Jenks Declares State of Emergency as Massive Mulch Fire Persists

A massive mulch fire at Gem Dirt in Jenks has prompted a state of emergency, raising concerns about air quality and visibility. The blaze, fueled by strong winds and the sheer volume of organic material, has challenged firefighters from multiple agencies, highlighting the difficulties in containing such a large-scale, deeply burning fire.

Jenks Declares State of Emergency Amidst Mulch Fire

The Jenks City Council officially approved a state of emergency declaration on March 25, over a week after a significant mulch fire ignited at the Gem Dirt facility. This declaration, the first since the 2019 floods, is crucial for accessing additional state resources to combat the persistent blaze and protect residents.

Challenges Faced by Firefighters

Fire Chief Greg Ostrum of Jenks Fire explained the difficulties in containing the fire:

• Wind Conditions: Strong winds have exacerbated the spread and intensity of the fire.

• Material Volume: The immense pile of compost, estimated at 4.5 million cubic feet and 30 feet tall, burns deeply, making it difficult to extinguish.

• Limited Water Access: The closest fire hydrant is 2,000 feet away, necessitating water shuttling via tank trucks.

• Resource Strain: Widespread wildfires across Oklahoma have taxed state resources, making specialized equipment and personnel harder to secure.

Multi-Agency Response

Fire crews from Jenks, Glenpool, Sapulpa, and Tulsa have been actively involved in the response. Additionally, forestry services from Oklahoma, Florida, and Louisiana have provided crucial expertise, having been in the area assisting with recent wildfires. Their combined efforts focus on moving and dousing the mulch, though officials anticipate a prolonged effort.

Public Health and Safety Concerns

The ongoing fire has raised concerns among nearby residents regarding smoke and air quality. While Chief Ostrum stated that the fire primarily involves organic material with no synthetic components, the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency has warned that air quality may worsen as crews expose hotspots to more oxygen. Residents with respiratory issues are advised to stay indoors.

Key Takeaways

• The Gem Dirt mulch fire in Jenks led to a state of emergency declaration.

• Strong winds, the large volume of burning material, and limited water access have complicated firefighting efforts.

• Multiple fire departments and state forestry services are collaborating to contain the blaze.

• Public health advisories recommend caution due to smoke, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions.

Sources

• WATCH: Tulsa County Wildfire comes dangerously close to home, News On 6.

• Jenks Fire & Rescue Warns of Smoke Hazards on Highway 75 Amid Ongoing Fire, News on 6.

• Glenpool Firefighters Respond To Fire Near, News On 6.

• Jenks City Council approves State of Emergency due to Gem Dirt mulch fire, KJRH.

• Jenks Fire contains 30-foot mulch fire | News, fox23.com.