August 18, 2023 6:00 a.m.

The Roberts Mountain Fire burned over ten acres Friday afternoon.

Douglas Forest Protective Association Public Information Officer Rachel Pope said just before 4:20 p.m. crews from DFPA, Douglas County Fire District No.2, Winston-Dillard Fire Department, Myrtle Creek Fire Department and the Riddle Fire Protection District responded to the brush and grass fire on the northbound side of Interstate Five about a half mile north of the Roberts Mountain summit.

Pope said upon initial assessment, the fire was estimated to be a half an acre and was moderately climbing up the mountain. Thanks to a nearby water source, helicopter bucket drops were able to knock down the forward spread of the fire quickly. Collaborative groundwork from all responders, including a DFPA dozer, aided in getting a hose lay and control line around the perimeter of the fire quickly. As of 7:40 p.m., the fire was one hundred percent trailed and plumbed, and the dozer was released from the fire.

Pope said Interstate Five was not closed to traffic, however responders were parked along the shoulder of the freeway. Crews planned to remain on the scene, mopping up hot spots through the evening. Patrol of the area, which will include heat and smoke checks will continue for several days.

Pope said the fire has been found to be human caused, vehicle related, and is under active investigation. Oregon State Police and the Oregon Department of Transportation assisted at the fire scene.

Current fire season information is available at www.dfpa.net.