BLM issues emergency closure at Mckay’s Bend Campground and Boat Launch due to wildfire
LEWISTON, Idaho—The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Cottonwood Field Office is temporarily closing some BLM-managed public lands in Nez Perce County, due to the risk of the nearby Gwen and River Fires. This closure is essential to ensure public and firefighter safety and to allow fire fighting crews to respond effectively. This closure will remain in effect until the risk of wildland fire subsides.
The temporary closure includes the BLM-managed Mckay’s Bend Campground and Boat Launch, located 18 miles east of Lewiston, at mile post 18.6 on U.S. Highway 12. The site was evacuated on Thursday, July 25, 2024, due to multiple fires in the area.
The largest fire in the area, the Gwen Fire, is thought to be ignited by a lightning event on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. There was an all-hands on deck wildfire response as heat and wind created active fire conditions. The fire currently sits at around 20,000 acres and all evacuations are still in place. A Red Flag Warning is in effect today, which is expected to bring gusty winds and dry conditions.
Public and wildland firefighter safety are BLM’s highest priority. Please be aware that firefighting crews and emergency vehicles will be in the area and on the roadways. Do not drive into smoke. The BLM encourages the public to obey all evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office. For the latest information on the Gwen Fire, visit InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/idids-2024-gwen-fire.
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The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.