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

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

 Hood River-Wasco Counties Forestland Classification Committee

 -Public Meeting-

The Hood River-Wasco Counties Forestland Classification Committee has called a public meeting at the following time and location.

DATE:                        Wednesday October 27, 2021

TIME:                         12:00 P.M.-2:00 P.M. 

LOCATION:               VIRTUAL MEETING

                                    The public is welcome to attend via Zoom videoconference at the following:

                                    https://odf.zoom.us/j/93754386244

Phone # if computer audio is not working:

                                    1-669-900-6833 or 1-253-215-8782

Meeting ID: 937 5438 6244

The purpose of this meeting is to review draft classification mapping and plan for public outreach meetings and formal hearings to finalize the classification process in Hood River and Wasco counties.  This Committee review determines lands that may be classified as “Forestland” (ORS 477.001(9)) which determines what lands are protected from wildfire by the Oregon Department of Forestry. 

 

Kristin Dodd

Forestland Classification Committee Secretary

Thursday, October 14, 2021

Fire Season Ends for ODF’s Central Oregon District

[Prineville, Ore.]  Fire Season in Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will terminate at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, October 16, 2021.  Burning of slash piles or other debris from forest operations or fuels treatment projects will not be permitted until additional precipitation is received.  Cooler fall temperatures and periodic moisture has reduced fire behavior and improved fuel conditions across the District.

“Ending Fire Season doesn’t mean there isn’t a risk of wildfire,” emphasizes Frank Jones, Wildland Fire Supervisor in Prineville. “People need to be careful if they are burning, or engaging in any other activity that could spark a fire.  This is the time to be attentive and cautious.”   

Human caused fires account for 62% (72 fires) of the fires in the Central Oregon District this year, this is 110% of the ten-year average.  Typically, there is an increase in human caused fires just before the start of Fire Season, and just after Fire Season ends.  These uncontrolled fires are often linked to careless debris burning or burning in windy conditions and abandoned campfires.   

With the termination of fire season, burning yard debris and the use of burn barrels is allowed, however these fires should be kept small, and any surrounding fuel should be cleared away to reduce potential spread.  A fire tool, such as a shovel, and water or a fire extinguisher should be available to help control the fire if needed.  Fires should not be left unattended, should be DEAD OUT! and cool to the touch when you leave.  Check with your local fire district for burning regulations in your area, including restrictions on campfires and recreational fires. Failure to follow burn permit instructions or burning on days when burning is not allowed may result in a citation or liability for fire suppression work. 

·        John Day Unit—Burning yard debris and burn barrels is allowed.  No permit is required from ODF, check with your local fire department to determine if they require a permit.

·        Prineville Unit (Sisters Sub-Unit)—A burn permit from ODF or your local fire department is required for burning yard debris or using a burn barrel. 

·        The Dalles Unit—A burn permit from ODF or your local fire department is required for burning yard debris or using a burn barrel. 

When burning it is important to monitor the weather and be prepared for shifting and erratic winds which may spread fire outside the burn area.    Wildfires cause damage to Oregon’s natural resources, including affecting water, soil and air quality and impact local communities.

Fire Season in the Central Oregon District began June 1st this year, lasting 137 days.  In addition to the 72 human caused wildfires which burned 2,632 acres, there were 44 wildfires caused by lightning which burned 2,432 acres. Lightning fires were 66% of the ten-year average.  Overall, 5,063 acres were burned across Central Oregon District protected lands, 58% of the ten-year average.  Eighty-five percent of the fires were contained at less than ten acres.    

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Thursday, September 30, 2021

 Regulated-Use Closure Terminated for ODF’s Central Oregon District

[Prineville, Ore.]  Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will terminate Regulated-Use Closure at 12:01 a.m. on October 1, 2021.  Fire Season remains in effect.  Burning of slash piles or other debris from forest operations is not permitted at this time.  Recent precipitation, cooler temperatures, and increased humidity has significantly reduced fire behavior and ignition potential from sparks and other heat sources, however the public is reminded to be attentive to activities which could start a wildfire.  Weather can change quickly in the fall and winds can often be erratic.

