Salem, Ore.—The heat of summer makes shade-covered state forest an appealing destination for many.
“July and August see the most visitors to our state forests,” said Joe Offer, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Recreation Program Manager. “With that increase of visitors is also an increase in wildfire danger since 70 percent of wildfires are human caused.”
ODF posts fire danger levels and public use restrictions on information boards in recreation areas and on most access roads to state forests. There are four levels: Low, Moderate, High and Extreme, with corresponding restrictions for certain activities. As the forests dry out and the humidity levels decrease, the fire danger levels typically increase—and so do the restrictions to help prevent fires.
“The vast majority of our visitors want to do the right thing,” said Offer. “The largest obstacle is a general lack of awareness about what is allowed or not allowed at each level, and what fire prevention items they should have with them while recreating on state forest land.”
For example, as levels reach Moderate and High, recreational fires are only allowed at designated sites within metal fire rings. Additionally, during the entire designated fire season, anyone traveling on state forestlands is also required to have a shovel and a gallon of water or a 2.5-pound ABC fire extinguisher in their vehicle at all times.
“Few people are aware of the requirements for carrying a shovel and water or fire extinguisher while on ODF managed forestland. However, just having that equipment with you could mean the difference of saving the forest from a fire or not,” said Offer. “Similarly, anyone riding an off-highway vehicle (OHV) during fire season is required to have a fire extinguisher with them at all times for the same reasoning.”
Beyond the requirement of carrying a fire extinguisher, all OHVs must have exhaust guards and spark arrestors. However, even those design features don’t make them completely fire safe. Due to the possibility of starting a fire during the driest and most dangerous fire conditions, ODF mandates that offroad trail riding is prohibited from 1-8 p.m. when High fire danger levels are met, while all offroad riding is fully prohibited in Extreme fire danger.
Year round there is no smoking, launching of sky lanterns, or use of exploding targets, trace ammunition, or fireworks on any state forestland.
All ODF district and local offices post fire danger levels and can answer questions on restrictions.
“Another quick and easy way to see the fire danger levels is to visit our fire danger levels website,” said Offer. The link: Oregon Department of Forestry Public Fire Restrictions Tip: Click on the left-hand column hypertext titled: “ODF Statewide Fire Danager” and it brings up a layer with a color-coded map for the four levels.
If state forest visitors see others not following the rules they can report it to any ODF staff member.
“Our main goal is awareness and education about the restrictions to protect lives and the forest,” said Offer. “And we ask that all visitors to the forest do their part to help educate others on rules and restrictions as well.”
Lastly, if anyone sees a wildfire while visiting the forest they should call 911 immediately and give the best location information possible so firefighters can find it and put it out quickly.
Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) finalized its Annual Operations Plans (AOP) that describe the variety of projects planned for state forests for the 2025 fiscal year. These include planned timber sales for each district; recreation projects, such as the installation of a bridge; or other types of forest projects, such as stream enhancement or restoration projects. ODF received 1,061 written comments during the 45-public comment period that was open from April 3-May 17.
“We thank an engaged public for robust feedback representing many diverse perspectives,” said Nick Palazzotto, ODF’s State Forests Division Deputy Chief. “It is challenging to balance the department’s legal obligation to manage state forests for social, economic and environmental outcomes—a concept referred to as Greatest Permanent Value.”
State forests provide outdoor recreation, education and interpretation opportunities; sustainable harvest volumes that produce jobs and revenue that funds vital services in rural counties; clean water; and critical fish and wildlife habitats. The majority of timber sales are on Board of Forestry lands, and approximately two thirds of the resulting revenue is split with the counties, who share it further with special districts. Together, the counties and special districts utilize this revenue to support local schools and provide other essential community services. ODF retains one third of the revenue to fund management of state forests. A small portion of the timber sales are located on Common School Forest Lands and generate revenue for the Common School Fund.
Some comments resulted in edits to specific timber sales while others are addressed in a high-level summary of the comments received highlighting the major themes, topics, and agency responses.
“We read and consider every comment,” said Palazzotto. “However, we do not respond to each one individually. Instead, we develop a summary document with broad categories that capture the comments and provides our responses to the public commentary.”
The summary document is broken down into the following sections:
- Recreation
- Climate Change and Carbon
- Timber Harvest
- Aquatic, Wildlife, and Plant
- Roads, Slopes and Water Quality
- Specific Sales
- Process and Document Improvement
- Out of Scope
The FY25 Annual Operations Summary Documents are available for ODF’s Astoria, Forest Grove, Klamath-Lake, North Cascade, Tillamook, West Oregon and Western Lane districts. These are located on the same webpage as the summary of comments and agency response document.
“Since we manage the forests for the Greatest Permanent Value, we have to consider how our decisions impact Oregonians overall, not just a single commenter,” said Palazzotto. “So even though we made changes to some sales, not everyone will be satisfied with those changes. We recognize that and seek to be as transparent as possible in our decisions. We had more than a thousand comments this year, so we know Oregonians care about their forests. Even with this already high interest ODF will strive to continue to improve communications with landowners, neighbors and concerned citizens to raise awareness of our AOP process and how they can connect with us to have their concerns heard.”
Correction/Clarification: Media can post/publish/share the daily ODF situation reports. The ask to not share or publish was meant to be about the media alert itself. We apologize for the confusion.
With the Regional Preparedness Level and ODF Fire Activity Level at 5, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) will begin to send out Daily Situation Reports via GovDelivery in the afternoon. The reports will include information on ODF incident management teams, what fires the agency is prioritizing, district highlights, and other pertinent information.
These reports will be published daily on ODFfire.com and on ODF’s Statewide Facebook page if you would like to guide people to it. The public can also sign up through GovDelivery to receive these reports.
If you have follow-up or clarifying questions, please reach out to jessica.neujahr@odf.oregon.gov.
Details: Click to subscribe through GovDelivery to receive these reports daily.
THE DALLES, Ore. – The Great Basin Complex Incident Management Team 6, led by Incident Commander Mack McFarland, assumed command of the Microwave Tower Fire at 6:00 a.m. this morning, Wednesday, July 24, 2024. The Complex Incident Management Team brings additional resources and management capabilities to implement a full suppression strategy for the Microwave Tower Fire.
The fire has seen moderate activity with intermittent single tree torching, some flanking and smoldering creating a moderate amount of smoke. The fire also saw growth backing down the north slope. With the expected increased winds today, crews are ready to address increased fire behavior. There is a potential for increased smoke in the area.
