Fire season ends in ODF Central Oregon District

October 9, 2023

Prineville, Ore. — Due to cooler temperatures and significant rainfall, fire season ends today for the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District. This termination of fire season applies to all ODF-protected lands in the Central Oregon District.

Though fire season is over for the district, Oregonians should still check local fire districts to obtain any necessary permits before debris burning. Wasco County’s burn ban is in effect until October 16.

“We saw a lot of successes this season thanks to the hard work of our firefighters, the strong relationships with our partners, early detection efforts and quick initial attack.” Rob Pentzer, Central Oregon District Forester said, “And thank you to the Oregonians who took that extra minute of thought to prevent wildfires. It may seem small, but it helped to stave off firefighter fatigue and potentially stop the next large wildfire.”

The Central Oregon District was in fire season for 122 days. The season started for the district on June 9 this year.

For more information on the Central Oregon District, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/.

Southwest Oregon District: Fire danger level decreases to moderate due to widespread rain and additional forecasted precipitation

September 25, 2023

The change in restrictions will affect ODF Southwest Oregon District-protected lands.

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Sept. 25, 2023) – The fire danger level on Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine counties will decrease to “moderate” (blue), and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will decrease to Level I (one) as of Monday, September 25, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. Please be aware that this level change means that some fire restrictions for the public will remain in effect.

These regulations impact 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management lands protected by ODF’s Southwest Oregon District.

During Moderate fire danger, the following public fire restrictions remain in effect:

• 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.
• Smoking while traveling will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other specifically designated locations.
• Open fires are prohibited, which includes campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except at locations deemed a designated campground. Portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are still allowed in areas clear of vegetation;
• Chainsaws may not be used between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. during moderate fire danger. During hours outside of this time frame, chainsaws may be used but require that the operator have one shovel and one 8-oz or larger fire extinguisher at the work site. A fire watch is also required for one hour after each chainsaw use;
• Cutting, grinding and welding of metal is not allowed between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. during moderate fire danger. These activities will be allowed during hours outside of this time frame only if the work site is cleared of potentially flammable vegetation and other materials, and a water supply is at the job site;
• The mowing of dead or dried grass with power-driven equipment is not allowed between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. This restriction does not include mowing of green lawns, or equipment used for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops;
• Motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, will be allowed only on improved roads free of flammable vegetation. One shovel and one gallon of water, or one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher, is required while traveling.
• Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required while traveling, except on state highways, county roads and driveways: one shovel and one gallon of water or one 2½ pound or larger fire extinguisher. As noted above, all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one 2½ pound or larger fire extinguisher.

• Any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine use not specifically mentioned is not allowed between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. during moderate fire danger. Use of any spark-emitting internal combustion engine is allowed outside of this time frame only if the work site is cleared of potentially flammable vegetation and other materials and a water supply is at the job site;
• 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.

Under Industrial Fire Precaution Level I (one), which pertains to industrial operations and is separate from public regulations, 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 Southwest Oregon District’s fire season public restrictions, 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

Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.

Douglas Forest Protective Association: Public use restriction level change: Low; IFPL change to Level 1

September 25, 2023

JOINT NEWS RELEASE: Effective at 12:01 pm / NOON today, on Sunday, September 24, 2023, Public Restriction Levels will change to LOW for all private, county, state, and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands within the Douglas District. The Roseburg District BLM (BLM) is included in the fire season declaration, which imposes certain fire restrictions on the public and industrial operators to help prevent wildfires and have specific Fire Prevention Orders or other public use restrictions on the BLM-administered lands.

For further information on the BLM-managed lands, please visit: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire.

IFPL (Industrial Fire Precaution Level) levels within the Douglas District will also change to IFPL LEVEL 1, in regulated use area (s) DG-1, DG-2, UA-1, UA-2, and all forestland within one-eighth mile thereof.  

What does this change mean to the public?

Non-industrial power saw usage, cutting, grinding, or welding of metal, cutting, trimming, or mowing of dried, cured grass, power-driven machinery for non-industrial improvement or development on private property is allowed ALL DAY.

Off-Road Driving Allowed with Landowner Permission for Motor Vehicles including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, are only allowed on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except for the cultivation and harvest of agricultural crops. In addition, each passenger vehicle traveling on forestlands, except on state highways, county roads, and driveways must have an axe, a shovel and one gallon of water or a 2 ½ pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher. ATV’s must have a 2 ½ pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher.

Debris Burning- including debris piles and burn barrels are PROHIBITED at all times.

