The Pioneer Fire, burning eight miles north of Idaho City, is currently 9,370 acres and just 33% contained.
More than 900 firefighters – 27 crews, 10 of which are Interagency Hotshot Crews – remain assigned to the wildfire which sparked more than a week ago.
Crews have removed trees and brush along Highway 21 to improve it as a fuel break.
Highway 21 remains closed from mile marker 48 north of Idaho City to mile marker 72.5 south of Lowman.
“All aircraft are being used to full capacity,” states a press release from the Boise National Forest. “They include Single Engine Air Tankers (SEAT) dropping retardant and 10 helicopters supporting the fire with bucket drops and needed supplies. Structure protection and initial attack resources are also in place.”
Crews have had difficulty using air assets due to private drones being flown over the area.
Crews remain focused on protecting the Elk Creek Watershed, which is the water source for the community of Idaho City.
More than 100 nearby residents attended a community meeting at Lowman Emergency Services.
Forest closures are in effect and are subject to change periodically. Current information can be viewed online at http://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/boise/alerts-notices and at inciweb.nwcg.gov/4866.
