Hunters should check for fire restrictions and closures

August 26, 2017

Hunters heading into Oregon forestlands should be aware that August and September are periods of high fire danger in most of the state. Large numbers of wildfires are currently burning in many parts of Oregon. Before heading out, hunters should check to see if any of these wildfires have caused road or area closures. Even if roads to a favorite hunting spot are not closed, there could be increased traffic due to firefighting vehicles coming and going.
 

Most public lands will be open to hunters during fire season, although restrictions designed to prevent wildfires are in effect in most places (see the most common ones below).

Private landowners may close their properties to all access or have restrictions (such as no camping).

Here are some helpful places to find information about fire restrictions and access conditions:

  • Oregon Department of Forestry Click on any area in the map to see a list of fire restrictions in areas protected by ODF. Click within public lands areas to find out the land manager and contact info.

Here are some of the most common fire restrictions:

  • Campfires are either prohibited or only allowed in approved campgrounds in many areas.
  • Smoking and off-road driving is also prohibited in most areas, which includes motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles.
  • Vehicles must have either a gallon of water or a fully charged and operational 2½-pound fire extinguisher and shovel (except when traveling on state highways or county roads).
  • ATVs must have a charged and operational 2½-pound fire extinguisher.
Above: Hunters can help protect wildlife from
catastrophic wildfires by following fire restrictions

More about access to private land during fire season
Landowners have the right to close their lands during fire seasons. These landowners typically pull even their own logging contractors and workers (off their property when fire danger reaches a certain level. Their first obligation is to protect their property from a devastating wildfire.

Hunters can help keep landowners willing to open their lands to hunting by taking good care of the private property they use to hunt. Respect gate closures and travel restrictions, don’t litter and leave no trace.

For more information about hunting and access to private and public lands, see the website of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

 

Archives