GATESVILLE — Emergency crews from across the region responded Monday to an active fire at Gates Milling, Inc., a major wood products facility on NC 37, a few miles from Gatesville, with heavy smoke visible from several miles away.
The fire was reported in the late afternoon or early evening, according to Gates County Manager Scott Sauer, and remained an active scene as of Monday evening.
Sauer said county officials were working to manage resources as the situation unfolded, noting that local infrastructure had been affected.
“I am sure you are already aware —Gates Milling is an active fire scene,” Sauer said in an email. “Brad Arnold reports he will be at the water plant to ensure we’re producing as much as possible. More information to follow as it is available. The Town of Gatesville has no water at the present time.”
Several fire departments from three counties responded to the scene, including Belvidere-Chappell Hill Volunteer Fire Department from neighboring Perquimans County, Eure VFD and a water tanker from the NC Forest Service.
According to officials at the scene, there were no injuries and no structures were damaged.
Gates Milling, Inc., established in 1978, is widely recognized as the largest producer of Atlantic White Cedar products in the United States and a major supplier of Cypress and Poplar lumber.
Wildfire reported in Hyde County
The Gates County fire comes as crews are also responding to a separate wildfire burning Monday in Hyde County.
Local officials warned that a wildfire is actively burning in the western part of the county near the N.C. 264 and N.C. 45 corridor, in the Scranton and Ponzer communities.
Few details about the size or containment of that fire were immediately available, but the report highlights growing wildfire activity across eastern North Carolina.
Statewide burn ban in effect
Both incidents come amid a statewide burn ban issued by the North Carolina Forest Service due to dangerous fire conditions.
The ban, which took effect March 28, prohibits all open burning across all 100 counties, including the burning of leaves, branches, and other yard debris—even with a previously issued permit.
State officials cited ongoing drought conditions, low humidity, and increased wildfire risk as key factors behind the decision.
Violators can face fines and may be held responsible for the cost of firefighting efforts.
Officials said more details on both fires will be released as they become available.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
