Last night Governor John Kitzhaber declared the North River Road fire, burning just outside the city of Rogue River, a conflagration. The declaration authorized the state fire marshal to mobilize firefighters and equipment to assist local resources battling the fire.
“The fire near the City of Rogue River continued to spread last night and threaten both life and property, which is why I have directed all available state resources to help contain its growth,” said Governor Kitzhaber. “My priority is to ensure that this community has every resource necessary to fight this fire and protect the citizens of Jackson County.”
The request for the conflagration was made by Fire Defense Board Chief Lang Johnson.
The fire is approximately 425 acres and approximately 40 homes are threatened. Structural task forces from Klamath and Lane counties are on scene to assist in protecting threatened structures.
As of this morning, residents that were initially advised to evacuate last night, have been allowed to return to their homes. Currently the fire is estimated to be 40% contained and is burning in grass and timber understory. The cause is under investigation. Three outbuildings have been destroyed. Expected containment is Saturday, August 20, 2011.
Oregon’s conflagration may be invoked only by the Governor and allows the State Fire Marshal to dispatch structural firefighters and equipment. More information on Conflagration and Emergency
Mobilization is available at OSFM website: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/Oregon_Mob_Plan.shtml
Additional resources on surviving wildfires may be accessed at: http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/CommEd_WAW.shtml
Source: Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office