MCCALL, Idaho — The Elkhorn Fire is now measuring in at 25,964 acres with containment increasing to 36%, as firefighters confine and contain flames.
Crews are actively working the western flank of the fire in Trout Creek while also monitoring inholdings along the Salmon River Corridor. Structure protection continues at Mallard Creek and Cook Ranch. Heavy equipment and crews are also making progress with indirect confinement lines around the Magruder corridor. Further up river, more infrastructure protection instructions will be provided.
Rafters around the Salmon River Basin can expect to see an increase in smoke. A daily air quality report will be available through the Elkhorn Fire information page.
As of August 6, boaters are required to stop at Hancock Campsite on river left at river mile 26.1 to receive instructions for those that want to stop and/or camp in the area of the fire. After leaving Hancock Camp there are no stops until Magpie Creek Camp.
After passing Magpie Creek Camp, people are allowed to camp and recreate on a first come, first served basis everywhere except: Allison, Whitewater Camp, Campbell's Ferry and China Bar. After China Bar there are no Elkhorn-related restrictions.
There is also a Temporary Flight Restriction in place for all aircraft, including drones.
The Forest Service reminds anyone going into this area to watch out for:
- Burned snags, trees, and limbs falling in or near the burn perimeter, especially in windy conditions.
- Rolling rocks or logs, especially near trails and river corridors
- Debris in rivers, streams, and trail
- Stump holes in and near the fire perimeter where roots and stumps have burned out underground.
- Increased risk of flash flooding
- Campsite and tent placement near standing burned trees.
- Consider the prevailing wind when establishing camps in burned areas.
RELATED | Elkhorn Fire covers nearly 25,000 acres, closes Salmon River rafting in Wilderness section
For more information on rafting, the Forest Service river desk can be contacted at (208)-756-5587.
Updates on closures and restrictions can be found on the Forest Service website.
