July 22, 2024
JACKSON and JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 22, 2024) – Firefighters are completing the last portions of mop-up operations on two of the 17 lightning-caused fires that were found on Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land within the last week, following numerous rounds of thunderstorms that moved through southern Oregon. Between July 15 and 22, five fires were reported on the ODF Medford Unit and 12 were reported on the Grants Pass Unit, all as a result of lightning. At this time, all are 100% contained but two, which are nearly mopped up. These fires affected ODF and BLM lands in Jackson and Josephine counties.
Thunderstorms first materialized on the evening of Monday, July 15, with a total of 66 lightning strikes recorded across the district. From this storm, firefighters responded to 13 fires, along with numerous other reports of smoke or fire that were not found to be present. Of these 13 fires, the largest, the Waters Gulch Fire, was stopped at just two acres. The next storm system arrived late Saturday night on July 20, with 18 recorded lightning strikes across both Jackson and Josephine Counties. Four fires were reported, two in each unit. This storm arrived with little to no rain, which allowed for more natural fire growth. Despite this, the largest fire from this group, the Sugarpine Gulch Fire, was caught at just over seven acres. Today, it is 100% lined and 100% mopped up.
These results are largely due to the aggressive initial attack that took place on each fire, as well as partnerships with local agencies, ranging from local structural departments to our federal partners at the BLM and U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest; the preparation of
all agencies and the readiness to respond to new fire starts largely contributed to the success on the ground.
Resources and equipment were also strategically used from the Salt Creek Fire, which was caught and lined at just over 4,100 acres and nearly entirely mopped up within the week and a half that the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 1 was in command of it. As progress was quickly made on this incident, resources were available to respond to new fire starts and staff lightning-caused fires, even as the Salt Creek Fire transitioned to local control once more. Despite this pull on resources throughout its duration, the Salt Creek Fire is now 100% contained.
In the coming days, additional lightning-caused fires from these storms may surface. ODF Detection Center staff continues to monitor lightning strike areas and firefighters are keeping an eye on strike zones daily within their patrol areas. Reconnaissance flights will be conducted as needed. While these fires can’t be prevented, human-caused wildfires can be; the fire danger level in Jackson and Josephine Counties is extreme and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is 3.
Help firefighters by following all current regulations to prevent human-caused fires. More information is available here:
• The ODF Southwest Oregon District: https://swofire.com/
• The BLM OR/WA Fire Management Page: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
• Follow ODF and BLM on Facebook
• Follow ODF and BLM, RRSNF on Twitter
BLM-managed lands in the area of the Salt Creek Fire remain closed for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
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July 22, 2024
Salem, Ore – Starting this past Wednesday, July 17, and into Sunday, July 21, Oregon experienced two separate lightning events that resulted in over 2,000 strikes across the state, which primarily affected Southern, Central and Eastern Oregon. With multiple crews engaged in initial attack on new fire starts and all of Oregon’s available incident management teams on assignment, now is the time for Oregonians to be prepared for wildfires and help prevent future ignitions.
Oregonians are urged to actively practice wildfire prevention, prepare their home and a go-bag for evacuation and know where to sign up for alerts.
How can people help prevent wildfires?
The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging the public to actively practice wildfire prevention as the state works to control over 20 large fires. Additional human-caused fires on the landscape will draw the firefighting efforts away from the lightning-caused fires and put extra strain on ground and aviation resources, which are already spread thin. YOU can help prevent wildfires by:
- Checking and following your local fire regulations. The majority of the state is either in high or extreme fire danger right now, meaning even the smallest of sparks could start the next large wildfire.
- Remember that debris burning is prohibited statewide.
- Return to check on your burn site if you burned earlier in the year.
- Make sure your car has been recently serviced to avoid faulty parts throwing sparks.
- Don’t drag tow chains.
- Avoid parking vehicles on tall, dry grass.
- Recreate responsibly. Where campfires are allowed, make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel and repeating that process until it is cold to the touch. If there is heat coming off it, there are still embers that could reignite.
How can I prepare my home to be resilient against fire?
The Oregon State Fire Marshal can help you create defensible space. Defensible space is the area around your home and property that’s maintained to prevent wildfire from spreading. Creating and maintaining defensible space is the best protection you can give your home against wildfire.
A few ideas to protect the first five feet around your home:
- Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from the roof, gutters, and on top of and underneath decks.
- Trim tall plants and bushes growing directly under eaves and make sure trees and plants have adequate space from your home and other vegetation.
- Remove dead and combustible plants and mulch; replace it with decorative rock or gravel.
- Cover exterior attic vents, soffit vents, and areas below decks and patios with 1/8″ metal wire mesh.
Be cautious with using power tools and other equipment that can throw sparks and don’t operate machinery in the heat of the day. Summer is a great time to plan defensible space projects to start working on in the fall when wildfire season is over.
How can I prepare myself in case I need to evacuate?
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies by knowing evacuation levels, staying informed, having a plan, and having a go-kit ready.
Evacuation Levels
- Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system, each structured around safety threat level.
- Oregonians should become familiar with “Be Ready, Be Set, Go!” evacuation levels to make informed decisions when receiving evacuation notices.
- OEM urges people to evacuate whenever they feel unsafe, conditions can change rapidly; individuals should always make the best decision for their safety.
- Following an evacuation, people should not return to the area until public safety officials state it is safe.
Stay Informed
- Stay informed sign up to receive evacuation at, gov remember to update information if need be.
- Find the websites for your county emergency management, sheriff’s office, or tribal police and follow them on social media.
