Firefighters were able to conduct burning operations on the eastern edge of the Upper Applegate Fire last night.
The Oregon Department of Forestry reports these efforts helped bring the edge of the wildfire to indirect lines established around the fire burning south of Ruch.
Mop-up efforts continue along the southern portion of the fire, which remains at 890 acres. Additional acreage increases are expected in the coming days as burn operations continue within the containment lines. These burns will occur over the next 48 hours during night operations when burn intensity is low.
According to ODF Southwest, 485 personnel are assigned to the incident including 21 20-person hand crews backed by six engines, four bulldozers and five tree-fallers and numerous managers. Four helicopters are assigned to the fire again today, with additional helicopters and air tankers available when needed.
Evacuation notices were lowered this afternoon from Level 2 "Be Set" to Level 1 "Be Ready" for residents living in Zone JAC-434. Those residing in Zone JAC-436 remain at Level 2.
The Upper Applegate Fire was first reported last Thursday afternoon. Officials said the cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
ODF reminds Jackson and Josephine county residents that the fire danger level in southwest Oregon is moderate. Current restrictions can be found at "swofire.com."
