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MONUMENT — The Oregon Department of Forestry Management Team One and Oregon State Fire Marshal continue 24 hour structure protection and suppression efforts as gusty winds and record low fuel moisture contribute to the growth of the Boneyard Fire while posing challenges for firefighters according to a press release by fire managers.

Two Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) task forces who specialize in structural defense are conducting point-protection operations along Top Creek, Wall Creek and other areas where fire spread has threatened homes. An additional task force has been ordered and will arrive on Monday.

A combination of state, federal and contract resources are cooperating on the Boneyard fire to suppress further wildfire spread. Level 3 evacuation notices in the area, including Monument to highway 402, and along the North Fork John Day River, due to fires burning in Grant County. Additional crews, engines and firefighting equipment have been ordered and will continue to arrive to work on the Boneyard Fire.

Overnight resources from Boneyard will be assisting the local district with suppression efforts on the Courtrock fire. The Boneyard Fire is currently 14,602 acres and was started by lightning on July 17.

Closure: The Bureau of Land Management has closed public lands along the John Day River from Kimberly to Dale, and from Kimberly to Service Creek. blm.gov/orwafire

The Umatilla National Forest has implemented a closure for public lands within the Heppner Ranger District.

Evacuations: Level 2 (Be Set) and Level 3 (Go Now) evacuations are in effect. For updated evacuation information, visit the Grant County Emergency Management Office’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068819321423, or sign up for the Grant County Emergency Alert System at https://member.everbridge.net/825462649520134/login. lightning on July 17.

Size: 14,602 acres 

Start Date: July 17

Location: 10.4 Miles north of Monument

Containment: 0%

Total Personnel: 413

Cause: Lightning

Estimated containment date: Aug. 10, 2024