Message to Stehekin Community from Chelan District Ranger Paul Willard

Clarification of the plan to protect the Stehekin Valley

information released

I recognize this is a challenging situation for Stehekin Valley residents and business owners whose homes and livelihoods are being impacted by the Pioneer Fire. Values at risk are clearly identified, a multi-agency plan is in place to protect the Stehekin Valley, and resources are committed to execute the plan.

Some Stehekin residents left the Thursday, July 18 evening public meeting unsure about the plan to protect Stehekin. A strategy is in place and preparations are continuing for firefighters to provide point protection to the community, protecting homes and businesses within the Stehekin Valley. Incident Management Team personnel met with residents on Friday morning to answer questions and further explain the tactics to protect your community while continuing to evaluate all fire suppression options.

I want to assure you that Federal, State, and County agencies and the Incident Management Team are doing everything we can to protect the community of Stehekin and ensure the safety of your firefighters and the public.

Yesterday State Mobilization was approved under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan, which brings additional support from the state of Washington to bolster the effort in and around Stehekin.

I’m re-sharing this important message that the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office shared with community members on Saturday to emphasize it is a priority for North Cascades National Park, US Forest Service, Washington Department of Natural Resources, and Chelan County to protect the community of Stehekin.

We are in constant communication with the Incident Management Team to continue to refine the plan to protect the Stehekin Valley.