Red Devil Wildland Fire Use
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CA
Wildland Fire Use

Started on or about
09/08/2004

Status as of
10/17/2004

Cause
Natural

Location
East of Red Peak, next to Red Devil Lake (CA)

Acreage
0.1 acre (9/11) As of 9/23/04, this fire showed little to no smoke with minimal activity.

Park Status
All trails and facilities in the park are open in association with this fire.

Updates on Fire
This fire never grew to an acre in size and with recent rainfall and snow at higher elevations, it is showing no activity. With helicopters grounded due to weather, a full aerial assessment is unavailable at this time.

Overview
Red Devil (*9/10): Fire size is currently 0.1 acre, and is located east of Red Peak pass, near Red Devil Lake in an eastern wilderness area of Yosemite. (Madera County--9,800 feet elevation)

* = detection date

This lightning-ignited fire was most likely ignited sometime during a high elevation storm that passed through the eastern portion of Yosemite sometime last week.

The decision has been made to manage this natural fire as a Wildland Fire Use Fire allowing it to continue for additional resource benefit. It is surrounded by natural granite and water barriers, so it has minimal potential to grow.

Last 24-hour Activity
Thursday, 9/23, this fire was observed smoldering in light, sparse fuels with little to no smoke showing -- very minimal activity overall.

Vegetation Affected
Lodgepole pine

Benefits of the Burn
Naturally occurring fire allows forests to be thinned, opening the canopy and allowing sunlight through. Fire also allows for the recycling of nutrients to the soil while reducing the amount of dead, woody debris. This allows for the sprouting and re-growth of plants, shrubs, and trees.

Contact Information
Marea Ortiz
Phone Number: (209) 372-0491
marea_ortiz@nps.gov