May 29, 2020
PRINEVILLE, Ore. – Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will enter Fire Season June 1, 2020 at 12:01 a.m. This affects private, county, state, and local government lands within the District Boundary. Summer weather patterns continue to dry wildland fuels and increase the risk for fire spread, these weather patterns also bring the risk of lightning and increase fire activity in the area. Fire season declaration is intended to reduce human fire starts by restricting some activities related to forest operations and open burning.
“When the District enters fire season it highlights the change of wildland fuel and weather patterns,” explains Rob Pentzer, Acting District Forester. “It is an indicator to our landowners, operators, and the public that we are trending toward warm, dry weather and we need to change our actions to reduce any potential starts and prevent fires when we can.”
The fire season declaration restricts the use of tracer ammunition and exploding targets within the District, as well as the use of blasting materials. Smoking while working or traveling through forest operations is also prohibited. Luminaries (sky lanterns) are always prohibited in Oregon.
All open burning within the Central Oregon District Protection Boundary requires a permit during fire season. Landowners who burned earlier this spring should check their piles to ensure there is no heat or flames, recent warm temperatures can rekindle these burns if any fire remains. When checking piles use a shovel to stir the ashes and feel below the surface for heat. Use water and dirt to extinguish any remaining heat. Check for local restrictions regarding open burning, as some local governments and fire departments have implemented additional burn bans.
These restrictions do not apply to campfires, however following safe burning practices will decrease the risk of fire spread. Always make sure your campfire is DEADOUT! before leaving the area and never leave a fire unattended.
In addition to the fire season declaration Industrial Fire Precaution Level 1 will be in effect for regulated use areas MH-1 and MH-4 (Wasco and Hood River counties). All forest operations should have appropriate fire equipment and perform a fire watch, details for these rules. Stewardship Foresters from local units within Central Oregon District can provide additional guidance as needed.
ODF’s Central Oregon District continues to serve landowners and the public as an essential service for Oregonians. Please call or email to talk with our staff or schedule an appointment. For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.
May 28, 2020
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – Fire officials in Klamath and Lake Counties will officially declare fire season beginning Monday, June 1, 2020 at 12:01 A.M. on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Klamath-Lake District and Walker Range Fire Patrol Association. This affects all private, county, and state forestlands.
“We’ve hit that time of year when temperatures will start to dry out vegetation quickly and all fires have the potential to cause significant damage. We need to curtail burning and make sure the public is aware of the dangers so we can minimize that potential from human-caused fires,” stated Dennis Lee, District Forester, Oregon Department of Forestry.
The “Fire Season in effect” declaration puts into place regulations restricting debris burning and timber harvest operations. Wildland and structural fire protection agencies in Klamath County have agreed to prohibit all outdoor debris burning. Forest operations that require a Permit to Operate Power Driven Machinery now are required to have fire tools, on-site water supply, and watchman service on privately owned forestland. Declaring “Fire Season” also prohibits the release of sky lanterns, the discharge of exploding targets or the discharge of tracer ammunition during this period.
The Lakeview Interagency Fire Center website: https://scofmp.org/ is available to assist in keeping people informed of current and changing conditions for our area. Walker Range Fire Patrol Association can be contacted at 541-433-2451.
Additional information on BLM and/or USFS you can call Bureau of Land Management, Lakeview District and the Fremont – Winema National Forest.
Contact: Dustin Gustaveson (ODF), 541-947-3311, Randall Baley (ODF), 541-883-5681, RD Buell (WRFPA), 541-433-2451.
May 7, 2020
SALEM, Ore. – The month of May is generally associated with the blooming of flowers and the end of winter. That has all changed in 2020.
While many people are eager to return to normal amidst the Corona Virus Pandemic, fire officials are also keeping an eye on the weather and unusually dry conditions plaguing the region.
“This is definitely anything but normal,” says Oregon Department of Forestry Fire Prevention Coordinator Tom Fields. “On top of concerns related to COVID-19, we’re witnessing early July-like conditions that bring with it the threat of wildfires. And that is even more evident with this weekend’s forecast of abnormally high temperatures.”
The already dry conditions due to well-below precipitation levels in April, combined with forecasted temperatures in the mid 80’s and dry, east winds will elevate fire risk across much of Oregon through Mother’s Day. Fields says that the number of fires to date in 2020 on ODF protected lands (116) are twice the average for this time of year (55). More than half of this year’s fires (59) have resulted from escaped backyard debris burns.