Burn barrels and burning of small piles of yard debris may be allowed by permit.  Contact your local fire department or Oregon Department of Forestry office to determine if burning is allowed or to request a permit.

Campfires, warming fires and cooking fires may be allowed with the termination of Regulated-Use Closure.  These fires should be kept small and any surrounding fuel should be cleared away to reduce potential spread.  A fire tool, such as a shovel, and water or a fire extinguisher should be available to help control the fire if needed.  Fires should not be left unattended, should be DEAD OUT! and cool to the touch when you leave.  Check with your local fire district for burning regulations in your area, including restrictions on campfires and recreational fires.

Activities such as mowing of dry grass, non-industrial chainsaw use, and cutting and grinding of metal will no longer have restrictions such as timing of activities or firewatch requirements. Fire Season restrictions banning the use of exploding targets and tracer ammunition are still in effect.  MH-1 and MH-4, ODF protected lands within Hood River and Wasco counties, are in an Industrial Fire Precaution Level 1.

Failure to follow current restrictions may result in a citation or liability for fire suppression work.  Wildfires cause damage to Oregon’s natural resources, including affecting water, soil and air quality and impact local communities. 

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including Fire Season requirements, contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

 Dates Set for Lifting Public Restrictions and Terminating Burn Bans in Hood River and Wasco Counties

The Dalles, Ore. While fire season remains in effect, Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will terminate Regulated-Use Closure at 12:01 a.m. on October 1, 2021, which includes lands in Hood River and Wasco counties.  Campfires, warming fires and cooking fires will be allowed with the termination of Regulated-Use Closure.  These fires should be kept small and any surrounding fuel should be cleared away to reduce potential spread.  A fire tool, such as a shovel, and water or a fire extinguisher should be available to help control the fire if needed.  Fires should not be left unattended, should be DEAD OUT! and cool to the touch when you leave.  Activities such as mowing of dry grass, non-industrial chainsaw use, and cutting and grinding of metal will no longer have restrictions such as timing of activities or firewatch requirements.

In addition, through coordination with the Fire Defense Board Chiefs in Hood River and Wasco counties, fire managers have established specific dates to lift the burn ban in each county.  The burn ban for Hood River County will be lifted effective October 1st, with burn barrels and small debris piles allowed by permit from daylight to 11:00 a.m.  The burn ban for Wasco County, prohibiting use of burn barrels and burning of yard debris, will be lifted effective October 16, 2021.  Contact your local fire department or Oregon Department of Forestry office to determine if burning is allowed or to request a permit.  Burning of larger slash piles or other debris from forest operations is not permitted at this time. 

Fire Season restrictions banning the use of exploding targets and tracer ammunition are still in effect.  The Industrial Fire Precaution Level remains at level 1 in MH-1 and MH-4 for forest operations on ODF protected lands within Hood River and Wasco counties.

Recent precipitation, cooler temperatures, and increased humidity has significantly reduced fire behavior and ignition potential from sparks and other heat sources, however the public is reminded to be attentive to activities which could start a wildfire.  Weather can change quickly in the fall and winds can often be erratic.  Failure to follow current restrictions may result in a citation or liability for fire suppression work.  Wildfires cause damage to Oregon’s natural resources, including affecting water, soil and air quality and impact local communities. 

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including Fire Season requirements, contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Tuesday, September 21, 2021

 Restrictions Eased on ODF Protected Lands in Central Oregon District

[Prineville, Ore.]  Regulated-Use Closure restrictions within Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will ease beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, September 22, 2021.  There will be no change to the activities restricted, including all prohibiting open fires (campfires, warming fires, and cooking fires).  The primary change to the Closure is restriction of activities such as mowing of dried grass and chainsaw use between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.  Details for all activities impacted by Fire Season and the Regulated-Use Closure are available at www.odfcentraloregon.com.

