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Rock Creek News and Fishing Reports
you are visitor # May 7, 2008 5:15 PM Well, its here - SPRING! Things are greening up, the temps are above freezing (at NIGHT!) and the run-off has begun. Today the stream flow is at 1280 cfs, water temp is 46 degrees. It looks like the scouring is about to begin! There has been so much wood debris build up on the stream side it really needs to be washed out. I think this is the year it will happen. Joe & Mike had some great fishing last week. Here is a picture of Mike's 24" brown. It was a cold, but productive day!
Today Joe started installing the kitchen he's been working on - gosh, it's beautiful. He's glad to be almost done so he can go fishing; I'm sure Linda is glad since they tore her existing kitchen out last week, and she's been cooking on the BBQ grill! Well, I think that's the excitement for today. Oh yea, one more thing - our store is now open! Well, everything but the coffee anyhow. I'm still waiting to hear from the health department about that. I'll take pictures tomorrow... Be a blessing today! Deb & Joe April 29, 2008 9:43 AM The streamflow today as of 6:15 AM was 569 cfs and climbing. It's been really warm (for us) the past couple days, so there is a bit of snow melt happening up high. The temperatures are supposed to drop to a high of 46 degrees tomorrow, and the 50's to the end of the week. I suppose by this next week-end it should be pretty good again. Yesterday's report however, was that the fishing was (to quote) "stinky", at least by Valley of the Moon. Joe fished the upper Clark Fork on Saturday; that was a weather change day and it was pretty slow. He is up there again today, so we'll see what the report is tonight. As far as Rock Creek goes (for those of you wading) the March Brown hatch is between 1:30 and 3 pm. If you're on the water during that window of time you should do pretty well. The flies to use are a March Brown pattern, or an Adams. Both are working; use a size 14 or 16. Well, today I've got alot to accomplish so I'd better close. Karla (our housekeeper) just called and won't be coming in; her dog has decided to have her puppies today. She raises miniature Australian Shepherds - the last batch was just as cute as could be. At any rate, I need to wear the housekeeper hat today so I'd better get started. Until tomorrow, be blessed and be a blessing. Deb & Joe April 25, 2008 4:30 PM I was just outside trying to work on my sign, and the wind/snow/rain chased me back inside! It's been a strange day. This morning it snowed a couple inches. Then, about mid afternoon it got so nice I opened up the door of the cabin to listen to the birds and let the fresh air in. Then, it changed to what it is now. Supposed to warm up tomorrow; I can hardly wait! Joe fished the creek yesterday. He had a great afternoon. The March Browns are hatching, and he caught about 40 small to mid-sized fish. He was using "the machine", a fly that he ties. It works great! His time on the stream did him good; he was all smiles last night. John Perry fished the creek a few days ago, and caught a real nice cut-bow on the lower end. He said it was an honest 18 inches, and fat like a football. That's good news! Mike (Joe's cousin) arrives tonight and will be here the next week. I'll have plenty of fishing reports for you then. As for me, I'll be holding down the fort trying to get ready for the season. I think you're going to like our new office/store location. I've been buying antique fishing "stuff" to have for sale. I've also gotten some neat blue and white pottery that has a fish motif - my daughter found this stuff in Korea and sent it. Well, I guess I'd better close for today. I hope your spring has been good, and that you are thinking about visiting us this summer. I think it's going to be a good one... Be blessed, Deb & Joe April 20, 2008 10:08 AM Its cold this morning; 17 degrees! Yesterday Joe was raking pine needles, today we need to shovel snow. I know spring will come, at some point but today even the birds are wondering what's going on. We are nearing the 6 month mark of having snow on the ground! I've come to realize we really only have 2 seasons at Rock Creek - winter & summer... This late spring is also keeping the bugs from hatching on Rock Creek. I spoke with a young man and his father on Friday as they were coming off the stream. They had fished the better part of the afternoon, and didn't even get a hit. That was the day the weather was changing, and this cold front was blowing in. In the meantime, Joe is still plugging away on the kitchen he's building and happy the weather isn't tempting him to play hooky and go fishing. Maybe this is all for him! At any rate, I think he's just about ready for installation. Linda (the recipient of the kitchen) has been helping him stain and put on the finish. He's trying to make room in his shop right now so they can get the last few pieces done, and then he can put on the hinges and fit them to the cabinets. Its all just like a puzzle. I've just about got the store up and running. I'm planning to be ready for opening on May 1; there are a few things I need Joe to find time for, so that's what's holding me up, but once I can corral him for a day or two, I think we'll be ready. In the meantime, I've got the flies out. If you want to stop in, please do. Just know that we're still in a sort of construction zone. For those of you that are bird watchers, we had a pair of birds that shouldn't have been here. For about 4 days we had a pair of Eurasian collared doves sharing the flat feeder with the Juncos! When they weren't at the feeder, they were singing their beautiful song. It was a wonderful gift, if even for just a short time. Here's a picture:
Well, I guess that's my news for today. Be blessed, and be a blessing... Joe & Deb April 15, 2008 2:08 PM Since I last wrote, I know many of you have been wondering why there haven't been any updates. My site was still up, but something was going on with the server and I couldn't access my website to make changes. It has taken this long to change servers, but FINALLY, I'm up and running again. Thanks for your patience. Spring finally seems to be looking our way. We had 3 nice days this week, though today it is cold and spitting snow again. The good thing about all this is the fact that the snow up high is melting slowly and instead of coming off in a big blast, it seems like maybe it will be slow and steady. Yesterday the Clark Fork was pretty muddy from the 3 days of warm weather. Rock Creek was a bit off color as well, though not as bad as the Clark Fork. The March Browns have been coming off pretty steady when it's warm enough to allow them to hatch. The guests we had last week had some good fishing here on the creek. There have been a few Skwalas, but not a big hatch. I've got the shop open now, though I'm not able to make coffee yet. It won't be long though. Well, I know this is short, but it's a busy day so I'd better close for now. I'll write more tomorrow. That's it from the creek! Deb & Joe March 28, 2008 2:44 PM I guess I was wrong - the dam was removed TODAY at 11:30 am. Click on this link http://www.montanasnewsstation.com and then you'll see a picture & headline about the dam. Click on the link that says "video included". It really was history in the making, and like I said yesterday, for the first time in 100 years the Clark Fork is flowing unrestricted. Here are a couple more links that I promised you. www.clarkfork.org and www.envirocon.com both have pictures of the progress so far. On another (fishing) note, I spoke with Matt at Flint Creek Outfitters in Philipsburg this morning. I was wondering if anyone had been able to make it up to the Hogback area from the upper end yet. Matt said the road is still just too bad, and not worth the try. Just like this end, only the lower portion is accessible. Today I am thankful that even though I'm ready for spring, we're not experiencing what they are in Minnesota with below zero temperatures. This morning (here at Rock Creek) it was a chilly 11 degrees! But, at Crane Lake, Minnesota it was -6! Isn't that the tale of life though; no matter what we may be experiencing, someone else has it worse. I think that's it for today - not much news I know. May God's blessing be upon you today, and always. Deb & Joe March 27, 2008 12:32 PM We woke up to about 4 inches of new snow this morning, and it continues to snow as I write this. It seems that winter wants to keep it's grip on Montana this year to sort of make up for last summer. Our daytime temps have been above freezing, but not what you would call "warm". I said to someone just this morning that we haven't seen bare ground since early November. That's okay; the longer the snow stays, the wetter the mountains will be when summer does arrive. I have to admit though, I'm longing for spring. Today they are supposed to remove the Milltown dam. For the first time in over 100 years, the Clark Fork will flow unrestricted. If you're interested in history, this is a good short video story that the local news station did. Just click on this link, http://www.montanasnewsstation.com and then select (under videos) "Milltown Dam saved Missoula from flood". They said on the news last night that once the dam is removed, they expect the river to rise quickly about 4' from it's current level, and then drop down again within a matter of a few hours. Of course the big discussion is about what this will do to the fish below the dam. Most likely there will be a kill, but they expect numbers to bounce back fairly rapidly and be even better in the years to come. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. The work that has been done in the surrounding area has been dramatic. I'll try to see if any of the news organizations have been keeping an online diary, and include the link for those of you that would like to check it out. It is my understanding that this is currently the largest superfund site in the US. Okay, Rock Creek. I started out with news about the snow. Well, the road is still bad above mile 12. The air and stream temperatures are still cold, so there hasn't been much of a dry fly hatch yet. I know I'm longing for one of those early spring days when the sun comes out and warms your bones - I'm sure the bugs are feeling the same way. The conditions have not been conducive to that just yet though. The most action to date has been on the Bitterroot. Of course, we all call that the banana belt. They warm up significantly faster than we do here at Rock Creek. At any rate, things are definitely happening on the Bitterroot right now. Joe says he's happy Rock Creek is still in the midst of winter - that gives him more time to finish this kitchen project without the lure of fishing to tempt him. His birthday is April 1 though, and I've asked John Perry to take him fishing. Joe doesn't know it yet, so it'll be a surprise... Well, I think that's it for now. I hope you are enjoying spring in your part of the country. Our thoughts and prayers have been for those of you in Georgia (due to the tornado) as well as those along the Mississippi that are threatened with the floods. We will continue to lift you up each day until the water subsides. Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. Joe & Deb
