IDL in the News and on Social Media - 7/18/25 Edition - Updated

Idaho Department of Lands sent this bulletin at 07/18/2025 11:16 AM MDT

IDL in the News and on Social Media

July 18, 2025

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IDL tracks and monitors news coverage of our activities and significant events that may impact our operations, recapping the coverage in this newsletter.

This publication also details IDL's social media posts for the week, keeping stakeholders and our front-line customer service staff apprised of our public-facing communications.

In this edition:

Current News Coverage
Sharable Social Media Posts

Current News Coverage

Crews Begin Mopping Up Cherry Fire North Of Deary

Pullman Radio, 7-17-25

Crews are starting to mop up the Cherry Fire North of Deary.

Idaho Department of Lands officially has the blaze at 0% containment. A fire line has been dug around the entire blaze and water is staged on the edge of the fire. Official containment isn’t achieved until the line has been tested by gusty winds which are expected on Friday. The fire’s size has increased to 113 acres after an infrared flight on Wednesday night detected additional ground that was torched. The fire is burning in logging slash in an active State of Idaho Endowment timber harvesting operation. No structures are threatened. No evacuation orders are in place. Roads in the fire zone remain closed. There are nearly 200 firefighters assigned to the blaze.

The Cherry Fire broke out Monday night and grew rapidly on Tuesday. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

Idaho Dept. of Lands weighs hiking fire prevention surcharge

Boise State Public Radio, 7-17-25

Owners of around 67,000 parcels in Idaho forestlands could soon have to pay more for state fire prevention services in the coming years.

The State Land Board signed off on a piece of proposed legislation from the Idaho Department of Lands earlier this week that would raise this surcharge from $40 up to $100.

The fee hasn’t changed since 2009. But Deputy Director Bill Haagenson said costs sure have.

“You can see a downtrend in our fire deficiency fund based on increasing expenditures and revenue not keeping pace with that,” he said during the board’s meeting Tuesday.

This surcharge only affects parcels of forestland with some kind of residential improvement on them. The state also doesn’t levy a fee if the land is already being taxed by another fire district.

Cherry Fire Grows to 113 Acres Near Deary as Crews Continue Suppression Work

DailyFly, 7-17-25

DEARY, ID – The Cherry Fire northeast of Deary has grown to an estimated 113 acres with zero percent containment as of Thursday morning, according to the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL). The increase in acreage is the result of a recent infrared flight that revealed heat in previously unburned pockets of vegetation, rather than a shift in the fire’s perimeter.

Located approximately one mile from Deary, the fire continues to burn through heavy logging slash within an active state endowment timber sale area and a small portion of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. No structures are currently threatened.

Cherry Fire Update – Current as of 9:00 AM PT on 7/17/2025

Big Country News, 7-17-25

DEARY - The Cherry Fire, located about one mile northeast of Deary, is currently mapped at 113 acres with 0% containment. This new acreage calculation is based on an infrared flight yesterday evening that detected additional areas of heat as previously unburned fuels burned. The fireline and perimeter overall have not changed. Crews will be working to contain small spot fires on the north side of the fire that were detected via infrared and likely caused by wind-thrown embers.

No structures are currently threatened. The fire is burning primarily in heavy logging slash within an active state endowment timber sale, and a small portion of the Nez Perce Clearwater National Forest.

Sawyers removed snags adjacent to the fireline yesterday to mitigate that hazard. All fireline has now been plumbed, meaning hoses and water pumps are in place to assist with mop-up. Crews will be mopping up by extinguishing burning material to reinforce the fireline ahead of forecasted winds. The weather will continue to challenge fire crews with erratic winds through tomorrow and increasing daytime temperatures.

Wildfire devastates two local logging families

Bonner County Daily Bee, 7-16-25

NAPLES — A fast-moving fire broke out Sunday, scorching roughly 30 acres and causing millions of dollars in damage to two family-run logging businesses, according to one of the families affected.

The Clover Fire was 100% contained by 8 p.m. Monday, ahead of a storm that brought strong winds overnight, said Lizz Bloxsom, an incident command trainee with the Idaho Department of Lands.

Rodney Weeks, IDL fire investigation program manager, said an official cause will be determined by early next week. IDL is currently working alongside the Idaho State Fire Marshall's Office to determine what started the fire, conducting interviews and reviewing findings from the scene.

"There's a guilty party. They've already admitted it. But a lot of the rumors out there are not true," Weeks said. "It's not what people are expecting."

Most of the damage occurred on the neighboring properties of the Sandelin family and the Tweet family. The Sandelins run the small logging business, UTR Land Management, and the Tweets run a family-owned business, SGA Cabin & Timber.