“We recognize that recent moisture and cooler temperatures has reduced fire danger across the District, however warmer than average temperatures are forecast for the next week or more with no expected precipitation,” explains Mike Shaw, District Forester.  “We want to make sure that our restrictions are focused on the timing and activities we believe have a strong potential to ignite fires.”

The lack of precipitation, combined with drought conditions and extremely dry fuels continues to keep the risk of wildfire ignition elevated even as we transition to fall.  Shorter days and increased humidity can give a false sense of reduced fire risk during these transition seasons.  Weather patterns in the fall can change rapidly with increased winds and warm afternoons after a cooler morning.  Following the Regulated-Use Closure restrictions limits potential fire ignitions from sparks or embers. 

Fire Season remains in effect, debris burning, including burn barrels, are not allowed at this time. Additionally, many counties and local fire departments have burn bans in effect.

Failure to follow current restrictions may result in a citation or liability for fire suppression work.  Wildfires cause damage to Oregon’s natural resources, including affecting water, soil and air quality and impact local communities.  These restrictions affect Central Oregon District protected lands in Crook, Deschutes, Gilliam, Grant, Hood River, Jefferson, Lake, Malheur, Morrow, Umatilla, Wasco, and Wheeler counties.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Thursday, September 16, 2021

 Fire Prevention Measures Remain:  Precipitation is Not Enough to Reduce Fire Danger

[The Dalles, Ore.]  With rain in the forecast, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) fire officials want to remind the public that both Hood River and Wasco counties still have a burn ban in place, prohibiting all open burning.  This restriction includes debris pile burning and burn barrels. Lifting of the burn ban is coordinated between ODF and Fire Districts in Hood River and Wasco counties.  Fire District officials will continue to monitor conditions, including fuel moisture levels, forecasted temperature and wind, and relative humidity.  These conditions help them to evaluate the potential for fire spread and how easily a spark might ignite nearby fuels. 

In addition to the burn ban, Fire Season and a Regulated-Use Closure are still in effect for private ownership, as well as state and municipally owned lands in Hood River and Wasco counties within ODF’s Central Oregon District.  The associated prevention measures are intended to reduce potential human caused fire ignitions in wildland fuels.  Recent rain and precipitation forecasted for later this week and weekend is not enough to eliminate the effects of long-term drought and a dry summer on vegetation and forest fuels.

“We are getting closer to loosening some of our restrictions”, commented Kristin Dodd, Unit Forester for The Dalles Unit.  “The cooler temperatures and shorter days, combined with recent precipitation definitely lessened our fire risk, but it is still too risky to open backyard burning quite yet.”  Much of the impact on fuels from last week’s rain has been lost due to wind and warm temperatures.  Large fuels especially need more moisture and flashy fuels such as grass quickly dry out and become receptive fuel beds to sparks.

The public is asked to be patient, continue following prevention measures, and limit any activities which could ignite a wildfire.  Once conditions are favorable for burning, fire officials will lift the burn ban accordingly.

In addition to restrictions on open fires, Regulated-Use Closure also prohibits smoking outside a vehicle in forest settings, and restricts chainsaw use and mowing of dried grass between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.  Details for all activities impacted by Fire Season and the Regulated-Use Closure are available at www.odfcentraloregon.com.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Monday, September 13, 2021

Fire Prevention Measures Reduced for Industrial Operations 

[Prineville, Ore.]  Fire prevention restrictions on industrial forest operations within Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District will be reduced beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, September 14th.  Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) for MH-4 and MH-1 will move to Level 2, and Additional Restrictions on industrial operations in the Prineville and John Day Units will be rescinded.  MH-4 and MH-1 includes private, state, and municipal ownership protected by ODF in Hood River and Wasco counties, within the Central Oregon District (COD) boundary.  Fire Season remains in effect, and all forest operations must follow fire season requirements for forest operations.  Included in these requirements are fire watches, spark arresters, and fire tools; the full description of fire season requirements can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/documents/fire-season-requirements-for-industrial-operations.pdf. 

