Fire crews remain on the ground in the Payette National Forest, working to contain three wildfires, with efforts focused on protecting structures at two lodges along the Salmon River, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Big Bear Fire

The Big Bear Fire started on July 9 from a lightning strike in the Krassel Ranger District and has burned approximately 2,529 acres.

Officials in a Wednesday, July 16 update said flames moved into the Arctic Creek drainage and around Arctic Creek Lodge overnight, prompting firefighters to begin structure protection efforts.

The U.S. Forest Service said the lodge remains unaffected, and firefighters will continue to protect structures using pumps and sprinklers. Structure protection also remains in place at River of No Return Lodge.

The Payette National Forest is coordinating with the Salmon-Challis National Forest regarding rafting on the Salmon River.

Rush Fire

The Rush Fire has burned 747 acres since it started on July 10 due to lightning.

The U.S. Forest Service said on Tuesday, July 15, firefighters at Taylor Ranch created fire lines to protect threatened structures. The fire remained active overnight into Wednesday, until humidity levels reduced the fire’s behavior.

Crews remain on scene and are prepared to begin back-firing operations if needed, according to the Forest Service. The Soldier Bar airstrip burned over and is closed for public safety as of Wednesday, July 16.

Skunk Fire

The Skunk Fire has burned roughly 4 acres in the McCall Ranger District. The fire is 60% contained as of July 16.

The human-caused fire started on July 13 north of Skunk Springs between Forest Service roads 337 and 340, southeast of Warren Summit.

The Forest Service on Tuesday said fire activity was minimal within its established containment lines. No active fire was reported along the perimeter.

Officials said firefighters plan to focus on mop-up operations on Wednesday, July 16.

For further information regarding these fires, visit the U.S. Forest Service website here.