Laurel Falls 2
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK,
Wildland Fire

Started on or about
04/27/2009

Status as of
04/30/2009

Cause
Human

Location
This fire started on Laurel Falls Trail about 2 miles from the Ober Gatlinburg ski resort. (TN)

Acreage Burned
267

Percent Contained
25%

Resources Committed
There are 3 hand crews, 1 helicopter, and 2 airtankers currently on the fire.

Estimated Containment Date
May 3, 2009

Park Status
The following trail closures are in effect: Laurel Falls, Cove Mountain, Little Briar Gap, Little Greenbrier, and Roundtop Trails.

Overview
Park rangers discovered a fire on the Laurel Falls Trail on Monday afternoon, April 27, 2009. Hot, dry, and windy conditions caused rapid growth on Monday afternoon. Park fire management ordered additional resources. On Tuesday and Wednesday, April 28 and 29, two hand crews worked with extensive air support from a helicopter and two airtankers to prevent the fire from spreading north toward the park boundary. Showers on Wednesday night moderated fire growth considerably and on Thursday, April 30, fire behavior was minimal.

Last 24-hour Activity
At 6:00 AM on Thursday, April 30, the park transferred command of the fire to the Southern Area Type 2 Incident Command Team. Three hand crews continue mop-up operations.

Strategy
Hand crews will continue to mop up hot spots.

Vegetation Affected
Mixed hardwoods

Air / Smoke Issues
Little smoke was visible as of Thursday, April 30, at 11:00 AM.

Values to be Protected
The Ski Mountain community, Ober Gatlinburg ski resort, and various private residences just outside the park boundary are the most significant resources at risk from this fire.

Partners Involved
The National Park Service is cooperating with the US National Forest Service and Bureau of Indian Affairs on this fire.

Additional Information
Visit the Incident Website

Contact Information
Catherine Hibbard
Phone Number: 413-531-4276
stonyridgefire@gmail.com