Continued Mop-Up Brings West Fork Evans Creek Fire To 55% Containment

Containment on the West Fork Evans Creek Fire increased to 55% Tuesday evening as firefighters continue extensive mop-up operations across the 283-acre fire. In the final update on the blaze, the Oregon Department of Forestry says that, with established firelines continuing to hold, crews are now targeting mop-up depths of 200 to 250 feet into the burned area. Overnight staffing was further scaled back. Resources included four Type 6 engines and one task force leader, while a strong day shift presence will continue to support extensive mop-up operations today. Some interior smoke may still be visible from time to time as heavy fuels, including downed trees and stumps, continue burning within the fire's perimeter. No structures have been lost as a result of the fire, and none are threatened at this time. The cause of the fire is not immediately apparent, and a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine how the fire started. Additional details will be shared as they become available. ...Read more

Fall Prescribed Burning Planned Across Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

All five Ranger Districts on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest are planning prescribed fire projects for this fall. According to the U.S. Forest Service, officials estimate this work may continue into winter, as conditions allow. Highly qualified prescribed fire specialists use prescribed fires to help reduce excess vegetation, improve wildlife habitat, enhance watershed health, and restore fire-adapted ecosystems. Prescribed understory and pile burning is planned in the following areas, and additional locations may be added later. Areas include the Siskiyou Mountains Ranger District, Applegate Valley, Ashland Watershed, Wild Rivers Ranger District, Gold Beach and Powers Ranger Districts, as well as the High Cascades Ranger District. No closures are expected with this planned prescribed fire activity. However, visitors should remain alert and watch for firefighters working in these areas. Smoke may impact visibility along roadways. While smoke may be visible, the Forest Service works closely with air quality specialists and closely monitors smoke during prescribed fires. ...Read more

Council Discussed Fee Schedule Revisions, City Manager Evaluation, Invocation Policy

After an Executive Session Monday where counsel was consulted concerning the legal rights and duties regarding current or likely to be filed litigation, Grants Pass City Council met to discuss Fee Schedule Revisions, City Manager evaluation, and Invocation Policy and Procedures. City staff had recommended revisions for the Comprehensive Fee Schedule, including Owl Plaza rates, the cost for background checks, and restructuring of shelter charges. Annual changes are put into effect January 1st, based on the average monthly Consumer Price Index - Urban from November to October. Council agreed to increase the $7 Non-Resident Fee to $10, and implement changes made yesterday with CPI-U adjustments for January 1st. A discussion then took place for the City Manager evaluation process. The current and alternative methods were considered, with the desired outcome including fair and candid discussion, clear council expectations, constructive feedback, and future growth. A motion to adopt the new form including quarterlies, with work to be done on a 2027 360 review, the requirement that all council members fill out an evaluation form in advance, and that the mayor facilitate was discussed. November 4th will be the adoption, with the evaluation scheduled for November 18th. ...Read more