Wyoming State Helitack 2TJ located at Sawmill Canyon Fire
After a fire started on Wyoming National Guard training grounds on July 14, firefighters main goal is to keep the fire away from Glendo State Park as the fire burns more that 14 thousand acres.
As of July 18, the fire is 50 percent contained and is being fueled by timber, grass and brush. The cause of the fire is unknown, according to the Wyoming State Forestry Division.
About 275 people aided by helicopters and heavy air tankers are helping to contain the fire, according to the Associated Press.
Incident Commander Ron Graham said “Crews are working very hard despite the extreme hot and dry conditions. I am pleased with the progress they have made towards the containment of the fire.”
Although the fire stayed mainly on guard land, the east side of the park was closed until July 19.
Residents saw an increase of smoke due to burnout operations on the fire line. Smoke could be seen around surrounding communities and low-lying areas throughout the day, according to the Wyoming State Forestry Division.
“Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning’s burnout was successful. Crews were able to complete over 7miles of line,” said Incident Commander Ron Graham. With good breaks in the weather, crews will continue to strengthen control lines.
The fire area, which includes an artillery range, was being used for training this past weekend, Guard spokeswoman Deidre Forster said.
Forster said she didn’t know what types of drills were occurring or what units were involved. The area is used for training by various agencies, including the U.S. military, police units, as well as by the Wyoming Guard.
State Forester Bill Crapser said the cause of the fire was under investigation.
An unknown number of campers and visitors on the east side of the park were evacuated Sunday night and moved to the west side of the reserve, which remains open, according to Domenic Bravo, administrator of the state Parks, Historic Sites and Trails Division.
Large fire apparatus are utilizing the Patton Creek road. Travelers are asked to avoid these roads if possible.
