Fire Closure
Walker Valley is closed until at least 10/15. It is extremely dry there so don't be surprised is the closure is extended.
The fire started on the SMC (motorcycle/quad trail). It was serious enough that it burned several hoses and they had to pull firefighters back on some fronts. Jim Cahill was the initial Incident Commander. He said that they were seeing flames 40' high.
One of the major issues is that there simply are no resources left in the area to fight a new fire. All assets are either in Eastern Washington or have gone back to school (seasonal crews).
Upper Mainline
There have been a total of about 20 water bars added to upper mainline with about 9 more added in the new section of what used to be Pat's Trail. They did some rework on the washout but that section will never be reopened.
The reroute is not yet open.
Engineering Contract
DNR is getting bids to replace three bridges on motorcycle trails. They are on SMC, Centennial, and Coyote 1.
Chainsaw Class
The first chainsaw class was filled. Efforts are being made by DNR and Whidbey Island 4X4 to try to get another class.
Grant Presentation
Jim Cahill thought that the presentation went well. Won't know for a few weeks as to the outcome.
Other
The work party this month has been cancelled due to the fire closure.
DNR is sending enforcement officers to Walker on Weekend nights due to continuing problems with users on the trails at night.
Walker Valley is closed until at least 10/15. It is extremely dry there so don't be surprised is the closure is extended.
The fire started on the SMC (motorcycle/quad trail). It was serious enough that it burned several hoses and they had to pull firefighters back on some fronts. Jim Cahill was the initial Incident Commander. He said that they were seeing flames 40' high.
One of the major issues is that there simply are no resources left in the area to fight a new fire. All assets are either in Eastern Washington or have gone back to school (seasonal crews).
Upper Mainline
There have been a total of about 20 water bars added to upper mainline with about 9 more added in the new section of what used to be Pat's Trail. They did some rework on the washout but that section will never be reopened.
The reroute is not yet open.
Engineering Contract
DNR is getting bids to replace three bridges on motorcycle trails. They are on SMC, Centennial, and Coyote 1.
Chainsaw Class
The first chainsaw class was filled. Efforts are being made by DNR and Whidbey Island 4X4 to try to get another class.
Grant Presentation
Jim Cahill thought that the presentation went well. Won't know for a few weeks as to the outcome.
Other
The work party this month has been cancelled due to the fire closure.
DNR is sending enforcement officers to Walker on Weekend nights due to continuing problems with users on the trails at night.