What restrictions does IFPL1, Industrial Fire Precaution Level 1 place on industries:

Under Industrial Fire Precaution Level 1, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless such use is in compliance with the following:

All applicable fire prevention requirements of ORS Chapter 477 and OAR Chapter 629 Divisions 41 to 43.

For more information, visit www.dfpa.net,

call the office at (541) 672-6507.

Central Oregon District moves down to moderate fire danger

September 22, 2023

Prineville, Ore. – Starting this Friday (September 22) at 12:01 a.m., the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will move down to a “Moderate” fire danger level and additional restrictions under Regulated Use Closure will be terminated for all lands protected by the district. In addition, the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will change to I (one) for MH-4 in Hood River County (west of Hwy 35) and for MH-1 (east of Hwy 35 in Hood River and Wasco Counties).

While conditions have dropped to Moderate fire danger, backyard debris burning continues to be prohibited on ODF-protected lands within Central Oregon District.

Under IFPL I (one), on ODF protected lands in Hood River and Wasco counties, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless such use is following fire prevention requirements.

In addition, the fire watch requirement for this level is reduced from a minimum of three hours to a minimum of one hour during breaks and at the end of the operation period.

Although there is rain in the forecast, Central Oregon District remains in fire season. As such, we encourage the public to be mindful of activities that could cause a wildfire, as conditions can vary across the district.

Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the various fire risks. Check the full list of restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org

Juniper Creek Fire Cause release; A reminder on wildfire prevention

September 15, 2023

Sisters, Ore. – Preliminary findings in the Juniper Creek Fire investigation indicate that the fire cause was consistent with target shooting. The Juniper Creek Fire started August 20, 2023, and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) contained it at 106 acres.

The responsible party took several safety precautions while shooting on their property.  Nevertheless, a bullet fragment appears to have ignited the fire. With how dry the conditions were, the fuels were extremely receptive to ignition sources. As soon as the fire was noticed, it was reported to 911.

“This is a great learning opportunity to show that no matter how many precautions you take, you can still accidentally start a wildfire,” said Ben Duda, Sisters Wildland Fire Supervisor. “We’re grateful that the responsible party reacted quickly and called 911. Without that fast reporting, ODF wouldn’t have been able to catch the fire as quickly and keep it small.”

ODF wants to remind people that the risk of wildfire is still very present across the state. Even with cooler weather, the state has not experienced any season-ending changes in weather. No matter how many precautions you take, the best way to prevent wildfires is to not engage in activities that could start one. Check local fire regulations at www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx and find wildfire prevention tips at www.keeporegongreen.org.

If you do find that a fire has started, do not hesitate to call 911. Quick reporting leads to quick response and helps to keep the fire small.

IFPL reduced in ODF Central Oregon District

September 1, 2023

The Dalles, Ore. – As of Monday, September 4, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. ODF’s The Dalles Unit will be reducing industrial fire precaution level (IFPL) to an IFPL II (two) for MH-1 and MH-4 (Hood River and Wasco County). The Central Oregon District is in High Fire Danger and the burn ban and Regulated Use Closure on ODF-protected lands and all fire districts in Hood River and Wasco County remains in effect.

Under IFPL II, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless such use is in compliance with the following:

Limited Shutdown: The following activities are not permitted between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., except as noted:

1. Power saws, except power saws may operate at loading sites;
2. Feller-bunchers with rotary head saws;
3. Cable yarding
4. Blasting
5. Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal

In addition, the fire watch requirement for this level is reduced from a minimum of three hours to a minimum of two hours during breaks and at the end of the operation period.

The department is urging Oregonians to remain vigilant when it comes to wildfire prevention. We understand that areas across the Central Oregon District have received a little bit of rainfall, however it is not enough to prevent wildfires. There is still a decent amount of summer left and fuel conditions remain extremely dry. Go to the website below or call your local fire district or ODF office to find out local restrictions.

Oregon is currently in a Preparedness Level 5, which is the highest level of wildland fire activity. Firefighters and resources are stretched thin, meaning the less human-caused fires there are to respond to the less our resources are strained.

For more information on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org. For information on the Central Oregon District, including current restrictions in effect, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/.

Northeast Oregon Department of Forestry Lowers Fire Restrictions to Moderate, Fire Season Remains in Effect

August 30, 2023

As of 12:01 a.m., August 31, 2023, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has officially reduced fire restrictions in the Northeast Oregon District from high to moderate. This change comes in response to recent favorable weather conditions across our region, including cooler temperatures and increased precipitation. While this adjustment allows for some relief in public use fire restrictions, residents and visitors must remain vigilant and adaptable in the face of evolving fire conditions.

