Small flare up of Eagle Creek Fire found in Columbia Gorge

HOOD RIVER, Ore. — Firefighters are trying to suppress a flare-up from last summer’s wildfire in the scenic Columbia River Gorge.

U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman Rachel Pawlitz says a glow from the small hotspot was reported Tuesday about a half-mile east of the Herman Creek Trailhead. It was found smoldering in heavy downed timber.

“Eagle Creek Fire has not yet been declared out and the hotspot is not unexpected,” a news release said. “Heavy fuels and organic material known as duff can hold heat underground over winter and flare back up after a period of warm dry weather.”

The dry weather and wind are two factors that could have kicked up the flames, said Rachel Pawlitz, spokeswoman for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

“It’s a surprise to most people — it doesn’t seem to make sense — but it’s actually a common occurrence,” Pawlitz said. “We may see a few more of these and we’re keeping a close eye on it.

“It’s a reminder of the reason many of these areas remain closed” six months after the blaze was contained, she said.

A teenager playing with fireworks started the wildfire last Labor Day weekend. The boy pleaded guilty in February and was recently ordered to pay more than $36 million in restitution.