Spring City hosts Forest Service incident command as Black Canyon Fire response continues

Spring City temporarily served as the U.S. Forest Service’s Incident Command Post (ICP) for the Black Canyon Fire, Mayor Paul Penrod said at the Aug. 6 council meeting. Penrod said primary operations moved south as the fire progressed toward Riva Ridge, but Spring City remains a contingency base and city staff continue to support firefighting personnel.

Penrod said the city is working on a land-use agreement with the Forest Service that would formalize use of municipal facilities — including the gymnasium, Senior Citizen Center, public restrooms and culinary water — while crews operate locally. He announced a public meeting with the Forest Service and Sanpete County commissioners at 7 p.m. Aug. 7 in the City Hall upstairs meeting room for residents with questions about fire operations and impacts. "We don't know how long this is going to go on," Penrod said.

Council members and public commenters also discussed community support for firefighters. Resident Ruth Bergener asked whether there was more the community could do to help; Penrod said crews are being cared for at their camps and volunteers have provided water, sports drinks and snacks. The council did not take formal action beyond scheduling the public meeting and confirming continued logistical support for the Forest Service operation.