Cooler weather helps firefighters gain ground on Black Canyon Fire

SPRING CITY—As of Tuesday, the Black Canyon Fire area had decreased by about 200 acres compared to a week ago and was 47% contained with firefighters continuing to work along the fire’s perimeter.

The lightning-caused fire, which began July 30, is burning about 16 miles east of Ephraim and north of Joe’s Valley Reservoir along the Sanpete-Emery county line.

As of Tuesday, the fire was being fought by 449 personnel, seven aircraft, 20 engines, 13 crews and four bulldozers.

Cooler, wetter weather over the past several days helped firefighters make progress, according to an update over the weekend from the U.S. Forest Service’s Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Crews established a handline along the fire’s northeastern portion last week and completed additional handline work along the southern portion of Reeder Ridge to connect with previously constructed dozer line.

Over the next week, crews will focus on strengthening and completing dozer lines along the fire’s western perimeter. Firefighters also will reinforce contingency lines along Skyline Road and increase protection around logging activity in the Black Canyon area.

Aviation resources will continue supporting firefighting efforts, with helicopters conducting water and bucket drops.

Road closures remain unchanged. The Reeder Subdivision remains under a “GO” evacuation status. Residents can follow updates from the Sanpete and Emery County Sheriff’s Offices on Facebook.