SPEEDWELL, Va. – According to the United States Forest Service, the forest fire atop Horse Heaven Mountain, south of Speedwell, has expanded to more than 200 acres and is expected to grow considerably prior to being extinguished. The fire is located entirely on national forest property and is not anticipated to become a threat to private property or county residents.

Approximately 68 federal and state firefighters are working the scene, including one hotshot crew, two dozers, two engines and a helicopter.

Despite the steep and rugged terrain of Horse Heaven Mountain, fire crews are digging containment lines and cutting trenches.

The Speedwell Volunteer Fire Department is on standby and has allowed their firehouse to serve as a base of operations for fire crews battling the blaze.

Wythe County’s Department of Emergency Management is working closely with state and federal fire crews, taking a primary role in monitoring private property.

“The fire is positioned entirely on national forest property and is not expected to pose a threat to private property,” stated Wythe County Emergency Manager Ikey Davidson.

Davidson continued, “We are carefully monitoring the fire’s smoke and stand ready to assist in any way possible. Should the situation change, we are prepared to take additional action – as our primary concern is safeguarding the lives and property of local residents.”

According to Forest Service officials, the blaze will continue into the weekend.

The Henley Hollow Trail and a section of the Virginia Highland Horse Trail, located along the top of Horse Heaven Mountain are closed. Fire crews are also warning hunters that it is unlawful to hunt adjacent to forest fires.

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