A member of the Sandelin family, who requested to remain unnamed, said damage to the lumberyard will cost millions of dollars— including a razed sawmill and barn, over 300 truckloads of lumber reduced to ash and melted industrial machinery.

Cherry Fire Mapped at 77 Acres Near Deary; Crews Continue Suppression Efforts

DailyFly, 7-16-25

DEARY, ID – Firefighters continue battling the Cherry Fire northeast of Deary, which is now mapped at 77 acres with zero percent containment as of Wednesday morning. The adjusted acreage reflects more accurate infrared mapping conducted late Tuesday, according to the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL).

The fire is burning in heavy logging slash within an active state endowment timber sale area. While no structures are currently threatened, crews worked through the night to connect handlines with dozer lines on the fire’s northern flank to protect a nearby timber plantation. Cooler overnight temperatures, along with coordinated water and retardant drops, helped slow the fire’s progression.

IDL reports that firelines held overnight, giving firefighters a solid anchor point to continue suppression work today. However, fire behavior remains unpredictable due to erratic winds and increasing daytime temperatures.

Clover Fire is fully contained

Bonner County Daily Bee, 7-16-25

NAPLES — The Clover Fire is 100% contained despite a Monday evening windstorm that blew through the region.

"Control lines established by fire crews on the Clover fire were challenged but held through yesterday's wind event," said Jarel Bruce, public information officer for the Idaho Department of Lands.

Containment was reached about 8 p.m. Monday and followed a decision by the Boundary County Sheriff's Office to rescind all "Ready, Set, Go" evacuation statuses earlier in the evening.

Idaho Secretary of State continues firefighting adventure

KMVT, 7-16-25

BOISE, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane said he did not set out to be a firefighter.

“When I became Secretary of State, someone pitched me the idea at IDL to go through fire training with all the recruits,” McGrane said. “I’m now into my third red card. I just passed all my refresher coursework and my PAC test and everything.”

In addition to overseeing our state’s elections, McGrane also serves on the land board and explains that his training as a firefighter has helped him in that role.

“Initial attack is one of the things that the Idaho Department of Lands does well,” McGrane said. “We need to do more of that because when you start having these 1,000-acre to 10,000-acre, or worse, 100,000-acre fires, it can cause so much devastation. When we look at states like California, you can see how destructive it can be for communities.”

As he has gone out on fires, McGrane has also been able to talk to those on the frontlines about what they need.

Idaho Department of Lands considers increase to forest fire protection surcharge

Idaho Capital Sun, 7-15-25,

Idaho Department of Lands officials are considering proposing a bill during the 2026 legislative session that would increase the fire protection surcharge for lots with residential structures on forest lands to pay for fire protection programs.

Idaho Department of Lands Deputy Director Bill Haagenson briefed Gov. Brad Little and members of the Idaho Board of Land Commissioners on the proposed bill during a meeting Tuesday at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise.

Under current state law, the owners of forest lands with residential structures pay a $40 annual surcharge for fire protection, which has not increased since 2009. The new proposal would allow the state to increase the surcharge, not to exceed $100 for each improved lot or parcel to offset the cost of fire preparedness.

Idaho wildfire potential remains high as hot temperatures continue

Idaho Capital Sun, 7-15-25

The state of Idaho has spent almost $9.2 million fighting wildfires this season as state officials prepare for the potential for above normal wildfire activity for most of Idaho through the remainder of the summer.

So far, fewer acres of land in Idaho have burned this year compared to the same time period a year ago, Idaho Department of Lands Deputy Director Bill Haagenson told Gov. Brad Little and members of the State Board of Land Commissioners during a fire season briefing Tuesday at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise.

But with above average temperatures and below average precipitation levels that have stretched from April into July, Haagenson said the potential for wildfire is significant.

“The significant wildland fire potential outlook for July through September shows above normal fire potential for most of Idaho,” Haggenson said.

To prepare for this year’s wildfire season, Idaho legislators set aside $40 million to pay for wildfire suppression, which was less than $58 million the state spent fighting wildfires last year, the Idaho Capital Sun previously reported. Little had requested even more money to fight wildfires, and last month the Land Board gave the state the approval to pay all of the bills for fighting wildfires – even if expenses surpass available funding provided by the Idaho Legislature.

Wildfire Burning Near Deary

KOZE, 7-15-25

Idaho Department of Lands firefighters are on the scene of the Cherry Fire, located approximately 1 mile northeast of Deary.

According to a news release, the fire is burning in active logging units in heavy slash with active spotting and is estimated to be between 30 and 50 acres. The fire was reported last (Mon) night at 9 p.m.

Approximately 70 personnel are actively fighting the fire with resources including: 2 – 20-person hand crews; 2 – dozers; 1- Feller buncher (a type of harvest equipment); 2 – water tenders; 6 – engines; and 1- Type 3 helicopter. Crews worked on the fire through the night and experienced a rapid increase in fire activity this (Tue) morning.

