US Forest Service Press Release
The Mammoth Fire has seen little perimeter growth and minimal fire activity despite red flag conditions the last few days. It is currently holding at 600 acres.
There is still visible smoke on the mountain as the fire continues to burn internally. However, it has begun to cool and smolder along most of the fire perimeter as it burns into green vegetation that is not receptive to fire. The fire is benefiting the land, helping restore the ecosystem by clearing up dead vegetation and downed trees from beetle kill, as well as disturbing the root system needed for aspen growth.
Due to the decreased activity and limited growth, the Type 3 team transferred command of the fire on Monday back to the local Ferron-Price Ranger District. The team met its objectives, which were to keep the fire from growing east and southeast and protect values-at-risk such as the Lake Canyon Campground, a permitted cabin and range allotment infrastructure.
Crews have been clearing hazard trees near the perimeter and in the campground for public safety after the fire danger has been mitigated. The downed hazard trees have been cut up and stacked to clean up the fire perimeter. The Lake Canyon Campground will be open to the public on Thursday, Aug. 29. Forest managers request that the public avoid the fire area, which is outside the campground, due to the danger of falling trees, hot spots and active fire. Smoke will continue to be visible from Highway 31 as the fire burns internally and will likely be visible until a large amount of precipitation is received. Firefighters will continue to patrol the area, holding and securing the fireline until the fire is completely out.
The fire is about 29 miles northwest of Huntington, Utah and just southwest of the Miller Flat Junction with SR-31. The fire started on July 23, and was ignited by lightning.
Although there are no fire restrictions on the National Forest at this time, visitors are asked to use caution when building fires. Never build a fire under a tree or in vegetation, never leave a fire unattended and always be sure it is dead out. Fireworks are never allowed on National Forests. To receive updates on fires on the Manti-La Sal National Forest go to https://www.fs.usda.gov/mantilasal/ and sign up under Stay Connected!