- Check your phone settings to ensure wireless emergency alerts are turned on.
Have a Plan
- Do you know what to do during an evacuation? This evacuation checklist explains what to do before, during, and after an evacuation.
- Establish a communication plan with a list of important contacts and a safe place for loved ones to meet if they are separated during an emergency.
- Identify multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school and plan for transportation needs.
- People with disabilities should consider individual circumstances and specific needs when planning for evacuation, such as special equipment, transportation, and service animals.
- Have an evacuation plan for pets, make a pet evacuation kit in a tote bag or pet crate, and plan for transportation and sheltering of large animals such as horses and other livestock.
Make a Go-Kit
- Assemble an emergency kit of essential supplies that can be grabbed quickly.
- Pack an easy-to-carry backpack or bag for each household member with health and safety items such as food, water, medication, flashlights, phone chargers, clothing, and important documents. Visit American Red Cross to learn more.
Find more information and resources at Wildfire.Oregon.gov.
Recreate Responsibly
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions. Due to the continued low humidity and risk of wildfires, OPRD banned campfires at all Oregon State Parks east of the Cascades as well as at parks in high-risk areas around the state until conditions improve. Most Oregon State Parks currently have a campfire ban. Please check park webpages or the wildfire feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ before your next visit. Thank you for helping to reduce the risk of wildfires.
July 22, 2024
JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. – Firefighters worked all day Sunday on four new lightning-caused fires across the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Southwest Oregon District. As of 6 p.m., all fires are 100 percent lined and in various stages of mop up.
The current fire status on ODF-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine Counties is as follows:
- The Sugarpine Gulch Fire, located northwest of Rogue River in Jackson County. This fire was the most challenging one, and the last to be 100% lined due to steep terrain and windy conditions. Currently 100 percent lined, 10% mopped up, and caught at just over seven acres. Numerous aircraft worked this incident all day, including one Type 3, two Type 2 and two Type 1 helicopters; some aircraft remain available and on standby but have not recently been needed. Engines, a bulldozer, crews, tree fallers and firefighters remain engaged on the ground and will continue to strengthen the line overnight and push forward on mop-up operations.
- The Eastside Road Fire, located along Upper Applegate Road and west of Buncom in Jackson County. This fire has been holding at an estimated two acres and is 100 percent lined and 20 percent mopped up. Operations are ongoing this afternoon and will continue overnight.
- The Canyon Creek Fire, located west of Highway 227 and northwest of Trail in Jackson County. This fire is now 100 percent lined and 30 percent mopped up. It was caught at just over six acres. Firefighters are engaging in mop-up operations that will continue overnight.
- The Old Baldy Fire, located in the hills between Wimer and Grants Pass in Josephine County. Firefighters caught this fire at an acre and a half, and have it 100 percent lined and 30 percent mopped up. Mop up operations are ongoing.
- The Sexton Fire, reported on the east side of Interstate 5, between Hugo and Sunny Valley in Josephine County, not found by firefighters after a thorough search.
A second recon flight was been conducted and no new fires have been found. Detection camera operators will continue to search lightning strike areas for any smoke or fires. Firefighters remain ready to respond to any new fire starts across the district.
The fire danger level in Jackson and Josephine Counties is extreme and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is 3. Help firefighters by following all current regulations to prevent human-caused fires. For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s fire season public and industrial restrictions, visit our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page @ODF Southwest Oregon District.
July 16, 2024
La Grande, OR—Fire managers are increasing the public use restrictions to Extreme (red), as well as implementing additional restrictions for industrial forest operations on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Northeast Oregon. The additional restrictions will be in effect at 12:01 a.m. on July 16, 2024. The measurements fire managers reference to estimate seasonal fire severity indicate Extreme fire conditions across the region.
These restrictions are intended to decrease potential fire starts resulting from logging and other forest operations. Tinder-dry forest fuels increase the chance of a spark or ember igniting a wildland fire. The Industrial Restrictions apply to private, state, county, municipal, and tribal lands in seven counties: Union, Baker, Wallowa, Umatilla, and small portions of Malheur, Grant, and Morrow Counties. “It’s crucial to adhere to these restrictions as fuel conditions are changing rapidly with the extreme heat. We are seeing critically dry conditions in our light and flashy fuels,” said Logan McCrae La Grande Unit Forester.
REQUIRED SHUT DOWN: Except at landings, the use of mechanized harvesters with a high-speed saw, chainsaws, tracked felling or skidding equipment, slash busting equipment and cable yarding systems are prohibited between the hours of 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. local time.
The Public Use Restrictions (Extreme Fire Danger) include the following fire prevention measures:
- Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires, and warming fires.
- Portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.
- Propane fire pits are allowed if they are self-contained and 3 feet away from any flammable fuels with a maximum flame height of 2 feet.
- Non-industrial chainsaw use is prohibited.
- Electric Chainsaws are allowed all day.
- Mowing of dried and cured grass with power driven equipment is prohibited, except for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
- Electric string trimmers are allowed all day.
- Any electric fence controller in use shall be: 1) Listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or be certified by the Department of Consumer and Business Services; and 2) Operated in compliance with manufacturer’s instructions.
- Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required for any vehicle/UTV/ATV traveling on unimproved roadways where flammable vegetation exists on the roadway; shovel or other firefighting tool, minimum of 1-gallon of water, or 2 ½ pound or larger fire extinguisher.
PROHIBITED
- All open debris burning including the use of burn barrels.
- Use of fireworks.
- Use of exploding targets.
- Cutting, grinding, and welding of metal.
