TOOELE COUNTY, Utah — Fire crews responded to a wildfire near the Vernon Reservoir in Tooele County Thursday night.
It was originally reported the blaze burned 25 acres. Loyal Clark, spokeswoman with the U.S. Forest Service, said the fire started at about five acres and has since increased to seven.
The fire is burning in open land. No structures are threatened.
The fire is contained, Clark said. It is still unknown what caused the fire.
Clark said the blaze is burning in an area where the U.S. Forest Service has done prevention measures to keep wildfire damage minimal.
The Vernon area had a very dense number of Juniper trees. Clark said Juniper burns quick and hot. To help slow fires down, crews go in and chop up trees and turn them into mulch.
The fire is burning slowly because this prevention measure was taken, Clark said.
These prevention projects have been done for years. Clark said they are extremely effective.
A 20-person crew, three engines and one helicopter are working to put out the fire. on the ground are being assisted by a water-dropping tanker.
Updates will be provided at fox13now.com.
