Crews Respond to Bars Fire

Fire crews are responding to the Bars Fire, detected near Olancha Pass yesterday (9/19). This appears to be a hold-over lightning-caused fire from last week’s storm. The fire is holding approximately .25 acre today. The fire is burning in sagebrush, pinyon/juniper and white fir. Crews are using trail systems and natural barriers for containment using Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics (MIST) to help protect wilderness character. A few structures are nearby in the Sage Flat area. Crews are making direct contact with home owners and evaluating and implementing a structure protection plan as needed. Unsettled weather is a concern for the next few days, with strong, gusty winds in the forecast.

There are no evacuations in place at this time. Smoke may be visible off Highway 395 west of Olancha.

The Bars Fire, caused by lightning and detected on September 21st, has grown to approximately 4-5 acres. Yesterday’s wind caused the fire to grow slightly, mostly burning the thick understory of pine needles and dead material.

Smoke is visible from Highway 395 west of Olancha. Please do not report this fire.

Crews are using trail systems and natural barriers for containment using Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics (MIST) to help protect wilderness character. Resources are implementing a structure protection plan for nearby structures in the Sage Flat area. There are no evacuations in place at this time. The Bars Fire is burning in a mixture of manzanita, mahogany and white fir.

The Olancha Pass Trail from the Sage Flat Trailhead to Olancha Pass/Summit Meadow, is being placed under a temporary closure for public and fire crew safety.

1 Engine, 1 Hotshot Crew, and 2 Helicopters are currently assigned to the fire.