Despite the easing of Public Use fire restrictions, the Fire Season remains in effect for private, state, county, municipal, and tribal lands under the protection of the Oregon Department of Forestry. The following guidelines are now in place:

1. Campfires Allowed with Landowner Permission: Campfires are now permitted with landowner permission. However, ensuring that campfires are always attended to and extinguished adequately before leaving is crucial.
   • 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.

PROHIBTED:

1. Debris Burning and Burn Barrels: All open debris burning and burn barrels are prohibited until further notice.
2. Use of exploding targets.
3. Use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base.
4. Use of sky lanterns throughout the year in Oregon.

The Northeast Oregon District encompasses lands in Union, Baker, Umatilla, Wallowa, and small portions of Grant, Morrow, and Malheur counties. It’s important to note that fire restrictions may vary on lands protected by rural fire departments or managed by the US Forest Service or BLM (Bureau of Land Management).

More information on fire restrictions can be found on the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center website at www.bmidc.org. For more information on fire prevention restrictions in the Northeast Oregon District, call (541)975-3027.

In a fire emergency, promptly report it to the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center at (541) 963-7171 or dial 9-1-1. Stay informed about current fire-related updates in the Blue Mountains by visiting http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/.

The Oregon Department of Forestry appreciates the cooperation and vigilance of the public in helping to ensure the safety of our communities during this fire season.

Oregon Department of Forestry Firefighters Work Hard to Protect Lives and Prevent Another “Blow Up Day”

August 24, 2023

This aerial photograph shows the smoke rising from the Gales Creek area Aug. 24, 1933, looking northwest from the Willamette Valley. The top of the plume rose to 40,000 feet. The event would become known as the Tillamook Burn and eventually helped create Oregon’s state forests in 1973.

TILLAMOOK, Ore—On Aug. 24, 1933, the skies west of Portland were darkened by an enormous smoke column more than 40,000 feet high as a fire that had started in the headwaters of Gales Creek grew into what would become known as the Tillamook Burn. The initial fire that had grown to 40,230 acres over 10 days, suddenly grew an additional 268,800 acres in only 20 hours. Fueled by low humidity and gale force east winds, this rapid expansion became known as “blow up day.”  This devastating event, along with three subsequent fires spaced six years apart, helped raise awareness of wildfire dangers and led to a massive forest restoration effort by many groups of Oregonians, who planted more than 72 million seedlings. Over the following decades, more than a billion seeds were dispersed by helicopters too.

Finally in 1973, both the Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests were dedicated by Governor Tom McCall.

Today the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) manages 760,000 acres of state forestlands and provides forest fire protection and suppression on state forestlands and much of Oregon’s private forestland.

“Our goal is to find fires as early as possible and put them out quickly,” said Ron Graham, ODF’s Deputy Chief of Fire Operations.  “This year our people and partners are doing an amazing job keeping large fires off the landscape.  We always put safety first and so far this fire season, no members of the public have lost their life because of wildfire. We’ve been successful in controlling fires near populated areas that have the potential to destroy a lot of homes.  We recognize the hardship some folks face who have lost their houses but there could have been a lot more lost if we didn’t react quickly and get on top of many fires that had to potential to devastate nearby communities.”

To date ODF has detected and responded to 671 fires limiting the burned areas to 4,757 acres on ODF protected lands that include the state forests.

“We are doing well due to three main factors: our highly professional and dedicated people, close partnerships, and funding for critical firefighting assets and equipment,” said Graham.  “Our people are amazing—they are doing dangerous, hard, but important work.  They put in 16-hour days and may not see family and friends for weeks.  They are truly the heroes of this effort.  They are not the only heroes—our federal, state, local and private partners are in this fight with us, and these strong relationships help us support each other efficiently, quickly, and effectively to attack these fires.”

The final piece to successful wildland firefighting is having the right tools and equipment.

“The state legislators have supported us with absolutely critical firefighting aircraft through the Special Purpose Appropriation (SPA) funded aircraft program,” said Graham.  “These aircraft allow ODF to contain fires until firefighters arrive on the ground to suppress the fire.”

Many Oregonians express their support and ask what they can do to support ODF’s and other agencies’ firefighters.

