Vader fire now 100% contained

UPDATE 7-31 3:45 p.m.

Salmon Challis National Forest firefighters determined Wednesday the Vader fire is now 100% contained.

Two fire engines have been assigned to hold, patrol, and mop up near existing fireline and within the interior of the fire.

Forest officials observed a bear doing its own inspection of the fire area Wednesday.

UPDATE: 7-26 11 a.m.

Additional firefighters were being released from the “Vader” fire 13 miles northwest of Stanley Friday. The lightning-caused fire began July 19.

Fire managers said the 443 acre fire was 88% contained. After significant progress Thursday, additional crews were released to other Great Basin fires or to go back to their home units. Remaining firefighters are continuing to patrol and mop-up hot spots near the fire perimeter.

Fire management will be transitioned Saturday from a Great Basin Team 5 to the Samon-Challis National Forest Middle Fork Ranger District. Some smoke from the interior of the fire could be visible from area roadways.

An area closure remains in effect. It includes the Thatcher Creek Campground and Vader Creek day-use area. Trap Creek Campground remains open.

The Vader Fire, northwest of Stanley, was reported at 443 acres Thursday and is now 76% contained, according to fire managers on the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

Crews plan to focus on patrolling fire lines and back-hauling equipment. Repair of hand and dozer lines will also begin today.

Some fire crews were being released for work on other recent fires in the northwest.

State Highway 21 is open through the Cape Horn area without any restrictions, although motorists should keep an eye out for fire fighting traffic.