More accurate mapping has sized the fire at 704 acres and 0% containment. The fire is located 5 miles west, southwest of Mosier, OR. Currently there are approximately 72 personnel assigned to the fire. They are building a combination of dozer and hand line on the southern edge to contain the fire. Additionally, crews are working to improve roads, trails and previously constructed contingency lines around the remainder of the fire.
The Microwave Tower Fire was first detected on July 22, 2024 and the cause is currently under investigation.
Evacuations
The Mosier Senior Center at 500 E. 2nd Ave., is being used as a cooling center for the public where they can also charge their devices. For up-to-date information on evacuations in the area, please visit https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff.
The Dalles, Ore. – Moderate fire behavior allowed for further progress on the Microwave Tower Fire today as crews worked to secure more of the fire’s east end with hand line, dozer line, and water drops from helicopters and other air resources. The fire continued to back down on a north facing ridge along I-84 just west of Mosier and will likely do so through tomorrow. Smoke can be observed along the highway.
More accurate mapping has sized the fire at 704 acres. Tonight, crews will work towards hooking in line with hand crews and dozers along the eastern and southern edges of the fire footprint while structural firefighters will continue to assess and further secure homes.
Tomorrow, the Type 1 Great Basin Team 6 will assume command at 6 a.m. The incident command post will be at the Hood River High School. Public information officers with the team will receive inquiries about both the nearby Whiskey Creek and Microwave Tower fires.
Evacuation levels remain in place. There is an estimate of 100 homes that are under Level 3 evacuations and 500 residences threatened in the Mosier area. The gymnasium at the Hood River Middle School is a designated Red Cross Shelter for those evacuated.
LEVEL 3 - GO NOW! Evacuate immediately from Hwy 30 south the Proctor Rd., east to Huskey Rd and the border of the City of Mosier and west to the Hood River County line.
LEVEL 2 - GET SET from the City of Mosier and Huskey Rd., south to Wilson Rd., and east to Mosier Creek Rd.
LEVEL 1 - GET READY from Mosier Creek Rd., east to Dry Creek Rd., north to the City of Mosier border and south to Osborn Cutoff Rd.
For the most up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Wasco County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff/
THE DALLES, Ore. – Crews worked through the night on the Microwave Tower fire near Mosier, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and higher humidity. Much of the progress was along the southern portion of the fire, while the northern portion continues to present challenges due to limited access and steep slopes. Air resources played a critical role in helping slow the fire’s spread in difficult terrain.
The fire is currently being mapped, but early indications show that it is roughly 591 acres. Currently, the fire is backing down north facing slopes just west of Mosier, and smoke is visible from I-84.
Today, winds are predicted to be calmer than yesterday, allowing firefighters a good opportunity to continue the progress from last night. The Type 1 Great Basin National Team currently managing the Whiskey Creek Fire in Hood River County will assume command from Oregon Department of Forestry Central Oregon District tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. The incident command post will be at the Hood River High School.
Evacuation levels have not changed since the last Wasco County Sheriff’s update at 10 p.m. yesterday. The gymnasium at the Hood River Middle School is a designated Red Cross Shelter for those evacuating.
LEVEL 3 - GO NOW! Evacuate immediately from Hwy 30 south the Proctor Rd., east to Huskey Rd and the border of the City of Mosier and west to the Hood River County line.
LEVEL 2 - GET SET from the City of Mosier and Huskey Rd., south to Wilson Rd., and east to Mosier Creek Rd.
LEVEL 1 - GET READY from Mosier Creek Rd., east to Dry Creek Rd., north to the City of Mosier border and south to Osborn Cutoff Rd.
For the most up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Wasco County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff/
THE DALLES, Ore. – Residents west of the Columbia Gorge town of Mosier are being told to evacuate as the fast-moving Microwave Tower Fire burns eastward, driven by strong westerly winds of 30 to 35 miles per hour.
LEVEL 3 - GO NOW! Evacuate immediately from Hwy 30 south the Proctor Rd., east to Huskey Rd and the border of the City of Mosier and west to the Hood River County line.
LEVEL 2 - GET SET to evacuate from the city of Mosier and from Huskey Rd. east to Mosier Creek Rd., and south to Jasper Lane.
A Red Cross shelter for evacuees has been set up at the Hood River Middle School, 1602 May Street, Hood River, OR 97031
Firefighters from ODF’s Unit Office in The Dalles are being aided by Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area U.S. Forest Service and local fire departments in battling the blaze that started west of Rattler Ridge just west of Mosier in the Columbia Gorge. A very large airtanker has been ordered to help on the fire, which was reported at 4 p.m. this afternoon. A task force of fire engines and a dozer from the Larch Creek Fire in south Wasco County are being diverted to assist on the fire. The I-84 freeway currently remains open.
The fire is burning in grass and timber, pushed eastwards by strong westerly winds of 30 to 35 miles per hour. Earlier this afternoon it was estimated at 100 to 150 acres. Cause is not known at this time.
Evacuation levels may change quickly given the spread rate of the fire, with new areas being moved into evacuation status. For the most up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Wasco County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff/
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Salem, Ore – Starting this past Wednesday, July 17, and into Sunday, July 21, Oregon experienced two separate lightning events that resulted in over 2,000 strikes across the state, which primarily affected Southern, Central and Eastern Oregon. With multiple crews engaged in initial attack on new fire starts and all of Oregon’s available incident management teams on assignment, now is the time for Oregonians to be prepared for wildfires and help prevent future ignitions.
Oregonians are urged to actively practice wildfire prevention, prepare their home and a go-bag for evacuation and know where to sign up for alerts.
How can people help prevent wildfires?
The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging the public to actively practice wildfire prevention as the state works to control over 20 large fires. Additional human-caused fires on the landscape will draw the firefighting efforts away from the lightning-caused fires and put extra strain on ground and aviation resources, which are already spread thin. YOU can help prevent wildfires by:
- Checking and following your local fire regulations. The majority of the state is either in high or extreme fire danger right now, meaning even the smallest of sparks could start the next large wildfire.
- Remember that debris burning is prohibited statewide.
- Return to check on your burn site if you burned earlier in the year.
- Make sure your car has been recently serviced to avoid faulty parts throwing sparks.
- Don't drag tow chains.
- Avoid parking vehicles on tall, dry grass.
