The Slate Creek fire was reported Monday burning in timber and brush about 13 miles west of Grants Pass. Size of the fire Monday afternoon is estimated at 120 acres, burning on BLM lands protected by ODF. Several helicopters and air tankers are dropping water and retardant on the fire, assisting the ground attack provided by 8 ODF engines, 3 crews, one water tender and 3 bulldozers. Cause of the fire is under investigation.
The fire is west of Hwy 199 and north of Hayes Hill. Waters Creek and Slate Creek roads are closed to non-emergency traffic. The Oregon Dept. of Forestry’s Grants Pass Unit is managing the fire, and roadblocks are being staffed by Josephine County Sheriff deputies. Douglas Forest Protective Association and US Forest Service are also assisting with fire resources.
Kevin Weeks – ODF Public Affairs Salem
Brian Ballou – ODF SW Oregon District