- Use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base.
- Smoking while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, or at a cleared area free of flammable vegetation.
- Use of sky lanterns throughout the year in Oregon.
For further information, contact the Oregon Department of Forestry at these local offices:
| La Grande Unit |
(541) 963-3168 |
| Baker City Sub-Unit |
(541) 523-5831 |
| Wallowa Unit |
(541) 886-2881 |
| Pendleton Unit |
(541) 276-3491 |
Current fire restrictions for forestlands in Northeast Oregon can be found at www.bmidc.org or by calling the Northeast Oregon Fire Prevention line: (541) 975-3027.
http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/ is your spot for current fire information in the Blue Mountains. Find us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/oregondeptofforestryNEO/
Call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541)963-7171 or dial 9-1-1 to report a fire.
July 15, 2024
SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal and the Oregon Department of Forestry are bringing in out-of-state firefighters and equipment to fight several wildfires impacting communities and resources across the state.
On Sunday night, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized two task forces from Washington to add structural firefighter capacity. The two task forces are from Snohomish, Thurston, and Grays Harbor counties with 29 firefighters, eight engines, and two water tenders. The task forces are assigned to the Falls Fire in Harney County.
“We are bringing in additional support from the Washington fire service for the Falls Fire, the severe drawdown of Oregon resources, and the anticipated weather conditions,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Our strong relationship with the Washington fire service is invaluable, especially during their responses to Oregon in 2017 and 2020. We have a robust response system that transcends borders and supports our mutual missions. I can’t thank the Washington fire service enough for their quick and reliable response to Oregon’s needs.”
The OSFM works with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management to mobilize these resources through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a national interstate mutual aid agreement that allows states to share resources during times of disaster.
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has received more than 58 resources from New Mexico, Idaho, Montana, Oklahoma, Texas, Georgia, Colorado, and Florida to assist in the Salt Creek and Larch Creek Fire. The agency will receive 13 more firefighters from Florida in the coming days to assist the agency’s Incident Management Team 3 and other severity efforts.
A total of 71 resources are coming to Oregon through state-to-state mutual aid agreements and the Northwest Compact. The compact was created to facilitate assistance in wildland fire pre-suppression and suppression efforts between member agencies, which include Hawaii, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana and the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon and Northwest Territories.
“These mutual aid agreements help to bolster the complete and coordinated fire system in Oregon by giving us the ability to scale up as needed during peak times in the season” said Chris Cline, ODF protection division chief. “We appreciate our partners for sending us these much-needed resources as we manage several fires across the state.”
By creating a cache of reciprocal resources through mutual aid agreements, Oregon and other agencies can benefit from each other when fire seasons hit hard and resources become strained.
“This isn’t my first time to Oregon. It is always an honor to help our neighbors when they are in need. Oregon has come to help us several times in the past,” Task Force Leader Travis Hots said. “We are no stranger to how Oregon does business and are always impressed with how the Oregon State Fire Marshal treats its firefighters, so we are always glad to come down and offer a helping hand.”
On Friday, the Governor Tina Kotek issued a State of Emergency that allows the two agencies to request additional help from both in- and out-of-state partners.
With hot, dry, and windy conditions coupled with lightning in the forecast, Oregonians should take every precaution to avoid sparking a fire. Learn how to be #WildfireAware here. Look up your local fire restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.
July 9, 2024
NORTHWEST, Ore. — Due to the extreme high temperatures throughout the region, the fire managers will be increasing the fire danger level to High (yellow) for recreationists using the forests in the NW-2 and NW-3 weather zones. This change will be effective at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 10, 2024.
All OHV trails in the Nicolai Mountain OHV Riding Area will close at 1 p.m. daily during High (yellow) Fire Danger level. Additionally, all campfires and barbeques are prohibited in the dispersed campsites in the Nicolai OHV Area (Shingle Mill, Viewpoint, Kerry, Plympton) and Lost Lake.
In NW-2 and NW-3 under the fire danger level High (yellow): Campfires are only allowed in designated metal fire pits at the following locations: Henry Rierson Spruce Run Campground, Gnat Creek Campground, Northrup Creek Horse Camp and Beaver Eddy sites in Clatsop County. For other campgrounds, check with the corresponding ODF office.
Burn barrels and residential campfires are not allowed in NW-2 and NW-3 under High (yellow).
For industrial forest operations: NW-1 will remain at Level I and NW-2 and NW-3 will move to Level II, with most operations shutting down at 1 p.m.
Fireworks, exploding targets/tracer ammunition, sky lanterns are prohibited at all levels during fire season.
For up-to-date recorded information about fire season requirements, call 503-325-7215. To request a burning permit or obtain additional information, call 503-325-5451 during business hours.
Public Restrictions Website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx
July 8, 2024
LA GRANDE, Ore. — The fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Northeast Oregon will increase to “high” (yellow) on Monday, July 8, 2024, at 12:01 a.m. This change affects private, state, county, municipal, and tribal lands in seven counties: Union, Baker, Wallowa, Umatilla, and small portions of Malheur, Grant, and Morrow Counties. This area encompasses approximately 2 million acres of protected lands.
The increased fire restrictions are meant to prevent or minimize human-caused wildfires and to safeguard natural resources, public health, and safety. “Normal summer weather is forecasted for the foreseeable future, with high temperatures. These conditions, along with the rising fire danger, have led us to implement additional fire restrictions,” said Matt Hoehna, Assistant District Forester.
The Public Use Restrictions (High Fire Danger) include the following fire prevention measures:
- Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires, and warming fires, except at designated locations.
