(Boise) – Governor Brad Little and State Controller Brandon Woolf met with Idaho Department of Lands fire managers to see firsthand a situation that is being repeated around the west: Fire teams stretched thin but working to make the most of available resources during a season with unprecedented fire conditions. The Governor and Controller visited the Leland Complex Incident Command Post at Deary High School in Deary, Idaho today.

At last update, the largest fire in the complex, the Sand Mountain Fire, is 1250 acres and 0% contained. The other large fire is the Pine Creek Fire, which is just east of Juliaetta at 542 acres and is 90% contained. Find fire updates with our IDL Fire News Feed.

Managing these fires together helps make the most of wildfire fighting resources. Another tool to preserve resources is the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Infrared readings are taken from the air to locate areas of heat. This greatly increases the efficiency of firefighting tactics.

“Using drones gives crews a huge advantage against wildfires,” said Governor Little. “By using very targeted tactics, fires are easier to manage without the expense and safety risks surrounding manned aircraft, and it frees up those resources for other purposes.”

Governor Little and Controller Woolf extended their thanks to the agencies helping on the Leland Complex: the Idaho Department of Lands, Nez Perce Tribe, USDA Forest Service, Latah County Sheriff’s Office, Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office, Nez Perce County Fire Department, Potlatch Volunteer Fire Department (VFD), Troy VFD, Deary VFD, Moscow VFD, Juliaetta VFD, Kendrick VFD, Genesee VFD, and the South Idaho Timber Protection Association.

“These partners are essential in our efforts to attack fires quickly, keep firefighters safe, and reduce the chances of large-scale mega-fires,” Controller Woolf said. “They are even more important this year as we work with limited resources. The State of Idaho appreciates their service.”

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Robbie Johnson
Idaho Department of Lands Public Information Officer
208-908-1786, rjohnson@idl.idaho.gov