MH-1 & MH-4 IFPL 2 (Limited Shutdown): The following activities are not permitted between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.:

  • Power saws, except power saws may operate at loading sites;
  • Feller-bunchers with rotary head saws;
  • Cable yarding
  • Blasting
  • Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal

More information regarding fire season requirements for industrial operations is available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/ifpl.html.

Favorable weather, including measurable precipitation and cooler temperatures, has moderated fire behavior over the last week allowing managers to reduce these restrictions.  However, long term drought effects persist in vegetation and fuels across the District.

Regulated-Use Closure remains in effect for the Central Oregon District.  Fires, including campfires, cooking fires, warming fires, and debris burning are not allowed within the district boundary. 

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 10, 2021

Contact:

Glen Ahrens
Oregon State University Extension Service

Wildfire Preparedness for Hood River County

Join OSU Extension Forestry & Natural Resources, Oregon Department of Forestry, Hood River County Emergency Management and other partners to learn about wildfire preparedness in Hood River County. This online Zoom meeting will help you:

·       Prepare your home and property to reduce risk of burning in the event of fire in your neighborhood.

·       Prepare yourself and your family for wildfire and possible evacuation.

·       Understand local emergency planning, alert systems and fire response.

·       Learn from local success stories about community-driven action to develop Firewise communities.

·       Find resources and assistance to help you prepare for wildfire

This session will build on previous OSU Extension “Fire aware. Fire prepared” webinars. Visit beav.es/FAFP to view videos and resources.

 

When: August 25, 2021 6:00-7:30 pm

Where: Online through Zoom

Cost: This meeting is free

Register: https://beav.es/39j

Email: glenn.ahrens@oregonstate.edu

Call: 503-655-8631

 

Oregon State University Extension Service prohibits discrimination in all its programs, services, activities, and materials on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, genetic information, veteran’s status, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) This publication will be made available in an accessible alternative format upon request. Please contact 503-655-8631 for information. Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Family and Community Health, 4-H Youth, Forestry   &  Natural Resources, Extension Sea Grant, and Open Campus programs. Oregon State University, United States Department of Agriculture, and Hood River County cooperating.

Friday, August 6, 2021

Firefighters Able to Secure Fires from This Week’s Thunderstorms


[John Day, Ore.]  No new fires were reported in the John Day Unit Thursday.  Significant progress was made on mop-up and containment of fires from earlier this week.

Containment for the Cottonwood Creek Fire has reached 95% on the 159-acre fire.  The fire will transition to a Type 5 incident commander Saturday.  One hand crew will complete mop-up work, gridding for hot spots.  These resources will pull hose and other equipment from the fire.  The fire will be in patrol status at the end of shift on Saturday.

The one-acre Dissel Creek Fire, reported Tuesday evening burning five miles southeast of John Day, was fully contained late Thursday evening.

Tomorrow crews on the Cole Canyon Fire will continue mop-up work, anticipating the fire to be fully contained Saturday evening.  Two crews, a water cat, and a tender will be staffing the fire.  The fire burned 150 acres of private land and Prineville Bureau of Land Management ownership.

All of these fires will be placed in patrol status and monitored until determined to be dead out.  It is possible interior smoke may be visible.  These “smokes” will be put out if they are found to have the potential to spread fire outside the fireline.

