DEARY, ID – The Cherry Fire northeast of Deary has grown to an estimated 113 acres with zero percent containment as of Thursday morning, according to the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL). The increase in acreage is the result of a recent infrared flight that revealed heat in previously unburned pockets of vegetation, rather than a shift in the fire’s perimeter.

Located approximately one mile from Deary, the fire continues to burn through heavy logging slash within an active state endowment timber sale area and a small portion of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests. No structures are currently threatened.

Crews are working to suppress small spot fires detected on the north side of the main burn area, believed to be the result of wind-driven embers. Firelines remain in place, and sawyers removed hazardous snags along the edge of the fire on Wednesday. All lines have now been plumbed with hose and pump systems to support ongoing mop-up efforts.

The fire is under the command of the Type 3 North Idaho Incident Management Team, led by Incident Commander Mike McManus. A total of 190 personnel are assigned to the incident.