“The combination of these unseasonably dry conditions and Corona Virus stay at home orders is contributing to an increase in fire activity.” Fields says while homeowners are being proactive cleaning up around their property to create defensible space prior to fire season, the disposal of yard debris through burning has been problematic.
With the early arrival of summer-like weather, fire officials are encouraging all Oregonians to heed caution with any fire-related activities. Precautions the public can take now include covering debris burn piles with a tarp or other form of plastic sheeting and waiting until next fall to burn. If plans call for camping, check before you go to see if campfires are allowed. If campfires are allowed, build them in safe areas away from brush, grass and overhanging tree limbs and make sure that they are completely out before leaving or going to bed.
Finally, May is Wildfire Awareness Month and fire officials from multiple protection agencies are encouraging everyone to do their part to Keep Oregon Green. Log on to keeporegongreen.org for more information.
For more information, visit the websites for Keep Oregon Green at www.keeporegongreen.org, and the Oregon Department of Forestry at www.oregon.gov/odf.
Follow Oregon wildfire news and prevention updates on social media: Twitter @keeporegongreen, @ORDeptForestry and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/keeporegongreen; https://www.facebook.com/oregondepartmentofforestry?fref=ts
April 29, 2020
The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Southwest Oregon District will start fire season on Friday, May 1, at 12:01 a.m. The fire danger level will be Low (green) and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level will be 1 (one).
Open burning on all lands protected by ODF in Jackson and Josephine counties will be prohibited. Open burning caused most of the wildfires that ODF has responded to this month. The district tallied 34 fires that burned 32 acres in April.
Other fire prevention regulations going into effect on Friday include:
• No use of tracer ammunition and exploding targets, which are disallowed on all lands at all times;
• No fireworks;
• No smoking in areas with dry vegetation;
• The use of electric fence controllers must be in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions for grounding and vegetation clearance.
During low fire danger, campfires are allowed with the landowner’s permission.
In addition to unusual seasonal dryness this year, drought conditions have recurred over much of the West. Rainfall amounts in the Rogue Basin are several inches lower than normal, and the extended forecast for fire season conditions calls for continued below-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures.
This is the earliest that the Southwest Oregon District has declared fire season in 52 years, last starting the season on May 1 back in 1968. Only twice this century has the District declared a fire season before June 1 – on May 15, 2001 and on May 24, 2006.
The Southwest Oregon District protects 1.8 million acres of private, state, county and Bureau of Land Management wildlands in Jackson and Josephine counties. For questions about open burning and wildland fire protection regulations, call the district office at 541-664-3328.
October 30, 2019
SALEM, Ore. – Continued dry and windy conditions brought new fires to western Oregon Wednesday morning, adding to ongoing fire activity. Suppression efforts continue with cooperators, industrial landowner partners and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) providing ground resources in multiple ODF districts.
Two fires have grown in size due to continued east winds and difficult access:
Crankshaft Fire near Gates
- The Crankshaft Fire, located about 6 miles south of Gates, is an estimated 25 acres.
- The Gopher Valley Fire, located 5 miles north of Sheridan, is an estimated 20 acres.
Firefighters made significant progress on fires reported yesterday, with both in mop-up status:
- The North Fork Fire, located 16 miles east of Molalla, is an estimated 80 acres.
- The Detroit Dam Fire, located 5 miles west of Detroit, remains at an estimated 50 acres.
There are no road closures or threatened structures associated with any reported fires at this time. Resources engaged on the fires include water tenders, engines, and hand crews.
In the last 24 hours, there have been 22 fires reported across the Willamette Valley on lands protected by ODF. While these fires officially remain under investigation, the suspected causes for the vast majority are prescribed burns rekindled by recent easterly winds and dry conditions.
Detroit Dam Fire near Detroit
“It is important to note the timing of these fires,” said ODF’s Northwest Oregon Area Director Andy White. “The majority of these burns were started weeks ago when conditions were optimal for burning. ODF encourages and supports landowners to take advantage of optimal conditions for fuels reduction work on their property. Precautions are taken, forecasts are considered, and every effort is made to ensure minimal impact and maximum benefit to the landscape. This is a valuable reminder of how quickly conditions can change and highlights the value of our partnerships with landowners and other agencies.”