“The best thing they can do are to follow all fire restrictions and help prevent wildfires from starting,” said Graham.  “Of the 705 fires on ODF protected land, 611 were human caused.  The other 94 were started by lightning.  Amazingly more than 86 percent of these fires can be prevented.  We ask everyone to follow state and local fire restrictions, and more importantly just care enough about your neighbor and our valuable forests to do the right thing—do your part to prevent these fires.”

For more information on fire prevention, fire information and Oregon State Forests visit the ODF website.

Certified Burn Manager Program now accepting applications

August 17, 2023

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Certified Burn Manager (CBM) Program is now accepting applications for both burn managers and qualified training providers. The overall purpose of the program is to reduce barriers to prescribed fire in Oregon and protect certified burn managers and landowners from civil liability.

The program, created by Senate Bill 762 (2021), increases capacity for prescribed burns on non-federal, ODF-protected lands through leadership training and a certification program. Through the certification program, individuals seeking to become burn managers learn how to properly plan and oversee a prescribed burn.

When a landowner or community within an ODF protection district uses a certified burn manager, and follows the required burn plan, it protects both from civil liability. The certified burn manager can manage a burn anywhere within ODF protection, whether on their own property or that of other landowners. A potential burn manager does not need to be a landowner to become certified.

Expanding access to safely conducted prescribed burns benefits Oregonians by maintaining healthy forests and reducing risks to public safety. Reintroducing periodic fire to fire-adapted landscapes reduces the potential for high-intensity wildfires along with the huge volume of smoke they produce.

ODF is seeking applications from individuals interested in becoming certified burn managers and training providers with experience creating and delivering wildland fire training to deliver content based upon a detailed certified burn manager instructor guide and final exam provided by ODF. Apply online at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/prescribed-fire.aspx.

Fire danger level, IFPL increases in Clackamas and Marion counties

August 11, 2023

Clackamas and Marion Counties, Ore. – Due to dry vegetation and hot conditions, the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Clackamas and Marion counties will increase to “extreme” (red) at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 13, 2023, and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will increase to Level 3 (three).

The change in restrictions will affect ODF North Cascade District protected lands. A full description of all fire season restrictions is available at www.oregon.gov/odf/fire. Counties and local fire departments may have additional restrictions in place. Check restrictions in your local area to help prevent wildfires.

Beginning Sunday morning at 12:01 a.m., the following public fire restrictions will take effect:

• The use of power saws is prohibited, excluding electric chainsaws.
• The cutting, grinding, and welding of metal is prohibited.
• Mowing dry or dead grass is prohibited.
• The operation of any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine not specifically mentioned above is prohibited.

The following fire prevention regulations are currently in effect and will remain in effect until the fire danger level drops significantly:

• Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, boats on the water, and designated locations.
• Debris burning, including the use of burn barrels, is prohibited.
• Open fires, including campfires, charcoal, cooking, and warming fires, are prohibited.  In other locations clear of vegetation, portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.
• Fireworks on or within 1/8^th of a mile of ODF-protected land are prohibited.
• The use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base is prohibited.
• Motor vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, may only be used on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except when used for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
• Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required while traveling, except on state highways, county roads and driveways: one shovel and one gallon of water or one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher. All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher.

Under IFPL III, the following are prohibited between 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.:

• Power saws at loading sites;
• Loading or hauling of any product or material;
• Blasting;
• Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal;
• Any other spark-emitting operation not specifically mentioned.

In addition, the following are permitted to operate overnight to the morning, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., where mechanized equipment capable of constructing fire line is immediately available to quickly reach and effectively attack a fire start:

• Ground-based operations (tractor/skidder, feller-buncher, forwarder, or shovel logging operations);
• Power saws on ground-based operations;
• Rotary head saw feller-bunchers with a continuous Firewatch;
• Non-rotary head saw feller-bunchers;
• Tethered logging – winch-assisted, cable-assisted, traction-assisted, etc. systems, which enable ground- based timber harvesting machines to operate on steep slopes.

This is considered a restricted shutdown and the following activities are not permitted at any time, except as noted:

• Cable yarding systems, except that gravity operated logging systems using non-motorized carriages or approved motorized carriages may operate between 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., when all blocks and moving lines are suspended at least 10 feet above the ground (except the line between the carriage and the chokers).

In addition, under ORS 477.665 and OAR 629-043-0030, the fire watch requirement for this level is reduced from a minimum of three hours to a minimum of two hours during breaks and at the end of the operation period.

Central Oregon District prepares for lightning

August 4, 2023

Prineville, Ore. – With lightning events forecasted through the weekend, the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District is preparing for potential fire activity. In certain parts of the state, the lightning has already begun.

