Aerial reconnaissance performed this week provided a clear view of the behavior of the East Fork Fire as it continues north of Hanna in Duchesne County. “Aerial reconnaissance shows that despite little movement outside of proposed or existing containment lines, areas of intense heat remain within the East Fork Fire perimeter,” shares Ashley National Forest. “The most intense areas of heat remain around the Upper Stillwater Reservoir. Smoke will continue to be visible as interior islands of unburned fuel ignite with fire progression. Yesterday, this interior burning resulted in a smoke column forming west of Lake Fork Mountain.” The East Fork Fire has reached 77,864 acres and was reported on Thursday as 68 percent contained. “Work around the Upper Stillwater Reservoir will continue to be the top priority for operations. Firefighters will continue direct line construction on the western side of the reservoir along Blindstream Road. Crews also continue to construct hand line south of the active fire… In the Moon Lake and Yellowstone River areas, crews will provide point protection for values at risk in those areas. Crews will continue to implement suppression work in these areas, following the approved plan with the Ashley National Forest.”