A Regulated-Use Closure is in effect for the Central Oregon District to reduce human caused fires.  The full proclamation and restrictions are available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/PFR.html.  Preventing human caused fires allows firefighters to focus suppression effort on fires started by lightning.  These focused activities result in smaller fires with less damage to natural resources and communities and fewer impacts to air quality.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Thursday, August 5, 2021

 Firefighters continue to Secure and Mop-up Fires and Prepare for More

[John Day, Ore.]  No new fires were reported in the John Day Unit Wednesday.  Extended attack on fires in the John Day Unit have been fully transitioned to mop-up.  Today this work will continue as firefighters prepare for strong winds as thunderstorms pass through the area.  Firefighting resources from these fires will be available to assist in initial attack of any new fire starts today.   

Management of the Cottonwood Creek Fire transitioned to a Type 4 incident commander Wednesday.  Crews on the fire continue to grid for smoldering fuel and extinguish hot spots as they work toward the interior of the fire from the perimeter.  Two hand crews, five wildland engines, and one water tender are assigned to the fire.  The remaining mop-up work is expected to last several more days.

Resources on the Dissel Creek Fire, reported Tuesday evening burning five miles southeast of John Day, will continue mop-up work today.  The ~1 acre fire is staffed with four engines and a squad.  The fire is anticipated to be transitioned to patrol status at the end of shift today.

Fireline construction is nearly complete on the 150-acre Cole Canyon Fire.  Yesterday helicopters and Single Engine Air Tankers were used to slow the spread of the fire, allowing hand crews to build fireline adjacent to the fire’s edge.  This work, along with mop-up in other area’s of the fire have increased containment to 25%.  Today four 20-person hand crews, two wildland engines, two water tenders, and four skidgines will work to complete the line around the fire, strengthen the existing fireline, and work to increase the cold black area between the fire and the fireline.  Aircraft is available to assist firefighters as needed. 

A red flag warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for the area for abundant lightning and gusty winds.  This weather in combination with severely dry fuels poses a high risk of rapid fire spread. 

A Regulated-Use Closure is in effect for the Central Oregon District to reduce human caused fires.  The full proclamation and restrictions are available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/PFR.html.  Preventing human caused fires allows firefighters to focus suppression effort on fires started by lightning.  These focused activities result in smaller fires with less damage to natural resources and communities and fewer impacts to air quality.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Wednesday, August 4, 2021

Dissel Creek Fire-Late Tuesday Evening
 More Fires Reported from Thunderstorms, More Expected

[John Day, Ore.]  Late Tuesday evening two new fires were reported on private land protected by Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) John Day Unit.  The Dissel Creek Fire was reported just before 6:00 p.m., burning five miles southeast of John Day.  While firefighters worked to stop the initial spread of the Dissel Creek Fire a report for a second fire, the Cole Canyon Fire, was received.  This fire is located seven miles northeast of Monument. 

The Dissel Creek Fire was 100% contained late Tuesday night with a combination of hand and dozer line around the fire’s perimeter.  A small spot across the fireline was secured by firefighters this morning.  Fire crews will work today to strengthen the perimeter and mop-up the interior of the fire, gridding through the fire to find flames and heat.  Dozers, wildland engines, helitack, a Type 4 engine from Prairie City Rural, a helicopter with bucket, and a single engine air tanker (SEAT) were used to check the fire spread at just over one acre.  An isolated lightning strike Tuesday evening ignited the Dissel Creek Fire.

This morning the Cole Canyon Fire is estimated to be 75 acres with dozer line around 50% of the fire’s edge.  Dozers will continue fireline construction today.  Three 20-person contract crews will arrive this morning to work with the dozers to strengthen the fireline and construct hand line in areas too steep for dozers to safely work.  Additional wildland engines and overhead will also be arriving this morning.  Local aircraft, a helicopter and three SEATs have been ordered for the fire this morning to assist in holding the fire in place while line is being constructed.  The fire is burning on private lands and Prineville Bureau of Land Management lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry. 

Firefighters on the Cottonwood Creek Fire, five miles south of Fossil, have made significant progress mopping-up the fire’s interior.  Containment has increased to 65% today, with plans for transitioning the fire to a Type 4 organization later this morning.  Two hand crews and four contract wildland engines remain on the fire to complete the mop-up work. 

