Pioneer Fire holds at 38,730 acres, 23% contained; evacuation levels reduced

CHELAN — The Pioneer Fire remains at 38,730 acres with 23% containment as of Thursday, August 22.

The human-caused blaze, which started on June 8, has shown minimal growth in recent days. Aerial surveys conducted Wednesday revealed little heat in the fire area, with small pockets of heat remaining in the interior. The fire continues to hold within the handline and check line.

Currently, 519 personnel are assigned to the fire under the command of Incident Commander Lonnie Click of Northwest Incident Management Team 3.

Firefighters are patrolling and securing the handline around Little Boulder Creek and monitoring the check line on Rainbow Ridge for any heat. In Stehekin, crews continue chipping and hauling away vegetation debris. Resources are also conducting mastication and debris hauling near Manson. Firefighters remain available for initial attack on any new fires if needed.

Evacuation levels for the Stehekin Valley have been updated. As of 6:00 p.m. on August 22, the entire area from Adam's Point through the landing and up to High Bridge has been lowered to a Level 1 evacuation status. This change reflects the reduced fire threat from the Pioneer Fire. Officials caution that while the fire hazard has decreased, the fire is not completely extinguished. Other hazards, such as debris or slides, may still be present in the area.

From Adam's Point down lake, no evacuation levels are in effect along the Pioneer Fire. However, despite the reduced evacuation levels, residents and visitors are reminded that Forest Service trail closures may still be in effect.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has implemented closures in much of the fire area, and a Temporary Flight Restriction remains in effect, prohibiting unauthorized drone activity.

Northwest Incident Management Team 3 held a virtual community briefing on August 21, providing an overview of current fire activity and operations. A recording of the briefing is available on the Pioneer and Easy Fires Information Facebook page.

Officials urge the public to stay informed about trail closures on National Parks or US Forest Service Lands and to adhere to all remaining restrictions and closures in place.