Boise, Idaho: Idaho Governor Brad Little plans to be in Lapwai, Idaho, Thursday, August 15. The Governor’s schedule includes flying in a black hawk helicopter over the Gwen and Texas fires. This will provide a firsthand view of the fire damage and include areas of both success and loss.

Immediately after the flight there will be a briefing for the Governor in Lapwai. The briefing will offer a chance to recognize the collective efforts of local farmers, state, communities, tribal agencies, and others in battling the fires, and to discuss the ongoing recovery efforts, needs and resources. The Governor’s visit underscores the importance of continued support for these communities as the process of rebuilding and healing from this historic combination of fire events continues.

Media and Community: There will not be media access on the fire tour in the helicopter. The helicopter will land in Lapwai for the briefing. There will be feed video and photos available of the aerial tour for media use immediately after as well as content from the briefing. The media and members of the community are welcome to attend the briefing. There will be opportunities for questions. There is parking around the field where the briefing will take place, but no formal parking area.

Schedule for August 15
Note Pacific Standard Time. Times are approximate.

10:30 a.m.
Governor arrives in Lewiston
11:00 a.m.
Governor departs for Gwen Fire/Texas Fire flight via black hawk helicopter
12:00 p.m.
Governor lands at Lapwai parade grounds softball field.
Please see map. The star indicates landing location.
12:30 p.m.
Briefing at Lapwai softball field
1:45 p.m.
Governor leaves Lapwai via black hawk

Briefing Details

The briefing will include fire summaries and a recovery update from various speakers. The number of structures lost will be officially released.

When: August 15, 2024
Location: Lapwai parade grounds softball field (see map)
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Who: Farmers, fire managers, state and local representatives, community members, and others 

About the Fires

Gwen Fire
Idaho Department of Lands
Location: East of Lapwai, Idaho
Reported: July 24, 2024
Cause: Lightning
Containment: Near 100%

Texas Fire
Idaho Department of Lands
Location: East of Kendrick, Idaho
Reported: July 15, 2024
Cause: Human
Containment: 100%

Download printable version

 

Contact
Robbie Johnson
Public Information Officer
Idaho Department of Lands
208-908-1786
rjohnson@idl.idaho.gov