- Recreate responsibly. Where campfires are allowed, make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel and repeating that process until it is cold to the touch. If there is heat coming off it, there are still embers that could reignite.
How can I prepare my home to be resilient against fire?
The Oregon State Fire Marshal can help you create defensible space. Defensible space is the area around your home and property that’s maintained to prevent wildfire from spreading. Creating and maintaining defensible space is the best protection you can give your home against wildfire.
A few ideas to protect the first five feet around your home:
- Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the roof, gutters, and on top of and underneath decks.
- Trim tall plants and bushes growing directly under eaves and make sure trees and plants have adequate space from your home and other vegetation.
- Remove dead and combustible plants and mulch; replace it with decorative rock or gravel.
- Cover exterior attic vents, soffit vents, and areas below decks and patios with 1/8" metal wire mesh.
Be cautious with using power tools and other equipment that can throw sparks and don’t operate machinery in the heat of the day. Summer is a great time to plan defensible space projects to start working on in the fall when wildfire season is over.
How can I prepare myself in case I need to evacuate?
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies by knowing evacuation levels, staying informed, having a plan, and having a go-kit ready.
Evacuation Levels
- Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system, each structured around safety threat level.
- Oregonians should become familiar with "Be Ready, Be Set, Go!" evacuation levels to make informed decisions when receiving evacuation notices.
- OEM urges people to evacuate whenever they feel unsafe, conditions can change rapidly; individuals should always make the best decision for their safety.
- Following an evacuation, people should not return to the area until public safety officials state it is safe.
Stay Informed
- Stay informed sign up to receive evacuation at, ORAlert.gov remember to update information if need be.
- Find the websites for your county emergency management, sheriff's office, or tribal police and follow them on social media.
- Check your phone settingsto ensure wireless emergency alerts are turned on.
Have a Plan
- Do you know what to do during an evacuation? This evacuation checklist explains what to do before, during, and after an evacuation.
- Establish a communication plan with a list of important contacts and a safe place for loved ones to meet if they are separated during an emergency.
- Identify multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school and plan for transportation needs.
- People with disabilities should consider individual circumstances and specific needs when planning for evacuation, such as special equipment, transportation, and service animals.
- Have an evacuation plan for pets, make a pet evacuation kit in a tote bag or pet crate, and plan for transportation and sheltering of large animals such as horses and other livestock.
Make a Go-Kit
- Assemble an emergency kit of essential supplies that can be grabbed quickly.
- Pack an easy-to-carry backpack or bag for each household member with health and safety items such as food, water, medication, flashlights, phone chargers, clothing, and important documents. Visit American Red Cross to learn more.
Find more information and resources at Wildfire.Oregon.gov.
Recreate Responsibly
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions. Due to the continued low humidity and risk of wildfires, OPRD banned campfires at all Oregon State Parks east of the Cascades as well as at parks in high-risk areas around the state until conditions improve. Most Oregon State Parks currently have a campfire ban. Please check park webpages or the wildfire feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ before your next visit. Thank you for helping to reduce the risk of wildfires.
La Grande, OR—The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Northeast District has responded to 17 fires in the last 24 hours as a result of the recent lightning event that moved across Oregon. Three large fires of note are the Durkee Fire, the Snake Fire and the NF Owen Fire, all of which started in the late afternoon and evening of July 17, 2024.
The district has combined the NF Owen Fire (approx. 400 ac.) and the Snake Fire (approx. 1,000 ac.) to create the Battle Mountain Complex near Ukiah, Oregon. ODF’s Incident Management Team 3 has been deployed to the Battle Mountain Complex and will be inbriefed this afternoon. The team will take unified command of the complex with the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Green Team at 0900 on Friday, July 19, 2024. They will be working in close partnership with the Umatilla National Forest.
The Durkee Fire is about 2 miles south of Durkee, Oregon and has currently burned approximately 3,000 acres, 800 of which are on ODF-protected land. The fire is in steep, rocky terrain that is difficult to access. NW Team 6 took command of the fire this morning at 0600.
ODF Northeast District continues to respond to new fire starts as the day continues. Early detection is integral to successfully putting out new starts. Firefighters will be doing patrols of effected areas, and the district will be utilizing its smoke detection cameras as well. If you see a smoke column, call 9-1-1 immediately.
The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging Oregonians to actively participate in wildfire prevention and avoid bringing fire hazards on the landscape. With resources spread thin, less human-caused fires can make all the difference and allow resources to focus on the new lightning-caused fires.
ODF’s Northeast Oregon District is currently in Extreme (red) fire danger and there are additional restrictions for industrial forest operations on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Northeast Oregon.
Current fire restrictions for forestlands in Northeast Oregon can be found at www.bmidc.org or by calling the Northeast Oregon Fire Prevention line: (541) 975-3027.
http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/ is your spot for current fire information in the Blue Mountains. Find us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/oregondeptofforestryNEO/
Call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541)963-7171 or dial 9-1-1 to report a fire.
SALEM, Ore. — Draft versions of the statewide wildfire hazard and wildland-urban interface maps are available to the public for review and comment starting today on Oregon State University’s Wildfire Risk Explorer website.
The wildfire hazard map's purposes are to:
- Educate Oregon residents and property owners about the level of hazard where they live.
- Assist in prioritizing fire adaptation and mitigation resources for the most vulnerable locations.
- Identify where defensible space standards and home hardening codes will apply.
A series of open houses about the state’s new community wildfire risk reduction programs were held from June 3 to July 1 throughout Oregon. It was an opportunity to learn about wildfire hazard assessments, new defensible space and home hardening programs and standards, insurance concerns, and statewide wildfire policy.
"Defensible space around your home and property is just one of the ways Oregonians can be better prepared for wildfire," Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. "No matter where you live, the simple actions you take to limit where an ember can land and catch fire can make all the difference, saving your home and protecting your community."
“Home hardening standards are extremely important because they help reduce the risk of ignition to the most vulnerable parts of a home by the embers of a wildfire,” said Andrew Stolfi, director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “Once the map is finalized, we will then initiate rulemaking to adopt the home hardening standards, which will be followed by a six-month phase-in period for education and outreach. Importantly, the standards will not apply retroactively. They will be required only in new construction, major additions, and such things as replacing a roof or siding if the home is in both a high wildfire hazard zone and the wildland-urban interface.”
