Slow growth seen in the Goldrun Complex

By 2025goldruncomplex on July 18, 2025

Update acreage for the nine fires in the Goldrun Complex has been hard to obtain due to persistent cloud cover; however, members of the Wyoming Type 3 IMT were able to take flight Thursday to map the fires from the air. At a combined acreage of 33,703 acres, the fires have seen minimal growth over the past few days.

A map shows the locations of the nine fires in the Goldrun Complex in relation to the community of Ambler. — A map shows the locations of the nine fires in the Goldrun Complex –Tutksuk (#424), Salmon (#423), Kobuk (#411), Hunt (#409), Kaliguricheark (#410), Jade (#407), Karet (#408), Nuna (#420), and Onion (#433) – in relation to the community of Ambler.

On the Onion Fire (#433), 12 smokejumpers continue to engage in direct fire management measures, working close to the fire’s edge, while the BLM Type 2 contract K-River 1 Crew works on protection of Alaska Native allotments. The Tutuksuk Fire (#424) is showing minimal fire behavior and point protection will continue for values at risk along the Kobuk River.

Two firefighters put kneeling beside a tundra box dug in the ground. — *Firefighters build a tundra box to keep their fresh food cool while camping on the Goldrun Complex. Photo: Karen Scholl, Alaska Fire Service.*

The Kaliguricheark Fire (#410), which burned through the Kobuk Fire (#411) is exhibiting moderate fire behavior and continued growth is expected. The Silver City Hotshots from New Mexico are providing protection for sites along the Kobuk River. This includes setting up hose, water pumps, and sprinklers, along with the removal of brush near structures or around allotments.

The Nuna Fire (#420) continues to burn on its northern perimeter. Seven smokejumpers have completed point protection measures around structures at risk and are now working to protect allotments and other values along the river. The Hunt Fire (#409) being monitored. The Jade (#407), Karet (#408) and Salmon (#423) are contained and controlled, and are being monitored.

Supplies connected to a parachute drop from the sky as a plane flies away. — *Supplies are dropped for smokejumpers on the Goldrun Complex. Photo: Andrew Pulice, Alaska Smokejumper*

There is an increased risk of fire activity as rising temperatures and lower humidity are predicted today. Over the weekend, there is a chance of wetting rains returning to the area, which could reduce the potential for large fire growth.

The fires in the Goldrun Complex are burning in the Kobuk Valley between Kiana and Ambler. They were all started by lightning. The remote locations of these fires have given firefighters opportunities to overcome unique challenges as they work to protect allotments, structures, and other values at risk.

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