In John Day, the local unit responded to four lightning fires that were reported between 4:30 pm and 6pm.  Aggressive initial attack and helpful rain showers caught all four fires at less than 0.1 of an acre.

In preparation for the weekend, the district has adjusted schedules and strategically moved engines to make sure there is consistent coverage as fires emerge. Additional severity resources have also been activated including a strike team of ODF engines from Western Oregon, dozers, and ODF fire crews. Early detection is key during these events so ODF’s night flying multi-mission aircraft with infrared has been strategically based in Prineville and smoke detection cameras are fully operational.

It is imperative that Oregonians practice wildfire prevention this weekend. With an expectation for a lot of lightning, the district anticipates using majority of its resources to keep fire perimeters small. The less avoidable, human-caused fires we have, the less our resources are strained, and the less our firefighters are fatigued.

For wildfire prevention tips, visit www.keeporegongreen.org. Check your regulated use closures at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

Northeast Oregon District enters Extreme Fire Danger

August 3, 2023

La Grande, OR – As we enter the peak of summer, the Oregon Department of Forestry-Northeast Oregon District (ODF) must address the changing weather conditions and their potential impact on fire safety in the region. The recent weather patterns have brought about a significant increase in temperatures and dryness, necessitating the implementation of enhanced public use restrictions on lands protected by ODF. Fire managers’ measurements to estimate seasonal fire severity indicate extreme fire conditions across the region. “This decision is not taken lightly and is based on comprehensive assessments by our experienced fire management teams. These assessments have indicated extreme regional fire conditions, necessitating precautionary measures to prevent potential fire outbreaks,” said Matt Hoehna, Assistant District Forester.

Effective at 12:01 a.m. August 4, 2023, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has added additional restrictions to the Public Use Restrictions for lands within the Northeast Oregon District. This declaration places fire prevention restrictions on landowners and the public. The Regulated Use Closure affects private, state, county, municipal, and tribal lands in seven counties:  Union, Baker, Wallowa, Umatilla, and small portions of Malheur, Grant, and Morrow Counties.

The Public Use Restrictions (Regulated Use Closure) Extreme include the following fire prevention measures:

PROHIBITED

• All open debris burning including the use of burn barrels.
• Open fires, 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.
• Use of fireworks.
• Use of exploding targets.
• Use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base.
• Non-industrial chainsaw use.
  • Electric Chainsaws are allowed all day.
• Cutting, grinding, and welding of metal.
• Mowing dried and cured grass with power driven equipment, except for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
  • Electric string trimmers are allowed all day.
• Smoking while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, or at a cleared area free of flammable vegetation.
• 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 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.
• Use of sky lanterns throughout the year in Oregon.

We kindly request your cooperation and compliance with these restrictions. Additionally, we encourage you to remain vigilant and report any signs of fire or smoke immediately to the appropriate authorities.

These restrictions shall remain in effect until replaced, suspended, or terminated by additional proclamations.

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.  The Northeast Oregon Fire Prevention line is (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/

To report a fire, call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541) 963-7171 or dial 9-1-1.

Fire Danger Level, IFPL Increases in Jackson and Josephine Counties

July 28, 2023

The change in restrictions will affect ODF Southwest Oregon District-protected lands

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 28, 2023) – Due to dry vegetation, hot conditions, and numerous active fires in the region, the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Jackson and Josephine counties will increase to “extreme” (red) at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, July 29, 2023, and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will increase to Level 3 (three). These regulations impact 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management lands protected by ODF’s Southwest Oregon District.

Beginning Saturday morning at 12:01 a.m., the following public fire restrictions will take effect:

• The use of power saws is prohibited, excluding electric chainsaws.
• The cutting, grinding and welding of metal is prohibited.
• The mowing of dry or dead grass is prohibited.
• The operation of any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine not specifically mentioned above is prohibited.

The following fire prevention regulations are currently in effect and will remain in effect until the fire danger level drops significantly:

• Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, and designated locations.
• Debris burning, including the use of burn barrels, is prohibited.
• Open fires are prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except in approved fire rings at designated campgrounds.  In other locations clear of vegetation, portable cooking stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels are allowed.
• Fireworks on or within 1/8^th of a mile of ODF-protected land are prohibited.
• Any electric fence controller in use shall be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or be certified by the Department of Consumer and Business Services; and operated in compliance with the manufacturer’s fire-safe instructions.
• The use of exploding targets is prohibited.
• The use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base is prohibited.
• Motor vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, may only be used on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except when used for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
• Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required while traveling, except on state highways, county roads and driveways: one shovel and one gallon of water or one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher. All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher.

