Friday 11:34 Update
The lightning-caused Ranch Fire burning on BLM-managed public lands and private lands about 13 miles northeast of Susanville grew to 1,800 acres Thursday, nearly doubling in size during the afternoon when the fire burned across a fire line and was pushed by winds into stands of sagebrush and juniper.
The fire is threatening three remote ranches and a historic cabin. The ranches have been evacuated as a precaution. No buildings have burned.
This fire has also burned about 900 acres of habitat for greater sage-grouse and threatens priority sage grouse habitat, which is a high priority for protection.
Fire behavior moderated overnight. Currently the fire is 15% contained with an expected containment date of September 6th.
Currently there are 28 fire engines, four helicopters, three water tenders, three bulldozers and 16 hand crews assigned. Air tankers, including a DC10, have been used as needed.
Crews will continue building and improving fire lines.
Because of increasing complexity of this fire, a type 2 incident management team has been ordered. An incident base will be established at the Lassen County Fairgrounds in Susanville.
There are 530 people working to fight the fire.
