One Injury Related To Stanislaus Forest Fire

Clark Fork, CA — The Forest Service received reports of a wild fire in the Clark Fork area near the Sand Flat and Clark Fork Campgrounds Sunday around 2:30pm.

Units began initial attack on the fire and established a fire line on the western edge of the blaze to protect Labor Day weekend campers in the area. No evacuations were ordered and no buildings are threatened.

The fire is about 300 acres large moving up slope in steep rocky terrain and is expected to burn through the timber line today reaching mostly rocky ridges. Fixed wing air support is coming from Minden, Nevada and helicopter support is based out of Bald Mountain on the Stanislaus National Forest.

Cool overnight temperature and light wind helped lay the fire down on the ground and should allow for a more effective aerial attack today. The Central Sierra Type two fire team will relieve the initial attack command later today.

Units and personnel working the fire today include: 21 engines; one water tender; 10 strike teams and other hand crews; two type two helicopters; two fixed wing command aircraft; one air tanker; and approximately 280 people. The fire was human caused and an investigation is underway.

Holiday campers watched the glow of the fire Sunday night in relative safety. Most people will be returning home today significantly reducing the threat to most everyone except firefighters.

One firefighter was injured when he burned his hand evading falling rocks. He has been treated and released.

Written by Sabrina Sabbagh