March 17, 2008 10:38 AM 38 degrees and snowing right now. Even though we keep getting snow, what's on the ground is slowly seeping into the soil. Underneath the trees is now clear, and the driveway is FINALLY not covered with ice. The stream temp is about the same as the outdoor air temp. Pretty chilly for much fish movement. I went to Idaho over the week-end. There is still over 100 inches of snow at the top of Lookout Pass, which is at an elevation of 4500 ft. If these cool temperatures remain, the snow melt will be slow and steady - GREAT for stream conditions! The Georgetown Lake region did not get as much snow as Lookout, but the snow pack is still good. I'm encouraged for this summer. I just spoke with Matt Potter of the Kingfisher Flyshop, and he said that some of the guys in his shop have been fishing Rock Creek (lower 12 miles) this past week. They have reports of the first Skwalas and March Browns. He also said that the road is pretty bad beyond mile 12, and dangerous to impossible beyond mile 14. Joe is getting pretty cranky, and I think it's time for him to go fishing. He's hanging sheetrock instead. Hopefully it won't be too many more days until he takes a bit of time off to just "go fish". Well, I think that's it for today. Oh yea, a little story before I sign off. I was coming home from town last Wednesday, and saw my first robin at about mile 6. I was surprised to see him, because we still have so much snow but he was standing on one of the few bare patches of ground cocking his head back and forth listening for a worm. As I watched him, I wondered what that bird thought upon his arrival. I don't even know if the worms are moving yet - winter is so slow in leaving this year. I keep listening for the early morning songs of the robins, and haven't heard it yet. I guess that lone robin sent word to the rest of the flock to hold off for just a bit longer. And, I guess that's the word for those chomping at the bit to get up here and fish. It's not far off; a week, maybe two. But not yet... Be blessed today, Joe & Deb
March 7, 2008 4:08 PM It's a beautiful day - finally feels like we might get spring. The sun is shining and the sky is blue - there is the promise of hope that winter will soon be behind us. We received another 8 inches or so of new snow on Monday. I was up at Big Bear just a bit ago, and even where we plowed in January there is still over a foot of snow (on the bridge). It's starting to melt under the trees though. Brewster Creek is still completely iced over, but Rock Creek is open and flowing freely. I haven't been up beyond mile 12 to see what it's like up there. The road beyond that point is TERRIBLE! Very snowy & icy. The authorities are investigating the break in at our neighbor's house. In the meantime, he (Merle) has passed away down in Argentina. This is a very sad addition to this tale. Merle's passing was due to his accident, and the poor care he received at the hospital there in Buenos Aires. Somehow though, this burglary seems so disrespectful to Merle's memory and I hope this person is caught. It's all such a shame. Joe has 2 projects going on now. He's still plugging away on Brown's kitchen, but has had to take a diversion for a week or so to do a porch for another one of the neighbors. He's happy to get outside for awhile after being cooped up since January. He's down to the doors & drawer fronts on the kitchen now (and then putting on the finish) so it shouldn't take him long once he's back at it. Hammers are getting the new porch - those are the folks he built a garage for last winter. They should be arriving back on the creek next week sometime after basking in the Arizona sun for a good portion of the winter. Can't believe it's already March, and the season will be upon us before we know it. I always enjoy my time in the winter, though winter itself is quite long. I've been able to do alot of reading, and Joe has especially enjoyed the extra baking that I've been able to do! Now that our little store is next to the house the long summer hours won't be such a big deal. I think it's going to prove to be a good move... That's it for today. Here's a little something for you to ponder "live in such a way that if anyone should speak badly of you, no one would believe it..." Be blessed today, and always, Joe & Deb
March 3, 2008 11:57 AM March has come in like a lion! The radio says there is a winter storm warning for the Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains today. At the same time, the juncos have returned and the cottonwood tree I always watch has it's little tassels starting to show. I know spring is coming, but its definitely going to have to fight its way in this year!
I'm sad at the moment. I've just received a call
from my friend & neighbor Rory. Our neighbor Merle is laying in a
hospital in
Argentina near death because of a fall he took while traveling.
Because he had no insurance, he was taken to a hospital for the
uninsured. Scott (Rory's husband) went over to Merle's house yesterday,
and someone has been staying there. They have taped blankets over the
windows so no one would be able to tell. They were able to go through a
window in the garage, and then went in and out through the back door and
through the trees. They turned on the baseboard heaters to high, opened
and ate food and left the dirty dishes & mess in the kitchen. The toilets
were used but not flushed. He taped a very strange note to the hood of
the range, stating things that would lead a person to believe he went
through Merle's belongings. He also said that he found Merle's gun and
has it with him. He apologized for the mess and for using his things, and
said he would "pay him back in 6 months". Yes, the authorities have been
called, and have begun to investigate. This is just one more thing
to add to this tragic story. I hate to close on a less than positive note, but today I must. We thank you for praying including Merle in your prayers, as well as for the intruder to his home to be caught... Deb & Joe February 9, 2008 4:01 PM What a change! Our high today was 51 degrees!!!! The snow that was above my knees yesterday is now about mid-calf. It's melting rapidly, but tonight I think its supposed to cool off again, and bring more snow so this is just doing a little settling. I guess its so Joe has more room to push the snow (more places to put it). There have been lots of cars going by today, so I'm sure folks are trying to catch a fish or two. When I first came to Rock Creek in 1992, once winter hit we never saw anyone other than residents and service people on the road. In the winter time, Rock Creek really did belong to those of us that live here. There were very few cars that ever drove by - so much different than in the summer. Of course, our road was really bad then; it was before they paved it, and we were lucky to get plowed. Then in 1995 (or somewhere around that time) they paved to about the Elkhorn. then to Sawmill Road. In the summer of 1997 they finished the paving project to mile 12, and began to maintain our road regularly in the winter. My daughter was still in school at that time (she graduated in 1997) and before the road was paved there were days it took us 45 minutes to get from our house (at mile 8) to the bus stop at Ekstrom's. Even though the traffic has increased over the years, I am thankful for the pavement and the road maintenance that came with it. And in spite of the fact that we no longer have Rock Creek to ourselves in the winter, its still a very special place to live. Funny, summer keeps most of us busy, but in the winter we depend on one another and we talk more often. AJ Michnevich keeps many people plowed out; Jim (then newspaper delivery guy) went in the ditch due to the snow the other day, and a couple of the neighbors came upon him and pushed him out. Susie the mail lady had the same thing happen. The phone rings with one neighbor asking what kind of 4-wheeler we have, and the size of our plow. Another neighbor shows up looking for a quick fix for a broken plow. In years past, we've had less snow and more cold - thus broken water pipes. Then we're all borrowing plumbing parts from one another. In the summer, you'd never know how close knit our community is - its just too busy around here. But in the winter, the true tale is told. We're a hardy bunch, always willing to help one another. Yes, Rock Creek is a special place for more reasons than most would even know. Be a blessing today! Deb & Joe February 8, 2008 4:49 PM I thought you might be interested to read this story from the Missoulian today http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2008/02/08/news/local/news02.txt it's about the snow. I should note that we don't have near as much snow as what you'll see in the picture of Lolo Visitor's center, but we do have plenty! John & Rivers made it home safely. Tomorrow John will turn around and head back to ND to rejoin his siblings as they take care of arrangements for their father (his health is bad, and they will need to get him in assisted living) as well as the legal stuff pertaining to their mother's death. Please continue to keep John in your prayers. Joe is making good headway on the kitchen project. It seems as though the wood has finally submitted to him, and he is now able to shape it as he wishes. I will get pictures soon - it really is going to be beautiful, and like I said before, not common. Its snowing again. We're supposed to get hit again tonight, as well as tomorrow. I was thinking today that it's been so long since we've had real winter that this seems unusual. Its not though - we are barely above "normal" - I know this makes me sound old, but the winter we're having reminds me of when I was a kid. I'm happy to see some return to normalcy, though its only with the weather. Could this be a sign of things to come? We can only hope... We hope you are safe and warm, may you and yours be blessed today. Deb & Joe February 7, 2008 2:38 PM Blizzard like conditions today. We've got about 6 inches of new snow, and alot of wind. When we were having lunch there was a short bit of time when the wind was blowing the snow so much that visibility was limited. There have been very few cars go by today, so I'm wondering if the road is really even passable. I haven't heard otherwise, but normally there is more traffic that what I've seen. I'm concerned about John and Rivers driving into this storm. They were to leave ND around noon. Please continue to remember them in your prayers as they travel. There's really not much else to report right now. That's the story of winter around here - that's about all we think about. We're rejoicing (through the snowflakes) to know that this is good news for next summer. Time to go throw another log on the fire... Be