Umatilla County, Ore. – As of 6 a.m. today, the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Northeast Oregon (NEO) District is in command of the Juniper Canyon Fire located 16 miles northeast of Hermiston. The fire is estimated to be about 9,907 acres, however that may change once more accurate mapping is completed.
The fire is burning in a mix of Bureau of Land Management administered land and unprotected private property. This required Umatilla County Emergency Management to work with Oregon Emergency Management (OEM) to activate Emergency Support Function (ESF) 4, allowing ODF to assume command of the Juniper Canyon Fire.
“This fire is a great example of strong partnerships. From the local farmers, landowners and emergency services to our federal partners, we are all working together to suppress the Juniper Canyon Fire as fast as possible while protecting nearby communities.” Justin Lauer, ODF Northeast Oregon District Forester, said.
Over the last two days, ODF’s Northeast Oregon District has been working alongside firefighters with the U.S. Forest Service to make direct attacks on the fire, using ground and aerial resources. Rough terrain and topography have made suppression efforts difficult, however significant progress has been made over the last couple of days.
“Continuing to build on our relationships with partners is always in our top priorities and yesterday was a great example with each partner contributing valuable support to the collective effort.” Lindsay Olivera, ODF Pendleton Unit Forester, said.
Thank you to the local farmer and rancher community, Umatilla County Emergency Management, the U.S. Forest Service, Oregon Emergency Management and our other local and state partners for your support as we work toward our combined goal of containment.
“The Juniper Canyon Fire shows the efficiency of the complete and coordinated fire system in Oregon and how we all have a part in protecting our beautiful communities and natural resources against wildfire.” Michael Curran, ODF Fire Protection Division Chief, said.