Temporary area closure lifted for Akawana Fire

The Deschutes and Ochoco national forests and Crooked River National Grassland have lifted the temporary area closure on federal lands surrounding the Akawana Fire, sparked by lightning last week near Lake Billy Chinook.

The approximately 50-acre closure of Oregon Department of Forestry-protected lands, Crooked River National Grassland and national forest lands on the Sisters Ranger District was put in place while firefighters worked to contain the Akawana fire last week.

Officials said Thursday that “95 percent containment has been achieved and the public can safely return to the area.”

Smoke will potentially be visible within the fire area for the next couple of weeks, the agencies said. If you are recreating in the area, use caution. If you see smoke within the burn area, there is no need to report it.

The Akawana Fire area burned 2,094 acres and was managed by Oregon Department of Forestry, Team 3. The wildfire was started by lighting onJune 7.