Representatives from OSU, ODF, Oregon State Fire Marshal, Department of Consumer and Business Services Building Codes Division and Division of Financial Regulation, and the Wildfire Programs Advisory Council addressed hours of questions at the events and engaged with over 500 community members.
“The level of engagement at these community meetings was impressive. I attended them all and hundreds of Oregonians had their questions addressed about community wildfire risk reduction programs and how the map supports protecting Oregon’s communities at highest hazard of experiencing wildfire,” said Dave Hunnicutt, Chair of the Wildfire Programs Advisory Council.
At those meetings, early maps depicting wildfire hazard were available, but property tax lot level maps were not yet available. However, draft maps are now ready for Oregonians to see the hazard designation of their specific address, and whether they’re in the wildland-urban interface.
“The maps are still drafts,” said Andy McEvoy, wildfire research scientist at Oregon State University. “The maps won’t become final until we receive input from counties on potential local anomalies, administrative rules are adopted by the Board of Forestry, and we evaluate input from the public.”
The draft maps reflect revisions from the last two years based on input received in 2022 from county governments and the public. Updates include:
- Adjustments for hay and pasturelands.
- Adjustments for northwest Oregon forest fuels.
- Changes based on draft rules to include irrigation of agricultural crops as a mitigating factor in wildfire hazard assessments. Final maps will reflect rules as adopted by the Board of Forestry.
“Work on the wildfire hazard map hasn’t ceased over the last two years,” said Kyle Williams, Deputy Director of Fire Operations at ODF. “ODF and our partners at OSU have worked diligently to evaluate and address concerns about the accuracy of the map. These drafts are still based on the core principles of wildfire science but have been pored through to address expressed concerns. With one more round of public input, we will be well situated to finalize a hazard map that will contribute to advancing wildfire protection in Oregon as the Legislature intended.”
Comments can be sent to hazardmap@odf.oregon.gov. Find more information on ODF’s wildfire hazard web page.
SALEM, Ore. – Two people newly hired by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) are now available to help Oregonians prepare for emerald ash borer (EAB) and mitigate its potentially devastating effects on their urban and natural area ash trees.
Matt Mills comes to ODF from the Oregon Dept. of Agriculture where he has been coordinating that agency’s EAB response in Washington County. This included overseeing the state’s slow-the-spread work in and around Forest Grove. Mills has prior experience as a park ranger with Oregon State Parks and for many years worked as a zookeeper. He has a bachelor’s degree in Ecology and Evolution from the University of Oregon.
Kat Bethea joins ODF from the City of Portland Urban Forestry. There, as a Botanic Specialist they worked on inventorying street trees. Bethea holds bachelor’s degrees in Biology and in Forensic Science from the University of Central Oklahoma. They then spent several field seasons as a field technician on projects ranging from specimen collection for museums to invasive insect surveys in Oregon.
“We had a very competitive selection process with great candidates. We are pleased to have found two who are so well qualified and highly motivated to do this important work,” said Scott Altenhoff, ODF Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager. Mills and Bethea started on July 15.
The two previous EAB Support Specialists – Lilah Gonen and Evan Elderbrock – have moved into permanent Community Assistance Forester positions in ODF’s Urban and Community Forestry Program. Gonen is now serving as overall coordinator for ODF’s EAB response.
Mills and Bethea join a grants administrator and four new community assistance foresters hired since March – up from just one for the whole state. Altenhoff credits funding from the Oregon Legislature and the USDA Forest Service through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) for helping ODF add staff to address many longstanding urban forestry issues as well as new concerns, such as helping cities adapt their urban forests to climate change and an onslaught of introduced pests and diseases.
“I’m excited that with more staff we can now engage with more of Oregon’s 241 cities and towns spread over 90,000 square miles,” said Altenhoff. “We’ll be able to better help them plan and manage their urban trees in accordance with best practices and the latest scientific research. And Matt and Kat will play crucial roles in that effort.”
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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal and the Oregon Department of Forestry are bringing in out-of-state firefighters and equipment to fight several wildfires impacting communities and resources across the state.
On Sunday night, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized two task forces from Washington to add structural firefighter capacity. The two task forces are from Snohomish, Thurston, and Grays Harbor counties with 29 firefighters, eight engines, and two water tenders. The task forces are assigned to the Falls Fire in Harney County.
"We are bringing in additional support from the Washington fire service for the Falls Fire, the severe drawdown of Oregon resources, and the anticipated weather conditions,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Our strong relationship with the Washington fire service is invaluable, especially during their responses to Oregon in 2017 and 2020. We have a robust response system that transcends borders and supports our mutual missions. I can't thank the Washington fire service enough for their quick and reliable response to Oregon's needs."
The OSFM works with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to mobilize these resources through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a national interstate mutual aid agreement that allows states to share resources during times of disaster.
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has received more than 58 resources from New Mexico, Idaho, Montana, Oklahoma, Texas, Georgia, Colorado, and Florida to assist in the Salt Creek and Larch Creek Fire. The agency will receive 13 more firefighters from Florida in the coming days to assist the agency’s Incident Management Team 3 and other severity efforts.
A total of 71 resources are coming to Oregon through state-to-state mutual aid agreements and the Northwest Compact. The compact was created to facilitate assistance in wildland fire pre-suppression and suppression efforts between member agencies, which include Hawaii, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana and the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon and Northwest Territories.
“These mutual aid agreements help to bolster the complete and coordinated fire system in Oregon by giving us the ability to scale up as needed during peak times in the season” said Chris Cline, ODF protection division chief. “We appreciate our partners for sending us these much-needed resources as we manage several fires across the state.”
By creating a cache of reciprocal resources through mutual aid agreements, Oregon and other agencies can benefit from each other when fire seasons hit hard and resources become strained.
“This isn’t my first time to Oregon. It is always an honor to help our neighbors when they are in need. Oregon has come to help us several times in the past,” Task Force Leader Travis Hots said. “We are no stranger to how Oregon does business and are always impressed with how the Oregon State Fire Marshal treats its firefighters, so we are always glad to come down and offer a helping hand.”
On Friday, the Governor Tina Kotek issued a State of Emergency that allows the two agencies to request additional help from both in- and out-of-state partners.
With hot, dry, and windy conditions coupled with lightning in the forecast, Oregonians should take every precaution to avoid sparking a fire. Learn how to be #WildfireAware here. Look up your local fire restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.
Salem, Ore—The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Regional Forest Practices Committees (RFPCs) are looking for new members. The RFPCs play a key role in advising the Board of Forestry on current forestry issues and forest management approaches.
