Walker Fire Update #2 (June Lake)

Date: August 15, 2015
Time: 5:30p
Subject: Walker Fire Update (June Lake)

Here is the latest information on the #WalkerFire near June Lake from the U.S. Forest Service - Inyo National Forest. Thank you. - Jennifer M. Hansen, Public Information Officer

Campgrounds Closing in Lee Vining Canyon Due to Walker Fire, Highway 120 (Tioga Pass) Closing
 
The Walker Fire, located north of Walker Lake, has been very active today. The fire is now being managed in Unified Command with Mono County.

Highway 120 West (Tioga Pass) between Highway 395 and Blue Slide (approximately 5 miles up-canyon from Highway 395) is closing for public safety.

Campgrounds in the Lee Vining Canyon, including Lower Lee Vining, Moraine, Boulder, Aspen Grove, and Big Bend have been closed due to the fire.

The Lee Vining area is becoming a center of fire operations and it is suggested that visitors should avoid this area.

Walker Lake is located northwest of June Lake, on the north end of the June Lake Loop. Approximately 20 structures are threatened and have been evacuated near Walker Lake.

The Walker Lake Road (1N17) is closed for fire response and public safety. The trail to Mono Pass (trailhead is at Walker Lake) is also closed at this time for public safety.  Additionally, the Parker Lake Rd. (1S25), the Upper Horse Meadows Rd. (1N16), and the Gibbs Road (1N18) are closed for fire operations and public safety. All of these roads are accessed via the northern end of the June Lake Loop. All spur roads off of these roads are also closed.

The fire is burning is mixed conifer, mahogany, and brush. Critical sage grouse habitat is also threatened.

Approximately 300 firefighters are on scene. There are five helicopters. Numerous resources from Mono County, local fire departments, Cal Fire, the Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest, BLM Bishop Field Office, and the Mono County Sheriff’s Office are assisting.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. ##