Monday, July 13, 2026, Local News

The Crescent Fire Protection District Board of Directors is expected to officially ask for its election to coincide with the Nov. 3 statewide general election at tonight’s 5 p.m. board meeting. Two seats, currently held by David Short and James Erler, are up for grabs. The board will also receive an update on its recruitment of a new fire chief. The meeting will be held at the district headquarters on Washington Boulevard in Crescent City.

The Mile Post Fire, located approximately 10 miles north of Hoopa, is now 85 percent contained after burning a little more than 100 acres. Some 144 people are working the blaze, It started on July 7. Motorist between Hoopa and Weitchpec will find controlled one-way traffic. In other fire news, the Illinois Valley is experiencing smoke issues coming from the East Evans Creek Fire located west of Shady Cove. A smoke advisory has been issued.

The June 11 spill of asphalt binder continues to be cleaned up along U.S. Highway 199 near the Smith River. More than 29,000 pounds have been recovered from the Smith River, the nearby hillside and a culvert. Crews are continuing their efforts.