The Popovich Creek Coal Seam Fire (#067) has increased to an estimated 2,057 acres. Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection (DOF) firefighters from Fairbanks, along with DOF Pioneer Peak Hotshots, worked late into the night Thursday clearing existing firelines with the assistance of DOF dozers and heavy equipment from nearby Usibelli Coal Mine.
The hotshots conducted burnout operations on Friday to remove fuels ahead of the fire along the east and northern flanks. Supplies were delivered to the fire and helicopter sling-loads ferried them to firefighter camp sites.
The area has seen frequent coal seam fires over the years which have consumed much of the burnable vegetation leaving new growth of grass, brush and a mix of young hardwoods and spruce. New dozer lines will be created as needed but many remain and will be improved.
The BLM Alaska Fire Service Chena Hotshot Crew have been ordered to the fire and will be in place to start work Saturday morning.
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry (DOF)
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 