Fire crews will be focusing work to secure fire perimeters in anticipation of a cold front moving through on Thursday.  Strong wind and additional lightning is forecast for the coming days.  Additional holdover fires from thunderstorms earlier this week are also a concern today as temperatures warm.

A Regulated-Use Closure is in effect for the Central Oregon District to reduce human caused fires.  The full proclamation and restrictions are available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/PFR.html.  Preventing human caused fires allows firefighters to focus suppression effort on fires started by lightning.  These focused activities result in smaller fires with less damage to natural resources and communities and fewer impacts to air quality.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Monday, August 2, 2021

 Cottonwood Creek Fire Update

[John Day, Ore.]  Operations across the 159 acre Cottonwood Creek Fire have fully transitioned to mop-up work.  Hoselays have been completed, with water being distributed to all parts of the fire as needed.  Containment for the fire has increased to 40% as of late Monday afternoon.  The fire was ignited by lighting from a passing thunderstorm Thursday afternoon, but was not reported until mid-day Friday.  Dozers, wildland engines, helicopters and airtankers were successful in stopping forward growth of the fire by late Friday evening.

Burning snags and “rollers” have concerned firefighters for the last several days as they worked to strengthen firelines and keep the fire within the original footprint.  “Rollers” are burning chunks of logs or other material that can ignite un-burned fuels as they roll down steep terrain.  These “rollers” and embers from the snags can create spotfires outside the fire’s edge.  The work completed by firefighters to mop-up and cool active areas of the fire, fall snags and widen the cold black adjacent to the dozer line has significantly mitigated the risk of the fire moving outside the fireline.  Firefighters will continue mop-up work on the fire, focusing on areas of active flames and gridding for heat near the fireline.

The fire is being managed by a Type 3 organization from ODF’s Central Oregon District. Ten wildland engines, five hand crews, three water tenders, and additional overhead are assigned to the fire.  Local aircraft are available as need to support firefighting activities.

A Regulated-Use Closure is in effect for the Central Oregon District to reduce human caused fires.  The closure restricts mowing of dried grass, cutting and grinding of metal, and chainsaw use between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. as well as prohibiting campfires, cooking fires and warming fires.  The full proclamation and restrictions are available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/PFR.html.  Industrial operations on forestland within the Central Oregon District also have restrictions in place.  Details for these activities are found at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/IFPL.html.  Preventing human caused fires allows firefighters to focus suppression effort on fires started by lightning.  These focused activities result in smaller fires with less damage to natural resources and communities and fewer impacts to air quality.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Sunday, August 1, 2021

 

Helicopter dropping water on a fallen snag
near the fire's perimeter on Saturday.

Cottonwood Creek Fire Update

[John Day, Ore.]  Overnight the Cottonwood Creek Fire remained within the established firelines.  Light precipitation fell across the fire but was not enough to impact fire fighting activity today.  On Saturday the fire was mapped at 159 acres with 10% containment.  The increased size is due to improved mapping by firefighters, not from fire growth.  The fire was reported mid-day Friday approximately five miles south of Fossil, burning on private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District.

Firefighters worked Saturday to reduce heat and flames near the fire’s edge and strengthening the dozer line.  Helicopters were used to cool areas of intense heat, allowing firefighters to break down larger fuels and mop-up these areas.  Snags within the fire perimeter, especially near the fire’s edge created both a hazard to firefighters and posed a risk of spreading fire across firelines into unburned fuels.  Firefighters focused on falling these snags Saturday.  A few minor slopovers occurred due to rolling burning material in steep terrain and embers from falling snags.  Firefighters were able to quickly build fireline around these areas and mop-up any heat in the area.

