Sawmill Complex September 11 Update
Incident: Sawmill Complex Wildland Fire
Released: 9/11/2007
SAWMILL COMPLEX
FIRE INFORMATION
(406) 859-6003
7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2007
Yesterday's Activities:
Public use of Rock Creek Road moderated on Monday. Wyman 2 Fire (35,528 acres): A crew continued to mop-up along the southwest perimeter; additional personnel worked near Rock Creek and Stony Creek Roads patrolling. Fisher Point Fire (15,011 acres): Crews continued working on direct line construction on the north and south flanks nearest Upper Willow Creek Road by the private land. Sawmill Fire (11,818 acres): Crews provided protection at critical points along Rock Creek Road. On all three fires, personnel also removed excess gear and worked on rehabilitation of the lines to reduce the potential for erosion.
Weather and Fire Behavior Forecast for Today:
Yesterday's warmer and drier weather caused an increase in fire activity, including some obvious smoke. The weather today and Wednesday is forecasted to be even warmer and drier, with a possibility of gusty winds in the afternoon. Highs are expected to be in the mid 70°s to low 80°s in the valleys and in the 60°s at higher elevations. The humidity is expected to drop below 14% in the valleys and below 23% on the ridges. Fire activity may include some single tree or group torching with short uphill runs.
Today's Planned Actions:
With the predicted increase in winds and temperatures, fire personnel will be alert for flare-ups and increased activity on the fires. They will concentrate on patrolling and mopping up any hot areas near the residences and other critical points. Numerous pieces of heavy equipment, overhead, support personnel and surplus supplies are being demobilized.
Special Notices, Alerts, Restrictions & Evacuation Levels:
Access is open for driving Rock Creek Road, fishing in Rock Creek, and camping in developed campgrounds and designated dispersed areas between the Rock Creek Road and Rock Creek only. The rest of the area closure remains in effect. Willow Creek Road remains closed to all but residential traffic. Roads in the Stony Creek area remain closed due to ongoing firefighting activities. Hunting, camping, hiking, campfires, and other recreational uses are prohibited within the area closure.
The Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) for the Sawmill Complex has been lifted.
Snags are falling within the burned areas. Live and dead trees affected by the fire are also falling near the fire's perimeter. This has created a serious hazard for anyone who is on the roads and in opened areas. Be aware that falling trees come down without warning. Please be cautious.
Quick Fire Facts
Location
22 miles SE of Missoula, MT
Approximate Size
62,650 acres
Increase since last update
None
Fire Containment
35%
Start Date
July 31, 2007
Cause
Lightning
Incident Commander
Tom Heintz
Resources on the Fire
5 crews
1 helicopter
3 water tenders
13 engines
Total Personnel
240
Est. Containment Date
Unknown
Cooperating Agencies
USFS
Montana DNRC
BLM
Landowners
USFS
BLM
Montana DNRC
Private