“Ideal candidates are forest landowners or have experience in forest operations, care deeply about our forests, and have a desire to work together to ensure forests serve the needs of all Oregonians,” said Don Everingham, ODF’s Northwest Area Director and non-voting coordinator of the RFPCs.
There are three regional committees: Eastern, Southwest and Northwest. There are vacancies on all three committees. The committees meet typically three times a year, but the frequency is determined by the committee chairpersons. Although meeting in person is preferred there is also typically a virtual option for attendance. These are volunteer positions with no compensation other than travel expenses.
The committees are looking for diverse viewpoints and candidates from communities that are not often represented.
“If you have an interest, then I encourage you to apply,” said Everingham. “Other than the requirement to have a majority of members be forest landowners, the committees have flexibility to pick and confirm new members.”
For more information contact your local district forester, see the RFPCs webpage, or for written background information and an application packet email: emily.l.gregorio@odf.oregon.gov
The deadline for committee applications is July 31.
SALEM, Ore. — Public hearings are scheduled July 30 to gather feedback on administrative rules packages expanding and updating wildfire prevention restrictions, the Certified Burn Manager Program, and establishing the Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program.
Public hearings scheduled for wildfire prevention and certified burn manager proposed rules
SALEM, Ore. — Public hearings are scheduled July 30 to gather feedback on administrative rules packages expanding and updating wildfire prevention restrictions, the Certified Burn Manager Program, and establishing the Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program.
The Board of Forestry approved the public hearing process for the proposed rule packages during their June 5 meeting:
- 629-025-0040 to 629-025-0050
- 629-042-1005 to 629-042-1065
- 629-042-2000 to 629-042-2060
- 629-043-0020 to 629-043-0030
- 629-047-0010 to 629-047-0100
See the agency’s rules website to access notices of proposed rulemaking for draft rule language. The department consulted a Rulemaking Advisory Committee representing a wide variety of stakeholder interests while drafting the proposed rules.
The prevention rules align fire prevention, equipment requirements for fire suppression and use of fireworks on public lands to increase wildfire prevention efforts. Certified Burn Manager proposed rules intend to advance the maturity of the Certified Burn Manager Program. Proposed rules also establish the Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program described in Senate Bill 80 (2023) and HB 4016 (2024).
Comment can be made at the virtual public meeting below:
- July 30, 10 a.m., Zoom meeting
- July 30, 3 p.m., Zoom meeting
Comments can also be sent to ryan.miller@odf.oregon.gov until 5 p.m. on Aug. 15. Please clarify which rule your comments pertain to in your email.
SALEM, Ore. — Public hearings are scheduled July 31 and Aug. 1 to gather feedback on a rules package establishing the contested case appeals process, designating properties in wildfire hazard zones, and identifying the wildland-urban interface, as required by Senate Bill 762 (2021) and Senate Bill 80 (2023).
The Board of Forestry approved the public hearing process for the proposed rule package, Oregon Administrative Rules 629-001-0001 to 0057 and 629-044-1000 to 1041, during their June 5 meeting. See the notice of proposed rulemaking for draft rule language. The department consulted a Rulemaking Advisory Committee representing a wide variety of stakeholder interests while drafting the proposed rules.
The rules will be used by Oregon State University to address irrigated agriculture as a mitigating factor to assessing wildfire hazard in the statewide wildfire hazard map, which includes assigning one of three hazard zones to individual properties. The rules also establish the process to appeal assignment of a hazard zone or classification.
Comment can be made at any of the virtual public meetings below:
- July 31, 10 a.m., Zoom meeting
- July 31, 2 p.m., Zoom meeting
- Aug. 1, 6 p.m., Zoom meeting
Comments can also be sent to maprules@odf.oregon.gov until 5 p.m. on Aug. 15. Please clarify which rule your comments pertain to in your email.
Dufur, Ore. – Throughout the evening winds subsided and the Larch Creek Fire growth slowed. Dozers working through the night made good progress putting in control line and engines patrolled near homes in the fire area.
Today structure task forces will continue to mop up and secure around homes in the fire area. Firefighters will be putting in hose lays and working with engines and water tenders to strengthen control lines. Dozers and crews will work on establishing line around the fire footprint on the east side of Highway 197. Air resources continue to be available and will engage as needed throughout the day.
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Incident Management Team 2 will shadow the Central Oregon IMT today. This evening at 6 p.m. ODF Team 2 and OSFM Green Team will officially transition into unified command. A huge Thank You to the Central Oregon Type 3 Interagency IMT for their coordination and efforts on this quickly emerging incident.
The weather will moderate today with temperatures in the low 90’s with afternoon winds that should moderate into the evening. The next few days should see temperatures continuing to decrease and less substantial winds in the fire area, a very welcome forecast for firefighters. Yesterday there was one firefighter with heat related injuries who was transported to a local hospital.
Stay informed on updated evacuation alerts here:
https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff?ref=embed_page
A Red Cross shelter is open at Maupin High School for all community members effected by the current evacuations.
Sherman County Fairgrounds is open for evacuation of livestock and pets. Hood River Fairgrounds is also open to displaced animals. Hwy 197 is being closely monitored and may be closed or have traffic control, check Trip Check for updates. Road & Weather Conditions Map | TripCheck - Oregon Traveler Information
Be aware of the extreme fire danger we are currently experiencing! Know Before You Go and check for Fire Restrictions in your area.
TALENT, Ore. – Oregon Community Trees (OCT) has honored Michael Oxendine, a certified arborist from the southern Oregon town of Talent, with the organization’s President’s Award. The award recognizes Oxendine’s exceptional contributions to urban and community forestry, including his work as president of the non-profit OCT in 2022-23.
This accolade follows closely on the heels of his earlier recognition in April, when he received the Oregon Heritage Tree Program’s 2024 “Tree Hero Award” during Oregon’s Arbor Month celebrations. Both awards are in addition to his work with the City of Talent to restore tree canopy after the Almeda Fire, which led to the City’s being named by the Oregon Dept. of Forestry as Oregon Tree City of the Year in 2023.
Oxendine’s journey to these achievements began 20 years ago when he led his first urban tree planting project. His most recent accolades recognize the impact he made during his 10-month tenure with the City of Talent following the devastating 2020 Almeda wildfire. During this period, Oxendine played a pivotal role in securing over $2 million in grant funding for ecological recovery efforts. Notably, he obtained a groundbreaking grant from the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) to plant over 1,000 large street and yard trees in fire-impacted areas, neighborhoods, parks, and right-of-ways in Talent—the first time OWEB has provided significant funding for street trees. These efforts have dramatically advanced urban ecological restoration, resulting in the replanting of hundreds of trees.
