The nearby Hathway fire, still bringing smoke into the Morongo Basin depending on wind conditions, is now at 80 percent containment at 3807 acres. The Forest service said fire crews continue with hotspot patrol and fire line construction. ‘Minimal Impact Suppression Techniques’ are being utilized in the wilderness areas. Full containment is expected June 25. The fire started June 9 on the Morongo Indian Reservation, and then burned north into the San Gorgonio Wilderness in the San Bernardino National Forest. The area is very steep and rugged terrain, with significant tree mortality as a result of the 1999-2004 drought and bark beetle infestation.