Under IFPL III, the following are prohibited between 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.:

• Power saws at loading sites;
• Loading or hauling of any product or material;
• Blasting;
• Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal;
• Any other spark emitting operation not specifically mentioned.

In addition, the following are permitted to operate overnight to the morning, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., where mechanized equipment capable of constructing fire line is immediately available to quickly reach and effectively attack a fire start:

• Ground-based operations (tractor/skidder, feller-buncher, forwarder, or shovel logging operations);
• Power saws on ground-based operations;
• Rotary head saw feller-bunchers with a continuous Firewatch;
• Non-rotary head saw feller-bunchers;
• Tethered logging – winch-assisted, cable-assisted, traction-assisted, etc. systems, which enable ground- based timber harvesting machines to operate on steep slopes.

This is considered a restricted shutdown and the following activities are not permitted at any time, except as noted:

• Cable yarding systems, except that gravity operated logging systems using non-motorized carriages or approved motorized carriages may operate between 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., when all blocks and moving lines are suspended at least 10 feet above the ground (except the line between the carriage and the chokers).

In addition, pursuant to ORS 477.665 and OAR 629-043-0030, the fire watch requirement for this level is reduced from a minimum of three hours to a minimum of two hours during breaks and at the end of the operation period.

For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District’s fire season restrictions, visit our website, www.swofire.com or our Facebook page @ODF Southwest Oregon District.

Additional Fire Precautions in place for Central Oregon District

July 20, 2023

Prineville, Ore. – Starting this Thursday (July 20) at 12:01 a.m., additional fire precaution orders will be applied to all lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Prineville and John Day Units. In addition, the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will change to III (three) for MH-4 in Hood River County (west of Hwy 35). MH-1 went to an IFPL III (three) on July 10^th. The district’s fire danger level will also be moving up to “Extreme”.

“With high temperatures forecasted, the district is issuing extra fire prevention restrictions to counteract the current conditions.” Rob Pentzer, Central Oregon District Forester, said. “The Central Oregon area, along with most of the state, has experienced several red flag warnings as of recent, meaning that the area has an increased risk of fire danger due to the weather.”

With that in mind, the Central Oregon District restricts the following industrial operations within the Prineville and John Day area:

• Mechanized Harvesters with High-Speed Rotary Saws
• Chainsaws
• Tracked Felling or Skidding Equipment
• Slash Buster/Mastication Equipment
• Cable Yarding Systems

Under IFPL III (three), on ODF protected lands in Hood River and Wasco counties, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless such use is in compliance with the following:

Restricted Shutdown: The following activities are not permitted at any time, except as noted:

• Cable yarding systems, except that gravity operated logging systems using non-motorized carriages or approved motorized carriages may operate between 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., when all blocks and moving lines are suspended at least 10 feet above the ground (except the line between the carriage and the chokers).

The following are permitted to operate between the hours of 8 P.M. and 1 P.M.:

• Power saws at loading sites;
• Loading or hauling of any product or material;
• Blasting;
• Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal;
• Any other spark emitting operation not specifically mentioned.

In addition, the following are permitted to operate between the hours of 8 P.M. and 1 P.M. where mechanized equipment capable of constructing fire line is immediately available to quickly reach and effectively attack a fire start:

• Ground-based operations (tractor/skidder, feller-buncher, forwarder, or shovel logging operations);
• Power saws on ground-based operations;
• Rotary head saw feller-bunchers with a continuous Firewatch;
• Non-rotary head saw feller-bunchers;
• Tethered logging – winch-assisted, cable-assisted, traction-assisted, etc. systems, which enable ground-based timber harvesting machines to operate on steep slopes.

The fire watch requirement for this level is reduced from a minimum of three hours to a minimum of two hours during breaks and at the end of the operation period. Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the various fire risks. Check the full list of restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org

Practice wildfire prevention as fire season heats up

July 20, 2023

Salem, OR—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) wants to remind Oregonians to stay vigilant this fire season. Over the last several weeks, the department has recognized an uptick in human-caused wildfires. ODF hopes that with understanding and cooperation, human-caused fires do not continue progressing.

With dry fuels, higher temperatures and low humidity, now is the time for Oregonians to actively practice wildfire prevention.