ODF flew a contracted aircraft yesterday and today to check on known fires and detect potential new starts or smoke from rekindled slash piles. Given the steep terrain, remote access, and multiple ownerships across the valley, this aviation resource is a valuable tool in covering a lot of ground in a short time span.
ODF appreciates the help from the public in preventing new fires and encourages Oregonians to hold off on those back yard burn piles until conditions improve.
Smoke may be visible in some areas as resources remain engaged on these fires. The Department of Environmental Quality continues to monitor for smoke and has confirmed the air quality remains in the good to moderate range. Those wishing to monitor on their own may check DEQ’s Air Quality Index at https://bit.ly/2N372UF or download the free OregonAIR app.
October 30, 2019
Oct. 29, 2019
SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is working with cooperators and industrial landowner partners to suppress multiple fires across western Oregon. The majority of these are currently reported at less than 10 acres in size.
Two of these fires have grown in size due to strong easterly winds and dry conditions, with steep terrain and remote access posing challenges:
- The North Fork Fire, located 16 miles east of Molalla, is an estimated 65 acres in size.
- The Detroit Dam Fire, located 5 miles west of Detroit, is an estimated 50 acres in size.
While smoke is visible from both fires, there are no road closures or threatened structures associated with either fire.
“Though we are well outside fire season, it is fairly common to see fires of this nature this time of year due to lower humidity, seasonal winds, and dry conditions,” said ODF’s Fire Operations Manager Blake Ellis. “Our resources and those of our partners and cooperators train to consider the conditions, not the calendar. We appreciate the help from the public in making the same considerations and saving those burn piles for later in the season to help prevent additional fires.”
Private resources engaged on both the North Fork and Detroit Dam Fires include tenders, engines, and hand crews. The cause for both these fires is under investigation with containment status pending further information.
October 1, 2019
SALEM, Ore. – The 2019 fire season officially ends today on all lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). The last district to end its fire season — the Southwest Oregon District covering Josephine and Jackson counties — did so this morning at 9 a.m.
The 923 wildfires on ODF-protected lands this year is about average. However, thanks to favorable conditions and successful initial attack, the 16,867 total acres burned is 56 percent below average. Based on the average number of days in fire season across all ODF Districts, this year was the shortest fire season in the 21st century at only 99 days. This is about three weeks shorter than the 121-day fire season average for ODF across all Districts.
“Thanks to a minimum number of wildfires on the landscape statewide, we were fortunate to have adequate resources to respond to fires on our jurisdiction,” said ODF Fire Protection Deputy Chief Ron Graham. “With two team deployments – to the Milepost 97 Fire and Ward Fire – we share in the success of the 2019 fire season with Oregon’s complete and coordinated fire protection system, including forest and range landowners, local fire districts, Tribes, contractors, federal, state and county partners.”
The end of fire season removes restrictions on ODF-protected lands intended to prevent wildfire, such as on backyard debris burning and use of certain equipment. Many structural fire departments in Oregon, however, still require a permit for debris burning, so check with your local fire department before starting a burn.
As Oregon transitions out of fire season, ODF districts across the state are shifting their attention to wildfire prevention efforts. Clearing vegetation, creating defensible space around homes, and keeping those debris piles under control are just a few ways ODF is working with local landowners, members of the public and fellow fire response agencies to mitigate wildfire risk.
“While we are seeing cool, rainy fall weather, it is important to note conditions can change quickly,” Graham said. “Given most of the lightning this time of year is accompanied by rain, human-caused fire starts tend to increase in number. People are anxious to burn backyard debris piles and can get complacent with fire safety. We are grateful for the help of every Oregonian working together to prevent wildfires year round.”
The start and end of fire season are set by each fire protection district based on the fuel conditions in their area. The arrival of steady, soaking rain coupled with cooler temperatures and shorter day lengths usually triggers the closure of fire season. The 2019 fire season varied across Districts in length from 122 days in ODF’s Southwest Oregon District to just 78 days in the Northwest Oregon District.
For more tips on how to keep yourself, your loved ones and your property safe from wildfire at any time of year, visit ODF’s Fire Prevention webpage at www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/pages/FirePrevention.aspx or go to the Keep Oregon Green website at www.KeepOregonGreen.org.
