Eventhough over four inches of rain fell earlier in the week in Columbia County, it took only two to
three days of dry weather to allow a debris burn on private land there to escape into surrounding vegetation. The escaped burn scorched four
acres before being brought under control by personnel from the Oregon
Department of Forestry’s Northwest Oregon District. The blaze highlights how
even a short period of dry weather can allow fine fuels to dry, making it
easier for fire to spread.
Debris burning remains restricted in many areas
throughout the state. For the latest information on restrictions on
ODF-protected lands, go to http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/Restrictions.aspx
or check with your local ODF unit or forest protective association for
details.
Above: Debris burning was the cause of this
4-acre fire in Columbia County. Even when bans are lifted,
care needs to be exercised.