Sheering Fire Acreage Grows, Containment Holds 

STF Sheering Fire map 7-8-2024

Tuolumne County, CA – The Sheering Fire burning in the Stanislaus National Forest west of the Clavey River in Tuolumne County has grown to 528 acres, while the containment remains steady at 12 percent.

On Monday morning (6/8), forest fire officials relayed that on Sunday (6/7) firefighters ignited vegetation between the fire line, off of Forest Road 3N01, to the slowly progressing fire’s northeast edge, securing the line and adding around 34 acres of fire growth. They added, “An unmanned aerial system or drone continues to be used to detect areas of high intensity and scattered heat within the perimeter and identify heavy fuels that could carry fire beyond its current footprint.”

Additionally, on the fire’s western edge, containment was gained after firefighters completed a hose lay and mop-up, extinguishing hotspots, falling hazardous trees, and removing burning material along Forest Road 2N85. Along Forest Road 3N01, fire crews continue to hold and monitor the eastern containment line.

“The most challenging portion of the fire in the southern perimeter above Lost Creek continues to be scouted and assessed for opportunities to place primary fire line. Due to topography, heavy fuels and excessive dead trees from the 2013 Rim Fire, this location is difficult for firefighters to access, and a strategy that prevents risking firefighter safety is the top priority,” according to forest fire officials.

Dozers have constructed and continue to improve a contingency line on the ridge above Lost Creek. Forest fire officials provided this information regarding weather, smoke conditions, and fire restrictions:

Weather & Fire Behavior:

• In areas where the fire is active, especially in the northeast perimeter of the fire, fire behavior continues to be low to moderate, with a slow rate of spread. Red Flag warnings remain in place for locations north of the fire area; very hot and dry conditions are expected over the fire area. Above-average temperatures will continue throughout the week, with poor humidity recovery across the fire area. Winds will be out of the northeast, up to 6 mph.

Smoke Conditions:

• Although this fire has not produced notable smoke for several days, this region may experience occasional smoke and unhealthy conditions from a combination of burning fires in central California.

Fire Restrictions:

• There are currently no fire restrictions on the Stanislaus  National Forest; however, please check before you go, as fire restrictions periodically change throughout the year and vary from area to area. We remind all forest visitors that responsible fire use is crucial, and unpermitted fires can lead to devastating wildfires, endangering lives, property, and landscapes. Everyone is required to obtain a campfire permit to have fires in dispersed campsites.

Two firefighters have suffered minor injuries battling the blaze. Total resources on scene included 174 personnel, 7 engines, 5 hand crews, 1 dozer, 1 water tender, and 1 helicopter.