Tartar Fire Near Weiser Nears Full Containment
- Firefighters have reached 87% containment on the Tartar Fire in Washington County, with 158,027 acres burned since July 24.
- Crews are shifting into mop-up operations as the blaze stabilizes, focusing on extinguishing spot fires and patrolling the northern perimeter.
WEISER, Idaho — Firefighters continue to make significant progress on the Tartar Fire burning in Washington County. According to the latest update issued on August 9, 2026, the blaze has reached 87% containment. Since the fire began on July 24, it has scorched 158,027 acres. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, officials have reported that conditions have stabilized enough to move from active suppression to mop-up efforts.
A dedicated team of 803 personnel remains assigned to the incident. These crews, supported by 17 crews, 16 engines, five helicopters, seven water tenders, and eight dozers, have been battling the fire across diverse terrain, including tall grass, brush, and timber.
Recent tactical successes, particularly in the Mann Creek drainage area, have allowed fire managers to shift focus. With previous ignition operations successfully meeting the main body of the fire, ground crews are now concentrating on mop-up and reinforcement. Additionally, firefighters are conducting rigorous patrols in the northern section of the fire zone to locate and suppress any potential spot fires before they have the opportunity to expand.