Air attacks make difference in placing a stranglehold on wildland fires

Air assault with fire retardant on the Apple Acres Road Fire. Photo courtesy: Travis Sweeney.

A “Be Alert and prepared” advisory remains in effect on the Apple Acres Road Fire, along highway 97 northeast of Chelan.

"It's under investigation at this point," Chelan Fore and Rescue Chief Brandon Asher said in a KOZI Community Connection conversation.

Chelan Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Brandon Asher in a Community Connection conversation late last week.

"It's dry and it's going to get drier," the Chief emphasized in describing the current grass, brush and forest fuels in the Chelan Valley.

As of Sunday afternoon 3,242 acres of grass and brush in both Chelan and Okanogan counties, had been blackened by the Apple Acres Road Fire. The fire’s movement slowed considerably over this past weekend.

Chief Asher admitted to the benefits of proactive use of water and retardant dropping air attacks.

"Aviation resources have made a huge difference on keeping these fires at bay," said Asher on the benefits of proactive use of water and retardant dropping air attacks. "Say vigilante, resources are stretched thin."

The White Pine Fire near Lake Wenatchee has burned an estimated 27 acres.

The Pomas Fire has grown moderately to about 2,400 acres within the  Glacier Peak Wilderness and along the Entiat River drainage. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest reports that the fire is burning in extremely steep and rugged terrain without road access for firefighters and equipment.

Helicopter crew assist firefighters on the Apple Acres Road Fire.