blessed today. Deb & Joe February 4, 2008 7:15 PM The snow continues - it's actually quite beautiful. Rock Creek is a different world in the winter with a quiet beauty. I was looking at the snow drifts alongside the road as we were coming home from church on Sunday. The designs the wind made looked like meringue. The other thing I enjoy is seeing the tracks. In the summer you know there are animals, but you can't really see the evidence. In the winter you can actually SEE what's been out there. We've had a raccoon visiting regularly, a squirrel that makes tunnels through the snow. There has even been a mountain lion up at Big Bear. The tracks tell the story... We received a call from John Perry this morning - his mom passed away at 4 am today. John and Rivers (his daughter) received word on Friday that she was near death, so they left early on Saturday morning. They had good travels with no road problems, and arrived in time for John to see his mom before she left her earthly body. The funeral is on Thursday, and because of custody rules, John will need to leave immediately after in order to get Rivers back in time be with her mom on Friday. Please, for those of you that pray, include John & Rivers in your prayers as they spend time in North Dakota and then travel to get home in time. We received a call last night that Joe's parents were in a head on car accident. Joe's dad was taken to the hospital and they discovered that his sternum is fractured. Other than that, both are okay - other than very sore. Thank God for airbags! The accident was caused by the driver of the other car - they are okay as well. Truly a miracle all the way around. That's it for today. I hope everything is good in your world. God Bless You... Deb & Joe
February 1, 2008 10:43 AM This past storm decided to include us, and we got about 7 inches of new snow last night. Joe was out before daylight with the plow trying to get the driveway passable. While I was shoveling the deck and he was clearing snow beside it with the plow, he said "we're running out of room to put the snow". This with only about 1 1/2 ft. of snow! I can't imagine what the folks in Seeley Lake are doing - they have over 4 ft!!! The temperature is actually pretty comfortable; it's been in the upper 20's for the past couple days. Perfect for winter! It's beginning to snow again, and the weather guy says this storm holds about 8 inches - we'll see... I'm just thankful that we're above zero! Joes making good progress on the cabinets, and finally the wood seems to be cooperating with him. This is going to be a beautiful kitchen. John Perry stopped by yesterday and said he is going to have a fly tying & casting clinic at his place in February. If you're interested, give him a call. 406/825-2997. I think that's it for today. Can't believe it's February already - tomorrow is groundhog day. No matter what Punxsutawney Phil may say in PA, I'm sure we'll have 6 more weeks of winter here in MT. But then after that the Skwala hatch will be in full force; won't be long now! Have a great day... Deb & Joe January 28, 2008 4:38 PM Strange! By Saturday night, it had warmed up to 39 degrees; Sunday our high was 49!!! Today it is in the 20's and we have a light snow. We didn't get dumped on like they predicted, though north and west of us it's been a different story. We have a winter storm advisory in effect until late tonight, but it doesn't feel like we'll get much out of this. That's okay - keep it in the mountains!! Time to get dinner on. Roast elk that's been cooking all afternoon. A good hearty meal on a cold winter day... Deb & Joe January 26, 2008 9 AM It was -1 degree last night, but has warmed to a balmy 7 degrees ABOVE zero as I type this! It's supposed to steadily get warmer today, with 2 weather systems predicted to run into each other right over us later in the day expected to drop nearly a foot of snow in the valleys. If this is true, our valley would be considered high and we could be looking at over a foot of new snow. Of course, how often are weather predictions actually accurate??? The chickadees, nuthatches, Stellar's jays (3 pair), and mama & daddy squirrel are keeping the feeders pretty busy this morning; that's normal. I'm sitting here writing to you, drinking a cup of coffee and watching the birds. It's a tough life here on Rock Creek in the winter... I suppose I should mention our disappointment in last week's football results. Most of you that visit us are aware that we are Packer fans. This season was a fun ride, that ended last week in a loss to the Giants. We were beginning to entertain thoughts of a road trip to Arizona; mid-winter in Montana is a good time to find a warmer climate. But, our plans were cut short and we'll be staying on the creek watching birds in the cold, instead of in sunny Arizona watching the Packers play football. Oh well, maybe Brett will give us another thrill next year and complete the journey one more time before he retires. There you go Tom, the silence of disappointment has been broken... Joes busy in the shop working on the cabinet project this morning. He's been riddled with frustration. This is the first time he's used the old fashioned circular sawn lumber for kitchen cabinets, and it's been a challenge. I'm sure he'll survive, but I don't know that he'll ever use that material again - this could be a one of a kind!!! Tasha is hanging in there and doing well this winter. Her main focus is waiting for the mail lady to come every day. It's not that she's expecting any good mail, but Suzy gives her about a dozen (Suzy says it's less) dog biscuits each day. Tasha lays on the porch watching the mailbox and Sawmill Road. Suzy goes down Sawmill first, and when she is heading back toward Rock Creek Road, by the time she gets to the stop sign, Tasha shoots off the porch like a bullet to meet her at the mailbox. It's a pretty comical sight... Speaking of dogs, I was concerned about the Handley dogs (Slim & Stinky) and wondering if they survived the last bout of sub-zero temperatures. I can report that I saw them on Wednesday, and they are alive and well. There is no doubt that they are survivors! Well, I guess that's it for today. The snow is starting, and I'd better get out and check the cabins before the storm hits. Be encouraged - SPRING IS COMING! Be blessed today, Deb & Joe January 21, 2008 4:30 PM Well, the heat of the day is behind us and I've got to say that from our morning low the temperature rose 23 degrees! However, let me tell you what the extremes were. When we woke up this morning at 6 AM, it was -14 degrees (yes, that is a negative sign). By 9 AM it was -20! Our high for the day was a balmy +3, and as I type this it is sitting at zero. Last night when we went to bed it was about 12 degrees, so it has dropped dramatically! We've got about a foot of snow on the ground here in the Rock Creek Valley, which is about the amount we like. Not too much, but enough that everything is covered. The mountains are at over 100% of normal for this time of year (PRAISE GOD!!!). We had another good snow whollop on Saturday night, so we continue to get more. Hopefully this will continue and not only will we get enough snow, but maybe spring will be long and cool enough to keep that snow in the mountains for as long as possible. We surely don't want a repeat of last year!!! Joe has been busy working in his wood shop building kitchen cabinets for one of our neighbors. I've been plugging away in the office doing book-work and trying to get everything organized in time to open in March. There's still lots to do... That's it for today; stay safe and stay warm. Deb & Joe December 7, 2007 12 Noon Yea, yea, here I am. The frenzy of the season gives way to the frenzy of life and the last thing I pay attention to is the computer (sorry). But, here I am with a little blurb for today. It's winter on Rock Creek. The week of Thanksgiving we received about 16 inches of snow in the valley, then it turned cold (below zero). Just when we were getting used to the snow, last week it warmed up and rained enough to dramatically reduce our snow and produce a nice layer of ice - my favorite for getting around on all winter... Fortunately, the ground wasn't frozen before the snow so much of the melt went directly into the ground. I'm sure the plants and trees are loving it! It's cold again, and I'm sure it'll be snowing again soon. We were fortunate that we didn't receive near the rain that Washington state got. What a year of weather related devastations in our country. Those of you perusing the site will notice that the Trout Bum cabin has disappeared. This is not an internet fluke - it really is not there for 2008. I know this makes a big hole, especially for those of you that have called it your favorite. However, we will be replacing it soon. Our hope is to break ground on a new - duplicate - cabin in early spring, and complete it sometime in the summer. That doesn't help those of you that had hoped to stay in it this year, but it's something we must do. Okay, now the question is "what's happened to the original cabin?". Well, we're changing things up again. After much thought and prayer, I have decided to give up the Elkhorn and will no longer have my office and little fly shop there. It's been very difficult to be away from home all the long hours in the summer. So, we decided that the most practical thing to do is move the operation back home - but, this business has outgrown my little office in the back of the house. So, this past month I have been moving the Trout Bums operation from the Elkhorn to our little cabin. I've set up my office in what was the bedroom. The rest of the cabin will be the store. It's going to take awhile to get everything set up the way I'd like it, but it'll come together. Right now everything is pretty much a mess. I've got my computer desk and computer set up, but the office is definitely NOT even close to organized! I look at it and think that maybe I should call HGTV and see if "Mission Organization" can come in and tackle this project! In other (more personal) news, we're going to be grandparents again! Mary and Leif will welcome another child into their family sometime in July or August. Those of you that know them are thinking "didn't they just have a baby?", well, yes. Gracey will turn one in just a couple days. I'm surprised they've decided to have another one so quickly myself; I am always reminded of the scripture that says "Children are a blessing from God", and know that I certainly have been blessed with Grandchildren. This will be #3 for Mary, in addition to the 7 that my son has makes for a very full quiver and a very fun time when we all get together!!! Well, I must get with the rest of my day. I'm trying to work (believe it or not), in addition to decorate for Christmas. Guy T: you asked about the cookies - I'll be starting that project next week. Have a great holiday season, and may "God bless us everyone..." Deb & Joe
