Battle Mountain Complex

August 10, 2024, Saturday Fire Update

The BATTLE MOUNTAIN COMPLEX consists of multiple wildfires burning west of Ukiah in Oregon (USA), which started on July 17, 2024. Many wildfires would soon merge into other fires, becoming one. The cause of this wildfire is undetermined and under investigation.

Snake River Fire | The Snake River Fire merged into the Monkey Creek Fire on July 22, 2024.

Photo Credit: Inciweb

North Forks Owens | This wildfire is one of many that started during the afternoon and evening on July 17, 2024.

Monkey Creek Fire | This was one of 17 wildfires that started in the late afternoon of July 17, 2024.

Photo Credit: Inciweb

Boneyard Fire | The Boneyard Fire merged into the Money Creek Fire on July 25, 2024.

Collectively, there have been 182,854 acres with a 68% containment status. Active fire behavior with uphill runs, torching, and spotting are still being observed by Fire Managers.

About seven residences and 10 minor structures have been destroyed.

A total of 1,731 personnel with 59 crews, six helicopters, 34 water tenders, 21 dozers, and 71 engines.

“The entire southern half of the fire is now contained. Yesterday firefighters added containment to the area southwest of Dale. Crews were backhauling equipment including hose, pumps and water tanks from the southwest side of the fire where it is no longer needed. There are still contained lines on the southern half that require evaluation for repair needs. Once the repair plans are finalized, equipment will mobilize to do the work. Suppression repair often involves heavy equipment building water bars on dozer lines to prevent erosion and seeding or covering disturbed areas with brush.

As the southern half of the fire looks towards backhaul of equipment and repair, most of the focus remains on the northern half of the fire. Large logs continue to produce smoke in Alder Creek, but they are far from containment lines. Crews will continue to monitor this area today and act if needed. 

Map Credit: Inciweb

Today fire is expected to creep through Potamus and Ellis Creek drainages as it did yesterday. Northwest of Dale, firefighters will thoroughly inspect the perimeter for any remaining heat. Any heat detected will be extinguished. With increased containment on the southern side, some firefighters working night shift are being moved to dayshift to assist where needed.  

Around Penland Lake crews and heavy equipment are working on contingency lines. If fire should cross the direct lines in the Potamus drainage and push north, these backup lines could be used. Heavy equipment is removing fuels along these contingency lines to be sure they are ready if needed.”

— Fire Operations  

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