The Milepost 97 Fire is now 30% contained and just over 13,000 acres.
The latest update from the Oregon Department of Forestry said firefighters are continuing to make progress on tackling the human caused fire which began last Wednesday night. Burnout operations along the northwest and south edge of the fire have been successful. The southeast edge of the fire is 100% lined with fire hose. Ongoing tree removal is happening and patrols are monitoring for spot fires.
The 492 acres that the fire increased on Wednesday was mainly due to burnout operations to improve containment lines. Firefighters have utilized 23 miles of fire hose to date. That amount is expected to grow to 36 miles by the end of Thursday.
The update said crews will continue to secure and improve lines around the perimeter while evaluating unburned pockets within the fire area before expected warmer, drier weather arrives this weekend. Patrols continue to monitor for spot fires while maintaining protection for structures and for Interstate Five.
A community meeting to provide information and discuss the regional smoke impacts of the fire will be held at North Valley High School, north of Grants Pass at 7:00 p.m.
Douglas County structure protection task forces were released on Wednesday with structure protection responsibilities turned back to Glendale and Azalea rural fire departments.
1,505 personnel are working on the Milepost 97 Fire. Resources include 51 hand crews, 43 engines, 23 dozers, 29 water tenders and 19 aircraft. 586 structures remain threatened by the fire.