Wild Fires and Burn Bans

Posted on: July 6, 2009 | admin | Comments Off | Print Article | Rate Post:

(No Ratings Yet)

Due to continued dry weather and a forecast for gusty, afternoon winds throughout the week, the Kenai-Kodiak Area the Alaska Division of Forestry has suspended the use of permits for open burning for the Kenai Peninsula. Burning in barrels will not be allowed during the suspension. The fire danger is high and although small cooking and warming fires in established fire pits are allowed, individuals are advised to use caution. No one should light any fire during windy conditions.

The Ashley Avenue Fire started at 3:15 pm on Sunday afternoon off Lake Road off Funny River Road. Alaska Division of Forestry firefighters responded with engines, helicopters, and aerial retardant. Central Emergency Services responded with 8 apparatus from five stations. Firefighters also responded from the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Chugach National Forest.

As of Monday morning, the Ashley Fire is 9.8 acres in size and 40% contained with hose lay established completely around the perimeter. Twenty-eight firefighters will work the fire today and complete containment is expected by Monday afternoon. The cause is under investigation.

The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (KNWR) is monitoring the Shanta Creek Fire that is burning in a limited protection area north of Tustumena Lake. As of Sunday evening, the Shana Creek Fire was 120 acres in size and burning in an easterly direction toward the Tustumena Bench lands. A smoke column was visible to the east from Kasilof of south of Soldotna on Sunday and may be visible again on Monday afternoon. For more information on the Shanta Creek Fire, call the KNWR at 260-5994.

The FireWise Tip for summer is to mow grass and water vegetation in your yard and surrounding structures for a lean, clean, and green FireWise landscape.