Crews battle Mud Lake-area blaze

Smoke from a fire in Douglas County was visible from Carson City on Saturday afternoon.

The Mud Lake fire ignited south of Gardnerville at 2:21 p.m. and spread to 120 acres within two hours, according to Will Lotspeich, supervisor of Minden Dispatch.

The blaze was burning on the west side of the Carson River, between the river and Mud Lake, an area where access is difficult.

About 125 firefighters worked to control the flames. Four single-engine airtankers battled the blaze along with three medium and one heavy helicopter.

Nine fire engines and three crews joined in fighting the fire with more expected to arrive from other areas.

Three water tenders and four command staff also worked the fire.

No evacuations were ordered, and there were no road closures. It was believed to be human-caused because there was no lightning in the area when it began, Lotspeich said.

Nonprofits may be eligible for fed funds

Private nonprofit organizations may be eligible for a portion of the federal money Carson City received to help recover from the Waterfall fire.

After the July 14 fire, President Bush declared the city a disaster area, sending funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Private nonprofits that received damages from the fire should call the Nevada Division of Emergency Management at 687-4240.

Private nonprofits that provide essential governmental services are also eligible for disaster-recovery assistance.

The deadline to apply is Sept. 25.

- Staff reports