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- Portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.
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- Propane fire pits are allowed if they are self-contained and 3 feet away from any flammable fuels with a maximum flame height of 2 feet.
- Non-industrial Chainsaw use is prohibited from noon to 8 p.m.
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- Non-industrial chainsaw use is allowed at all other hours if the following firefighting equipment is present with each operating saw: one shovel or other firefighting tool and one 8-ounce or larger fire extinguisher or 1-gallon of water. In addition, a fire watch is required at least one hour following the end of chainsaw use.
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- Electric Chainsaws are allowed all day.
- Cutting, grinding, and welding of metal is prohibited from Noon-8 p.m. Cutting, grinding, and welding of metal is permitted at all other hours, if conducted in a 10-foot area cleared of flammable vegetation, shovel or other firefighting tool, a minimum of 1-gallon of water, or 2 ½ pound or larger fire extinguisher.
- Mowing dried and cured grass with power-driven equipment is prohibited from noon to 8 p.m., except for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
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- Electric string trimmers are allowed all day.
- Any electric fence controller in use shall be: 1) Listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or certified by the Department of Consumer and Business Services; and 2) Operated in compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required for any vehicle/UTV/ATV traveling on unimproved roadways where flammable vegetation exists on roadway: shovel or other firefighting tool, minimum of 1-gallon of water, or 2 ½ pound or larger fire extinguisher.
PROHIBITED:
- All open debris burning, and the use of burn barrels.
- Use of fireworks.
- Use of exploding targets.
- Use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base.
- Smoking while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, or in a cleared area free of flammable vegetation.
- Use of sky lanterns throughout the year in Oregon.
For further information, contact the Oregon Department of Forestry at these local offices:
La Grande Unit (541) 963-3168
Baker City Sub-Unit (541) 523-5831
Wallowa Unit (541) 886-2881
Pendleton Unit (541) 276-3491
Current fire restrictions for forestlands in Northeast Oregon can be found at www.bmidc.org or by calling the Northeast Oregon Fire Prevention line: (541) 975-3027.
https://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/is your spot for current fire information in the Blue Mountains.
Find us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/oregondeptofforestryNEO/
Call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541)963-7171 or dial 9-1-1 to report a fire.
July 3, 2024
SALEM, Ore. – As of today, July 3, all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. This means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where you live or at a destination you plan to visit or recreate.
ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state, and federal land in Oregon from wildfire. Fire season is declared at the local level when conditions reach a point where the risk of a fire starting and spreading becomes clear. This year, the Southwest Oregon district was the first to declare on June 1, and the North Cascade District was the last to declare on July 3.
As we move into the Fourth of July and the holiday weekend, it’s important to remember that forests and fireworks DO NOT MIX. Fireworks are banned in all State Forest designated recreation sites including campgrounds, camping areas, day-use areas, trailheads, staging areas, and boat launch sites. Remember to check any additional city and county firework restrictions as well.
“Mid-July and August are known for high fire occurrence due to increased lightning activity, but human activities continue to be the leading source of Oregon’s wildfires. RIGHT NOW is the time to practice fire safety and preparedness. Wildfire is already on the landscape,” said Chris Cline, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Protection Division Chief.
Cline said, “Prevention is our number one tool to reduce property loss and firefighting costs. We can’t prevent lightning fires, but we can prevent human-caused fires…and we need everyone’s help to that end!”
With a heat wave expected from July 4th into next week, now is the time to brush up on your wildfire prevention knowledge. Tips include:
- Know before you go. Campfires may be banned or only allowed in approved campgrounds.
- Make sure your campfire is cool to the touch before going to sleep or leaving your site. Don’t forget to Drown, Stir, Repeat.
- Backyard debris burning either requires a burn permit during fire season or is prohibited altogether. If you burned earlier this spring, go back and check on your debris burn site to make sure nothing reignites due to the heat.
- Don’t flick a cigarette onto the ground. It may be just enough to start a fire.
- Don’t park or idle over dried grass.
- Don’t drag tow chains.
- Check local restrictions and fire danger levels.
For more information on how you can help prevent wildfires, visit keeporegongreen.org.
June 21, 2024
SALEM, Ore. – This week the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) filled an order to send 19 firefighters to New Mexico to assist in fighting numerous, out of control wildfires. Many of the firefighters arrived in the state today and the rest will arrive within the next day. The two-week rotation with our New Mexico partners will allow our firefighters to brush up on their skills before Oregon’s fire season hits its peak later this summer.
The firefighters went to New Mexico under mutual assistance agreements between the states. When wildfire activity is low in Oregon, firefighters can be spared to help in places experiencing high levels of wildfire. So far in 2024, Oregon has deployed:
- 48 firefighters to Texas
- 14 firefighters to Alaska
- Five firefighters to California
- Two firefighters to Tennessee
- One firefighter to Washington
- One firefighter to Florida
- One firefighter to New Mexico (this deployment is separate from the current one)
Oregon can and has called on those same states to send firefighters and equipment when wildfires here exceed local capacity.
“These agreements help bolster the complete and coordinated fire protection system across the continent and create a cache of reciprocal resources for all of us to call on when needed.” Chris Cline, ODF’s Fire Protection Division Chief, explained.
So why does Oregon send resources to help other states? Through these mutual assistance agreements with other states, including Alaska, Hawaii and NW Canadian territories, we can share resources with one another, creating a larger, faster comprehensive fire management system.
