Current News Coverage
Opinion: Federal forest management is stuck
Idaho State Journal, 10-18-24
As a U.S. Senator for Idaho, a state enormously impacted by wildfires decimating communities and landscapes each year, I, Senator Crapo, am a long-time advocate for active forest management that restores forest health to help reduce the number and intensity of fires and protects our communities. And as a former wildland firefighter, I, Madi Clark, know all too well the disastrous consequences of poor federal land management. What the two of us have in common is an experienced point of view about the current mismanagement of our forests that informs our advocacy for improved federal forest management.
The fuel load on federal lands is growing out of control, smoke has become a weather season, and economic and environmental damage is ballooning from massive fires eating up the western United States.
Though residents of the smoke-filled western United States may doubt this fact, the annual number of fires has not changed much over the last thirty years. What has changed is a growing trend of hotter and bigger fires, with the major accelerant being the mismanaged, densely vegetative, diseased and infested federal lands. A recent Congressional Budget Office analysis found that federal lands have less than 1/3 of the number of fires as nonfederal lands, but the federal fires will be more than five times larger than nonfederal fires. In 2024, 7.3 million acres have already burned, far above the 10-year average of 5.8 million acres.
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THE YEAR OF THE WILDFIRE: 30,000 firefighters do battle across 7 million acres of the West
Capital Press, 10-17-24
As the wildfire season has stretched into fall, Ian Turner and 30,000 other firefighters have continued the battle across the West.
“You stay heads-up, make sure you maintain situational awareness, and make sure you have a good safety zone,” the U.S. Bureau of Land Management Boise District engine captain said.
This was an unusual year for wildfires across the West, he said. The season started early and is continuing well into October, and the fires are bigger.
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Programs tested
“One of the most critical factors this summer was the interagency relationships,” said Josh Harvey, Idaho Department of Lands Fire Management Bureau chief. “We went into fire season and Washington and Oregon were already into fire season.” Montana helped Idaho, “especially with aircraft.”
Washington in recent years has beefed up its fire program, including increasing the number of aircraft available for the state’s use when needed.
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State officials say Idaho Power responsible for Valley Fire burning in Boise foothills
Idaho Capital Sun, 10-15-24
A power line touching the ground was found responsible for starting the Valley Fire that has burned 10,000 acres in the Boise foothills since igniting Oct. 4, according to the Idaho Department of Lands.
“As is common when a powerline comes into contact with the ground, multiple small fires occurred,” the Idaho Department of Lands said in a news release Monday afternoon. “Due to the extremely dry conditions, those smaller fires quickly grew together and into one large fire. We are in contact with the power company as they have been cooperative through this investigation process.”
During Tuesday’s Idaho State Board of Land Commissioners meeting, statewide elected officials discussed the Valley Fire and whether Idaho Power will be found financially liable for damages.
“We just found out that Idaho Power was found responsible for the Valley Fire … but in the past when a private company has been found responsible, what has happened, what generally? Do we have another case like that similar to that and what has happened in the past?” Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador asked Idaho Department of Lands Director Dustin Miller during Tuesday’s Land Board meeting.
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IDL: Warm, dry fall extends Idaho's active fire season, nearly 1 million acres have burned so far
Idaho Press, 10-15-24
BOISE — With almost 1 million acres burned across the state, Idaho’s fire season isn’t over yet.
“It’s been one heck of a year for us to still have a number of ongoing fires, especially in southern Idaho,” Idaho Department of Lands Director Dustin Miller told the state Board of Land Commissioners on Tuesday.
Miller’s update will not yet be the final fire season report to the board, he said. The state has spent around $62.3 million on fire suppression as of Oct. 9; about $10.8 million of that will be reimbursable by federal agencies.
Last year, the state spent about $17.4 million on fire suppression by October. The agency also ended its monthly fire reports in October 2023, as temperatures and precipitation at the time returned to seasonal norms and lowered fire danger, the Idaho Press reported.
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IDL report: Idaho Power line fall likely caused Valley Fire
Capital Press, 10-15-24
A down power line likely caused the Valley Fire that continues to burn northeast of Boise, according to a state investigation.
An Idaho Power Co. pole’s wooden crossarm brace broke and an energized line hit the ground, igniting dry brush and grass, according to an Idaho Department of Lands report.
Idaho Power inspected the line three times this year, including the cross arm that appears to have broken, and “no issues were noted in either ground or helicopter inspections,” company spokesman Sven Berg said in a statement.