August 16, 2019
08/14/2019
SALEM, Ore. – With over 14,000 lightning strikes recorded as thunderstorms swept across Oregon between August 4 and 12, firefighters suppressed 88 lightning fires on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry. As lightning fires often start in remote areas, ODF used specialty aircraft to aid in early detection efforts.
After successful efforts in Oregon’s severe 2015 fire season, ODF again contracted with Colorado’s Division of Fire Prevention and Control to bring one of their Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMA) to Oregon to assist with finding difficult to detect fires. This specialty aircraft flew across much of eastern Oregon on Sunday and Monday. Early detection is critical to ODF’s mission keeping fires at the smallest possible size, which reduces the financial impact to landowners and Oregonians and limits impact to natural resources such as air, soil, and water quality, wildlife habitat, and aesthetic and recreation values.
Multi Mission Aircraft flight in Central Oregon.
Four fires were detected during Sunday’s flight in ODF’s Central Oregon District. These fires were single-tree fires or small spots with little to no visible smoke. Due to the remote location and heavy vegetation cover, it is highly likely these fires would have increased in intensity as temperatures warmed. “Looking at the location and fuel types where those fires were detected, it’s not a good feeling to imagine what they could have been,” said Mike Shaw, Eastern Oregon Area Director.
Equipped with cameras and software specially adapted for use in wildfire applications, the MMA system uses a sensor ball with an infrared camera and two color cameras (wide and narrow) to detect heat sources from several miles away. While infrared technology is used to detect heat sources, the MMA is best utilized during the day where the color cameras can be used to collect information regarding terrain, fuels, and fire behavior. This data, combined with information on fire locations and perimeters, is transmitted directly to resources on the ground. The MMA operates at approximately 20,000 feet—well above tactical aircraft fighting wildfires—so there is no impact to firefighting operations.
This specialty aircraft will be flying across southwest Oregon in the coming days. ODF’s Southwest Oregon District has already been using some of its assigned aircraft to look for fires resulting from the more than 1,600 lighting strikes that hit the area last week. In addition to detection, aircraft have greatly assisted crews on recent fires in the district by dropping retardant on steep, remote terrain and giving firefighters a broad, aerial view of what they’re fighting.
The MMA was contracted using severity funding from a Special Purpose Appropriation from the Oregon Legislature. Severity funding supports fire suppression activities that are outside the normal ODF districts’ budgeting and activities.
August 16, 2019
08/15/2019
SPRINGFIELD, Ore. – A fire started on the southeast side of Mt. Pisgah at approximately noon today. The South Cascade District of the Oregon Department of Forestry responded to the fire and is currently overseeing operations. The park areas have been evacuated and closed to public access.
There are currently between 75-100 personnel working the fire, with 3 type 2 helicopters, 2 single seat aircraft, 1 air tanker and air attack. There are also three 20 person hand crews and a 10-person inmate crew at the fire.
The Pisgah Fire is currently at approximately 50 acres. The fire is burning in grasses, brush and timber. No structures are threatened at this time.
Spokesperson Devon Ashbridge with Lane County Emergency Management stated that, “Howard Buford Recreation Area (Mt. Pisgah) will remain closed to all visitors throughout the weekend as fire crews continue to mop up after Thursday afternoon’s wildfire. No visitors will be allowed entry to the park. Entrances will remain barricaded until the closure is lifted. Lane County Emergency Management asks residents to respect the closure of the park for their own safety and so that responders can focus on fire-fighting efforts.”
“We are aggressively attacking this fire and plan to have ground crews work throughout the night and as long as needed to contain the fire completely.” said Michael Currin, Unit Forester of ODF South Cascade District. “To maintain quick access to the fire and safety for all concerned, we ask that the public please avoid the area until further notice.”
The Department of Forestry is working jointly with Lane County Parks, Lane County Emergency Management, Oregon State Police, local rural fire departments, Oregon Department of Transportation and multiple private contractors. The Willamette National Forest is assisting with sending hand crews.
August 6, 2019
Despite steep terrain, crews working on the East Evans Fire are continuing to make consistent progress on the line, increasing containment overnight to 38%. The fire, located on the 18000-block of East Evans Creek road, remains 155 acres with a strong perimeter.
