Crews working on the Upper Applegate Fire were able to hold the wildfire overnight, securing a fire line around 70% of its perimeter.
The Upper Applegate Fire -- located on private and BLM land along the 2,000-block of Upper Applegate Road -- was estimated this morning to be 470 acres.
The Oregon Department of Forestry reports the fire has not grown beyond its footprint from late Wednesday afternoon. Resources were able to connect hose throughout 50% of the fire, bringing water to the incident and allowing crews to hold line and extinguish hot spots easier.
A total of 204 personnel are assigned to the fire today including eight hand crews, seven engines, six bulldozers and three water tenders. Aircraft on the fire includes two Type 2 and three Type 1 helicopters as well as an air attack plane. Air tankers will be ordered for retardant drops as needed. The Oregon State Fire Marshal sent two structural task forces from Lane and Marion counties to help local resources protect homes in the wildfire area.
ODF officials said resources will focus on holding and improving existing lines today. The only area that remains unlined is on the north flank of the fire where numerous hazard trees are located. Tree fallers are working to mitigate the snags.
The Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Emergency Management have issued evacuation notices and orders that can be found on "RVEM.org." An evacuation shelter is currently open at Jacksonville Elementary School. Small pets can be taken there while large livestock can be taken to the Jackson County Expo Park.
Upper Applegate Road remains closed to the public at this time, but local residents will be allowed through. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
