Multi-agency effort holds wildfire to around 200 acres

QUINCY — Even with the extreme heat on Thursday crews from several local fire agencies were able to contain a wildfire to around 200 acres.

The fire broke out Thursday afternoon in the area of Overen Road and Road L Northwest as a result of malfunctioning farm equipment. Grant County Fire District No. 3 was initially dispatched to the blaze, which was burning mainly wheat stubble and brush, and a farmer’s disc stymied the wildfire’s growth until firefighters arrived.

Mutual aid was provided by Grant County Fire District No. 13 and the Ephrata Fire Department. In addition, air resources, including a helitack helicopter from the Department of Natural Resources and a Single Engine Air Tanker, assisted from above. Units from the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service provided assistance as well.

The fire, dubbed the “Overen Road Fire,” was reported to be under control about 8 p.m. Officials say around 200 acres was burned and crews remained at the scene into the evening and morning hours mopping up and knocking down hot spots. There was no reported injuries or structures destroyed.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.