ELY, Nev. - The 727-acre Paine Fire in Duck Creek Basin, 15 miles northeast of Ely, Nev., is 50-percent contained. Full containment is expected by 8 p.m., Friday, July 20.
The BLM is implementing a full-suppression strategy on the fire, which is burning Forest Service and public lands north of Timber Creek. The fire has consumed priority Greater Sage Grouse habitat and burned into the High Schells Wilderness. The primary fuels are grass, brush, pinion-juniper, mountain mahogany and white fir.
Timber Creek Road is open to the Timber Creek Trailhead. The public is advised to be aware of the increased presence of fire vehicle traffic in the area.
The Timber Creek Campground remains closed due to construction activities. The site has no tables, grills, or fire rings available. The campground will remain closed into September until construction activities are completed. Camping is allowed in the Timber Creek Horse Camp Area located below the main campground. Dispersed camping is also allowed at the end of the Timber Creek Road at the trailhead, however the road is rough and trailers are not recommended.
Assisting the BLM on the Paine Fire are the Forest Service, White Pine Fire District, cooperators from neighboring states, and private contractors. The fire was first reported at about 2:15 p.m., Tuesday, July 17. The cause is undetermined.
Additional information is available online at https://go.usa.gov/xUR2W or contact Chris Hanefeld, BLM Ely District fire information officer, at 775-289-1842 or chanefel@blm.gov.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
