Payette Wilderness Fires (IDPAF)

Wildfire Status:

The Payette Wilderness area is currently experiencing multiple active wildfires, with varying levels of activity and response. The most notable incidents include the Cotton Fire, which spans 82 acres and remains active with moderate growth, and the Copper Fire, which has reached 1,932 acres and is monitored closely as it approaches nearby ranch operations. Firefighters are actively engaged in structure protection measures for the Copper Fire and are on-site to ensure safety. Additionally, the Parks Fire, covering 5,884 acres, is showing active burning on its southwest side, but fire behavior is expected to moderate as it approaches previously burned areas.

Current weather conditions are playing a role in the firefighting efforts, with low fire spread potential noted in several smaller fires, such as the Fang Fire and Frangelica Fire, both of which are less than a tenth of an acre and exhibit minimal activity. The strategy being employed across these wildfires includes a combination of monitoring and zone/point protection to allow certain fires to fulfill their ecological roles while safeguarding at-risk values. The Forest Service is utilizing all available tools and technologies for risk assessments and post-fire recovery to manage the wildfires effectively.

Despite the active fires, there are currently no area or trail closures in place, although individuals recreating in the area are advised to remain vigilant for fire-related hazards. Overall, the response from fire agencies is robust, focusing on both immediate suppression efforts where necessary and long-term ecological management strategies within the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.