Clover Fire Transitions to a Fire-use Fire
Incident: Clover Fire Wildland Fire
Released: 6/5/2008
Clover Fire transitions
To a Fire-Use Fire
KERNVILLE, CA....The Clover Fire presently burning in the South Sierra Wilderness has been transitioned from a unwanted human caused fire to a "wildland fire-use" fire due to further investigations. As of this morning the fire has grown to 382 acres and is 30 percent contained.
Upon initial investigation the probable cause of fire appeared to be human-caused. Further investigation has revealed the cause more likely to be lightning. Each lightning caused fire is evaluated to determine the optimal response (suppression or fire use). When making decisions, fire managers consider the fire's proximity to private property, potential smoke impacts, fire fighter safety, and other fire activity occurring in the area. The main focus for fire fighting personnel still remains to hold the fire from spreading south toward the community of Kennedy Meadows.
On May 22, 2008 a three day storm hit the Kern Plateau bringing rain and snow. Almost a week later, on May 28th Bald Mountain Fire Lookout tower reported a large active cell (lightning) moving over the Kern Plateau and observed several ground strikes.
Initial investigation into the lightning detection/reporting program did not show recent strikes in the Clover Fire vicinity. The detection program is a computer program which may have not recorded all strikes due to a glitch in the system.
A total of 165 fire personnel are presently assigned to the Clover fire, including 2 helicopters and specialized personel.
The Pacific Crest Trail will remain OPEN with a "warning sign" posted for public safety. Hikers in the fire area will be escorted, during daylight hours only, through the fire area. The escort section is approximately ¾ of a mile. It is highly discouraged to hike in the area after dark - many hikers have mistaken the fireline for the trail and put themselves in a dangerous situation.
For further information, please contact Cindy Thill, Public Affairs Officer, Kern River Ranger District, at (760) 376-3781, extension 625 or cell (760) 417-0608.
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