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.