September 28, 2007 4:15PM I'm not sure where the time has gone - the past 3 weeks have been a blur. Seems hard to believe it's been that long not only since I've written, but also since our lives have gotten back to normal - half the time we were living in a state of emergency! Our picnic was very nice - we had about 20 fire personnel that were able to join us. Many came into my shop the next week and said how grateful they were to have the community think of them in such a way. Many said that no one had ever given them a nicer send off. That was nice. This was the first week we haven't had any smoke - what a wonderful thing! It rained last week-end; almost 2 inches! Our prayers for snow have also been answered, and the high areas received about 4 inches! There is another cold front moving in today, and the prediction is for more rain, and snow at 5,000 ft. I think we can safely say that the fire is now out. It's been a long time in coming; I'm so thankful that no one lost their home, there were no serious injuries, and though it was very trying we came through it. We all have much to be thankful for. Fishing on top has been slow, but streamers have been producing well. I think that's going to be the tale for the rest of the season unless it warms up again. The colors are really getting beautiful. The reds are going strong, and the aspen are a beautiful gold. The cottonwoods are just beginning to turn, and the larch haven't begun yet. Joe was out on the Clark Fork a couple days ago - fishing was really slow, but they floated through a herd of elk. The bulls were bugling, and the cows were intermingled in with them. The pictures were beautiful - what a sight! Closer to home, it's almost time for the rams to make their appearance into the valley. The weather is just what we need for a good show. It's really something to see - just like a National Geographic special. Well, I'm going to head upstream. Thanks for checking in... Deb & Joe Sawmill Complex Fire links: Sawmill Complex Fire Incident Report September 7, 2007 10:30 AM I'm going to keep this brief because I have alot to accomplish today. The breaking news is that Rock Creek will re-open tomorrow morning at 7am. Here's the official announcement:
Incident Commander Don Angell with the Rocky Mountain Incident Management Type 2 Team is recommending to the agencies overseeing the Sawmill Complex that the roads in Lower Willow Creek and all of Rock Creek (Upper/Lower) be reopened effective Saturday, September 8, 2007 at 7: 00a.m. Yes, this means the entire road will be open, as well as the stream. Keep in mind that there will still be what they call "fire activity" on each of the 3 fires. There will be fire vehicles patrolling as well as working. If you come to fish, it's especially important that you pay attention to where you are parking, and make sure that a large pumper truck can get by you. Otherwise you may end up being towed or a damaged vehicle. Just use common sense. That's it for now. Deb & Joe Sawmill Complex August 6, 2007 Evening Update Fire activity on the Sawmill Complex was light again today due to cooler temperatures and high humidity. The total number of acres increased by 45. Fire behavior consisted of low intensity surface fire, single tree torching, creeping, and backing. Air resources were utilized on all three fires to slow perimeter growth and to assist ground forces.
Sawmill- Very quiet!
Fisher Point – Very quiet! Crews focused on mop up; opening up fuels and cold trailing.
Wyman 2 – The Helena Hot Shots scouted the southeast corner of the fire in preparation for fireline construction.
Chris Fox Information Officer August 6, 2007 9:30 AM We got rain night before last - not alot, but the air has been washed, and its really beautiful out. There is more than a hint of autumn in the air, and we know it won't be long until we get frost. The main fire camp (near P-burg) got 3/4 inch of rain, so that really helped settle the Wyman and Fisher fires. Some of you have been concerned about the wording of my last message - don't be. If you have reservations, you will have no problem getting to your cabin. The only problem is that the stream is not yet open, but the District Ranger assures me that she hopes to have it open within the next few days. Its all dependant on the IC being "absolutely sure he can assure fire fighter and public safety." From a personal perspective as someone that has lived with this fire for 1 1/2 months now, I would like to assure the readers of this that Joe and I feel absolutely safe. One of the comments from the fire fighter managers has been that even though the fire is quiet and laying low, if the temperature gets hot again, things could change. For it (the temperature) to get hot again would be very abnormal for our area at this time of year. Today is one of those days that you really can't tell there is a fire anywhere near to us. If you look hard at the mountain you will see areas that have burned, and once in awhile a little smoke, but it looks like its out. Of course, we can't see the backside of the mountain or the fire on that side. But, I want to assure those of you arriving soon that you are not coming into an area that has active burning going on. I would anticipate that once the Forest decides to open up Rock Creek it probably won't be in its entirety. Because of the Fisher fire, I would expect that Brewster Creek above the homes would remain closed so that no one goes into an area of active fire. I would also expect that the Valley of the Moon road would be closed until they get that point of the fire contained. I'm not sure what to expect above mile 12, but it certainly would be a possibility for them to hold off opening that area up too just because of the area that is burning in the Welcome Creek drainage, and the spot that went across the road. So, there are my thoughts for what they're worth. The camp here is almost gone - its merely a shadow of its former self. Things really do feel like they're getting back to normal, other than what I've mentioned above - but that's more normalcy than we've had since July. We have guests in our cabin right now, here from Virginia. They're floating the Blackfoot today - I'll give you a fishing report tomorrow. At any rate, what you need to know is that they've had no problem getting to and from their cabin, and are enjoying their stay. Don't fret; your vacation plans don't need to change unless you decide to change them. We would not have you come if we didn't feel like it was safe. There will be another public meeting here at the Elkhorn Friday evening at 7PM. Hopefully we'll have an idea of timeframe then. It sounds like the new team coming in is the same one we started out with - I guess we'll know soon. In the meantime, we're looking forward. Forward to our picnic on Saturday & the time we'll spend with our friends and neighbors; forward to clear crisp evenings when we can again watch the stars; forward to the rams coming into the valley; and forward to returning to the simple quiet life we enjoy, but often take for granted. At the same time, I want to say we are thankful to be able to sit here and write of this, knowing that what we look forward to is not out of reach. Once again, we hope all those that came to our assistance will know in their hearts how deeply thankful we are for them. 2 nights ago I couldn't fall asleep - that's normally a signal to spend time in prayer. That night the Lord brought to mind the faces of the many I have met since the beginning of this fire. I don't remember everyone's name, but I will always remember them. For nearly 3 hours the faces and conversations we had passed through my mind as I lay there praying for the individual needs that were shared, as well as those that I just sensed. There were fire fighters, National Guard, kitchen help, camp crews, bosses, medics and many others. I strongly believe that each passed through my door for a reason, and that night God reminded me. 12:00 PM I want to share the most recent story that brings a smile to my face, and will for a long time. Many of you know where the old Handley place is. The area on the west side of the road, at the south end of the field was used as the Helispot for the past 6 weeks. Well, there are 2 Handley dogs that have been living at the old ranch even though the house is no longer there & Kenny has moved into town. Those dogs adopted the helicopter crew. One of the dogs is named "Taffy" and she's about a scruffy as they come. She's some sort of terrier mix with long white hair. She's got the dread locks going big time, and whatever goes along with it (if you get my drift). At any rate, the crew nicknamed her "Stinkey". The other dog is Belle - they've nicknamed her "Slim". Belle is just about as wide as she is long and as well groomed as Stinkey.; both of them have been hanging out with the helicopter crew, and Stinkey has even taken to sleeping there. There are official signs everywhere around here that designate fire areas, and one of the signs is bright orange and says "Helispot"; well, there is another sign on the gate entering the helicopter area, and it says "watch for dogs". The crew has become as attached to the dogs, as the dogs have to them. Another pet is "Nutty". Nutty is what is called a "Golden Mantle", which looks like a chipmunk on steroids. Nutty has a hole under the shade structure, and comes out to beg for nuts. He has become so tame that he sits in their hands, tries to get in their pockets, and if you crumple the nut package wrapper above his hole he sticks his head out right away. Yesterday the Helispot moved to the upper camp, and the crew went with it. The tents are gone, as well as the shade structure. Taffy is still there, and perks up when she sees a vehicle driving by. Tom (one of the helicopter crew) was in this morning for coffee and said he was going to stop by this morning and check on the dogs; he also mentioned that he's concerned about Nutty, because his hole is no longer covered by the shade structure, and the hawks & eagles are sure to spot him now. Tom is the only one of the crew left on this end, and today is his last day. I've mentioned before how hard it is to say good-bye to the different folks that have passed through our lives as a result of this fire, but I have to say the most impacted will probably be Stinkey & Slim. For a time they had lots of pets, hair cut out of the eyes, lunch meat snacks, and someone to toss the tennis ball. The rest of us will be thankful for the help we received, and think fondly of those that passed through but our lives will go back to normal. But then there is Taffy; she'll be running to the road looking for a long time. There is more to all of this than any of us can comprehend, and in the end its the dogs that tell the real story. We have been blessed... Deb & Joe PS I just (12:30 PM) received the following e-mail from the main camp (called the Incident Command Post) FORWARD NOTICE:
This email is a forward notice for the residents of Upper/Lower Rock Creek and Upper/Lower Willow. – Please note this information will not be released to the media until tomorrow.