Today firefighters will be working to increase the area of cold black between the dozer line and areas of heat or flame.  They will be focusing in the areas of timber and heavier fuels which typically hold fire longer.  Firefighters will use tenders and hoselays to distribute water around the fire area to use in this mop-up work.  A hoselay allows firefighters to pump water from an engine or portable tank through a series of hoses to efficiently provide water to all parts of the fire.  

The fire is being managed by a Type 3 organization from ODF’s Central Oregon District. Twelve wildland engines, five hand crews, three water tenders, a dozer, and additional overhead are assigned to the fire.  Local aircraft are available as need to support firefighting activities.

A Regulated-Use Closure is in effect for the Central Oregon District to reduce human caused fires.  The closure restricts mowing of dried grass, cutting and grinding of metal, and chainsaw use between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. as well as prohibiting campfires, cooking fires and warming fires.  The full proclamation and restrictions are available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/PFR.html.  Industrial operations on forestland within the Central Oregon District also have restrictions in place.  Details for these activities are found at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/IFPL.html.  Preventing human caused fires allows firefighters to focus suppression effort on fires started by lightning.  These focused activities result in smaller fires with less damage to natural resources and communities and fewer impacts to air quality.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Saturday, July 31, 2021

Cottonwood Creek-Initial Attack July 30, 2021

 ODF:  Fire Update July 31, 2021

[John Day, Ore.]  Firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) John Day Unit responded to several lightning fires Friday and Friday night.  These fires are holdover fires from thunderstorms which passed through on Thursday.  The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for much of central and eastern Oregon beginning this afternoon for abundant lightning in combination with critically dry fuels.  These thunderstorms may come with rain, however the precipitation will not significantly reduce wildfire danger. 

The 140 acre Cottonwood Creek Fire was reported mid-day Friday burning five miles south of Fossil.  Resources from Wheeler County Fire and Rescue assisted ODF firefighters in initial attack of the incident.  By late evening firefighters had completed construction of dozer line around the perimeter of the fire.  Air tankers and helicopters were used to cool the fire and keep the fire within the fireline, allowing firefighters on the ground to strengthen the fireline and widen the “cold, black”.  Throughout the night firefighters were challenged by embers from burning trees and hot rolling material igniting spotfires outside the line in steep terrain and heavy fuels.  Firefighters successfully stopped these spotfires, minimizing fire growth.  Increasing wind and warm temperatures this afternoon has increased fire behavior within the perimeter.  A Type 3 organization from ODF’s Central Oregon District, led by Incident Commander Chris Cook, is managing the fire today.  Resources include five hand crews, eleven wildland engines, a dozer, and additional overhead.  Local aircraft are available as needed to support the suppression efforts. 

Five additional lightning fires within the John Day Unit were controlled at less than an acre.  Resources from Burns District Bureau of Land Management, Umatilla National Forest, and Malheur National Forest were critical in stopping the spread of these fires.  The cause of one new fire start from early this morning remains under investigation.

A Regulated-Use Closure is in effect for the Central Oregon District to reduce human caused fires.  The closure restricts mowing of dried grass, cutting and grinding of metal, and chainsaw use between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. as well as prohibiting campfires, cooking fires and warming fires.  The full proclamation and restrictions are available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/PFR.html.  Industrial operations on forestland within the Central Oregon District also have restrictions in place.  Details for these activities are found at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/IFPL.html.  Preventing human caused fires allows firefighters to focus suppression effort on fires started by lightning.  These focused activities result in smaller fires with less damage to natural resources and communities and fewer impacts to air quality.

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Thursday, July 15, 2021


 

ODF:  Increased Restrictions for Industrial Operations in The Dalles Unit

[Prineville, Ore.]  Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Friday July 16th Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) for MH-4 will increase to Level 3.  MH-4 includes private, state, and municipal ownership protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) west of Hwy 35 within the Central Oregon District (COD) boundary.  The intent of the increased restriction is to reduce possible fire ignition from industrial forest operations.  MH-1, ODF protected lands east of Hwy 35 within the District boundary, is currently in IFPL 3.

