FIRE RESTRICTIONS: - Fire Season terminated 12:01 p.m. October 24, 2022.
FIRE RESTRICTIONS: - Regulated Closure Terminated for October 14, 2022
IFPL Map MH1 IFPL: - IFPL not in effect MH4 IFPL: - IFPL not in effect
ADDITIONAL INDUSTRIAL FIRE PRECAUTIONS: - Terminated for John Day and Prineville Units

Thursday, July 13, 2017

Wildfire Season and the Great American Eclipse

During the peak of fire season, on August 21st, central Oregon will experience the Great American Eclipse.  The path of totality will cut across Oregon Department of Forestry’s Central Oregon District, impacting each of the three units.  Visitor estimates range greatly, but one thing we are certain of is that there will be an influx of people in the area, typically resulting in an increase in human caused fires.

For the past year the District has been coordinating with our partners in preparation for the event, focusing on what role each entity will fill.  Our partners include federal, state, and local government agencies as well local fire departments and non-governmental organizations.  Working with our partners we will be able to coordinate the response in an efficient manner, and supporting our partners in their efforts as well.  The most important tool we have available right now is communication, both between our partners and with the public.  Currently we are focusing our efforts on fire prevention in hopes that landowners and the public will be vigilant and thoughtful in their activities to reduce human caused wildfires. While we can plan for the eclipse, it is impossible for us to know where a wildfire might occur.  As the time nears we will have more definitive plans based on the conditions and needs that are identified including additional aerial resources and firefighters. 

The Central Oregon District will be participating in the complete and coordinated effort to protect forestland and natural resources throughout fire season.  If you have any questions about fire season restrictions or eclipse preparation in your area please call your local ODF Office:

  • John Day—541-575-1139   
  • Prineville—541-447-5658   
  • The Dalles—541-296-4626
Continue to monitor this site, along with our Twitter Feed (@ODF_COD) and Facebook (facebook.com/ODFCentralOregon) for wildfire information leading up to and during the 2017 Solar Eclipse.

Check out these resources as well from other state agencies who are busy preparing for the eclipse:


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