Incident Commander Don Angell with the Rocky Mountain Incident Management Type 2 Team is recommending to the agencies overseeing the Sawmill Complex that the roads in Lower Willow Creek and all of Rock Creek (Upper/Lower) be reopened effective Saturday, September 8, 2007 at 7: 00a.m.
The roads in Upper Willow and Stony Creek will remain restricted due to heavy fire activity and incident operations.
Upon reopening of the roads the National Guard units will be released from this assignment.
We sincerely appreciate the patience and cooperation of all the effected communities and residents.
Sincere Regards, Laura McConnell PIO2
Public Information Officer - Sawmill Complex
406-859-6003
Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team A
Sawmill Complex August 5, 2007 Evening Update Sorry about skipping last evening's report. I moved down to the Incident Command Post on Highway 38 and ended up having to attend briefings.
Fire activity on the Sawmill Complex was light today due to the precipitation received last night, which averaged about 0.4 inches. Total acres increased by 83. Higher amounts of rain were recorded on the Wyman 2 and Fisher Point fires; a lesser amount on the Sawmill Fire. Temperatures were also about 5 degrees lower than yesterday, which contributed to the reduced activity. Fire behavior consisted of low intensity surface fire, single tree torching, creeping, and backing. Air resources were utilized on all three fires to slow perimeter growth.
Sawmill- Very quiet!
Fisher Point – Crews focused on mop up; opening up fuels and cold trailing. Fencing was installed to contain rolling material.
Wyman 2 – Fire continued to be active in the vicinity of Stony Creek in Division E. The Helena Hot Shots were brought in to work on line construction.
Chris Fox Information Officer August 4, 2007 9:05AM Its pretty smoky this morning; the weather man says we're getting smoke from the fires in Idaho - when you combine that with our own, it makes for alot. Well, at the meeting last night it was announced that they would not be lifting the 24 hour pre-evacuation notice. With this in place, the road remains closed. With the road closure, the fishing closure remains in effect. I asked what is keeping the evacuation order in place, and the IC said that because the 2 ends are still burning actively, and are not controlled he does not feel comfortable lifting it. There weren't really alot of questions last night - I think everyone is just getting weary. I wish I would've thought to ask what the plan is for bringing those 2 ends to the control point. I've got a call into the IC as well as the District Ranger to see what I can find out. 12:38 PM Don Angell (the IC) called me back and I was able to ask him what the plan is to tie up those ends. What he said is that there are 2 scenarios that will do it; first, and most obvious, is a weather event that provides good moisture. He said that right now both ends are burning in terrain that is too dangerous for any crews to get in on. The second scenario is that the fire will need to burn further, into areas that will allow them to get in on the ground and burn back. Right now they are just not in an area that they are able to do that. He says that he expects the fire to be in this pattern for about a week before they can be more aggressive with it. You know what that means - the stream will remain closed at least until then. Earlier this morning I was over at the guard post that is in place across the road to visit with the guards there. They had some bugs in a bottle, with a spider. This is significant in that I noticed that one of the bugs was a Fall Caddis, which is hook size 6-8 (so pretty good sized). Sure would be nice to go fishing... Things are changing around here; the chokecherry bushes are turning red, and the cottonwoods are showing a hint of yellow. The black bears are foraging for their last meals before hibernation, and I see that the whitetail bucks are no longer in velvet. Things are changing at the fire camp too; the kitchen (and crew) left just a bit ago, and I guess the showers won't be far behind. The crew staying here is being whittled down dramatically and it looks like there will only be about 40 people here by the end of the week. Those folks will be fed from what they call hot buckets; food brought in from the other camp in 5 gallon buckets. Once again we're saying good-bye to folks that have been a part of our everyday lives for awhile. Many say they want to come back, we'll see. Until then, my prayer is for God to go with each one, bless them, and keep them safe. That's it for now. Deb & Joe PS Don't forget about the picnic this week-end. Sawmill Complex September 3, 2007 Evening Update Bottom Line – There was a lot of smoke in the air today, but no significant change in the total number of acres, which increased 1,158 to 61,216.
Fire activity increased on the Sawmill Complex today due to higher temperatures and lower humidities. A local red flag warning was in effect during the afternoon for low humidities and gusty winds. Fire behavior consisted of active surface fire, short-to-moderate crown runs, single and group tree torching, creeping, and backing. Air resources were utilized to slow perimeter growth and assist with mop up.
All three fires exhibited increases in activity, with the greatest increases occurring on the Fisher Point and Wyman 2 Fires.
Sawmill- There was a run of approximately 150-200 acres in the northwest section (Division Q) of the fire. The fire continues to burn into the Welcome Creek Wilderness, and it being held on a ridge system.
Fisher Point – There was activity in the northeast section (Division H), but the fire was held on the south side of Elkhorn Creek. The fire continues to back and clean up. The fire has not crossed Upper Willow Creek. Fire burned into the Ramona Creek drainage.
Wyman 2 – The fire was active in the vicinity of Stony Creek, with approximately 100 burning above the creek, and about 100 acres below the creek.
Chris Fox Information Officer
Sawmill Complex September 2, 2007 Evening Update Once again, fire activity on the Sawmill Complex was light despite lower relative humidities and higher temperatures than yesterday. The total number of acres increased by 31. Fire behavior consisted of low-to-moderate surface fire, occasional single tree torching, creeping, and backing. Air resources were utilized to slow perimeter growth and assist with mop up.
Sawmill- Actions on the south end of the fire focused on keeping the fire from crossing Rock Creek Road.
Fisher Point – The fire has not crossed Upper Willow Creek or Elkhorn Creek.
Wyman 2 – Crews continued to patrol, mop up, and pull equipment.
