June 30, 2025 - SONORA, California – Firefighters with the Stanislaus National Forest are currently engaged in active suppression operations on two fires in the Emigrant Wilderness.

Crews from the Stanislaus National Forest’s Bald Mountain Helitak (H517) provided the initial size up of the Gum Fire, burning in the Emigrant Wilderness near Gum Lake.

A confirmed lightning caused fire, the Toejam Fire is burning near Toejam Lake. Estimated as a 30 x 30 fire burning in heavy timber, resources one scene include one engine and wildland firefighting pack string.

“We’ve currently have line around the fire’s perimeter and expect to begin mop-up operations soon,” said District Fire Management Officer, Shaun Craig.

Still under investigation, the Gum Fire is burning near Gum Lake and was given an initial size-up by Bald Mountain Helitak Crew (H517) of .10 acres, burning in leaf litter and needle cast. Flame lengths were estimated at 1-2 foot tall with a low potential for spread. An engine crew is currently hiking out to the area to make a more detailed assessment and begin full suppression operations.

In addition to these current fires, in the last week Stanislaus Crews have responded and suppressed the Island Fire, the Double Fire, the Bear Fire, the Lily Fire and a vehicle fire at Fraiser Flat Campground.

With lightning storms last week passing through the area and another round of storms expected within the next few days, Craig said his crews will continue patrolling the area and remain vigilant in the event of any new starts.
Source: Stanislaus National Forest