How to resolve AdBlock issue? MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – Firefighters have increased containment on the largest of the lightning fires sparked earlier this week in the Mendocino National Forest.
The Daves Fire, found Wednesday afternoon in steep terrain and dense brush stands on the forest's Grindstone Ranger District, is located approximately 45 miles east of Chico and 15 miles northwest of Elk Creek along County Road 306.
It was held to 300 acres on Friday, with officials reporting that containment was at 30 percent.
Full containment is estimated to take place on Monday, June 17.
The fire, attributed to lightning, is burning in logging slash, thick knobcone pine with heavy dead and downed debris. Officials said steep slopes, limited access and potential for rollout continue to challenge firefighters.
Despite the difficult conditions, fire officials said firefighting crews made good progress in building fire line, and Skidmore Ridge was opened with bulldozers to stop the spread to the south.
No structures have been damaged or destroyed, according to forest officials.
Northern California Interagency Team 2, led by Incident Commander Tim Fike, assumed control of the incident at 6 a.m. Friday, officials said. On Friday, approximately 303 personnel were on scene.
Forest officials said County Road 55/ Forest Road M4 southwest of Paskenta, including Black Bear Camp, and Forest Road M9 from County Road 313 west to Log Springs are currently closed due to fire traffic in the area.
A temporary flight restriction is in effect for the area around the fire, according to a forest report.