Cherry Fire estimated at 130 acres with 0% containment

Big Country News, 7-15-25

DEARY - As of July 15, 2025, 4:00 PM, the Cherry Fire, located approximately 1 mile northeast of Deary, is now estimated to be 130 acres with 0% containment. No structures are currently threatened, according to the latest update from the Idaho Department of Lands.

Approximately 80 personnel are actively fighting the fire with resources including:

Cherry Fire expands to 130 acres, additional resources to arrive Wednesday morning

KHQ, 7-15-25

UPDATE: July 15 at 5:30 p.m.

The fire has grown to 130 acres with no containment, according to the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL). No structures are being threatened.

IDL is battling the fire with assistance from the US Forest Service, Bennett Lumber, Clearwater Potlatch Timber Protective Association, Deary Rural Fire Department and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

A Type 3 Incident Management Team has been ordered and will take over the fire Wednesday morning.

UPDATED AT 4:30 P.M.: Cherry Fire near Deary now estimated at 130 acres

Lewiston Tribune, 7-15-25

UPDATED AT 4:30 P.M.: The Cherry Fire in Latah County is estimated at 130 acres and zero percent containment at this time, according to an afternoon update from the Idaho Department of Lands.

The wildfire is burning about 1 mile northeast of Deary and not currently threatening any structures, according to an IDL news release. A Type 3 Incident Management Team will take over fire management Wednesday morning, and crews are currently putting in a direct line to slow spreading and work toward containment.

Firefighters fully contain wildfire burning near Bonners Ferry

KXLY, 7-15-25

BOUNDARY COUNTY, Idaho -- Firefighters have gained 100% containment on the wildfire burning between Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry.

The Clover Fire in Boundary County was fully contained Monday night. Firefighters will remain on site Tuesday to reinforce control lines and mop up the interior of the fire.

Evacuation orders were lifted Monday around 5 p.m. The fire was last reported to be about 50 acres.

Cherry Fire Grows to 130 Acres Northeast of Deary, Containment at 0%

DAILYFLY, 7-15-25

UPDATE – July 15, 2025, 4:00 PM PT:
The Cherry Fire has expanded to approximately 130 acres with 0% containment, according to the Idaho Department of Lands. While no structures are currently threatened, fire crews are working to slow the spread using a combination of hand lines and aerial support. About 80 personnel are now on scene. The fire remains northeast of Deary and continues to burn in active logging areas. A Type 3 Incident Management Team is set to take command of the fire response on Wednesday, July 16. Multiple agencies are assisting, including the U.S. Forest Service, Bennett Lumber, Clearwater Potlatch Timber Protective Association, and local fire departments.

DEARY, ID – Fire crews are actively battling the Cherry Fire, a growing wildfire located about one mile northeast of Deary. First reported around 9 p.m. on July 14, the blaze has quickly expanded to an estimated 30 to 50 acres and is burning through heavy slash in active logging units.

Cherry Fire scorches 150 acres near Dreary

KLEW, 7-15-25

LATAH COUNTY, Idaho — The Cherry Fire has burned through 150 acres in Latah County, located about one mile northeast of Deary. The fire was first reported late Monday night.

The Idaho Department of Land firefighters are currently on the scene, with approximately 70 personnel responding to the blaze. Aerial resources have also been deployed to assist in the firefighting efforts.

Cherry Fire North Of Deary Growing Rapidly

Pullman Radio, 7-15-25

The Cherry Fire burning North of Deary grew rapidly this morning to about 50 acres.

The blaze was initially reported around 9:00 Monday night. Idaho Department of Lands fire crews fought the blaze overnight. The fire is burning in active logging units with heavy slash. There are about 70 firefighters battling the blaze with a helicopter and bulldozers and six engines. Officials have called in additional resources including two more helicopters and seven planes including a large air tanker. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

UPDATE: The Cherry Fire burning north of Deary, Idaho, has continued to grow, reaching about 130 acres earlier today. No evacuations have been ordered at this time, containment remains at 0%. The Idaho Department of Lands is battling the flames with assistance from the US Forest Service, Bennett Lumber, Clearwater Potlatch Timber Protective Association, Deary Rural Fire Department, and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. You can find the most up-to-date information on the fire or sign up for emergency text alerts on the Latah County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

'Clover Fire' near Naples 75% contained

Coeur d'Alene Press, 7-14-25

NAPLES — Firefighters are making progress battling a 30-acre fire near Naples and have it 75% contained, the Idaho Department of Lands said Monday.

The power in the area has been restored, and residents have been allowed back to their homes. However, “Go” Level evacuation is still in place for Clover Lane residents due to the proximity to the Clover Fire, the release said.