Resources on the fire are increasing, with more than 250 personnel dedicated to this incident. Six tree fallers, 13 crews, 10 engines, 10 water tenders, and one bulldozer will be on the line today. One Type 2 and three Type 1 helicopters will also be available for air support, along with two air attack platforms.
The biggest challenge crews are currently facing is the steep terrain, particularly on the north side of the fire. Mop-up operations have been hindered due to the risks presented to firefighters in this area, and crews will be focused on progressing containment.
Safety remains a top priority on Tuesday, following a rollover accident of a Croman semi-truck Monday night at approximately 8:45 p.m. The semi, towing 5,000 gallons of Jet A fuel, was leaving the Beagle helibase in Shady Cove following its assignment on the fire when the accident occurred. The driver suffered minor injuries, was treated at a local hospital, and released. A HazMat response was requested. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Nearly 30 residences in the area remain under a LEVEL 1 (BE READY) evacuation notice, ordered by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO). A roadblock remains in place at East Evans Creek road between May Creek road and Meadows road; only residents and emergency personnel are permitted through.
The investigation on the cause of the East Evans Fire is being handled by the Office of the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and Oregon State Police. It was initially reported as a structure fire at approximately 2 p.m. Friday, August 2.
ODF Southwest Oregon District is greatly appreciative of our partnership with the BLM on this fire, as well as the efforts made by our partner agencies, including the Rogue Valley Fire Chief’s Association, OSFM, Oregon State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Fire District Five, Mercy Flights, Jackson County Roads, and Jackson County Emergency Management.
Updates on the East Evans Fire can be found on our Facebook Page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.
August 5, 2019
Lightning struck in the Applegate Valley at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, sparking the first lightning-caused fires of the 2019 Fire Season. With the potential for thunderstorms in the forecast throughout this week, firefighters are prepared to respond to additional starts related to lightning strikes. At the same time, the Fire Danger Level has increased to Extreme (Red), and ODF is requesting heightened public awareness, as crews remain engaged on three fires on the District.
This morning, firefighters are continuing to mop up the Little Applegate Fire, located just north of the 6500 block of Little Applegate road, southwest of Talent. It was first reported to dispatch Sunday evening, in the same area lightning had recently struck. ODF Detection Specialists, along with air attack en route to the report were able to confirm a sighting of smoke in the area. A second fire south of Little Applegate road, the Yale West Fire, was also spotted by air resources and crews arriving on scene. Both were initially reported to be half an acre.
Additional resources were called in, including engines, crews and aircraft from the East Evans Fire. Within the first two hours, more than 160 personnel were assigned to these fires, designated the Little Applegate Complex. Resources included 15 engines, seven crews, two water tenders, one bulldozer, multiple helicopters and the District’s large airtanker (LAT). Crews, along with our partner agencies, Applegate Valley Fire Department and the Bureau of Land Management, were able to contain the Yale West Fire just under an acre, and the Little Applegate Fire at 13 acres.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) and the Rogue Valley Fire Chief’s Association made one LEVEL 3 (GO) evacuation, and placed three other residences in the area under a LEVEL 1 (BE READY). All residents were notified personally by officials. Additionally, Little Applegate road was closed at the intersection of Buncom road. Aside from residents, the public is requested to keep clear of the area.
Crews will remain on scene today, continuing mop-up operations and monitoring any potential flare-up’s. Resources will also be available to divert to any new potential fire starts.
As of Monday, August 5, 2019, lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Jackson and Josephine Counties are in Extreme Fire Danger (Red) and new restrictions are in place. More information on current fire regulations can be found on the District’s website, www.swofire.com, as well as our Facebook page: @ODFsouthwest.
August 5, 2019
Firefighters on the East Evans Fire, located approximately nine miles west of Shady Cove, made significant progress on Sunday and throughout the evening, upping containment from zero to 27% in two shift. Crews were able to lay hose throughout the entire fire as well, connecting existing structure, and hand lines were additionally strengthened. Accurate GPS mapping has placed the fire at 155 acres, nearly half the size it was originally estimated.
Firefighters were also focused on falling dangerous trees in the perimeter, and made good progress mitigating those hazards. Crews will continue that work today, and push forward on mop-up operations, with a goal of reaching up to 300 feet in the interior in some places.
