STAR VALLEY, WYO – The Southern and Western Wyoming Type III Team managing the Fire Trail Fire reports 60% containment of the fire. The 30-acre fire was reported to be larger in initial reports and the size decrease comes from more accurate mapping using GPS points and infrared flights.
Additional containment was realized yesterday as firefighters dug firelines around the fire. Sawyers felled trees with a potential to spread fire outside of the containment line. Water hose was laid along the sides of the fire. Aerial support continued to drop water and retardant.
Forest Road #10001 and Forest Trail #3183, known as the Squaw-Murphy Route, and the dispersed camping area known as Squaw Flat, are all still closed. The purpose of this order is to provide protection to forest visitors and to allow the firefighters to do their work.
The Murphy Lake area remains open. Forest visitors are advised to stay alert for increased traffic due to firefighting operations and to respect the 35 mph speed limit on the Greys River Road.
Fire-damaged trees, fire-related traffic, potential aviation activities, and the fire itself creates hazards in the area. Firefighters are trained to recognize and manage risks in the fire area. The presence of non-fire persons in the closure area distracts firefighters from their work and may require them to enter a risky situation to assist violators.
The temporary order (#04-03-583), currently valid until Sept. 30, 2018, makes it unlawful for anyone other than firefighters and Forest Service employees to be in the fire area or any roads or trails inside the closure area. Violations of the order are punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment up to six months.
