More than 500 fight two major wildfires in and around Baker County

More than 500 people were fighting two major wildfires in and near Baker County as the Olive Butte Fire grew rapidly and crews spread engines, heavy equipment and at least one helicopter across the fight.

The fires were part of a lightning-driven outbreak that hit Greenhorn after thunderstorms passed over the area the night before the blazes started on July 7 and July 8. An evacuation notice was issued for the Greenhorn area on July 8, and by July 9 parts of Baker County and the city of Greenhorn were being evacuated as three fires spread. Near Greenhorn, two fires merged, and the Anthony Fire estimate was revised from 1,000 acres to 229 acres.

Road and area closures went up northwest of Baker City because of the Anthony Fire, cutting access across ground used by residents, ranch operations and travelers moving through the county. Another fire north of Anthony Lakes added to crews already trying to keep multiple blazes from pushing toward homes and infrastructure.

Granite’s mayor said the firefighting response was amazing and he was preparing to evacuate as fire moved toward town.

Clouds and cooler temperatures aided firefighters on July 13, and light rain moved into parts of Northeast Oregon on July 14. Even so, the fires were still active: by July 16, the Salmon and Olive Butte fires were both 10% contained, and two firefighters were hurt on the Salmon Fire near Greenhorn on July 15. Crews focused on holding lines, protecting scattered homes and keeping key routes open as the fire campaign continued across Baker County.