Chris Fox Information Officer
Sawmill Complex September 1, 2007 Evening Update Fire activity on the Sawmill Complex was light again today; the total number of acres increased by approximately 230. Spotty precipitation from last night's thunderstorm occurred over the west side of the complex, with the greatest amount ( 0.1 of an inch) recorded on the Sawmill Fire. The rainfall, combined with higher humidities, moderated fire behavior, which consisted of low-to-moderate surface fire, occasional single tree torching, creeping, and backing. Air resources were utilized to slow perimeter growth and assist with mop up. The Complex assisted with an initial attack – the Mud Hole Fire, 5 acres.
Sawmill- Actions on the south end of the fire focused on keeping the fire from crossing Rock Creek Road. Burnout operations to square up lines continued. Activity was light on the northern edge.
Fisher Point – The fire has not crossed Upper Willow Creek or Elkhorn Creek.
Wyman 2 – Crews began to pull equipment.
Chris Fox Information Officer Sawmill Complex August 31, 2007 Evening Update Fire activity on the Sawmill Complex was light today - relative humidities were high and there was a cloud cover. The predicted weather event did not materialize; there was only a trace of rain on the Fisher Point and Sawmill Fires. There is still a possibility of rain for the northern end of the Complex tonight.
Sawmill- The fire was active along the southwest corner, parallel to Rock Creek. Firefighters worked on burning out remaining fuel between Mile Marker 7 and 8 on the Rock Creek Road. They will continue to work on securing the line, which is black down to Rock Creek. Fire will burn throughout the night, producing heavy smoke. Actions on the south end of the fire focused on keeping the fire from crossing Rock Creek Road. The Sawmill Fire increased by about 230 acres.
Fisher Point – Fire behavior was moderate. The fire has not crossed Upper Willow Creek or Elkhorn Creek.
Wyman 2 – Fire behavior was moderate.
A radiometric (infrared) flight was made which covered the Fisher Point Fire and half of the Sawmill Fire. The remainder of the Sawmill Fire and the Wyman 2 Fire will be flown tomorrow. The information is used to identify hotspots on the fires.
Chris Fox Information Officer August 31, 2007 11 AM Steve, the Division Branch Manager (which means he's in charge of the fire on this end) was just in. He's hoping that today will provide the opportunity for them to finish burning just a bit further North so they can tie it up in the rocky slope sort of behind Kane's & Menson's places (right around mile marker 6). They hope to keep it from getting as far as the Helispot. The reason for this is not because of the Helispot, but because of its proximity to Solomon. They want to keep the fire from reaching Solomon Creek because of the heavy timber/fuel in that area that would then give opportunity for a big run. So, today please join me in praying things to go as they should, and for the fire to be stopped at just the right spot - not to soon, and not too late. Right now the North end of the fire has just about burned beyond the last house. We will all be able to breathe a sigh of relief once that happens. If it makes a run and reaches Solomon (and then beyond) then it will be threatening a new group of homes/properties which include the O'Conner's, Gilberts, Elkhorn Ranch, and then beyond that just a short way would be the homes at the lower end of Rock Creek. We don't really want to think that it will get that far though. The Bible says "today has enough troubles of its own", so let's concentrate on that. Today & tomorrow have the best chances for rain. Wouldn't it be great if they would be able to finish burning the area I just mentioned, and then have the rain come to sort of button up that end! I'm also looking forward to the rain for another reason - the smoke has been terrible the past few days. The back burns have been a good thing, and are making areas that will not burn again, but at the same time burning all those fuels causes alot of smoke - especially since there is cloud cover above it, and that's caused an inversion. So, if the clouds would cause rain to wash the air, I would be very happy... There is a strong POSSIBILITY that the road and stream will open up again next week. We need to get through this weather system that's moving in right now, and see what happens through the week-end, but finally it is at least being discussed. There are still some of you that have hung in there with us, determined to come if it was possible - and we thank you for that. I have to think that after more than a month of having the stream closed, the fishing should be great. You should know though that there will probably still be smoke, and its unlikely that the fire will be out. It just won't be burning at the same level it has been for the past month. Oh yea, one more thing. An invitation for anyone that was on this fire and are now back to their normal lives - if you're in the area (I know some of you are starting school at UM next week) please, come spend the evening with us on September 8 between 5 and 9:30 PM. This invitation is for the residents of Rock Creek, as well as those on the fire crews. The bluegrass band I have hired is called "Blue to the Bone", and the band leader is Mark Dickerson; Mark used to be the organizer of the Bitterroot Bluegrass Festival. The meal will be potluck, and I have a sign-up sheet at my office. We hope to also have a roasted pig; Jeff Freeman may be doing it, or (if he's not available) the camp kitchen may be doing it. I'm still working on this. At any rate, there will be good food and good entertainment. Here's the deal though - this is a closed camp, and there is NO ALCOHOL ALLOWED. This means that in order for the firefighters still on duty to take part, there can be no alcohol at this picnic. Thanks in advance for your cooperation. I think that's it for now. Feel free to call me if you have any questions about the picnic, the fire, or your reservations. Be blessed today! Deb & Joe
August 30 evening update There was active burning across the complex as weather conditions continued to dry out fuel and make them more readily available for the fire causing smoky conditions persisted through the day. The Incident Base on Skalkaho Road received some rain along with gusty winds. Friday's weather includes a 20% percent chance of wetting rain (more than .10 inch) during the day and 40% chance overnight.
Sawmill-Firefighters took advantage of backing fire along with burnout to eliminate the remaining unburned fuels north of Mecca Gulch up to the north end of the fire along Rock Creek. The inversion and smoky conditions limited visibility but helicopters were able to work the north side of the fire to hold it south of Soloman Ridge. The south end of the fire also had active burning but did not escape the unnamed drainage where it had started the day.
Fisher Point-There was heavy burning in interior pockets. On the east side the fire burned down to the meadow but had not crossed Upper Willow Creek. Late in the day a storm was reported with dry lightning strikes on Black Pine Ridge. On the northeast side, the fire had advanced close to the bottom of Elkhorn Drainage where helicopters were used to hold it in place. That section of the fire will be closely monitored on Friday.
Wyman 2-Fire grew to the south, crossing at the upper end of Stoney Creek. These areas are still being looked at tonight.
……Bruce
August 29 evening update On the south side of the Sawmill fire, the Fire continued backing down into the unnamed drainage south of Welcome Creek. Firefighters hope to hold the southward spread of the fire in this area. On the north side, Helicopter drops were made to hold the fire on Soloman Ridge. The Gilbert Creek area was largely unstaffed, though it is ready to be used as a contingency to hold the fire if it spreads to the north.
There was active fire on the east side of the Fisher Point Fire. Burning conditions were intense enough to cause firefighters to pull off the line and go into structure protection mode.
The Wyman 2 fire was quiet today.
Thanks to all who attended the meeting. There were
about 60 people there.
Bruce
August 29, 2007 2 - 3PM There are many leaving our camp - 15 engines were released today. That means a minimum of 30 and up to 60 people have gone; some of the engines have 2 man crews, some have 4 man crews. I'm also hearing different murmurs of the current camp crew leaving on Friday instead of the end of next week. Sounds like things are going to get alot smaller on this end, which (to me) means they must be confident that the fire is coming to a controlled point - I see on Inciweb that they have given it a 20% containment. There isn't a current map (latest is the 24th), but when they DO post one what you want to look for is the black line with slash marks in it. The one I have in the breezeway is dated the 26th, and shows a containment line from Welcome Creek to Sawmill Creek. I would expect that tonight's map will extend that line to Mecca Gulch, or at least to just to the South of it. I guess we'll find out tonight at the meeting. We will also meet the new management team for the first time. It was pretty smoky this morning, and continues into the afternoon. I guess this was due to the burnout operation that took place yesterday. Even though things are smoky, its calm. There will be an informational meeting tonight and we should have more of an idea as to the plan for opening up the road again (at least the lower 12 miles). The area near Welcome Creek (where the Suspension Bridge is) will probably stay closed for awhile. That's where the fire jumped the creek, and there have been falling rocks/burning snags coming onto the road. Bruce (the new Information Officer) is going to try and get me some pictures today so you can get a better idea of why the road remains closed. On the North end the fire is back to moving very slowly and seems to be (mostly) wanting to head in a Northwest direction other than in a few spots. Well, I'm going to close for now and go home for a bit. I'll try to get Bruce's evening update online later, though it doesn't usually come out until after 10 and by that time I'm ready to be done with the computer. I'll see what I can do though because he should have a summary of the meeting. Deb & Joe
Sawmill Complex August 28, 2007 Evening Update
It was an interesting day on the Sawmill fire. At the south end, crews continued the burnout operation of the spot fire from yesterday along with mop up. By the end of the day, the spot fire on the east side of Rock Creek was 100% contained with black on all sides. Crews will monitor the area and do additional mop up over the next several days. Across Rock Creek the fire was active south of Welcome Creek. It burnt into the unnamed drainage between Welcome Cr and Pawnee Cr. and burned down slope toward Rock Creek. Helicopter water drops were used to keep it cool and slow its spread. Further north the fire was active and visible on the escarpment above Rock Creek near Mecca Gulch. The fire burned downhill and provided a favorable burnout toward the creek. A small spot fire was seen on the west side of Rock Cr near mile post 9. It is being monitored and night patrols are in place. Tomorrow, crews will cross the creek and assess the situation to determine if any line needs to be constructed. Overall, the fire on these slopes is doing a good fuels reduction and recycling of debris. This is basically doing what crews would accomplish with a burnout. As long as weather stays favorable, this down slope burning will produce "black" ground that will reduce the potential for future spotting if winds pick up. At the north end of Sawmill in the Gilbert Cr drainage, the line has been completed and is ready for burnout if needed. Over 3,000 feet of hose with 60 sprinklers and 3 pumps have been installed. Fuels reduction and felling of snags is complete. Lines held on the Fisher Point fire west of Upper Willow Creek. Helicopter water drops were used to cool the fire. The Wyman 2 fire was relatively calm, although a smoke column was produced by some burning in the interior.
