ODF Launches Aggressive Initial Attack on Lower Rogue Fires Overnight
The Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District continues their aggressive attack on fires spanning the Lower Rogue River Corridor in northwestern Josephine County.
Following thunderstorms that moved through the area Wednesday afternoon. Eight fires were initially reported by a reconnaissance flight that evening, and resources were immediately dispatched to each incident. All but one are affecting Bureau of Land Management land.
The Kelsey Peak Fire, currently the largest fire, is estimated to be 30 - 40 acres. Steep terrain is creating safety and logistical challenges for firefighters, and crews on the line witnessed a notable increase in fire behavior early this morning. This fire has been priority.
The Bald Ridge Fire #2 was located and caught at a quarter-acre overnight. It’s currently 100% lined and 45% mopped up.
The Cold Springs Fire was caught overnight at 1/10 of an acre. Firefighters had lined and mopped up 25% of the incident and spent the rest of the evening doing extensive saw work. It has since been removed from the Watch Duty app.
The Marial and Ditch Creek fires were all estimated to be between 1/100 and 1/10 of an acre by ODF's recon flight last night.
The Hewitt Creek Fire is likely on U.S. Forest Service land. Firefighters hiked the area but couldn’t locate the fire last night. Assistance to ODF's partners on this incident was provided.
Numerous resource orders have been made today's shifts, however other large-scale fires across the state are creating challenges in filling every order. Resource orders will continue to be made for what’s needed on the ground despite these challenges and firefighters will strategically use what’s available.
Posted on 9/4/25 11:45AM by Alex Bauer