“We do our best to answer the call when it comes in from any of our wildland partners as we’ve been on the other side of the equation and we understand how difficult it can be to need help so desperately,” said Cline. “But know that we don’t share these resources without appropriate vetting. Before committing to any out-of-state deployment, we make sure that our own fire management system is still adequately staffed and ready to respond to fires here in Oregon. Serving Oregonians is our first and primary priority.”
June 18, 2024
LA GRANDE, Ore. – A warming and drying trend in the forecast has prompted Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) to begin fire season on private forest lands in northeast Oregon. ODF is seeing fire danger increasing across the Northeast Oregon District as a whole.
FIRE SEASON will begin at 12:01 a.m., Saturday, June 22nd for forest and rangelands protected by ODF Northeast Oregon District. “Early in the fire season, it’s important to know what fire restrictions are in effect. We really want to encourage folks to make sure they are getting out regularly and checking any place where slash or debris piles were burned late last winter and this spring. Those areas can hold heat for a long time and cause fires to rekindle months later.” Said Matt Howard, District Forester.
The fire season declaration places fire prevention restrictions on landowners and public. Additionally, fire prevention regulations on industrial logging and forest management activities are put into place. Lands affected include private, state, county, municipal, and tribal lands in Union, Baker, Wallowa, and Umatilla counties along with small portions of Malheur, Morrow, and Grant counties within the Northeast Oregon Forest Protection District. This area encompasses approximately 2 million acres of protected lands. ODF encourages landowners and the public to help prevent accidental ignitions by taking extra precautions while recreating or working, it can make a difference.
For information on restrictions across the Northeast Oregon District, dial: (541) 975-3027 or visit www.bmidc.org, for current information on fire restrictions.
During Fire Season:
- Debris burning is by permit only. To obtain a burn permit for a debris pile or burn barrel, please call your local ODF office.
- Baker City Sub-Unit: (541) 523-5831
- La Grande Unit: (541) 963-3168
- Pendleton Unit: (541) 276-3491
- Wallowa Unit: (541) 886-2881
- The use of exploding targets, tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base is prohibited.
- Logging and other industrial operations must meet requirements for fire prevention, such as fire tools, water supply, and watchman service when those operations are occurring on lands protected by ODF. Contact your local Stewardship Forester at any NEO District office for more information.
- Campfires must be DEAD OUT! Recreationists are reminded that campfires need to be attended and fully extinguished before being left.
- Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required; shovel or other firefighting tool, minimum of 1-gallon of water, or 2 ½ pound or larger fire extinguisher and a fire watch at least one hour after extinguishing. Get permission from the landowner prior to starting a campfire.
- The use of Sky Lanterns is always illegal in Oregon.
To report a fire, dial 9-1-1.
Make sure you know the fire restrictions before you head out. Check with your local Forest Service office for fire regulations on National Forest land, or BLM office for lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Information on Public-Use Restrictions on the Oregon Department of Forestry, Umatilla National Forest and Wallowa-Whitman National Forest can be found at http://bmidc.org/index.shtml under Current Information: Fire Restrictions.
June 7, 2024
Prineville, Ore. – Fire season on all lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will begin June 10, 2024, at 12:01 a.m. Starting this Monday, the district’s fire danger level will be “Moderate”, and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one) in MH-4 and MH-1 (Hood River and Wasco County).
Earlier this year, fire managers were optimistic regarding this year’s fire season due to the higher-than-normal snowpack. However, due to the decline in spring rain, rise in temperatures, and windy conditions, the fine fuels in the district have begun to dry significantly.
So far this year, the district has experienced 16 fires, of which half were escaped debris burns. Debris burning is the number one cause of human-caused fires. Most Central Oregon counties have also enacted debris burn bans. Be sure to check fire restrictions in your local area. ODF recommends covering your pile until the rainy fall season, when it’s safer to burn.
With that in mind, the Central Oregon District will begin implementing restrictions based on fire danger level. Moderate fire danger level restricts the following activities:
- No debris burning, including piles and burn barrels, unless permitted by the local forester.
- No fireworks on or within 1/8 of a mile of ODF-protected land.
- Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.
- No smoking while traveling through or working in any operation area.
In addition to the fire prevention requirements Under IFPL I (one), the following will go into effect:
- A fire watch is required for a minimum of one hour during breaks and at the end of the operational period.
Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the various fire risks throughout the fire season.
The Oregon Department of Forestry urges residents to not become complacent in wildfire prevention. The less human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org
For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. Check your local restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.
May 30, 2024
This Declaration Affects 1.8 Million Acres of Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District-Protected Lands
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (May 30, 2024) – Fire Season on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Southwest Oregon District begins Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. The fire danger level will be “Low” (green) and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one). Lands affected by this declaration include 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestlands in Jackson and Josephine counties.
Spring rain, snow and cooler weather patterns allowed for a fairly fire-free spring in southern Oregon up until mid-March; since then, the ODF Southwest Oregon District has responded to 14 fires, all human-caused. These fires were stopped at just over 10 acres accumulatively. The beginning of fire season and Low fire danger brings regulations; these activities are known to cause fires and will be prohibited with the start of fire season:
- No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels.
- No fireworks on or within 1/8 of a mile of ODF-protected land.
- Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.
- Campfires are allowed in designated campgrounds, and on private land with the landowner’s permission. Portable stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels may be used in areas clear of vegetation at any time.
- Smoking while traveling will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other specifically designated locations.
- Any electric fence controllers must be approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories Inc., or be certified by the Department of Consumer and Business Services and be installed and used in compliance with the fence controller’s instructions for fire safe operation.
