Lovlett Canyon Fire is 10 miles north of Monument

MONUMENT – The following is a news release from the Umatilla National Forest:

Firefighters are actively suppressing a wildfire located near Lovlett Corral, approximately 10 miles northwest of Monument, Oregon on the Heppner Ranger District.

The Lovlett Corral Fire, which is currently estimated at 150 acres, was reported on Tuesday, June 29 at 3:18 p.m. and is burning in grass and timber. Fire managers located the wildfire with assistance from an Oregon Department of Forestry detection camera located on Monument Mountain. The fire experienced active fire behavior throughout the afternoon today as hot and dry conditions contributed to increased fire behavior and growth. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Numerous resources aided in initial attack efforts, including support from Oregon Department of Forestry.  Firefighter suppression efforts were supported today by various aerial resources as needed, including two helicopters and fixed wing retardant. Additional resources are on order.

The Forest will inbrief the local High Desert Interagency Type 3 Incident Management Team tomorrow at 2 p.m. The health and safety of the public and wildland fire responders is top priority and mitigations are being taken regarding group sizes by dispersing resources through separate and smaller fire camps and conducting virtual meetings when possible.

Hot and dry conditions are expected to persist throughout the week. Fire officials want to remind everyone that the current fire danger rating remains at HIGH and public use restrictions involving chainsaw use, smoking and off-road travel are in effect.