Forest Service: East Fork Fire south of Gardnerville reaches 45 percent containment
The East Fork Fire burning south of Gardnerville in Alpine County was at 1,136 acres and 45 percent contained as of Monday evening, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
The fire, which started July 1 by a lightning strike, is located on the Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. As of Monday, 315 personnel were committed to the fire, including 9 helicopters, 4 engines and 10 hand crews, according to a Forest Service news release.
As of Monday afternoon all established containment lines around the East Fork Fire were holding. There was no visible smoke on the most recent fly over. Crews continue to check and secure containment lines and are expected to be on scene for a few more days, the release states.
Incident Commander Stacey Saucedo extended sincere thanks to Eastern Alpine Fire and Rescue, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, California Highway Patrol, Dianna’s Starlight Lodge, Douglas County Communications and the East Fork Fire Protection District.
“With the lightning activity and potential for human caused fires, we will continue to work together and share resources across the Sierra Front to help all agencies be safe and efficient in their firefighting activities. Thank you all for your efforts and support,” said Saucedo.
The fire is burning in the steep rugged terrain of Cottonwood Canyon near Horseshoe Bend on the East Fork of the Carson River.
The Forest Service advises people to stay out of the area of Horseshoe Bend on the East Fork of the Carson River, where firefighters are working. The public is the first line of defense in preventing wildfires.
Closures: Airport Road off of Highway 89 in Alpine County is closed between the junction of Highway 89 and Diamond Valley Road. Access to Indian Creek Reservoir is closed until further notice. Do not launch any rafts or watercraft in the East Fork of the Carson River from Markleeville. There is fire on both sides of the river.