Resources on the fire today include 13 crews, 10 engines, 10 water tenders, one bulldozer and numerous tree fallers. Aircraft resources will continue to remain the same.
The East Evans Fire was initially reported as a structure fire at approximately 2 p.m. Friday. Crews arrived to a burning structure and five acres of active fire. With hot temperatures and wind, it spread to an estimated 300 acres within the first three hours. However, aircraft and ground resources moved swiftly in the first five hours to gain the upper hand. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office initially made 11 LEVEL THREE and 18 LEVEL ONE evacuations; they remain in place. Residents affected has been notified. A Red Cross Shelter in not in place.
ODF Southwest Oregon District is greatly appreciative of our partnership with the BLM on this fire, as well as the efforts made by our partner agencies, including the Rogue Valley Fire Chief’s Association, Oregon State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Fire District Five, Mercy Flights, Jackson County Roads, and Jackson County Emergency Management.
Updates on the East Evans Fire can be found on our Facebook Page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.
August 4, 2019
Windy conditions tested fire lines overnight, as crews worked to continue forward progress on the East Evans Fire, located in Sams Valley. While containment hasn’t changed, lines are holding strong, and mop-up operations will continue on Sunday. The fire remains an estimated 300 acres, and is burning on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and private land.
Crews will focus on falling dangerous trees, referred to as snags, with the goal of improving safety on the line. Mop-up operations will also continue, however snags have posed a significant risk to firefighter safety, and clearing hazards will be one of today’s top priorities. Crews will also be monitoring the area for potential spot fires that may be carried by possible windy conditions.
Weather is expected to be an added challenge for crews, along with the District today, as temperatures heat up and the potential for thunderstorms on the east side of the county could spread out resources. Firefighters and admin staff are aware of the forecast and will make strategic and tactical decisions accordingly.
More than 200 personnel remain dedicated to the East Evans Fire for today’s shift. Resources on the fire today include 10 20-man crews, four 10-man crews, 10 engines, two bulldozers, eight water tenders, and five tree fallers. Aircraft will be utilized when smoky conditions adequately clear; helicopters and airtankers are available to work the fire.
The East Evans Fire was initially reported as a structure fire at approximately 2 p.m. Friday. Crews arrived to a burning structure and five acres of active fire. With hot temperatures and wind, it spread to an estimated 300 acres within the first three hours. However, aircraft and ground resources moved swiftly in the first five hours to gain the upper hand. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office initially made 11 LEVEL THREE and 18 LEVEL ONE evacuations; they remain in place. Residents affected has been notified. A Red Cross Shelter in not in place.
ODF Southwest Oregon District is greatly appreciative of our partnership with the BLM on this fire, as well as the efforts made by our partner agencies, including the Rogue Valley Fire Chief’s Association, Oregon State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Mercy Flights, Jackson County Roads, and Jackson County Emergency Management.
Updates on the East Evans Fire can be found on our Facebook Page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.
August 3, 2019
Crews were able to continue making forward progress overnight on the East Evans Fire, completing approximately 70% of the fire line. Located on East Evans Creek road in Sams Valley, the fire is estimated to be around 300 acres. More than 200 personnel will be working on the fire today, with a goal of completing the fire line and strengthening the perimeter.
Crews continue to work to close the fire line. Four fallers will be on scene today, taking down dangerous trees in and around the fire’s perimeter. Snags and steep terrain are added risks to our crews. Overnight, one firefighter was injured on the northeast side of the fire. The firefighter was transported by air to a local hospital with serious injuries. Safety is our #1 priority and crews will continue to mitigate risks and engage the fire as safe as possible.
Today, hot temperatures and windy conditions will be additional challenges; fire activity has the potential to increase in the afternoon, and aircraft will be focused on any potential spread. A multitude of resources will be on the fire today, including 10 20-man crews, 10 engines, four tree fallers, four bulldozers, and six water tenders. Additionally, one LAT, five SEATs, and a lead plane will begin making retardant drops as early as the smoke lifts to bolster temporary and existing fire lines. Helicopters available include five type ones, two type twos, and on type three; those resources will also be making water drops throughout the day.
