Saturday Tamarack Fire update: Now at 65,152 acres, remains 4% contained

The Tamarack Fire that starts in Alpine County on July 4 is now 65,152 acres and remains at 4 percent contained.

Firefighters working on the fire that has now spread to east of US-395 expect extreme fire behavior on very dry terrain. If the smoke and conditions allow, fire attack will continue including the arrival of two "Super Scoopers." Their plan:

Branch I - Hold fire south of China Spring. Secure Hwy 395 slopover. Secure structures along Hwy 395, Topaz Ranch Estates, and Smith Valley.

Branch II - Continue to scout indirect Line opportunities from Leviathan Peak west to Q/T break.

Branch III - Hold fire south of Hwy 88. Secure structures in Crystal Springs. Hold fire east of Rocky Spine Ridge.

Structure - Secure structures along Hwy 395, Spring Valley, and Holbrook.

Night Operations - Patrol and secure structures along Hwy 88 and Hwy 395. Conduct firing operations as conditions allow (BR I and III).