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Human-caused Mesa Fire 80 percent contained

Posted at 7:05 PM, May 26, 2012
and last updated 2012-05-27 19:12:12-04

VIRGIN, Utah – Officials say a human-caused wildfire in Washington County is 80 percent contained Sunday afternoon.

Pete Kuhlman, Washington County Emergency Services Director, says air and ground fire units from multiple agencies are working to contain the Mesa Fire, which started at around 2 p.m. Saturday, and has burned about 133 acres between Kolob Road and the Smith Mesa Test site in Washington County.

Kuhlman says the blaze was started by a campfire that grew out of control.

The fire was initially being driven by unstable 15-20 mph winds that are frequently changing direction, but its spread has been stopped. Mike Melton with the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands estimates that it is about 80 percent contained Sunday afternoon.

Several structures were threatened, but fire crews have been able to protect them.