During his presidency of OCT, he presided over a successful return after COVID to an in-person urban forestry conference in June 2023. That conference, held at the World Forestry Center in Portland, focused on emerald ash borer and was sold out.
Tyler Roth, President of Oregon Community Trees, praised Oxendine’s unwavering commitment. “Mike is one of the most passionate arborists I know. He has dedicated himself personally and professionally to the field of arboriculture. Mike has repeatedly gone out on a limb to organize and host tree-climbing competitions for the Pacific NW chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, and to steward Southern Oregon arborist training. He was also responsible for obtaining and germinating seeds from Hiroshima of trees that survived the atom bombing of that city. The seeds went on to be planted all across the state in partnership between Oxendine, Oregon Community Trees and the Oregon Dept. of Forestry as part of the Oregon Peace Tree Project. Mike’s passionate advocacy also helped secure nearly $2 million in grant funding for post-fire ecological restoration efforts in Talent.”
Oxendine is the first person in Oregon to receive both the President’s Award and the Tree Hero Award in the same year. His work with OUR Community Forestry, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization he founded last year, is transforming Southern Oregon and positioning the region as a leader in equitable urban forestry. The organization’s mission centers on the equitable planting, maintenance, and preservation of trees, and raising awareness and support for the ecological and human health benefits of urban, rural, and community forests in Oregon.
Oxendine says he looks forward to planting hundreds of climate-resilient trees this fall at K-12 Title 1 schools throughout Oregon. OUR Community Forestry is collaborating with numerous partners to pursue grant funding to support its mission of planting, protecting, and preserving trees in Oregon while educating the public about the ecological and human health benefits of trees.
Reflecting on his journey, Oxendine says, "In over 20 years as an arborist and urban forester in Southern Oregon, I’ve fought for the resources to plant, preserve, and protect trees. Today, I’ve never been more passionate and excited about the future. We are building a movement on the principle that everyone can make a difference. It’s not too late; the challenges we face are not insurmountable. It all begins with learning to nurture and care for other living things. Planting and caring for trees are tangible ways for everyone to create a positive impact. With historic urban forestry investments at the state and federal levels, along with new partnerships and collaborations with private companies and nonprofits, Oregon is poised to significantly enhance the quality and health of life for all its residents."
For more information about OUR Community Forestry, please contact:
Email: ourcommunityforestry@gmail.com
Phone: 541-324-7876
Dufur, Ore. – With a Red Flag warning across the fire area yesterday the high winds, high temperatures and low relative humidity moved the Larch Creek Fire across Highway 197 and continued its fast-moving growth to the east Wednesday evening. The Wasco County Sheriffs Office and the Incident Commanders of the Unified Command, Central Oregon Type 3 Interagency Incident Management Team and Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) Green Team worked together to quickly elevate the evacuation levels.
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Team 2 has been ordered and will be arriving this morning. They will be in unified command with OSFM Green Team starting tomorrow evening.
Air resources, structure task forces, dozers, engines and handcrews worked tirelessly throughout the day. Resources will remain engaged throughout the night, protecting structures and building fireline.
Stay informed on updated evacuation alerts here:
https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff?ref=embed_page
A Red Cross shelter is open at Maupin High School for all community members effected by the current evacuations.
Sherman County Fairgrounds is open for evacuation of livestock and pets. Hood River Fairgrounds is also open to displaced animals. Hwy 197 is being closely monitored and may be closed or have traffic control, check Trip Check for updates. Road & Weather Conditions Map | TripCheck - Oregon Traveler Information
Local fire danger levels are “extreme”, everyone is strongly encouraged to realize the current danger of how quickly a fire can start; it only takes one spark. Please do your part, do not park or drive on dry grass, know the current fire restrictions and prepare yourself with a shovel, water and fire extinguisher when outdoors.
**This update is just for photos from today's fire--all copy/text remains the same**
Dufur, Ore. – Initial attack crews worked through the night putting in dozer line and burnouts along the east and west flanks from the north down to the unsecured south. The Central Oregon Type 3 Interagency Fire Management Team as well as the Green Incident Management Team from the Oregon State Fire Marshal are in place at the Dufur High School.
Today, resources from state, local, and federal agencies will work on transitioning night shift crews to day shift while slowing progression towards Highway 197 and nearby Shadybrook community to the south. Some spot fires have been identified in the southern Oak Creek area. Air attack remains a primary resource for day operations. The fire is burning mostly in open grass fuel types.
The Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked Tuesday night around 8 p.m. which allows the State Fire Marshal to mobilize structural fire resources to protect life and property. Many arrived this morning to assist with structure protection. Three task forces from Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington Counties arrived at 7 a.m. and three additional task forces are arriving later this afternoon.
Unified Incident Commanders Cason McCain and Lance Lighty, among other officials gave gratitude to the crews on initial attack, as well as local landowners who worked in extreme conditions to set the day shift crews up for success. Red flag warnings remain in place throughout Wednesday from 2-11 p.m.
Local fire danger levels are now set to “extreme” with expected wind. Stay informed on updated evacuation alerts here:
https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff?ref=embed_page
A Red Cross shelter is open at Maupin High School for anyone evacuated.
More information is on the official Larch Creek Fire Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562163967129
The Larch Creek Fire is located 5 miles southwest of Dufur, OR and was first reported July 9, just after 2 p.m. The cause was human activity and is under investigation.
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 7,100 acres
Containment: 0%
Cause: Under investigation, human caused
Evacuations:
Level 3 GO NOW – Remains in place for residences from Friend Rd, East to Elliott Rd and Hwy 197, South to Badger Creek Rd, West to Mc Corkle Grade Rd.
Level 2 GET SET - Remains from Fairgrounds Rd, East to Hwy 197, North to Shadybrook Rd, South to Fairgrounds Rd. Areas east of Hwy 197, east to the Deschutes River, north to Hulse Rd and south to Hwy 216
Level 1 GET READY - Remains from Badger Creek Rd/Fairgrounds Rd, South to Rock Creek Dam Rd/Wamic Market Rd, West to Threemile Rd, East to Hwy 197. **NEW AREA** Elliott Rd, East to Kingsley Rd./Dufur Gap Rd., North to Friend Rd. and South to Level 3 border.
