COEUR D’ALENE, ID — The Nettleton Gulch Fire remains active south of Canfield Butte near Coeur d’Alene, holding at approximately 38 acres as of Wednesday morning, July 2. The fire is currently 15% contained, with around 100 personnel assigned to the incident.
Crews are focused on widening containment lines and mopping up remaining hotspots. Firefighters are also monitoring for weather shifts, with wind and potential thunderstorms forecasted. Two Type-1 helicopters are on standby to assist with water drops if conditions worsen.
The fire is located in steep, forested terrain with numerous hazards, including fire-weakened trees, snags, and falling rocks. Falling modules are working to reduce snag-related risks throughout the day.
A Temporary Flight Restriction remains in effect over the Canfield Mountain area. Authorities emphasize that unauthorized drones or aircraft pose a significant threat to fire operations. “If you fly, we can’t,” the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) reminded the public.
Multiple closures are in place for safety, including all Forest Service lands, roads, and trails west of Fernan Road (FSR 268), west of FSR 1525 and south of Yellow Banks Creek, and all FS lands south of Hayden Lake. These closures do not include FSR 268 or FSR 1535.
The fire was first reported on June 29 near the popular recreation area of Canfield Mountain. The cause remains under investigation by the Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office, IDL, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). A law enforcement investigation is also underway at the fire scene. Questions about that portion of the investigation should be directed to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.
The fire is burning on Forest Service land protected by the Idaho Department of Lands. Updates can be found on the IDL Fire News Feed, Facebook, or by calling the fire information line at 208-923-1332.