The Knight Fire is currently being managed by a local Stanislaus National Forest Type 3 incident management team. With markedly lower overnight temperatures and humidity, fire activity has decreased with pockets in the fire's interior still burning. Firefighters continue to mop-up its perimeter, increasing control of the fire by putting out burning and smoldering portions around the exterior line, as well as pockets of active fire within its interior. Patrols have been conducted to assure containment over night time periods.
Post-fire rehabilitation is a major focus at this stage. A Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation (BAER) team is assigned and on-scene. Crews work on roads that have been damaged as a result of the increased traffic and equipment engaged in fire fighting. Roads are watered, graded, and proper drainage is restored. Water bars and breaks are constructed along fire lines for proper drainage and run-off. Advisors will assess damage and recommend any needed treatments related to wildlife, plant, and cultural resources which may have been affected by the fire. Special attention is given to the treatment and control of noxious weeds, which can easily be transported and gain establishment in loose soils, potentially competing with native plants. Crews also assess and identify areas where unstable steep, rocky slopes may create hazards.
Demobilization of crews and other supporting personnel is in full progress. Many firefighters are being remobilized to other fires, while others are returning to their home units to prepare for initial attack on incidents as needed.
The Sand Bar Flat Campground and Crandall OHV Staging Area have been officially reopened to the public effective Friday, August 7th. Closure of 4N01 remains in place west of Schoettgen Pass to 2N63 (Italian Bar Road).
Many thanks to the Fire Information services for their updates.
