SPRINGFIELD, Ore. – U.S. Forest Service law enforcement have turned to the public for help as they work to determine what caused three fires earlier this month on the slopes of Three Fingered Jack, which burned 32 acres on the Willamette National Forest.

Rappellers and a helicopter joined crews in responding to the fires, reported on Friday, October 16 on the Detroit Ranger District and putting up smoke that could be seen from Santiam Junction and Central Oregon. The fires, two of which merged, were managed together as the Summit Fire.

The fires broke out near and led to closure of the Santiam Lake Trail, about a mile west of the Pacific Crest Trail, and visitors were asked to avoid the area. Santiam Sno-Park also was closed. A few days later, trail work, including heavy rock removal near Tamolitch Falls (Blue Poll) made an area closure necessary.

Firefighters used chainsaws to clear standing dead timber, thick brush and heavy woody debris along the fire’s perimeter. A string of seven pack mules arrived to help bring water, fuel and supplies to and from the remote blaze.

“If you were in the area and can provide information that may be helpful to investigators, such as photos, videos or eyewitness statements, please email the Forest Service law enforcement tip line at SM.FS.R6TipHotLine@usda.gov with details and contact information,” the forest said Friday on its Facebook page.