dipping in the river, then continue through the area as quickly as possible when the helicopter leaves.
Drivers using U.S. Highway 95 are reminded to be aware of increased fire-related traffic, and to keep moving and not stop along the shoulders to view fire activity.
An area closure has been established for public safety:
- The closed area to the north includes trail 82 and a portion of trail 136
- The closed area to the east includes a portion of trail 118 and is bordered by Forest Service Road 221, which is open. That road runs between Grangeville and Salmon.
- Forest Service Road 263 is closed
217 personnel are assigned to the fire, which is on the Nez Perce-Clearwater Forest.
Fire behavior can change rapidly and visitors are encouraged to contact the Salmon River Ranger District at 208-839-2211 Monday through Friday.
You can also find current fire and closure information here.
