— from Kimberley M. Kimple for Orcas Island Fire and Rescue —

UPDATE: Two Engine companies from the Department of Natural Resources, staffed with nine firefighters, are on Orcas today to assist with the final extinguishment of the fire yesterday on the Cold Springs Trail in Moran State park.

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue (OIFR) responded to reports of a wildfire in Moran State Park on Saturday at 4:18 p.m. Crews on scene identified a fire approximately 100’ x 100’ in size, half a mile up Cold Springs trail. 

“The fire was very difficult to fight by hand with trees and snags down and lots of heavy underbrush,” reported Battalion Chief Patrick Shepler. 

OIFR called in the Department of the Natural Resources who dispatched helicopter #338 and are helping bring the fire control utilizing water from Cascade Lake. 

The fire was called in by several eye witnesses. “The biggest help in locating the fire came from cyclists on the trail who had eyes directly on the fire,” shares Shepler. Two hikers above the fire were able to make their way past the fire to safety and escape with no injuries. 

The fire scene is still under watch, with crews remaining on the scene overnight. No cause has been determined.

San Juan County Fire Marshall, RJ Meyers, reminds San Juan County residents, “Due to the lack of rain this winter in conjunction with unusually high temperatures in late May and June fire risk is a lot higher in SJC this year and I encourage residents of the county to use extreme caution with campfires and other burning materials.”

At this time all permitted burning is closed, however, recreational campfires will remain open until further notice. Recreational Campfires are defined as a 2’x2’ foot fire consisting only of clean dry wood. 

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