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). An approved motorized carriage is defined as a cable yarding system employing a motorized carriage with two fire extinguishers, each with at least a 2A:10 BC rating, mounted securely on opposite sides of the carriage, an emergency motor cutoff, and an approved exhaust system.

During IFPL 3 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.

More information regarding fire season requirements for industrial operations is available at https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/ifpl.html, or contact The Dalles Office at 541-296-4626.  

Regulated-Use Closure is in effect for the Central Oregon District.  Fireworks and campfires (including cooking fires) are not allowed within the district boundary. 

For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.

Sunday, July 11, 2021

 Wildfire Update 

July 11, 2021

Redmond, Ore. – Firefighters from the Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center responded to four wildfires today.  Two of these fires, incidents #556 and #561 were contained at less than a tenth of an acre. 

 

Incident #558, the Grandview Fire, was reported at approximately 1:30 p.m. burning on Oregon Department of Forestry protected lands and the Crooked River National Grassland.  The fire rapidly spread through grass and juniper.  Numerous resources were mobilized to the fire, including wildland engines, dozers, resources from structural agencies, and contract crews.  Single engine air tankers (SEATs) and large air tankers continued to drop retardant on the fire until dark.  Late this afternoon management of the fire transitioned to the Central Oregon Fire Management Service Interagency Type 3, Incident Commander Caldwell.  The fire is currently estimated at 2,000 acres with 0% containment.  Firefighters will be working through the night.  The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

 

Evacuations are in place for residents in Jefferson and Deschutes counties.  Information for the evacuations can be found at https://www.facebook.com/JeffersonCountyORSheriff/ for Jefferson County and https://www.deschutes.org/sheriff/page/emergency-information for Deschutes County. 

 

Oregon Department of Forestry’s Incident Management Team 3, Incident Commander Howard, will be in-briefed Monday at 12:00 p.m., with plans to take command of the fire at 6:00 p.m. 

 

The Newberry Fire, Incident #559, located near LaPine in the Rosland Road area burned 54 acres before crews were able to complete fireline around the perimeter.  Level 1 evacuations were implemented as a precaution for residents near the fire, but these have since been lifted.  Firefighters will be working to secure the fire late into the night.  The cause of this fire is under investigation.  Resources on the fire today included dozers, hand crews, water tenders and wildland engines with support from air resources.  Tomorrow firefighters will work to secure the fire and begin mop-up.

Friday, July 9, 2021

 

NEWS RELEASE—Dixie Creek Fire Update

July 9, 2021—9 a.m.

 

Contact:  Christie Shaw

(541)263-0661

Christie.shaw@oregon.gov

www.odfcentraloregon.com

 

John Day, Ore. – The High Desert Interagency Incident Type 3 Incident Management Team has completed work on the Dixie Creek Fire near Prairie City.  Today they transitioned management of the fire back to Oregon Department of Forestry’s John Day Unit.  A type 4 organization will continue to monitor and patrol the fire and complete any remaining mop-up within the perimeter. 

On Thursday crews worked to grid the fire looking for any hot spots.  The fire remains within the current footprint and has not grown in size since Saturday night.  Fire behavior Thursday was limited to areas creeping and smoldering in fuels which have not been fully consumed.  The fire is 99% contained.

Many resources from the fire have demobilized and been assigned to other fires in the region or returned home.  Equipment such as hose, portable tanks, and pumps which are not longer needed on the fire have been removed from the line and returned to the fire cache to be cleaned and prepared for the next fire.

No accidents or injuries have occurred on the fire.

ODF Central Oregon District

Public Information:  541-263-0661

www.facebook.com/ODFCentralOregon

Twitter:  @ODF_COD

Current fire restriction information and information for the Central Oregon District is available at www.odfcentraloregon.com.