Lynn Amber - Travel & Photography
sharing my thoughts through words and images
Timothy Lake Journal: Firefighting Planes
On two occasions this summer, we have had to clear the lake of boaters in order to allow access for a couple of firefighting pontoon planes. The Sandstone Fire (ignited due to a lightening strike) is positioned to the southwest of our location and close enough to Timothy Lake to warrant its use as a water source to help contain the blaze.
We posted signs on sandwich boards at our boat launches in the campgrounds and day use areas warning potential boaters to remain within 50 feet of the shoreline. In addition, the U.S. Forest Service deployed two law enforcements officers to patrol the lake and insure compliance by those on paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and motorboats.
In the background above, you can see one of the pontoon planes starting to lift off after filling with water. The planes have hatches that open and allow the pontoons to scoop up water. It’s amazing to watch these pilots skim the surface of the water, load up their pontoons and, then, proceed to lift up and get above the tree line. Their piloting skill is remarkable!!
The first day they were on the lake scooping water there were no visible signs of a fire. Our skies were bright blue and clear. The second day was remarkably different. In the photographs below, you can see the smoke-filled air. Due to the wind direction, the pilots also approached the lake from a different angle.
It’s been a tough year in Oregon for wildfires. We have been fortunate that none have impacted us here at Timothy Lake – with the exception of a couple of smokey days.
Lynn Amber - Travel & Photography 
I really enjoy your photos and stories and enjoy looking forward to the next chapter. Glad you were not impacted much by the fires. Thanks Lynn!Sent from my iPhone
LikeLiked by 1 person