“We all need to do our part to prevent wildfires from starting throughout the year, but right now everyone needs to be extremely careful,” says ODF Fire Protection Chief, Mike Shaw. “With the current conditions, just one spark, cigarette, or open flame could result in Oregon’s next wildfire. Preventing fires from starting helps protect our firefighters and communities from the health, safety, and economic impacts of wildfires and smoke.”

What does actively practicing wildfire prevention mean? It means:

• Check your local fire regulations. Public use and industry restrictions are put in place to help prevent wildfires. By following these regulations, you can help reduce the risk of a human-caused wildfires.
• Recreate responsibly. If allowed, only build campfires in approved campgrounds and make sure your campfire is OUT COLD before leaving. If campfires are banned, consider using a camp stove.
• Check your vehicle. Servicing your car regularly helps reduce the risk of a faulty part throwing sparks into dry grass while you’re driving. Also, make sure to not park or idle over dry grass if you pullover. The heat from your undercarriage or exhaust could ignite the grass below.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand. We recommend keeping one in your car just in case you need it while travelling.
• Don’t burn debris. Debris burning is prohibited across Oregon during fire season.

Public and industry fire restrictions are placed for a reason.

Fires in the outdoors start for several reasons (vehicles, campfires, smoking, cutting, grinding and welding metal, power saw use, fireworks, electric fences, mowing dry grass, etc). Years of research has found that these activities are prone to start fires when vegetation dries out, humidity drops, and temperatures rise.

Based on these studies, fire professionals impose fire restrictions to alert the public and forest workers of these dangers. Check with your local wildland fire protection agency or rural fire district for restrictions specific to your area.

Currently, the state remains between moderate and extreme fire danger, depending on where you are. Remember, human-caused wildfires can be prevented. It only takes a minute to curb your actions before disaster strikes.

Visit Oregon.gov/odf to find local fire restrictions and keeporegongreen.org for more wildfire prevention tips.

Douglas Forest Protective Association: PUBLIC USE RESTRICTION LEVEL CHANGE: HIGH; IFPL CHANGE: LEVEL 2

July 18, 2023

JOINT NEWS RELEASE: Effective Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 12:01 am, Public Restriction Levels will change to HIGH for all private, county, state, and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands within the Douglas District. The Roseburg District BLM (BLM) is included in the fire season declaration, which imposes certain fire restrictions on the public and industrial operators to help prevent wildfires and has specific Fire Prevention Orders or other public use restrictions on the BLM-administered lands.

For further information on BLM-managed lands, please visit https://www.blm.gov/orwafire.

IFPL (Industrial Fire Precaution Level) levels within the Douglas District will also change to IFPL LEVEL 2, in regulated use area (s) DG-1, DG-2, UA-1, UA-2, and all forestland within one-eighth mile thereof.

What does this change mean to the public?
Non-industrial power saw usage, cutting, grinding, or welding of metal, cutting, trimming, or mowing of dried, cured grass, power-driven machinery for non-industrial improvement or development on private property will only be allowed BEFORE 10 AM or AFTER 8 PM.
What restrictions does IFPL2, Industrial Fire Precaution Level 2 place on industries:

Under Industrial Fire Precaution Level 2, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless such use is in compliance with the following:
Limited Shutdown: The following activities may only operate between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., except as noted.

1. Power saws, except power saws may operate at loading sites all-day
2. Feller-bunchers with rotary head saws
3. Cable yarding
4. Blasting
5. Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal

The State Forester or an authorized representative may, in writing, approve a modification or waiver of these requirements.
These restrictions shall remain in effect until replaced or terminated by an additional Closedown Order of the State Forester or an authorized representative.

Maps of the subject area may be viewed at the State Forester’s Office, in Salem, Oregon, and at principal offices of the Forest Protection District.
Definitions of words and phrases used in this proclamation may be found in ORS 477.001, OAR 629-041-0005. For more information, visit www.dfpa.net , check out our social media, FB: douglasforestprotectiveassociation, Insta: @douglasfpa, or call the office (541) 672-6507.

Fire danger level increases to high in Western Lane and South Cascade ODF District

July 3, 2023

Eugene, Ore.  – Due to high winds, low relative humidity, and high temperatures, the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Western Lane and South Cascades Districts will increase to “High” (yellow) on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. This affects approximately 1.9 million acres of state, private, county and Bureau of Land Management lands in Lane, Linn and portions of Douglas County.

Any spark has the potential to start a wildfire. Dry conditions in the districts make it that much easier for a fire to catch and spread. Residents and travelers need to be vigilant when it comes to wildfire prevention. This means not parking over dried grass, responsible and legal use of fireworks, recreating responsibly and following local restrictions.