A community meeting will be held on Wednesday evening at 7:00 pm at Elkhorn Ranch.
It has been a pleasure knowing and working with you the past 2 weeks. I wish you all the best.
Gregg DeNitto Information Officer August 28, 2007 8:30 AM I keep wondering how the days can be so long and busy, and I still don't seem to accomplish all the things I need to. I'm sorry I missed getting to this the past couple days; be assured that all is well. This morning is pretty smoky, but that's the normal morning thing. We had wind yesterday that blew all the smoke out, and it was a beautiful evening. The wind blew pretty good on Sunday, and we were pretty worried that the fire grew - however, I guess it only increased by about 150 acres. Funny to think 150 acres is nothing, since it stayed at 150 acres for about 2 weeks (in the beginning); time sure has a way of changing perspective! The weather prediction for the end of the week is for above 90 degrees again - we certainly don't need that! My hope is that it doesn't pan out the way they think, and that this cooler (normal for this time) weather will remain. We so desperately need moisture, but again, none is predicted. If the 90+ degree weather does come, it will add to our record number of days above 90 for the year. The weather man said last night that in addition to the heat, we should also note that in the last 3 months we have only received 3/10 of an inch of rain. Its no wonder we're dealing with fire! 11:00 AM I think this will be the last week that I have the fire shirts available, so if anyone is interested in purchasing one, please let me know. There is an embroidered or silk screened t-shirt ($17.50 + shipping), or a hooded sweatshirt ($35.00 + shipping). A portion of the proceeds will go toward the "thank-you" picnic we will be hosting on Saturday, September 8. 6:05 PM Its turning into a beautiful evening. I was just saying that it would be easy to fool yourself into thinking there is no fire. The temperature is good and the air is clear... and then the Skycrane helicopter flew over! Here's a picture my neighbor Rory Page took when it was working in our neighborhood a couple days ago.
That's it for today - our prayer needs are the same
Be blessed, and be a blessing... Deb & Joe
August 27, 2007 Sawmill Complex, August 27 Evening Update
It was a calm day on the Sawmill fire today. Some smoke was visible on the ridge above Rock Creek near Mecca Gulch as the fire slowly spread downslope. Smoke was also visible in the internal part of the fire to the west, but no significant spread occurred. In the southern end of the fire, crews began a burnout on the north side of the spot fire to the east of Rock Creek to tie the fire in with the road. This operation was not completed, so additional burning is planned for tomorrow. Engines will continue to do structure protection along Rock Creek Road and monitor the fire.
Wyman 2 fire continued to be very quiet with little fire activity. Engines patrolled the fire and spots south of Stony Creek were mopped up. The burnout south of Hutsinpilar Creek continued to hold and was mopped up.
The Elkhorn Creek area of the Fisher Point fire showed no change. The fire stayed to the southeast of the creek with little spread. Efforts continued on the east side in Upper Willow Cr to protect structures and limit spread of the fire.
There will be a public meeting with the new incident team on Wednesday, August 29, at 7:00 pm at the Elkhorn Ranch. Gregg DeNitto Information Officer
August 25, 2007 11:25 AM Glen McNitt (the IC) was in just a bit ago, and I was happy to be able to ask him some questions out of the group setting. Its hard to remember everything during the meetings. One thing I've been wondering is why we haven't been seeing any change in the containment percentage (its at 15%). What he said was that we probably wouldn't see a change because the majority of the fire is in the wilderness, and that side will not have a line around it. So, (in our case) the containment percentage is irrelevant. I think I will ask if there is a containment percentage in the inhabited area - that may give us a better perspective. The picnic/thank you gathering I mentioned previously is planned for Saturday, September 8 here at the Elkhorn. The tentative time is 5 - 9:30 PM. I know the firefighters have some pretty strict rules they have to adhere to (concerning alcohol, etc) so I will find out all that beforehand. We want to say thank you, but at the same time we want to make sure we don't cause them any unnecessary temptation or problems. If you are willing to help with the planning of this, please contact me this week. If you're willing to supply a dish, I'll be making a sign-up sheet that will be available by Wednesday's meeting. There is a red-flag warning for today with concern about the predicted winds ahead of the cold front. Glen told me that he flew the fire today, and it looks good, but there are a few points that they're concerned about. One of those points is on the north end of the fire in section 10. They hope to keep it from hooking back to the east and then running on that ridge. The other area of concern is at the south end where the spot is (on the east side of the creek). They feel pretty confident that they've got it, but the very most northern portion is very steep, and they were not able to get a line put in there. Again, the winds will tell the tale. Another thing that Glen told me is that when he flew the fire he noticed a nice mosaic pattern. He said that even though the map shows a burn perimeter, we should note that not everything inside that perimeter is burned. He also said that there doesn't seem to be much that burned white hot - there are some places that burned everything, but for the most part the loss of trees is minimal. I also asked about the trees that have brown needles from the heat of the fire, though they did not burn. He said that Ponderosa Pine are very resilient, and in fact their bark grows thicker as a result of fire. He said that if there is 1/3 of the tree that remains green, it will survive and be stronger. I found that very encouraging. Once again its time to say good-bye to a team, and hello to another. The time seems to go so quickly; I was just commenting though that even though there are many faces that come and go, and many people that I have been dealing with; it has been a pleasure to work with all of them. 1:20 PM This afternoon will be a little going away gathering for Jim & Billie Page; after 35 years living on Rock Creek they are moving to a retirement home in Missoula. Meg, the Lt. here with the National Guard, had to leave last night to be with her sister having a baby. Calvin, one of the Sergeants has been anxious to get home because his daughter is expecting his 2nd grandchild at any moment. In spite of the fires, life goes on and that's a good thing. Sometimes it seems like time should stop because none of this seems like our "real" lives, and maybe that's the lesson in this. Many people come to Rock Creek to escape from the reality of their lives. We are so blessed to be in a place that for the most part, seems untouched by the rest of the world. But, right now, this is OUR reality. We are thankful that no structures have been lost, and there have been no serious injuries. We have learned to live with smoke & ash; if that's the worst thing we have to deal with, we're happy! I anticipate I will still be cleaning up ash at Christmas time, and know that everything I own has a scent of "campfire". One of the comments I hear regularly is how fortunate I am to be able to live where people look forward to escaping to on vacation - and that's true, I am. At the same time, this vacation destination place is in the part of Montana designated by our Governor as a "State of Emergency". We're a bit weary. We have National Guardsmen posted at 3 different locations in the lower 12 miles of Rock Creek. We have an encampment of firefighters at the Elkhorn that has a population of people greater than the total number of residents that live here. The normally clean, clear air is often so thick with smoke that we can hardly see to the trees in our yards. And then there is the wind - it blows the smoke out, but it stirs up the fire. When the wind is expected we know that if we leave the creek, we may not be allowed back up. We are on 24 hour evacuation notice. There are hummers, water trucks, engines, helicopters, & bombers. This is why we are weary, and maybe a bit irritable. Why am I mentioning this? Well, I want those of you coming to visit in September to be ready for our reality. Rock Creek is still just as beautiful as you remember, and once the stream opens up again the fishing will most likely be outstanding. The changes will be subtle; you will most likely catch a whiff of smoke in the air - they tell us this fire won't be "dead" out until after the snow flies. By the time you visit, you most likely will not see any of the things I have mentioned and it will be hard to imagine that any of it really happened. The horses will still be grazing in the fields, and the Bighorn Sheep will still be sleeping in the road. You won't be able to tell there were ever hoses on the suspension bridge, and the rocks in the stream will still be slippery; fishermen will once again be on the stream and the forest will be colored green & gold - just in time for football season. Yep, life goes on... There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven... (Ecclesiastes 3:1) Deb & Joe Sawmill Complex, August 24 Morning Update Today and tomorrow's weather will result in increased fire activity. Higher temperatures, lower humidity and increased winds may cause some single tree and small group torching and short sustained crown fire. More smoke plumes will be visible from the valley. Engines will be stationed along Rock Creek Rd to provide point protection. Helicopter water drops will be used to contain hot spots that are concern, primarily in Solomon Cr. A few burning cottonwoods along Rock Cr will be assessed for possible falling or water drops. Road and fuel mitigation work will continue in Gilbert Cr. The spot fire east of Rock Cr has been confined and will continue to be monitored along with the potential for other spots on the east side. Much of today's efforts will be focused on getting hot spots and areas of concern controlled in anticipation of winds tomorrow and Sunday. No precipitation is expected with the cold front moving through Sunday morning. The Western Montana Zone Incident Management Team will be transitioning off the Sawmill Complex this weekend. A new team will take over the fire at 6:00 am on Monday. Closures and evacuations have not changed. Magnesium chloride is being applied to sections of Rock Creek Rd south of MP12. Residents in the Miller Flats area should be alert for working equipment and consider washing their vehicles if they pass through treated areas. There is a community meeting at Elkhorn Ranch on Friday, August 24, at 7:00 pm. The website www.firewise.org has information on how to prepare your home to reduce the threat from wildfires. Gregg DeNitto - Information Officer Sawmill Complex, August 24, 2007 Evening Update Fire activity increased today in all 3 fires as temperatures warmed and humidity was low. Some single tree and small group torching was seen in the interior part of the fires. Overall, though, it was fairly calm and quiet. However, the benefits seen from last weekend's moisture and higher humidity have disappeared. The spot fire east of Rock Cr on the Sawmill fire was lined on top, but is still open on the north side because of very steep, rocky terrain. This area has a lot of rock scree which will slow spread. An indirect line (line built away from the active edge of the fire) was built to contain this side. Water drops were used on hot areas to lessen the fire in the spot. The Sawmill fire has not moved appreciably in Solomon Cr and hot spots were attacked with helicopter water drops. Fire in the Elkhorn drainage on the Fisher Point fire has not changed. Helicopter water drops were used to keep it cool. Attention was put on the east side of this fire to keep the fire above Road #4325. The spot fire south of Stony Creek on the Wyman 2 fire was fully lined and was hit with helicopter water drops. There are still some areas around Stony Creek in the upper part of the drainage that are of concern. Saturday's weather is predicted to be warm, dry and gusty. A red flag warning has been issued for sustained southerly to southwesterly winds of 15 to 20 mph with potential gusts up to 40 mph. Sunday will continue to be warm with breezy conditions. The existing Lolo NF closure (#47) has been changed and expanded to include areas around Gilbert Cr. The order and map of the new closed area can be found on the Lolo NF website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/lolo/conditions/index-orders.shtml These brief updates will no longer be produced in the morning. The daily briefing that is issued around 8:00 am will be providing the information at that time. These updates will continue to be provided in the evening. Gregg DeNitto - Information Officer
Sawmill Complex, August 23 Morning Report Today's plans are very similar to yesterday's. Crews at the south end will finish mopping up the spot fire on the east of Rock Cr. Burning will be done on the west side south of Welcome Cr to keep the fire from dropping into Rock Cr. This will continue south following the fire as it moves. Work will continue along Gilbert Cr to reduce fuels and provide a contingency line. The forest and roads in the Schwartz Cr drainage are open to the public. Users need to be cautious in this area because of heavy equipment use. If a burnout is done, part of the Schwartz Cr road system will be closed. The fire will be monitored in Solomon Cr and helicopters used to hold the fire to the south side. On the Wyman 2 fire, spots south of Stony Cr will be mopped up and helicopters used to help in this effort. A burnout may be done in Hutsinpilar Cr to tie the fire into the Alder burn if conditions permit. Work will continue to hold the fire west of Road 4325 on the Fisher Point fire. Burnout opportunities along this road will be assessed. Residents are reminded that a 24 hour preevacuation notice is still in effect. Although conditions are improved, changing weather could cause an evacuation notice to be reissued. The Rock Creek Rd is open only to residents. Arrangements should be made at the National Guard checkpoint for non-residents who need to access the area. Rock Creek Rd is still closed to everyone from MP 12 to 25. Magnesium chloride will be applied to sections of Rock Cr Rd today south of MP 12. Anyone who travels in the treated areas should be alert for the mag chloride truck and consider washing their vehicle to remove the chemical. Public meeting on Friday, August 24, at 7:00 pm at Elkhorn Ranch. Gregg DeNitto - Information Officer 3:35 PM Believe it or not, there's not much to report, and that seems to be the general consensus around here. There is a calm; Ruby (the camp manager) came over to take a break - the first she's had in the almost 2 weeks she's been here. Instead of the sense of doom there is now a peace in knowing that the worst is behind us, and we will be finished soon. It's hard to believe that it can change so quickly - it was just Sunday that we experienced our worst day; only 4 days ago. Next week-end is Labor Day; if the conditions continue to improve, I'm hopeful that the road & stream will re-open. I know there's more to think about than fishing, but after all, that IS why we're here. The day temperatures are so nice right now, and I'm tempted to get out my rod. There are those here because of the fires that are drawn to the flies, and are longing to "wet a line" in their free time. Yes, the whole attitude is changing; we're coming back to what is "normal" (is there such a thing?) thinking for here. Ruby & I were visiting with one of the new camp crew members just a bit ago. His name is Richard, and he's here from New Mexico. I believe he told me he is a Navajo. He said he likes it here, the "spirit" is good. I smiled inside, knowing how many others have sensed the same thing - and I know that I regularly pray over this little valley and ask for God's presence to dwell here. Yes, the Spirit IS good and this is a special place to many... Someone e-mailed to ask if their cabin was safe. We can all be thankful for the work the firefighters did to keep the fire confined to the West side of the stream in the area that has homes. There has been no loss of property; all homes are intact. The only place the fire crossed to the East side was in the area of the suspension bridge (mile 14). They are mopping up that area now. I don't want to give you the impression that the fire is out - it is not. Its just not growing at the moment because of the change in weather. We are hopeful that this pattern will stay, and that soon we will see the percentage of containment rise. Well, I'm going to close for now. Be well, & be blessed... Deb & Joe Sawmill Complex, August 23 Evening Update Fire picked up today with the warmer temperatures. More smoke and single tree torching was seen . Activities went well today on the Sawmill fire. The spot on the east side of Rock Cr was mopped up with water from helicopters and ground crews. It is considered secure. A burnout in the Welcome Cr drainage was executed successfully using ground and air resources. It produced a nice under burn for about a mile from the Welcome Cr bridge south. Hot spots in the Sawmill Cr drainage were hit with water from helicopters. Crews may go in tomorrow to deal with some limited fire and torching in the bottom of the drainage. Work on opening roads and fuel mitigation continued in Gilbert Cr and may be completed tomorrow. Decisions on the next actions will then be made depending on weather and fire activity. On Fisher Point there was some burnout above Road #4235 to deal with fuels between fingers of burned area. There was continued mitigation of fuel along the road. There was some sign of fire activity in the northwest portion in Elkhorn drainage. A burnout operation was done along Hutsinpilar Cr to hold the fire. All spots around Stony Cr have been fully contained. The predicted dry cold front is now expected to arrive Sunday morning. Until then, weather will continue to warm slightly with lower relative humidity. The Western Montana Incident Management Team will be transitioning off the Sawmill Complex this weekend. A new team will take over the fire at 6:00 am on Monday. Closures and evacuations have not chang |
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