The cross arm “did not appear to have rot or bug infestation,” according to IDL’s report. “There were no visible outside penetrations other than what appeared to be intended to support the electrical transmission line. There were no indications this item was struck by a large object or projectile.”
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Downed Idaho Power powerline causes Valley Fire
BoiseDev, 10-15-24
Idaho Power equipment sparked the Valley Fire that’s been burning since October 4 just east of Boise.
The Idaho Department of Lands says a powerline touched the ground and started multiple small fires, which is common when an energized wire hits the ground, according to a news release Monday.
Idaho Power also issued a release, taking responsibility for the fire and stating that a cross arm on a power pole broke, likely causing the wire to hit the ground.
The utility added that it had inspected this line three times this year “including the cross arm that appears to have broken, and no issues were noted in either ground or helicopter inspections.” IP also says the Department of Lands investigation report found no signs of rot, bug infestation, or visible alterations to the cross arm.
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Idaho Power found responsible for Valley Fire in Boise Foothills. Here’s why
Idaho Statesman, 10-15-24
The Idaho Department of Lands found that Boise-based Idaho Power was responsible for the nearly 10,000-acre Valley Fire, the result of a downed pole sparking a fire in the dry grassland of the Boise Foothills, according to a news release from Idaho Power.
The fire threatened homes in Southeast Boise’s Barber Valley but did not reach them. The fire is still burning but is nearly 80% contained.
The report found that a cross arm — the segment near the top of a power pole that forms the T-shape — broke, which allowed an energized wire to touch the ground, sparking the Oct. 4 blaze.
“The report found no evidence of rot or bug infestation and no visible alterations to the cross arm other than those necessary to support the line,” according to the release.
“Idaho Power inspected this line three times this year, including the cross arm that appears to have broken, and no issues were noted in either ground or helicopter inspections.”
The Department of Lands said in its release that the power line started multiple small fires that grew into each other on the north side of Highland Valley Road, and was first reported at about 3:30 a.m. on Oct. 4. There were at least 14 areas of origin for the fire, the department’s report said.
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Idaho Power found responsible for Valley Fire in Boise Foothills. Here’s why
EMEA Tribune, 10-15-24
The Idaho Department of Lands found that Boise-based Idaho Power was responsible for the nearly 10,000-acre Valley Fire after a downed pole sparked a fire in the dry grassland of the Boise Foothills, according to a news release from Idaho Power. The fire threatened homes in Southeast Boise’s Barber Valley, but did not reach them.
The report found that a cross arm — the segment near the top of a power pole that forms the T-shape — broke and allowed an energized wire to touch the ground, sparking the Oct. 4 fire.
“The report found no evidence of rot or bug infestation and no visible alterations to the cross arm other than those necessary to support the line,” according to the release. “Idaho Power inspected this line three times this year, including the cross arm that appears to have broken, and no issues were noted in either ground or helicopter inspections.”
It’s unclear if Idaho Power will face any financial repercussions for causing the fire. Sven Berg, a spokesperson for Idaho Power, said he couldn’t comment on anything outside of the news release.
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Closed fire season extended due to persistent wildfire risks
Emmett Messenger Index, 10-15-24
Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) has announced the extension of the closed fire season, requiring burn permits statewide beyond the original end date of October 20, 2024. This decision comes in response to unseasonably warm, dry weather and increasingly hazardous fuel conditions, which continue to elevate the risk of wildfires.
Under Idaho Code §38-115, IDL’s director is granted the authority to regulate burning activities during the closed fire season. Director Dustin Miller directed the state forester to issue a proclamation extending the closed the fire season.
Typically, the closed fire season runs from May 10 to October 20 each year, during which burn permits are required for any open burning outside of city limits. However, due to the ongoing high fire danger and a decrease in firefighting resources as seasonal crews wrap up, burn permits will remain mandatory until further notice.
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Idaho Power takes responsibility for the Valley Fire
KBOI Radio, 10-14-24
Idaho Power has released a statement taking responsibility for starting the Valley Fire east of Boise, that started October 4th.
The statement is in response to an investigation by the Idaho Department of Lands into the cause of the Valley Fire…which crews are still working on. The Fire is 80% contained.
The report concluded that Idaho Power equipment was involved in the ignition of the fire, according to the statement released by Idaho Power….stating that the cross arm of a power pole broke and caused an energized wire to contact the ground.