The East Evans Fire was initially reported as a structure fire at approximately 2 p.m. Friday. Crews arrived to a burning structure and five acres of active fire. With hot temperatures and wind, it spread to an estimated 300 acres within the first three hours. However, continuous retardant drops created a temporary fire line around the entire perimeter, and significantly slowed the spread. By 7 p.m., crews had built on the retardant line, and secured 10% with hand line.
Evacuations have been made by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies gave an immediate evacuation notice (LEVEL 3) to 11 residences in the area. Deputies also made 18 door-to-door LEVEL 1 evacuation notices in the area of East Evans Creek Road between the 18500-block and Meadows Road (north side of the roadway). At this time, a Red Cross Shelter has not been set up. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Updates on the East Evans Fire can be found on our Facebook Page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.
August 1, 2019
The Benton Fire was reported yesterday evening on Oregon Department of Forestry protected land 5 miles East of the town of Sprague River. Initial response for the fire included 2 helicopters, 9 engines, and 2 dozers. Fire crews worked through the night to suppress and secure the fire. As of this morning the fire is approximately 10 acres in size, and is completely lined. Firefighters will continue mop up on the fire today!
The Benton Fire – A total of 10 acres.
July 27, 2019
NOTE: Latest updates are posted at the Milepost 97 Fire Facebook page.
The Milepost 97 Fire is estimated at just under 9,000 acres in size. A Level 1 evacuation remains in place for all residences on the west side of the freeway between Interstate 5 mileposts 88-83. This includes: Barton Road, Azalea-Glen Road, Old Booth Lane, Harrel Lane, Hobbs Lane, Fortune Branch Road on the Azalea-Glen side, Forrest Road Realty Road, Quines Creek Road, and Mobley Drive.
Additionally, a Level 1 “Ready” notice is also in effect for all residences off of Upper Cow Creek Road starting at Interstate 5 milepost 88, east to the base of Galesville Dam.
15 helicopters are currently assigned to the fire along with a host of large air tankers and smaller single engine air tankers. Close to 900 firefighters are currently assigned to the fire that are split into day and night shift operations.
July 26, 2019
The Milepost 97 Fire SE of Canyonville spread rapidly in part due to hot, dry weather with wind gusts. With these conditions expected to continue, we need everyone to do their part to keep down fire activity.
With below-average wildfire activity in July, ODF encourages Oregonians to stay vigilant when it comes to fire prevention as forecasts predict hotter and drier conditions in the coming weeks.
The rapid growth on the I-5 Milepost 97 Fire southeast of Canyonville is attributed largely to hot weather and dry conditions as well as terrain and access challenges. Several ODF fire districts and cooperative forest protective associations are raising the fire danger levels – in some cases triggering tighter restrictions – and the Northwest Coordination Center raised the fire preparedness level to 2 earlier this week.
Favorable weather conditions so far this summer have helped reduce the size and number of fires compared to last year: Lightning ignited 57 fires so far in 2019 compared to a 10-year average of 106 fires for the same time period, and much of the state has seen milder, wetter weather so far this summer.
However, forecasts for the rest of the month and into August predict very little precipitation and a higher probability of above-normal temperatures. Considering that western Oregon is already in moderate to abnormal drought conditions, these factors make it easier for fires to start and spread.
Some ways you can help:
- Keep up with fire restrictions in your area by visiting the ODF Fire Restrictions page: Fire danger and restrictions are tailored to local conditions.
- Backyard burning: This time of year, it’s common for debris burning to either be banned outright or require a permit from ODF or your local fire agency. The ODF Fire Restrictions page will have more information for your area.
- Campfire safety: Check local restrictions before you start your campfire, use designated fire pits or rings, keep the fire small and be sure the fire is dead out by drowning it with water, stirring and then repeating. Keep a shovel and plenty of water on hand.
- Shooting: Always shoot into a non-flammable backstop of mineral soil, keep water and a shovel on hand, check backstops and shooting areas for smoke and consider not shooting on hot, dry days.
- Never discard cigarette butts on the ground or in outdoor vegetation.
To learn more about how you can prevent fires year-round, visit the Keep Oregon Green website.
July 10, 2019
The Oregon Department of Forestry shared its web-based Oregon Wildfire Risk Explorer tool at a Public Utilities Commission workshop this week in an effort to reduce the number of wildfires started by power lines. At the PUC workshop, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) and Pacific Power shared measures these utility companies are taking to prevent ignitions or respond to fires quickly.