PRINEVILLE, Ore. – All lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District are now in Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) 3 in MH-1 (portions of Hood River and Wasco counties).
With continued high temperatures, winds and drying fuels, the district is issuing public restrictions and regulated use closures in recognition of the increasing fire danger in order to reduce the risk of human-caused fires.
The Central Oregon District restricts the following activities:
- Use of fireworks and blasting is prohibited.
- No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels.
- Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except in designated areas. Propane fire pits and camp stoves are allowed but require one shovel and one gallon of water or one 2 ½ pound fire extinguisher on site.
- Chainsaw use and mowing of dried grass is prohibited, between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. One hour fire watch required.
- No smoking while traveling through or working in any operation area.
Restricted Shutdown: The following activities are not permitted at any time, except as noted:
- Cable yarding systems, except that gravity operated logging systems using non-motorized carriages or approved motorized carriages may operate between 8 p.m. and 1 p.m., when all blocks and moving lines are suspended at least 10 feet above the ground (except the line between the carriage and the chokers). An approved motorized carriage is defined as a cable yarding system employing a motorized carriage with two fire extinguishers, each with at least a 2A:10 BC rating, mounted securely on opposite sides of the carriage, an emergency motor cutoff, and an approved exhaust system.
In addition to the fire prevention requirements Under IFPL III (three), the following activities are not permitted between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m., except as noted:
- Power saws may operate at loading sites;
- Feller-bunchers with rotary head saws;
- Cable yarding
- Blasting
- Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal
Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the various fire risks. Check the full list of restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.
For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/.
The less human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org.
SALEM, Ore. — The Smoke Management Advisory Committee will meet Wednesday, July 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the ODF Headquarters, Building C, Tillamook Room, 2600 State Street, Salem. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.
The committee’s agenda includes:
- Welcome and roll call
- Committee business
- Committee & agency reports
- Smoke Management Unit FY24 budget
- Rulemaking process - Update/planning/recommendations
- Spring burning overview
The meeting is open to the public to attend either in person or virtually. There will be a period for public comment in the morning. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.
View more information on the SMAC webpage.
Created by the Legislature in 1989, the five-member committee assists and advises the Oregon Department of Forestry in carrying out its Smoke Management Program. Members are appointed by the State Forester to serve a two-year term, which is renewable.
The Dalles, Ore. – Firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Central Oregon District, U.S. Forest Service, local fire districts and landowners have quickly responded to a wildfire near Friend, OR. Firefighters are under initial attack and will continue operations into the night. The fire is currently burning with moderate-to-high spread, estimated at 3,500 acres in grass and timber fuel types. Containment is at 0%.
The Larch Creek Fire is located 5 miles southwest of Dufur, OR near Friend, OR. It is burning southeast of Winslow Road in Township 2S Range 13E, which is west of Highway 97.
Last reported resources: 8 engines, 20-person hand crew from USFS Mt Hood, 4 dozers, local landowner resources, and multiple air resources. A Type 3 Central Oregon Fire Management Service team has been ordered and is in route.
With high temperatures, low humidity, and difficult terrain, suppression efforts are requiring diverse methods of attack, prioritizing safety while protecting life and structures. Increased winds are playing a significant factor in fire behavior. No structures have been reported lost.
Evacuations: Level 3 - GO NOW - Evacuate from Clark Miller Road east to Hix Rd, North to Kingley-Friend Market Rd., South to Badger Creek Rd.
Level 2 - BE SET to evacuate from the following areas: Mc Corkle Rd south to Happy Ridge Rd, East to J Hix Rd, West to FS Rd 2700.
Level 1 - BE READY in Tygh Valley, Pine Hollow, and Wamic.
The Wasco County Fairgrounds is a temporarily designated evacuation point for livestock. A Red Cross Evacuation Shelter is opening at Maupin High School.
https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff or the Wasco County Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/wascocounty/
The fire started sometime around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. The cause is under investigation.
NORTHWEST, Ore. — Due to the extreme high temperatures throughout the region, the fire managers will be increasing the fire danger level to High (yellow) for recreationists using the forests in the NW-2 and NW-3 weather zones. This change will be effective at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 10, 2024.
All OHV trails in the Nicolai Mountain OHV Riding Area will close at 1 p.m. daily during High (yellow) Fire Danger level. Additionally, all campfires and barbeques are prohibited in the dispersed campsites in the Nicolai OHV Area (Shingle Mill, Viewpoint, Kerry, Plympton) and Lost Lake.
In NW-2 and NW-3 under the fire danger level High (yellow): Campfires are only allowed in designated metal fire pits at the following locations: Henry Rierson Spruce Run Campground, Gnat Creek Campground, Northrup Creek Horse Camp and Beaver Eddy sites in Clatsop County. For other campgrounds, check with the corresponding ODF office.
Burn barrels and residential campfires are not allowed in NW-2 and NW-3 under High (yellow).
For industrial forest operations: NW-1 will remain at Level I and NW-2 and NW-3 will move to Level II, with most operations shutting down at 1 p.m.
Fireworks, exploding targets/tracer ammunition, sky lanterns are prohibited at all levels during fire season.
For up-to-date recorded information about fire season requirements, call 503-325-7215. To request a burning permit or obtain additional information, call 503-325-5451 during business hours.
Public Restrictions Website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx
DALLAS, Ore. – The Oregon Tree Farm System (OTFS) is announcing that Pam and Jock Dalton of Polk County have been selected Oregon’s Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year for 2024. Pam and Jock received the award at the Oregon Family Forest Convention in June. That convention was jointly hosted by the Oregon Tree Farm System and the Oregon Small Woodlands Association (OSWA).
Pam Dalton has deep roots on the family’s 700+ acre tree farm near Dallas, Ore. The farm has been in her family since 1917. Jock plays an integral role in actively managing the forest with Pam.
The Oregon Tree Farm System emphasizes the values of wood, water, wildlife, and recreation. Pam and Jock epitomize the attention tree farmers give to the sustainability of all four values. “People should not be intimidated by the challenges of managing a tree farm; just take it one bite at a time,” Jock Dalton advises, adding, “Pam and I are honored to be chosen Oregon’s 2024 Tree Farmers of the Year.”