The start of fire season also means regulations on industrial activities. Under IFPL I (one), fire season requirements are in effect, in addition to the following:
- A Firewatch is required at this and all higher levels unless otherwise waived.
For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Season regulations, please call or visit the Southwest Oregon District unit office nearest to you:
Medford Unit, 5286 Table Rock Rd., Central Point – (541) 664-3328
Grants Pass Unit, 5375 Monument Dr., Grants Pass – (541) 474-3152
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our X account, @swofire.
May 14, 2024
SALEM, Ore. — A series of six open houses about the state’s new community wildfire risk reduction programs are scheduled June 3 through July 1 across Oregon. These events will offer opportunities to learn about new defensible space and home hardening standards, as well as the draft wildfire hazard map.
The resource-fair style open houses are being held in the communities that have some of the greatest levels of wildfire hazard within the wildland-urban interface. Each open house will begin with a short presentation and introductions, but visitors may stop in at any point during the event to get questions answered about the draft hazard map and associated community wildfire programs.
Representatives from multiple agencies will be present to have one-on-one or small group conversations to help people understand Oregon’s statewide wildfire programs.
- Oregon Department of Forestry representatives will address questions on administrative rules and hazard zone assessment appeals.
- Oregon State University representatives will address questions on wildfire hazard science, statewide data sources, and updates to the draft hazard map made over the last two years.
- Oregon State Fire Marshal representatives will address questions regarding defensible space standards, code adoption process and implementation.
- Building Codes Division representatives from the Department of Consumer and Business Services will address questions on home hardening construction standards, related code provisions, and implementation.
- Division of Financial Regulation representatives from the Department of Consumer and Business Services will address questions on home insurance market and requirements of insurers under Senate Bill 82 (2023).
- Wildfire Programs Advisory Council members will address questions on statewide policy direction for wildfire programs and council business.
Meetings will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on the following dates:
- Redmond—Monday, June 3, Deschutes County Fairgrounds and Expo Center, South Sister Hall, 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond, OR 97756
- La Grande—Tuesday, June 4, Union County Fairgrounds, Mount Emily Building, 3604 N 2nd St., La Grande, OR 97850
- Central Point—Monday, June 17, Jackson County Fairgrounds, Mace Building, 1 Peninger Rd., Central Point, OR 97502
- Grants Pass—Thursday, June 20, Grants Pass High School, 830 NE 9th St., Grants Pass, OR 97526
- Klamath Falls—Monday, June 24, Klamath County Event Center, Hall #2, 3531 S 6th St., Klamath Falls, OR 97603
- The Dalles—Monday, July 1, Oregon Military Department Armory, 402 E. Scenic Dr., The Dalles, OR 97058
Find more information on ODF’s wildfire hazard webpage.
To subscribe to information related to updates on the statewide wildfire hazard map, visit the ODF website.
Background: The 2021 Legislature passed Senate Bill 762 that required the Oregon Department of Forestry to develop and maintain a comprehensive statewide map of wildfire risk that included wildland-urban interface boundaries and five fire risk classes by June 30, 2022, in collaboration with Oregon State University. After the initial version of the map was rescinded August 4, 2022, ODF and OSU began gathering feedback and incorporating it into future mapping efforts.
The 2023 Legislature passed Senate Bill 80 that made several changes to the map including changing the name from a “risk” map to a “hazard” map, reducing the number of hazard classes from five to three, and changing the appeal and notification requirements.
Written comment or questions about any aspect of the implementation of Senate Bill 762 and Senate Bill 80 may be submitted by email at any time to odf.wildfirehazardmap@odf.oregon.gov.
May 13, 2024
SALEM, OR – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and other fire prevention experts urge the public to exercise caution when disposing of yard debris this spring. Over seventy percent of wildfires in Oregon are human-caused fires, with debris burning being the number one cause. As the weather gets hotter and fuels begin to dry out, the risk of a debris burn escaping increases.
Now is the time to trim trees, bushes, and tidy up plants around your home to create a “defensible space” around your property. As you begin spring clean-up, the Oregon Department of Forestry and Keep Oregon Green urge you to put some extra thought into how you plan to dispose of your yard debris.
Call your local ODF office before burning to make sure the weather conditions are safe. You can also cover a part of the pile with plastic to keep it dry until the rainy fall and winter seasons when it’s safer to burn. Delaying your burn plans will give the debris more time to cure and avoid spring holdover fires as fire risk increases with hotter, drier weather.
By choosing alternative disposal methods, or burning under safe conditions outside of fire season, Oregonians can significantly reduce the risk of creating a large wildfire. Remember, debris burning requires a permit or is prohibited in most areas during fire season.
If burning now is the only option to dispose of yard debris, fire prevention specialists ask people to follow safe burning practices.
- Call before you burn – Burning regulations vary by location depending on the weather and fuel conditions. If you are planning to burn, check with your local ODF district, fire protective association, fire department, or air protection authority to learn about current burning restrictions or regulations, and if you need a permit.
- Know the weather – Burn early in the day and never burn on dry or windy days, because fires can spread out of control more easily.
- Always have water and fire tools nearby – When burning, have a charged water hose or a bucket of water, and shovel on hand to put out the fire. Drown the pile with water, stir the coals, and drown again, repeating until the fire is cold to the touch.
- Clear a 10-foot fuel-free buffer around the pile – Make sure there are no tree branches or power lines above.
- Keep burn piles small – Large burn piles can cast hot embers long distances. Keep piles small, maximum of four feet by four feet. Add debris to the pile in small amounts as the pile burns.