The primary difference between current fire prevention restrictions and those beginning on Tuesday affects the public use of power-driven equipment, such as chain saws, mowers, weed eaters, and more. The use of power-driven equipment, grinding, cutting of metal, and other spark-emitting equipment, such as wood splitters and generators, will be prohibited between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. This does not apply to mowing green lawns.

Other fire prevention regulations which will remain in effect, include:

• No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels
• No fireworks on or within 1/8^th 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 only in approved designated locations. Portable stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels may be used in other locations that are clear of dry vegetation
• Motorized vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain, are allowed only on improved roads; one shovel and one gallon of water, or one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher, is required while traveling
• Smoking while traveling will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other specifically designated locations
• The mowing of dead or dried grass with power-driven equipment is not allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high fire danger.

Again, ODF urges Oregonians to be responsible this summer and actively practice wildfire prevention. For the full list of restrictions, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx. For more wildfire prevention tips, visit keeporegongreen.org.

Northeast Oregon public restricts implemented on ODF protected lands as wildfire risk increase

July 3, 2023

La Grande, OR – Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Northeast Oregon District will implement Regulated-Use Closure Monday, July 3rd, 2023 @ 12:01 a.m.  Fire danger is increasing in northeast Oregon. The weather is changing to a typical summer pattern of warmer and drier conditions.  This declaration is initiated to prevent or minimize human-caused wildfires and protect natural resources, public health and safety, and the rising fire danger and fuel conditions.  The public is urged to use caution in dry, cured vegetation areas.  Matt Howard, District Forester, states, “Normal summer weather is forecast for the foreseeable future.

It’s easy to be complacent at the beginning of summer, but fuel conditions and weather will change rapidly.  We need everyone to use caution, check regulations before heading out, and please watch for fires while you are recreating.”

Effective at 12:01 a.m.  July 03, 2023, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has added additional restrictions to the Public Use Restrictions for lands within the Northeast Oregon District.  This declaration places fire prevention restrictions on landowners and the public.  The Regulated Use Closure 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 protected acres.

The Public Use Restrictions (Regulated Use Closure) include the following fire prevention measures:

• Open fires, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires, and warming fires, are allowed with landowner permission during low and moderate fire danger.  Campfires are only allowed in designated locations during high fire danger and prohibited entirely during extreme fire danger.
  • 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.
  • 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.
• Non-industrial chainsaw use is allowed all day during low and moderate fire danger. Chainsaw use is prohibited between noon and 8:00 pm during high fire danger and prohibited entirely during extreme fire danger.
  • When allowed, the following firefighting equipment must be 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.
  • Electric chainsaws are allowed all day.
• The use of fireworks is prohibited during high and extreme fire danger.

•  Mowing of dried and cured grass with power driven equipment is allowed all day during low and moderate fire danger. Except for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops, this activity is prohibited between noon and 8:00 pm during high fire danger and prohibited entirely during extreme fire danger.
  • The use of electric string trimmers are allowed all day.
• Cutting, grinding, and welding of metal is allowed all day during low and moderate fire danger. This activity is prohibited between noon and 8:00 pm during high fire danger and prohibited entirely during extreme fire danger. When allowed, cutting, grinding, and welding of metal must be conducted in a 10-foot area cleared of flammable vegetation. In addition, a shovel or other firefighting tool, minimum of 1-gallon of water, or 2 ½ pound or larger fire extinguisher must be immediately available.
• 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 manufacturer’s instructions.
• Smoking is prohibited during high and extreme fire danger while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, or at a cleared area free of flammable vegetation.
• Possession of the following firefighting equipment is required during high and extreme fire danger 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.
• Use of sky lanterns are prohibited throughout the year in Oregon.

Aside from these restrictions, the following is restricted or prohibited during fire season.

• The use of exploding targets and tracer ammunition.
• The use of tracer ammunition or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base is prohibited.
• A burn permit is required for all open debris burning and use of burn barrels during low and moderate fire danger. Contact your local ODF office.
• All open debris burning, and use of burn barrels is prohibited during high and extreme fire danger.

These restrictions shall remain in effect until replaced, suspended, or terminated by additional proclamations.

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 https://www.bmidc.org.  The Northeast Oregon Fire Prevention line is (541) 975-3027.

http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/ is your spot for current fire information in the Blue Mountains.

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To report a fire, call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541) 963-7171 or dial 9-1-1.