Rogue Valley fire managers remind the public that they have a role to play in preventing wildfires. The recent series of over 130 lightning-caused fires across Jackson and Josephine Counties were aggressively suppressed by firefighters managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and U.S. Forest Service, but fire danger remains extreme, and public use restrictions are in effect throughout the region.
“We’re seeking the public’s assistance by following the fire restrictions put in effect to protect our communities and natural resources,” said Dan Thorpe, ODF’s Southwest Oregon District Forester.
“The moisture that helped keep the fires started by the recent thunderstorms small is now gone,” explained M.J. Harvie, Fire and Aviation Staff Officer, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. “Right now we are urging the public to be careful with all flammable material, and make sure they build campfires only in designated campgrounds. When extinguishing a campfire, forest visitors need to ensure that they drown out all embers to leave their campfire dead out,” said Harvie.
“As a reminder, please check on current fire restrictions before you leave by calling or visiting one of the offices of your local wildland fire agencies,” said Harvie. Currently firewood cutting is prohibited on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.
Indices composed of temperature, humidity, fuel moisture, and wind speed and direction used by fire managers to forecast burning conditions are now approaching levels indicative of the potential for large fires to occur in the area. With little threat of lightning in the forecast, human-sparked ignitions remain a cause for concern.
Use these links for public use restrictions in place for lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.
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