- Burn only yard debris – State laws prohibit burning materials or trash that create dense smoke or noxious odors.
- Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to start or speed up your fire.
- Stay with the fire until it is cold – NEVER leave your debris burn unattended. State law requires monitoring of debris burn piles from start to finish until it is out cold. This law is intended to ensure sparks or embers that jump from the fire can be put out quickly.
- Go back and check burn piles. They can retain heat for several weeks and restart when the weather warms up and winds blow.
- Costs of run-away debris burns– State law requires the proper clearing, building, attending and extinguishing of open fires all year. If your debris burn spreads out of control, you may have to pay for suppression costs, as well as the damage to your neighbors’ properties, which can be extremely expensive.
More tips on wildfire prevention, including campfire safety, motorized equipment use, and fire-resistant landscaping can be found on the Keep Oregon Green website. Find public use restrictions for Oregon Department of Forestry protected lands before your burn.
April 1, 2024
Salem, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry is soliciting applications to join the Smoke Management Advisory Committee. The committee is currently seeking applications to fill one vacancy to represent the public.
Created in 1989, the Smoke Management Advisory Committee (SMAC) provides advice and assistance to the Oregon Department of Forestry Smoke Management Program. The membership of the committee consists of an industrial forestland owner representative, a non-industrial forestland owner representative, a public representative, a Forest Service representative, and a Bureau of Land Management representative. Each representative serves for two-year terms that are renewable after the two-year period.
“This is an opportunity for the public to get involved and make sure that their voice and concerns are heard when it comes to prescribed fire smoke management in Oregon.” Said Stacy McCarter, Mitigation Program Manager.
Committee members gather for public meetings in Salem twice a year to discuss and provide advice to the Smoke Management Program regarding current prescribed burning and smoke intrusion trends, program fund balance, implementation plan items, and other current issues and projects of the program.
To apply, complete an online questionnaire at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/board/Documents/smac/smac-public-nomination-form-2024.pdf and submit to Stacy McCarter at ODF by email stacy.mccarter@odf.oregon.gov by May 1, 2024.
For specific questions about the committee, please contact Stacy McCarter at 503-701-0236 or stacy.mccarter@odf.oregon.gov. Additional SMAC background information can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/board/Pages/smac.aspx.
March 11, 2024
Salem, Ore.—With 290 Firewise USA sites in good standing, the Oregon Department of Forestry is proud that Oregon is ranked number two in the nation for number of Firewise USA sites. In 2023, Oregon added 39 new sites creating more fire-adapted communities.
Along with being number two as a state in 2023, Oregon is also home to the number four and number five counties with the most sites in the nation: Jackson County with 75 sites and Deschutes County with 73 sites. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the dedication of community members and those that led the charge.
What is Firewise USA? Firewise USA is a program that helps guide communities in the process of protecting their homes and neighborhood from wildfire. The program is run by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and co-sponsored by the National Association of State Foresters and U.S. Forest Service. The Oregon Department of Forestry is responsible for administering the program in Oregon and is a resource to help communities create a community wildfire protection plan, find grants to fund projects, and give expert advice.
This work is not done alone. Through the help of ODF’s partners, like the Oregon State Fire Marshal, community coordinators, and local fire departments, we all work together to complete assessments and help the community develop action plans for implementing wildfire risk reduction activities.
How does a community become a Firewise community? Starting the journey to become a Firewise USA site is as easy as picking up the phone and calling your local ODF office. Only a minimum of eight dwellings are required, meaning that your street, neighborhood or town can be a Firewise USA community.
What are the benefits of becoming a Firewise site? By becoming a Firewise site, you can educate your community and work to become more wildfire resilient. As a Firewise site, you have access to a number of wildfire partners, like the Oregon Department of Forestry, to help you in securing grants, getting advice, help in coordination and more.
The continuation and growth of the Firewise USA program in Oregon is just one way we can create more fire adapted communities and protect our neighbors.
March 1, 2024
SALEM, Ore. – Today the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) deployed a strike team to Amarillo, Texas to assist in their wildfire suppression efforts. The strike team is equipped with five engines and a strike team leader, with a total of 16 firefighters traveling down to the state.
The firefighters are going to Texas under mutual assistance agreements, making it easier to share resources. When wildfire activity is low in Oregon, firefighters can be spared to help in other places experiencing high levels of wildfire response.
“We’re ready and willing to help whenever we receive the call from one of our partner states,” said Chris Cline, ODF’s Interim Fire Protection Division Chief. “It’s the right thing to respond when someone is in a time of need, and we are honored to have the opportunity to serve.”
So how does Oregon send resources to help other states? This is all done through mutual assistance agreements creating a cache of reciprocal resources and a larger more comprehensive fire management system. In this system, Oregon does not only send out resources, but also receives and has received helpful resources when local capacity becomes overwhelmed.
“The relationships built through our assistance in other states not only benefits them, but also Oregonians as we reach out for help when our fire season hits its peak.” Cline explained. In the 2023 fire season, Oregon received 173 out-of-state firefighters.
Sending our firefighters on these out-of-state deployments helps them build relationships outside of our organization, learn new suppression tactics and gives them the opportunity to fight fire in a different landscape. These off-season deployments keep their skills sharp so they can come back to Oregon with new knowledge that can be applied to our future fire seasons.
January 19, 2024
Salem, Ore. – Members from the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Incident Management Team (IMT) 1 inbriefed today in Lane County to assist in the recovery from the recent ice storm.
