November 1, 2025 - Sonora, CA. – Due to extreme snags in varying degrees of decay, multiple heritage and cultural sites as well as endangered species habitat, Stanislaus National Forest firefighters have developed a confine and contain suppression strategy for the ¼ acre Bummer Fire.

Located off Forest Road 6N05 in the Bummers Flat area on the North Side of the Middle Fork of Stanislaus River drainage, the lightning-caused fire sits between Beardsley and Donnell Reservoir.

Incident Commander Trainee, Steve Schultz said firefighters will utilize minimum impact strategies tactics (MIST) for the Type-3 incident with 19 personnel currently assigned to the incident.

Forest Fuels Officer, Dan Guse explained the rationale behind the decision.

“Due to numerous snags in varying stages of decay in the immediate fire area, several heritage and cultural sites, and endangered species habitat the decision was made to utilize a confine and contain strategy. This strategy will reduce exposure of responders to snag hazards and minimize ground disturbance that would damage the other values at risk. Resources will utilize nearby road systems to create a containment line around the fire area. Once roads have been properly prepared, tactical firing will commence to halt fire spread. Evaluation of the current conditions and seasonality indicate the potential for large fire growth or extreme fire behavior is minimal.”  

Questions or concerns should be directed to Forest Public Affairs Officer, Benjamin Cossel, benjamin.cossel@usda.gov or 209-288-6261.

Source: SNF