Single Publication

Summary: The Wapiti and Bulltrout fires resulted from a lightning storm on Wednesday, July 24, 2024.On July 31st an incident management team was delegated the West Mountain Complex which includes the Boulder, Wapiti and Bulltrout Fires on the Boise National Forest and the Wolf Creek Fire on the Payette National Forest. All fires are using a full suppression strategy on these lightning-caused fires. Due to the tireless work of crews and the arrival of some moisture, the Bulltrout fire has reached 15% containment. Firefighter and public safety remain the top priority for fire managers. 

Weather | Anticipated Fire Behavior: Today and tomorrow Central and Western Idaho will see a high-pressure ridge move in with terrain driven winds. Record high temperatures as well as low relative humidities will further dry fuels. This is expected to increase fire behavior across both fires and throughout the weekend. Burns periods will start earlier and last longer. Spotting potential will also increase.

Actions: Firefighting crews are staffed on both fires and are providing critical suppression support. Aerial resources are assisting through crew transportation, water drops, and logistical missions aiding in communications set-up, suppression and burnout operations. 

Wapiti Fire: Sprinklers and pumps have been installed and tested around the summer homes north of the fire area. Handlines are completed up to the 525 Road. A helispot was established on the ridge on the eastern side of the fire so crews can be shuttled into the steep terrain.

Bulltrout Fire: On the western flank of the fire, firefighters have completed a containment line. They will continue cutting out dead and standing trees. Once these dangers are mitigated, crews will be able to safely access the interior part of the fire to complete mop up, a critical phase of the suppression process. Mop up describes the physical labor process of extinguishing and removing burning material near control lines.

Important Information: For the Wapiti Fire, the Boise and Sawtooth National Forests have issued a closure order effective immediately for roads, trails and lands encompassing the Wapiti Fire. The closure was enacted to protect public safety and support fire suppression activities. The closure affects interior travel on several National Forest System roads such as NFS Grandjean Road #524 and the Warm Springs Air Strip. Additional information about these closures can be found at https://tinyurl.com/2u8v3pf7

The evacuation of the Grandjean area and the Sawtooth Lodge remains in place and the incident management team is in close coordination with the Boise County Sheriff’s Office.

For the Bulltrout Fire, the Boise and Salmon‐Challis National Forests have issued a closure order effective immediately for roads, trails and lands encompassing the Bulltrout Fire. The closure was enacted to protect public safety and support fire suppression activities. This closure includes National Forest System (NFS) Roads #579, #582 and several others. There are no disruptions in access to the Boundary Creek Boat Launch.  NFS Road #579 is open in its entirety from Highway 21 to NFS Road #568 to the Boundary Creek Boat Launch. Risk to responders and public safety remain the highest priority for the incident management team. Additional information about these closures can be found at: https://tinyurl.com/2u8v3pf7 

Both fires are adjacent to Highway 21 which is a popular travel route in Central Idaho. With the influx of vehicles in the area from fire and support personnel, please use extreme caution when traveling along Highway 21 between Stanley and Lowman, to help ensure fire crews safety while working.