Though ODF is normally associated with wildfire response, the agency’s IMTs are trained in all-hazard response and are ready for any emergency year-round. The members will be sharing their knowledge and experience with local emergency management personnel so that they can continue to support their communities after the team leaves. In addition to the IMT personnel assisting in Lane County, ODF staff across the state are helping their communities in a variety of ways, such as clearing downed trees.
“I’m still regularly in awe of all the ways ODF serves Oregonians,” said State Forester Cal Mukumoto, who is also ODF’s director. “The forestry work we do every day is critically important to Oregonians and their natural resources, but we find ourselves involved with emergency response and management more and more. I’m just grateful we have people with the training and experience who can help others in times of great need.”
This is not the first time that ODF’s IMT members have been deployed for a non-fire incident. A similar deployment occurred in 2020 when IMTs spent several weeks assisting the Office of Emergency Management with the statewide COVID-19 response. More recently, in April 2023, a few members were deployed to assist Curry County after a cyber-attack compromised their system. ODF personnel have also deployed in support of emergency response to hurricanes and floods, along with many wildfires both nationally and internationally.
The team is expected to be deployed for a week but could be there longer depending on need. Please contact Lane County for any ice storm recovery inquires.
November 13, 2023
Salem, Ore.—Though fire season has subsided in Oregon, other parts of the country are strained for resources as they hit their peak. In the last week, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) sent 68 firefighters to Kentucky and 10 firefighters to North Carolina to assist in their fire suppression efforts. The department is planning on sending more firefighters this week to both states.
The resources went to Kentucky and North Carolina under mutual assistance agreements between the states. Those sent out of state range from incident management team (IMT) members to single resources, which can be an individual, a piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or a crew/team of individuals. giving a wide variety of help to our partner states.
When wildfire activity is low in Oregon, such as during our rainy fall, firefighters can be spared to help in places experiencing high levels of wildfire. Before committing to any deployment, ODF makes sure that our own fire management system is prepared and ready to respond to fires here in Oregon.
Sending our firefighters on these out-of-state deployments helps them build relationships outside of our organization, learn new suppression tactics and gives them the opportunity to fight fire in a different landscape. These off-season deployments help keep their skills sharp and come back to Oregon with new knowledge that can be applied to our future fire seasons.
“During our peak season, Oregon can and has called on other states to send firefighters and equipment when wildfires exceed our local capacity. The hope with these deployments is to build strong relationships so when we need help, other states will answer our call to action” Blake Ellis, fire operations manager, said.
During the 2023 fire season, Oregon received over 80 firefighters from out of state to help with ODF fire support and the Tyee Ridge Complex.
This is all done through mutual assistance agreements with other states, including Alaska and NW Canadian territories, creating a cache of reciprocal resources and a larger, comprehensive fire management system. This is called the complete and coordinated fire system.
October 18, 2023
Salem, Ore. — With temperatures cooling and widespread rain soaking the state, all Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) protection districts have terminated fire season restrictions, marking the end of the 2023 Oregon fire season declarations.
Year to date, there have been 975 fires on ODF-protected lands resulting in 17,968 acres burned. Three ODF Type 1 Incident Management Teams (IMT) were deployed this season: one to the Golden Fire in the Klamath-Lake District, and two to the Tyee Ridge Complex in the Douglas Forest Protective Association district. Statewide to date, regardless of jurisdiction, there have been 1,909 fires that have burned 190,507 acres.
“This year, I would say was the year of partnership,” Mike Shaw, Protection Division Chief, said. “We had several opportunities this year to help to our local, state, and federal partners keep Oregon safe from wildfire, and vice versa,” said Shaw.
Starting in May this year, ODF deployed firefighter IMT members to Alberta, Canada through the Northwest Compact—an agreement created to facilitate assistance in wildland fire pre-suppression and suppression efforts between member agencies. In August, an ODF Type 3 IMT was deployed to manage the Wiley Creek Fire to assist our partners at The Willamette National Forest. ODF also supported local fire service agencies and the Oregon State Fire Marshal multiple times throughout the summer by deploying aircraft when called upon and sharing personnel and other resources. Lastly, the department remained engaged with partners during long-term fire events and offered resources or advice wherever needed.
ODF and association firefighters responded to nearly the same number of fires this year as the 10-year average, but kept the acres burned at approximately 16% of the 10-year average, which was 119,526 acres burned. This is due to the agency’s aggressive approach to initial attack to preserve natural resources, protect communities, and increase firefighter safety, as well as investments of additional staffing and aircraft resources from the 2021 Legislature.
Overall, the department put out 94 percent of fires at 10 acres or fewer this year.
The start and end of fire season restrictions and regulations are set by each forest protection district based on the conditions in their area including drought, climatic forecasts, and season trends. These restrictions and regulations of activities prone to start wildfires, such as debris burning and certain equipment use, are intended as preventative measures during times with elevated wildfire risks. The arrival of steady, soaking rain coupled with cooler temperatures and shorter days usually triggers the closure of fire season. The end of fire season removes ODF imposed fire restrictions on ODF-protected lands. However, many fire departments in Oregon still require a permit for debris and slash burning, so check with your local fire department or ODF office before starting a burn.
As Oregon transitions out of fire season, ODF districts across the state are shifting their attention to wildfire prevention and mitigation efforts. Clearing vegetation, creating defensible space around homes, and safely burning debris piles are just a few ways ODF is working with local landowners, members of the public and fellow fire response agencies to mitigate wildfire risk.
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 website or Keep Oregon Green’s website.
ODF protects about 16 million acres of private, county, state and federal forest and grazing lands in Oregon.
