PA Environment Digest Blog: DCNR: Pocono Fire Contained, Wildfire Season Still A Concern In PA

If the situation does not change, a fire that impacted more than 8,000 acres in the Poconos— referred to as the Sixteen Mile Fire—is contained and crews will begin the process of going after hot spots, eliminating fuels and cleaning up.

In addition to the Sixteen Mile fire, 367 wildfires have been reported this spring season in Pennsylvania impacting 10,408 acres.

DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry is responsible for protecting the Commonwealth’s 17 million acres of public and private wildlands from damage by wildfire.

Since Monday, the department has had about 100 personnel involved in battling the fire, and has had assistance from federal, state and local emergency and other personnel as well as the Smokey Bear Hotshot firefighting team from New Mexico.

A cabin colony in the Delaware State Forest was evacuated and another part of the forest has been closed during the fire, which burned two leased cabins, three seasonal homes and six outbuildings. One firefighter received a minor injury.

Fighting the fire was complicated by rugged terrain, weather and dry conditions and dead wood in the area that was impacted by gypsy moths.

Fire investigators have determined that arson is involved and are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with confidential information can call 717-362-1472 or 570-895-4000.

Until the trees leaf out in spring, wildfires are a danger in Pennsylvania. Dry conditions this year have complicated the situation. Citizens are reminded to be cautious with burning including debris and campfires.

DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry trains and equips wildland firefighters for fire suppression work. In addition to fighting fires here in Pennsylvania, crews are mobilized to others states when needed.

For more information, visit DCNR’s Wildland Fire webpage.

NewsClips:

Wildfire Season In Pennsylvania

Rain To The Rescue In 2nd Biggest Forest Fire In 26 Years

8,000 Acres Destroyed In Poconos Fire, 90% Contained

Pike County Brush Fire Growing, But More Contained

Reward Being Offered On Who Set Pike/Monroe Brush Fires

Massive Poconos Brush Fire Forces Evacuations In Poconos

Brush Fire Burns 3,600+ Acres In Monroe, Pike Counties

Crews Still Battle Brush Fire Affecting 1,000s Of Acres In Monroe

Massive Poconos Brush Fires Intentionally Set

Crews Battle Massive Brush Fire In Pike County