The Daltons harvest timber and replant, as well as promoting forest health and growth through a pre-commercial and commercial thinning regime. They maintain and protect two springs on their forest, as well as a pond, replacing the dike as necessary using their own heavy equipment. Bear, cougar, deer and elk have happy homes on their forest, along with a host of birds and smaller mammals. The Daltons host campouts at their family gathering spot in a shelter built by an earlier generation, complete with a dinner bell that Pam enjoys ringing.
Pam and Jock are proud of their Tree Farm Certification and the hard work they do that shows they are managing their forest by American Tree Farm System’s International Standards of Sustainability, and the part they play in fulfilling the purpose of the Oregon Tree Farm System: Making Oregon a Better Place, One Acre at a Time.
“OTFS’s Tree Farmer of the Year program celebrates the sustainable forest practices all our members espouse, and we are proud of the Daltons and all the County Tree Farmers of the Year,” says Steve and Wylda Cafferata, Co-Chairs of the Oregon Tree Farm System.
For 58 years, the Oregon Tree Farm System has recognized family forest landowners who provide forest benefits and products using sound forestry management.
The American Tree Farm System and its state chapters operate an internationally recognized forest certification program overseen by and for family forest landowners to promote sustainable forest management through education, recognition, and assistance.
For more information on the Oregon Tree Farm System, visit https://www.otfs.org/.
# # #
SALEM, Ore. – As of today, July 3, all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. This means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where you live or at a destination you plan to visit or recreate.
ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state, and federal land in Oregon from wildfire. Fire season is declared at the local level when conditions reach a point where the risk of a fire starting and spreading becomes clear. This year, the Southwest Oregon district was the first to declare on June 1, and the North Cascade District was the last to declare on July 3.
As we move into the Fourth of July and the holiday weekend, it’s important to remember that forests and fireworks DO NOT MIX. Fireworks are banned in all State Forest designated recreation sites including campgrounds, camping areas, day-use areas, trailheads, staging areas, and boat launch sites. Remember to check any additional city and county firework restrictions as well.
“Mid-July and August are known for high fire occurrence due to increased lightning activity, but human activities continue to be the leading source of Oregon’s wildfires. RIGHT NOW is the time to practice fire safety and preparedness. Wildfire is already on the landscape,” said Chris Cline, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Protection Division Chief.
Cline said, “Prevention is our number one tool to reduce property loss and firefighting costs. We can’t prevent lightning fires, but we can prevent human-caused fires…and we need everyone’s help to that end!”
With a heat wave expected from July 4th into next week, now is the time to brush up on your wildfire prevention knowledge. Tips include:
- Know before you go. Campfires may be banned or only allowed in approved campgrounds.
- Make sure your campfire is cool to the touch before going to sleep or leaving your site. Don’t forget to Drown, Stir, Repeat.
- Backyard debris burning either requires a burn permit during fire season or is prohibited altogether. If you burned earlier this spring, go back and check on your debris burn site to make sure nothing reignites due to the heat.
- Don’t flick a cigarette onto the ground. It may be just enough to start a fire.
- Don’t park or idle over dried grass.
- Don’t drag tow chains.
- Check local restrictions and fire danger levels.
For more information on how you can help prevent wildfires, visit keeporegongreen.org.
SALEM, Ore. — The Compliance Monitoring Program Committee will hold a virtual meeting Thursday, July 11, from 9 to 11 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.
The committee’s agenda includes:
- Mount Hood Environmental presentation – Riparian survey protocol
- Road rule selection
The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Zoom. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by emailing marta.l.friasbedolla@odf.oregon.gov.
The CMP Committee assists efforts to monitor compliance with Forest Practices Rules. The committee advises ODF regarding monitoring projects and procedures. View more information on the CMPC webpage.
What: The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Aviation Unit and Northwest Oregon Area are inviting media to their annual Fire Boss training, which will include demonstrations by our Amphibious Single Engine Airtankers.
Background: On July 2, the Aviation Unit and Northwest Oregon Area will be conducting an introduction to the Fire Bosses with a training component in the field. This training gives our boots on the ground the opportunity to meet the pilots, become familiar with the Amphibious Single Engine Airtankers, see what the capabilities are, and get practical experience in air-to-ground communications.
The orientation portion of the training will be conducted at Hillsboro Airport and then the aircraft will depart for Henry Hagg Lake in Washington County. Hagg Lake has been used in the past as a water source for helicopters, as well as the Fire Bosses.
Details and Visuals:The Fire Bosses will arrive and land at Hillsboro airport and provide the introduction to the aircraft and conduct a question-and-answer session with firefighters.
After, the aircraft will takeoff from Hillsboro and fly to Henry Hagg Lake where the ground units will then travel to. When the lake is cleared of boaters, with the help of Washington County Parks personnel, the Fire Bosses will scoop and fly to the field location where the hands-on portion of the day will be held.
There will be several opportunities for interviews throughout the day with trainees and instructors.
When: Tuesday, July 2, 2022
Starting Location: Hillsboro Airport Aviation FBO, 3845 NE 30th, Hillsboro, OR, 97124
Secondary Location: Henry Haggs Lake, Parking Land, Gaston, OR 97119
Time: 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Hillsboro Airport
1:00 p.m.- 3:00 p.m. at Henry Haggs Lake
RSVPs are requested, but not required. Please RSVP by emailing Jessica Neujahr, jessica.neujahr@odf.oregon.gov.
PRINEVILLE, Ore. – Starting Monday, July 1, 2024, at 12:01 a.m. on all lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District, the district’s fire danger level will be “High,” and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be II (two) in MH-1 (portions of Hood River and Wasco counties).
With continued high temperatures, winds and drying fuels, the district is issuing public restrictions and regulated use closures in recognition of the increasing fire danger in order to reduce the risk of human-caused fires.
With that in mind, the Central Oregon District restricts the following activities:
- Use of fireworks and blasting is prohibited.
- No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels.
- Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except in designated areas. Propane fire pits and camp stoves are allowed but require one shovel and one gallon of water or one 2 ½ pound fire extinguisher on site.
- Chainsaw use and mowing of dried grass is prohibited, between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. One hour fire watch required.
- No smoking while traveling through or working in any operation area.
In addition to the fire prevention requirements Under IFPL II (two), limited shutdown, the following activities are not permitted between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m., except as noted:
- Power saws may operate at loading sites;
- Feller-bunchers with rotary head saws;
- Cable yarding
- Blasting
- Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal
Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the various fire risks. Check the full list of restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.
For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/.
The less human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org.