Crews continue to battle Green Ridge Fire east of Walla Walla
By Terry Murry on Saturday, July 10th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
News release from the Umatilla National Forest
PENDLETON (July 10, 2021) – Firefighters continue suppression efforts on the Green Ridge Fire, which has now burned approximately 143 acres on the Pomeroy Ranger District.
The Green Ridge Fire, which is located approximately 30 miles east of Walla Walla, Washington, is comprised of two wildfires burning in steep, rugged terrain, consisting of mostly timber, grass and shrubs. Values at risk include structures in the area. Yesterday’s fire behavior consisted of active upslope runs, spotting and torching. Steep ground with rolling rocks and burning material is adding to fire growth and containment difficulties. Firefighters, aided by aerial resources, focused suppression efforts on protecting the values at risk and establishing containment lines to slow the spread of the fire.
The fire has continued to spread to the southeast toward Turkey Creek as persistent hot and dry conditions contribute to active fire behavior. Today firefighters are establishing anchor points, protecting the values at risk, and scouting opportunities to build containment lines to the east side of the fire. Where terrain and fuels allow for crews to safely engage, firefighters continue working to build line construction, while utilizing aircraft to slow fire spread and cool hotspots within the fire perimeter. A two-acre spot fire was discovered Thursday on the east side of the Green Ridge Fires near Turkey Trail. The spot fire is staffed and crews are building line around it today. Current resources on scene include eight hand crews, five engines, three water tenders and one dozer. Additional resources are on order.
An area and road closure is in effect surrounding the Green Ridge Fire. The forest order prohibits anyone from entering the closure area (by any means of transportation). The closure includes all or portions of Forest Service Roads 46, 4608, 4713, 4610, the Tepee trail, the Meadow Creek trail and Panjab trail. Additionally, Midway and Panjab campgrounds are closed. Access to the Turkey Tail Recreation Residences is also closed. A detailed map and description of the closure area is available on the Forest website and at any Forest office. Closure barriers and signs will be posted on the ground.
