Single Publication

Pioneer Fire Update for Sunday, June 23, 2024

CHELAN, Wash. — The Pioneer Fire is burning in the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness Area in the Chelan Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and on private land 31 miles northwest of Chelan.  Stehekin, Chelan and Manson are open and continue to welcome visitors. 

In the last 12 operational shifts, more than 1 million gallons of water have been used to cool the fire’s edge and slow its progression to the north and south. During that time, firefighters have been implementing protection measures for homes, outbuildings and infrastructure from Stehekin at the north end of the fire and down lake to Canoe Creek on the south end. 

Up lake, control lines consisting of handline, hose and sprinklers are in place from Moore Point to Hunts Bluff. Crews will continue to improve these protections and handlines extending to a natural rock feature on the southwest face of Moore Mountain.

Today, structure protection crews will continue working their way north from Flick Creek Campground toward the community of Stehekin. Firefighters are wrapping historic structures with fire resistant materials known as structure wrap. Structure wrapping is an aluminum material that reflects heat and prevents sparks or embers from reaching the structure it protects.

Ground resources are also constructing a contingency line around Stehekin.

Down lake, crews are constructing control lines from the South Navarre Campground along Nelson Butte to the lakeshore. In Canoe Creek and Prince Creek, structure protection is in place and crews are preparing for tactical firing if needed to reinforce those lines.

Farther south, fire personnel are assessing critical values between Deer Point and Mitchell Creek to validate protection plans in that area. 

The Contingency group is clearing trees and other debris from the road system around Oss Peak to allow safe access for fire trucks and equipment. Firefighters are scouting potential contingency lines between Oss Peak and Johnson Creek Road.

Woody debris is being masticated along a dozer line on Coyote Ridge. On Nelson Butte, crews are prepping handline in areas heavy equipment couldn’t reach.

Safety: A temporary flight restriction (TFR) is in place across the fire area. This applies to drones as well. Remember, if you fly, we can’t!

Smoke & Air Quality: Check current air quality conditions at https://bit.ly/PioneerFireSmoke. Learn more about health impacts and becoming Smoke Ready at smokeready.org.

EVACUATIONS: Evacuation levels have not changed since Sunday, June 16. Please visit County of Chelan, Washington for the most current information on evacuations.

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