MARIPOSA COUNTY — Crews continue their suppression work on the Dove Fire, burning in the Jerseydale area of Mariposa County. The fire is now reported to be 50 percent contained and holding at just over 70 acres, according to the Incident Commander.
The fire, which started just after noon on Tuesday, June 7, is burning on the Sierra National Forest, but started on a parcel of private land located within the Forest boundaries. The source or manner of ignition is unknown at this time.
As of 7 p.m., Air Attack is still overhead providing reports on the progress to the Incident Commander, who says that the left and right flanks of the fire are holding at this time, according to USFS spokesperson Iveth Hernandez. Firefighters have a hose lay around the entire perimeter of the fire.
Firefighters from Cal Fire, Mariposa County Fire and Yosemite National Park have responded to assist, along with the Sierra National Forest crews.
There are currently 12 engines, 2 water tenders, 2 type one Hotshot crews and 3 dozers, for a total of 100 personnel assigned to the incident. Crews will continue to work through the night, and a morning shift is being put in place. Reports are of heavy timber and fuels that will require substantial mop-up efforts.
No homes are threatened at this time, no evacuations are ordered, and Highway 49 is open. Roads in the immediate vicinity of the fire may be closed due to efforts to keep emergency access clear. Please be aware of emergency vehicles traveling to and from this incident.
The Chowchilla Fire, which burned just over two acres about six miles to the southeast of the Dove Fire this afternoon, was contained at 1:48 p.m.
We will update as soon as new information becomes available, likely by 9 a.m. tomorrow.
