Frequently Asked Questions
Incident: Cold Springs Wildland Fire
Released: 7/18/2008
Frequently Asked Questions
When and how did the Cold Springs Fire start
The fire was started by lightning and was discovered at 7:00 pm on July 12, 2008 just east of McDonald Ridge on the Mt. Adams Ranger District of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
How big is the fire and when will it be contained
As of July 18, the fire covered 7,933 acres. Containment will depend on weather conditions over the next few weeks. Over 20 miles of line construction was completed by July 18..
How close is the fire to Trout Lake and Glenwood
The fire is about 11 miles from Trout Lake and 8 miles from Glenwood. Currently, there is no threat to either community. Upcoming area events will continue as planned.
How many firefighters are on the fire
As of July 18, there are 1,037 personnel including 33 twenty-person crews, as well as several engines, heavy equipment, helicopters and sawyers.
What roads are closed
All roads east of Forest Road 23 are closed including 82, 80, and 8040.
What recreation sites are closed
Cold Springs, Morrison, Bird Creek Meadows, Mt Adams Horse Camp, Mirror, Bird Lake, Bench, and Island recreational areas are closed. The Stagman Ridge, Salt Creek, Buck Creek, Cold Springs (south climb), Crofton Ridge, Morrison, and Snipes Mountain trail heads are closed.
Can I climb Mt. Adams
North side climbing routes are open with south side access closed. There are no closures to the Pacific Crest Trail.
Is there any threat to homes or buildings
There are no residents or commercial facilities threatened in the vicinity of the fire. The historic Gotchen Creek Guard Station has been protected with fire resistant material.
On whose land is the fire burning
The majority of the fire is within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The eastern flank includes lands within the Yakama Indian Reservation, Washington State Department of Natural Resources, and Hancock Forest Management Inc.
How can we help
Be aware of the increased traffic on State Highway 141 into Trout Lake and Forest Road 23 towards Mt. Adams. Be respectful of closure notices and check local bulletin boards for updated information.
Who is fighting the fire
The firefighting effort is being led by the Central Oregon Incident Management Team with support from the U.S. Forest Service, Yakama Nation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Washington State Department of Natural Resources, Klickitat and Yakima County Sheriff's Office, and Hancock Forest Management Inc.
Why is there a team from Central Oregon managing this fire
When the local fire management organization determines that they need additional support, an experienced incident management team is brought in to manage the fire.
Are there any fire camp tours
Check local bulletin boards for updates or call 509 395-2670 for tour information.
Why did the acreage on the fire go down
Original maps were based on estimates from direct observations, but smoke obscured the eastern flank. Further aerial observations, infrared mapping and geographic information systems improved our accuracy.
What conditions are affecting fire behavior
The fire has been driven by heavy fuel loads. A spruce budworm infestation has killed two-thirds of the forest creating a source of dead fuels. Burning lichens and firebrands lofting ahead of the main fire contribute to spreading.
Why is there so much smoke in Glenwood
The prevailing winds are primarily west and northwest towards Glenwood. During the cooler night hours smoke will settle close to the ground. As the atmosphere warms during the day the smoke disperses with warm air.
If a management team is still needed when the school year starts what is going to happen
More than likely the Cold Springs Fire conditions in early September will be less severe. Therefore, a smaller management team will manage the fire from the District office.