With last year’s Camp Fire caused by a power line – taking 86 lives and devastating the town of Paradise, Calif. – this workshop served as a starting point for addressing this issue in Oregon. ODF reports an average of 47 fires are caused by power lines each year on lands protected by the agency. While most of these fires are caught at 10 acres or less, remotely located power lines can sometimes lead to large fires due to lack of access. The 2018 Ramsey Canyon Fire, started from a downed power line in Jackson County, burned nearly 2,000 acres and cost $6.6 million to put out.
Both PG&E and Pacific Power are taking steps to reduce vegetation in and around power lines and poles, increase the number of facility inspections, and improve equipment resiliency and fire proofing. The utilities are also establishing a new fire prevention measure called a Public Safety Power Shutoff. Proactively shutting off power during extreme and dangerous weather conditions is a last-resort measure toward keeping people and communities in high-risk areas safe.
“Preventing fires started by power lines is a tough nut to crack,” ODF Fire Prevention Coordinator Tom Fields said. “Correcting human behavior such as putting out a campfire is much different than preventing fires started by equipment or infrastructure. Monitoring thousands of miles of energized power lines is a monumental task, especially because many of these lines are in remote locations. We applaud these utilities for their efforts in mitigation and preventative procedures during times of elevated fire danger.”
Oregon Wildfire Risk Explorer is an online tool for homeowners, community leaders and professional planners to create natural hazard mitigation plans based on fire risk for a given area. The program takes into consideration fire history, vegetation, topography, weather, and even infrastructure. Utility companies will be able to match power line corridors with areas of fire risk to develop mitigation and response plans.
July 10, 2019
The 1620 Road Fire was reported Monday morning June 24th burning in brush, slash and young timber on private land approximately four miles west of Parkdale, Oregon. Throughout Monday, resources from Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District were assisted by firefighters from Parkdale Fire Department, USFS Mt. Hood National Forest, USFS Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and Washington Department of Natural Resources. Jackpots of slash and increasing afternoon winds challenged firefighters yesterday. Fire behavior included creeping, spotting and single tree torching.
A spot fire was detected Monday afternoon burning in a draw to the east of the main fire. The spot fire was burning in dense vegetation and less accessible terrain, quickly growing in size. Currently the combined acreage for the two fires is estimated at 85 acres. The fires are 35% lined and 10% contained. No structures are threatened or have been destroyed, and there have been no firefighter injuries reported.
Overnight firefighters worked to complete line around the original fire perimeter using dozers and existing roads. Handline construction started around the larger spotfire, and this work will continue on Tuesday. A Type 3 organization was in-briefed Tuesday morning and will take command of the fire to provide additional support to firefighters and resources. This organization will be used to manage the additional resources which have been ordered for suppression efforts. Overnight two 20 person crews, two five person crews, an engine, a dozer, an excavator and additional overhead staffed the fire. Today the fire will be staffed by six 20 person crews, five engines, three tenders, two dozers, an excavator and overhead to manage the resources. Aerial resources available to support ground operations today include two fireboss scooper planes, two heavy air tankers, a Type 2 helicopter, and a Type 1 helicopter.
Firefighter and public safety are the priority for the incident. Today’s objectives for firefighters is to hold and secure existing firelines along the perimeter of the fire and begin mop-up on the secured lines. Direct line construction will be used where possible to minimize acres burned and damage to natural resources.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time.
For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.
July 10, 2019
The Days Coffee Fire, located 6 miles northwest of Tiller, is now estimated to be 140 acres in size. Strong, gusty winds combined with steep slopes and limited access challenged firefighters most of the night as active fire behavior and multiple spot fires were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
All known spot fires were lined overnight with the exception of an estimated five-acre spot fire, located about a half-mile southeast of the main fire, which crews are currently working on.
Lightning is believed to have caused several more fires within areas protected by the Douglas Forest Protective Association yesterday. Similar weather conditions are forecast for today with a chance of thunderstorms throughout the area. If thunderstorms do develop, strong winds and downdrafts could challenge firefighters throughout the day.
Today, 110 firefighters are assigned to the Days Coffee Fire, including: five 20 person crews, two tenders, one engine, one dozer, and two helicopters. Additional resources have been ordered to assist with the fire.
