19 May, 2022 16:05
Bemis Fire update – May 19, 2022
Conway, NH – The Bemis Fire, which was first identified on May 14, continues to be active. Currently, 44 firefighters are supporting suppression efforts and the fire, which remains at 106 acres burned, is 75 percent contained.
“Steep, rocky terrain in the incident area continues to be a challenge,” said Capt. Adrian Reyes of the N.H. Forest Protection Bureau. “At this point in time, fire lines are established, and expected precipitation should be helpful as firefighters work to suppress this difficult fire.”
Situated in Crawford Notch State Park, the White Mountain National Forest, and on private lands adjacent to N.H. Route 302, the “Bemis Fire” was so named due to its location near Bemis Brook. For incident management purposes, the fire was divided into three non-contiguous divisions: A, B and C.
Incident commanders from the N.H. Division of Forests and Lands – Forest Protection Bureau and the White Mountain National Forest are working in unified command to manage the incident. The safety of the public and firefighters remains the top priority. No structures have been impacted by the fire.
An investigation to determine the cause and origin of the fire continues. Anyone with information about the incident, including any photographs of the early stages of the fire, is asked to contact Capt. Michael Matson from the N.H. Forest Protection Bureau at 603-227-8731, michael.j.matson.
Frankenstein Cliffs, Arethusa Falls Trail, and Ripley Falls Trail, located in Crawford Notch State Park remain closed until further notice. A temporary flight restriction is in place to allow official aviation resources’ safe operation on the fire. The use of drones by members of the public within a temporary flight restriction (TFR) is prohibited. Members of the public are encouraged to be attentive and do their part to prevent human-caused wildfires and respect closure areas. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
Updates to the incident will be made as they become available on the following social media accounts:
NH Division of Forests and Lands Twitter: @NHForestRangers
White Mountain NF Facebook: @WhiteMountainNF
White Mountain NF Twitter: @WhiteMountainNF
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