Idaho Power says they have inspected that line three times this year, including the cross arm that broke.
What caused the arm to break from the power pole is not clear, as the report found no evidence of rot or bug infestation and no visible alterations to the cross arm, according to Idaho Power’s statement.
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Idaho Power equipment involved in igniting Valley Fire in Boise foothills
KIVI, 10-14-24
BOISE, IDAHO — A report from the Idaho Department of Lands concludes that Idaho Power equipment was involved in igniting the Valley Fire, which has been burning in the Boise Foothills since October 4.
According to Idaho Power, the report states a crossarm on an Idaho Power pole broke, likely causing an energized wire to contact the ground. Idaho Power says it inspected the line and crossbar three times this year, and no issues were noted.
In the report, the Idaho Department of Lands writes the crossarm and support brace "had an unknown failure."
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Idaho Power accepts responsibility for starting the Valley Fire in East Boise
CBS2, 10-14-24
BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Idaho Power has released a statement taking responsibility for starting the Valley Fire just east of Boise.
The statement is in response to an investigation by the Idaho Department of Lands into the cause of the Valley Fire, which began on October 4th. The report concluded that Idaho Power equipment was involved in the ignition of the fire, according to the statement released by Idaho Power.
The cross arm of a power pole broke and caused an energized wire to contact the ground, according to the investigation. Idaho Power says they have inspected that line three times this year, including the cross arm that broke.
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Idaho extends closed fire season, requires burn permits until further notice
KXLY, 10-13-24
Due to increased wildfire risk, the Idaho Department of Lands extended the closed fire season from October 20 until further notice.
On October 9, IDL issued an extension of closed fire season statewide, requiring a burn permit for any burn activities on state and private lands past the original season end-date of October 20.
IDL said the extension was issued because of continuing dry conditions, higher-than-average daytime temperatures, little expected rainfall and limited firefighting staff.
The burn permits are required for anyone outside city limits who plans to burn anything, excluding recreational camp fires, but including crop residue burning.
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Idaho Department of Lands extends burn restriction end date
KHQ, 10-13-24
IDAHO — Burn restrictions in Idaho have been extended following a season of high risks of wildfires.
According to the Idaho Department of Lands, the normal set date, Oct. 20, of when burn restriction ends has been extended. The department continued to say that the weather and fuel conditions are still not good enough to end restrictions.
Anyone who is planning on starting a fire that has open flames, such as a campfire or slash piles is required to apply for a permit. To apply for a permit, visit burnpermits.idaho.gov.
There is no established date on when burn restrictions will end.
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Idaho Department of Lands extends burn restriction end date
Fox28, 10-13-24
IDAHO — Burn restrictions in Idaho have been extended following a season of high risks of wildfires.
According to the Idaho Department of Lands, the normal set date, Oct. 20, of when burn restriction ends has been extended. The department continued to say that the weather and fuel conditions are still not good enough to end restrictions.
Anyone who is planning on starting a fire that has open flames, such as a campfire or slash piles is required to apply for a permit. To apply for a permit, visit burnpermits.idaho.gov.
There is no established date on when burn restrictions will end.
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Wildfire Coverage
Crews work to repair, restore foothills after Valley Fire
KTVB, 10-17-24
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Late season wildfire ignites near Tetonia
Teton Valley News, 10-16-24
On October 9, Teton County dispatch received a call about a wildfire burning about a mile south of Tetonia, across from the Tetonia fairgrounds. The fire was initially burning 5-10 acres, and spreading, threatening up to 10 primary structures. Arriving fire crews prioritized protecting structures and ensuring the safety of nearby residents, and set to work containing the fire. Teton County Fire and Rescue put out a call for mutual aid from surrounding jurisdictions and as many as 50+ personnel responded and were on the scene. Although the fire spread to encompass nearly 100 acres, there were no structures damaged or lost, and no evacuations were necessary. As of the evening of Friday, October 11, the fire was 100% contained, and will continue to be monitored through the weekend. The cause of the fire is under investigation. On Friday evening, Teton County Fire and Rescue posted on Facebook that they would like to thank “Caribou Targhee National Forest, Idaho Department of Lands, Eastern Idaho Fire Chiefs Association, Teton County, ID Sheriff’s Office, 911, Emergency Management, Jackson Hole Fire & EMS, Idaho Transportation Department, City of Tetonia and many many community members who supplied equipment, food, water and support.”
