A Super Scooper aircraft picks up water from Topaz Lake on Saturday.
Photo Special to The R-C
Topaz Lake has reopened to the public following its closure over the weekend to support aerial firefighting operations related to the Conner Fire.
"While the lake is once again accessible for recreational use, the public is advised that aircraft may still be actively drawing water from the lake," Douglas County spokesman Eric Cachinero said. "Residents and visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and avoid interfering with any ongoing firefighting operations."
Topaz Lake closed Saturday morning to allow the deployment of Canadair CL-415 “Super Scooper” aircraft.
The aircraft literally scoops water up as it flies low over the surface, and Topaz is the closest suitable lake.
In the northeastern section, the scooper aircraft dropped approximately 42,000 gallons of water to help secure the ridgeline. As a result, containment has increased to 28 percent as of Monday afternoon.
On Sunday, firefighters made solid progress on the Conner Fire, successfully strengthening control lines along the southwestern portion of the fire perimeter.
“Containment on a wildfire refers to the point at which firefighters have built and reinforced firelines around the fire’s perimeter to prevent it from spreading further,” said fire spokesman Jacob Chadwick. “Crews advanced 200-300 feet into the burned area from established containment lines, using hose lays to locate and extinguish lingering heat, an essential step known as mop-up that helps prevent re-ignition.”
On the ground, firefighters employed direct attack strategies wherever terrain allowed, digging handline with tools like Pulaskis and scraping away vegetation to create bare mineral soil that helps stop the fire’s spread.
“Chainsaws were used to remove hazardous trees and brush, while portable pumps and hose systems delivered water deep into the burn area to cool hot spots,” Chadwick said. “These methods are physically demanding and require precise coordination, especially in steep or rugged terrain.
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“For public and pilot safety, all recreational activities on and around the lake—including boating, swimming, and shoreline access—are prohibited until further notice,” said county spokesman Eric Cachinero. “Crews require an unobstructed water surface to conduct repeated scooping operations safely and effectively.”
The closure is being implemented in coordination with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Nevada Department of Wildlife, and the Walker River Irrigation District.
“Douglas County thanks the public for their cooperation during this critical time,” Cachinero said. “The closure will remain in place as long as aerial operations are active. Updates will be provided as conditions change.”
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