Fire crews made continued progress on the Forsyth Fire Thursday, expanding containment to 46% as the wildfire footprint grew slightly to 13,597 acres. The blaze, first reported on June 19 and caused by lightning, remains active in Dixie National Forest near the Pine Valley and New Harmony areas.
With 664 personnel assigned, firefighting efforts have been focused on securing containment around the Pine Valley Recreation Area and connecting previous burn scars on the north end of the fire. A new containment line now stretches from the West Valley burn scar to the Saddle burn scar, south of Pine Valley.
Crews have been mopping up hot spots at least 100 feet into the fire perimeter and working to secure the area around Oak Grove Campground and the community of New Harmony. Protective strategies include chipping dead and downed fuel and using aircraft for bucket drops, crew shuttles, and backhauling equipment.
Critical Fire Weather Ahead
The Fourth of July brings not only holiday celebrations, but also critical fire weather conditions. Strong southwest winds could reach 35 mph on ridgetops, with relative humidity dropping into the low teens. Temperatures are expected to rise, increasing the risk of extreme fire behavior. Fire managers are urging the public to be especially cautious and fire-wise this weekend.
Evacuation Levels Downgraded in Some Areas
Washington County officials have downgraded evacuation orders for Pine Valley, Grass Valley, and Gray’s Ranch to “Ready” status. Pinto is no longer under any evacuation designation. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions remain in effect for all lands in Washington, Iron, and surrounding counties. A Forest Closure Order also remains active for the Pine Valley Ranger District.
For the most up-to-date evacuation status, visit the Washington County website or call the non-emergency dispatch line at 435-634-5730.
Fire Information and Resources
Incident management for the Forsyth Fire continues to be led by Great Basin Complex Incident Management Team 7, with Mike Johnston as Incident Commander. The team is coordinating closely with the Dixie National Forest, State of Utah Forestry, Fire and State Lands, Bureau of Land Management, and other local agencies.
For additional updates, visit:
- InciWeb: Forsyth Fire
- Dixie National Forest
- Facebook: U.S. Forest Service – Dixie National Forest
- Utah Fire Info
Contact Info:
Fire Information Phone: 435-280-2263
Email: 2025.forsyth@firenet.gov