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Valley Fire Remains a Safe Distance from the Community as Crews Stay on Alert
KMVT, 10-15-24
BOISE, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) —On Monday, the Valley fire was at 79% containment and was near 10,000 acres. Hot spots remain near Robie Creek, and water drops helped crews direct areas of remaining burning fuels. Fire activity is still a safe distance from the community, and crews are continuing to watch containment lines and extinguish any fire near them.
Twenty-two miles of dozer line have been established to prevent the fire from spreading near homes in the Boise Foothills. Excavators will be brought in to bring containment lines back to better ground; about 2 miles have been completed so far.
The public is reminded that flying drones over the fire area is not allowed, helicopter water drops may still be needed and drones interfere with safety. It is also asked to check for closures before being in the area. Even if there is no visible fire activity, there could still be numerous safety concerns.
All roads and trails on the Boise Front from west of Highway 21 to north of Warm Springs is closed until further notice; this also pertains to all travel off roads and trails.
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BOISE, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Despite multiple warnings, unauthorized drones being flown near active wildfires are still an issue. According to fire officials these drones are creating hazards as crews work to control wildfires.
“Primarily over this weekend two drones came into this area-- one being yesterday and one being the day before,” said Joe Livreri.
Livreri is the operations chief for the team working to control the Valley Fire burning near Boise. He says they took over management last week -- and since then they’ve dealt with multiple drones in the area that shouldn’t be there as they battle the flames.
“When there’s a drone in the air, we have to shut down the helicopters. An estimated four hours of flight time to shut down before we can use those helicopters and make sure that air space is clear,” said Livreri.
That delay can be critical when trying to control a wildfire.
“Aircraft for these fires has been really critical in managing the fires and preventing them from getting to the houses and spreading into the forest. because that drone, even if its small, it can get into the rotor of our helicopters or cause damage to and engine and cause something catastrophic,” said Robbie Johnson.
Johnson is the public information officer for the Idaho Department of Lands. She says typically when there’s a large wildfire -- like the Valley Fire -- a temporary flight restriction is set in place.
Despite these warnings, fire officials say someone decided to fly their drone in the “no-fly zone” -- grounding aircraft on Sunday.
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Valley Fire reaches 79% containment, crews continue to monitor fire activity
KMVT, 10-13-24
BOISE, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — The Valley Fire has burned 9,904 acres and is 79% contained as of Sunday.
Fire activity is a safe distance away from the Robie Creek community; however, the area remains under stage one evacuation status, according to the Idaho Department of Lands. Crews continue to monitor the south and west portions of the fire visible from Boise. No injuries have been reported, and no primary structures have been lost.
Containment grew due to helicopter water drops and ground crew work, according to fire officials. A water-holding container in the north area of the fire will help decrease travel times for vehicles transporting water and extinguish hot spots to strengthen containment lines.
The north area of the fire remains the most active, according to fire officials. On Sunday, ground crews will move into the fire’s footprint to address interior buildings. Fire managers expect dry conditions with highs averaging 70 degrees and light winds.
Officials advised the public to be aware of closures around the fire area for safety precautions. All trails and roads on the Boise Front segment of the Boise River Wildlife Management Area west of Idaho Route 21 and north of Warm Springs Avenue are closed until further notice.
More information regarding the Valley Fire can be found on the Idaho Department of Lands Facebook page.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
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VIEW THE SOCIAL MEDIA ARCHIVE ON IDL'S WEBSITE
Closed Fire Season
Posted October 18, 2024
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Valley Fire Community Meeting
Posted October 16, 2024
Quick Evening Update
October 16, 2024
There was visible smoke from interior burning timber today but it was quickly addressed by aircraft, further reinforcing that the community of Robie Creek is safe. Containment remains at 90%.
Photos: A community meeting was held in Robie Creek this evening. BLM Fire did an overview of the successful Valley Fire initial attack in the Boise Foothills and the process of bringing in Nevada Team 2 to manage the fire. The Nevada Team 2 Incident Commander was among speakers addressing the community. The fire is under the jurisdiction of the Idaho Department of Lands but agencies with impacted lands/jurisdictions came together in a unified effort. Thank you to the Robie Creek Volunteer Fire Department for hosting. Thank you to all of the agencies, Boise Fire Department, firefighters, volunteers, Nevada Team 2 and the community of Robie Creek for the help and support. So many others to thank.
Photo credit: Robbie Johnson, Nevada Team 2
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