Fire burning on reservation

A wildfire 10 miles southwest of Twin Lakes on the Colville Reservation had burned 33 acres since Thursday, while 97 firefighters are working on it.

The Gold Mountain Ridge fire was first reported at 3:23 p.m. June 29th. Crews responded to initial reports and resources have been added to the response as the situation has developed.

The fire is burning in steep, uneven terrain with high numbers of hazard trees.

The Northeast Washington Interagency Type 3 Incident Management Team #2 assumed command of the incident at 9 p.m. July 2. The Colville Agency, US Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Washington Department of Natural Resources, and other state and local resources are involved in fighting it.

Although crews are making significant progress in extinguishing the fire, smoke may still be visible over the next few days. When traveling in the area, slow down and watch for heavy equipment on the road.

As the 4th of July week continues, authorities ask that the public is careful with all fireworks and campfires while celebrating the holiday.

The cause of the Gold Mountain Ridge fire is currently under investigation.

The incident command post is located at the Inchelium Jr. High School in Inchelium. Further information about the Gold Mountain Ridge fire can be directed to Jeffrey Todd, Public Information Officer, at 928-245-3058.