Payette Wilderness Fires (IDPAF)

Wildfire Status:

As of August 8, 2024, several wildfires are actively burning within the Payette National Forest's part of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. The most significant fires currently include the Parks Fire, which has reached an area of 5,978 acres, and the Farrow Fire, measuring 3,084 acres. The Parks Fire has seen low to moderate activity, particularly on the southwest flank, where a cold front on October 4th caused some flare-ups. Firefighters have successfully implemented structure protection measures for the Chamberlain bridge, ensuring that no damage occurred to critical infrastructure.

The response from fire agencies is focused on a mix of suppression and monitoring strategies. The Parks Fire is being managed with a Zone/Point protection strategy, allowing the lightning-caused fire to fulfill its ecological role while ensuring the safety of nearby structures. Meanwhile, the Farrow Fire is being closely monitored, with crews deployed to mitigate risks to the Cold Meadows Guard Station, as scattered heat remains within the fire area. Other smaller fires, such as the Cotton Fire and the Copper Fire, are being managed with similar strategies, focusing on monitoring and point protection.

Weather conditions have played a significant role in the behavior of these fires. The recent cold front has introduced gusty winds, which contributed to the spread of flames in certain areas. However, overall fire activity has been manageable, and no area or trail closures are currently in place. Recreationists in the vicinity are advised to remain vigilant for fire-related hazards. The Forest Service continues to employ all available tools for fire detection and management, prioritizing firefighter and public safety while minimizing disturbance to the wilderness landscape.

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