Residents north of Clover Lane up to Sandy Ridge Road between U.S. 95 and Deep Creek Loop are in “Set” evacuation status and should still be prepared to evacuate if conditions change.

Local man charged with seven counts of grand theft

Bonner County Daily Bee, 7-12-25

SANDPOINT — A man involved in a faulty logging contract entered a not guilty plea for a handful of grand theft charges relating to alleged timber thefts spanning across a month in 2023.

Jacob Leon Hatfield, 43, is charged with seven felony counts of grand theft, for allegedly violating a timber contract with the Idaho Department of Lands by taking seven loads of timber without proper reporting or markings.

If found guilty, Hatfield could face a maximum of 98 years in jail and/or a $35,000 fine.

Hatfield entered the not guilty plea from the court room and was free from shackles after posting a $347,000 bond.

Level 3 (Go Now!) evacuations in place north of Alta Mill and south of Sandy Ridge Road in Boundary County

KREM2, 7-14-25

The Boundary County Emergency Management (BCEM) says there are Level 3 (Go Now!) evacuations for the Clover Fire in Boundary County.

BCEM says that the north of Alta Mill and the south of Sandy Ridge Road in Naples, Idaho need to evacuate since the fire is spreading fast.

Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) says the fire is at 15 acres and the cause of the fire is undetermined.

IDL assumes control of Clover fire

9B News, 7-13-25

11:44 p.m.: From Boundary County Emergency Management — Fire crews will be patrolling and monitoring the Clover Fire throughout the night. Flames and smoke will continue to be visible, though no homes are immediately threatened. No homes were burned in the fire, though a few out-buildings such as a shed and a horse barn were reported as destroyed. The fire is approximately 25% contained. Firefighters have been fighting the fire continuously since early afternoon and will resume their attack in the morning. Idaho Department of Lands has assumed command of the fire.

Clover Lane remains evacuated, and previously evacuated areas remain in “Set” status. Residences up to a mile north of Sandy Ridge Road are in “Ready” status.

Fire threatens structures in Boundary County

CBS2, 7-13-25

Naples, Idaho - Idaho Department of Lands reports numerous structures are threatened, and evacuations are underway due to a fire near Naples, Idaho. The fire is about 15 acres. The Boundary County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating the evacuations affecting 30 residences currently.

The Sheriff has declared those within the following boundaries to be in GO status and to evacuate immediately:

North of Alta Mill,

South of Sandy Ridge Road,

West of Highway 95 and

East of Deep Creek Loop

Those who are within 1 mile north of Sandy Ridge Road are in SET status and should be ready to go at any time. An evacuation center has been set up at the Boundary County Fairgrounds Memorial Hall, with capacity for evacuated livestock.

Evacuations in place, shelters open for wildfire near Naples, Idaho

KXLY, 7-13-25

BOUNDARY COUNTY, Idaho -- UPDATED at 6:30 p.m. on July 13 - Evacuees from the wildfire burning near Naples, Idaho on Sunday will not return to their homes Sunday night, according to Boundary County Emergency Management.

Around 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, BCEM said the fire, also known as the Clover Fire, is still burning and at risk of spreading due to high winds.

Both Level 3 (GO NOW) and Level 2 (GET SET) evacuations are still in place for those in the area.

Evacuees in need of shelter can go to the Boundary County Fairgrounds. The American Red Cross will be operating the evacuation shelter in Memorial Hall.

Evacuations downgraded for Naples residents as Clover Fire continues burning

KHQ, 7-13-25

UPDATE: July 13, 2025 at 8:50 p.m.

Boundary County Emergency Management (BCEM) announced that evacuations have been lifted for all areas affected by the Clover Fire, except for residents of Clover Lane, who remain in "GO" status.

Those who evacuated from all other areas, besides Clover Lane residents, were advised that it is safe to return to their homes, although BCEM noted these areas will remain in a "SET" status throughout the night, meaning residents should stay prepared to evacuate again, if necessary.

For those living north of Sandy Ridge Road, the BCEM advised residents to remain "Ready" to evacuate in the case of conditions changing.

Cherry Fire

Posted July 18, 2025

SHARE THIS POST NOW ON FACEBOOK

Mop-up operations are underway on the #CherryFire as firefighters work to extinguish remaining heat and ensure the fire stays within containment lines. Crews are carefully checking stump holes, roots, and other hotspots to prevent rekindling.

Water delivery systems like portable tanks play a crucial role in this phase. These setups allow tenders and engines to supply water closer to the fireline, boosting efficiency and reducing the need for long hose lays or water hauls by hand.

#IDLfireinfo #Together4Idaho #FireYear2025

Latah County Sheriff's Office

Eric Valiquette, IDL

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