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Chinese Camp Today
By the People, for the People
Tuolumne County Completes Chinese Camp Wildfire Debris Cleanup
Authorities say the six-month recovery process is an important milestone, but rebuilding homes and lives will take much longer for residents.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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Six months after a California wildfire destroyed dozens of homes in the Tuolumne County community of Chinese Camp, officials have completed the debris removal process and are returning properties to their owners. The Tuolumne County Office of Emergency Services coordinated contractors, public works crews, and state agencies throughout the recovery, but some residents like Tryfon Leonis face significant challenges in rebuilding without home insurance.
Why it matters
The Chinese Camp wildfire was part of the larger TCU Lightning Complex that burned through rural Tuolumne County, destroying 51 homes and structures. The debris removal process was the first of its kind for the county, requiring extensive coordination to safely clear hazardous materials and prepare properties for the next phase of rebuilding.
The details
County officials spent the past six months managing the debris removal program, working under a state-imposed deadline to clear burned properties. Contractors, public works crews, and state agencies were involved in the recovery effort, with the county documenting the work for state reimbursement. While the debris cleanup is now complete, some residents like 72-year-old Tryfon Leonis, who lost his home and decades of equipment and family heirlooms, face significant financial challenges in rebuilding without home insurance.
- The September 6-5 Fire destroyed 51 homes and structures in Chinese Camp.
- The debris removal process has now been completed six months after the wildfire.
The players
Tuolumne County Office of Emergency Services
The county agency that coordinated the debris removal program and recovery efforts following the Chinese Camp wildfire.
Tryfon Leonis
A 72-year-old Chinese Camp resident who lost his home and belongings in the wildfire and now faces difficulties rebuilding without home insurance.
What they’re saying
“Most people don't realize a lot of work goes into responding to a fire, but a whole heck of a lot more goes into the recovery — the after — what happens afterwards.”
— Dore A. Bietz, Assistant Director, Tuolumne County Office of Emergency Services (cbsnews.com)
“Those are all great to help you through the month, but other than that, it's just a drop in the bucket compared to what you need.”
— Tryfon Leonis (cbsnews.com)
What’s next
County officials say the cleanup marks an important milestone, but the next phase of rebuilding homes and lives will take much longer for residents who remain in Chinese Camp.
The takeaway
The Chinese Camp wildfire recovery effort highlights the extensive coordination and resources required to respond to a major disaster, as well as the ongoing challenges faced by uninsured residents in rebuilding their homes and communities.
