June 20, 2025
RUCH, Ore. (June 20, 2025) – Firefighters working on the Upper Applegate Fire overnight had a successful shift strengthening lines and making progress on mop-up operations, reaching the 10% mark. Resources were also able to connect hose throughout the rest of the incident, allowing for water access across the entire fire; this will greatly aid firefighters today as they continue to push forward on mopping up the fire. An infrared (IR) flight was not able to be conducted overnight, so the fire remains an estimated 470 acres.
An incoming weather system brought windy conditions to the fire Thursday night and early Friday morning. A chance of rain and thunderstorms is in the forecast today, and wind is expected to persist and even increase across the incident. Firefighters are prepared for the added challenge and are ready to respond to any new fire starts, whether lightning or human-caused.
Last night just before 7 p.m., a grass fire was reported on the 13000-block of North Applegate Road. Aircraft from the Upper Applegate Fire was immediately diverted to the new start; once on scene, the first arriving helicopter reported the fire was approximately two acres and spreading from grass into timber. ODF, Applegate Fire District and Rural Metro Fire all quickly responded with ground resources, including three engines and two crews contracted by ODF on the Upper Applegate Fire. With an aggressive initial attack and relentless water bucket drops from the Type 1 and Type 2 helicopters, firefighters able to stop the spread of the fire at just over eight acres. Resources worked on the scene all night and are continuing mop-up operations this morning.
Today, Upper Applegate Fire resources will also focus on mop up, extinguishing hotspots to create depth on the line and further progress across the incident. Tree fallers will be working again on the north portion of the incident where 5% of the fire remains unlined. As these hazardous trees are removed from the fire’s edge, the area becomes safer for firefighters to work in. More than 250 personnel are assigned to the fire today, including nine 20-person crews, one 10-person crew, seven engines, three bulldozers and five water tenders. Aircraft across the fire remains the same.
Level 2 – BE SET and Level 1 – BE READY evacuations notices remain in place by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management for homes near the fire. All current evacuations and evacuation maps can be found on www.rvem.org/fires. Residents can enter their address and find their evacuation zone and any related notices and information. Upper Applegate and Little Applegate roads are now open to all traffic, however firefighters continue to work in the area; please use caution when traveling around the fire.
The Upper Applegate Fire, located on private and BLM land on the 2000-block of Upper Applegate Road, was first reported at 12:30 p.m. on June 18 as a grass fire. Applegate Rural Fire District and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District initially responded and found a fast-moving grassfire that was quickly growing in dry vegetation, and was pushed uphill by hot, windy conditions. Fire agencies from across Jackson and Josephine counties, including structural departments, the BLM and U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, responded with an aggressive initial attack.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. This will be the final morning update on the Upper Applegate Fire; all future updates will be once per day in the evening following shift change. For more fire information, including current fire regulations, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest or our website, www.swofire.com.
June 19, 2025
RUCH, Ore. (June 19, 2025) – Resources assigned to the Upper Applegate Fire have nearly reached their goal of lining the entire perimeter of the incident by the end of Thursday’s dayshift, completing 95% of the fire line. The portion that is remaining on the north side of the fire has a high amount of conifer mortality. Tree fallers have been removing dead trees, fire-weakened trees, and snags throughout this area, and are continuing this work to allow firefighters to complete the line safely.
Tonight, resources will also be focused on bolstering the lines created around the fire and beginning mop-up operations to add depth to the perimeter. Additionally, firefighters will be working to complete the hose construction across the incident, which will allow for water access on the fire during mop-up. A total of 224 personnel are assigned to the fire tonight, including eight 20-person crews, 10 engines, six bulldozers and seven water tenders. Aircraft have been flying throughout the day and will be used as needed until sundown.
Due to windy conditions this evening, a 1/100th of an acre spot fire crossed a line on the north side, and crews are engaged in extinguishing and mopping up the area. Resources will continue to monitor lines for any potential breaches or spot fires, as well as monitor the weather for signals of any potential changes in fire behavior.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management have decreased all Level 3 – GO NOW evacuations to Level 2 – BE SET notices. All current evacuations and evacuation maps can be found on www.rvem.org/fires. With this change, the Redcross shelter at Jacksonville Elementary School has closed. Upper Applegate and Little Applegate roads are now open to all traffic, however firefighters remain working in the area; please use caution if traveling on this roadway.
The Upper Applegate Fire was first reported at 12:30 p.m. on June 18 as a grass fire. Applegate Rural Fire District and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District initially responded and found a fast-moving grassfire that was quickly growing in dry vegetation, and was pushed uphill by hot, windy conditions. Fire agencies from across Jackson and Josephine counties, including structural departments, the BLM and U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, responded with an aggressive initial attack.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. For more fire information, including current fire regulations, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest or our website, www.swofire.com.
June 19, 2025
RUCH, Ore. (June 19, 2025) – Firefighters working on the Upper Applegate Fire were able to hold the fire overnight, securing a fire line around 70% of its perimeter. The fire has not grown beyond the footprint from late Wednesday afternoon. Additionally, resources were able to connect hose throughout 50% of the fire, bringing water access to the incident and allowing firefighters to hold line and extinguish hot spots easier. The fire, located on private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land along the 2000-block of Upper Applegate Road, is estimated to be 470 acres following an assessment from aircraft personnel. This number will fluctuate in the future as more accurate mapping allows.
Today, 204 personnel are assigned to the fire, including eight crews, seven engines, six bulldozers and three water tenders. Aircraft on the fire remains the same, including two Type 2 and three Type 1 helicopters, as well as an air attack plane. Air tankers will be ordered for retardant drops as needed. The Oregon State Fire Marshal sent two structural task forces from Lane and Marion counties to help local resources protect homes in the area.
Resources will focus on holding and improving existing lines today. The only area that remains unlined is on the north portion of the fire, where numerous hazard trees are located. Firefighters are working on mitigating those snags to create a safer working environment, as many are weakened by fire and primed to fall. An additional challenge today will be the weather; winds are predicted to reach 10 to 20 miles per hour in the afternoon with gusts of 25 miles per hour. These conditions, mixed with warm weather, may naturally increase fire activity in the afternoon. Firefighters are aware of this potential and will be watching for changes to fire conditions and responding with any needed resources.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management have issued Level 3 – GO NOW, Level 2 – BE SET and Level 1 – BE READY evacuation notices. All current evacuations and evacuation maps can be found on www.rvem.org/fires. An evacuation shelter is currently open at Jacksonville Elementary School at 655 Hueners Lane in Jacksonville. Small pets can be taken there, and large livestock can be taken to the Expo in Central Point.
The fire was first reported at 12:30 p.m. on June 18 as a grassfire. Applegate Rural Fire District and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District initially responded and found a fast-moving grassfire that was quickly growing in the hot, windy conditions, pushed uphill by dry vegetation. Fire agencies from across Jackson and Josephine counties, including structural departments, the BLM and U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, responded with an aggressive initial attack.
Upper Applegate Road remains closed to the public at this time, however residents will be let through. Firefighters remain working in the area; please use caution if traveling on this roadway and avoid the area if possible.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Updates on the incident will be provided in the morning and evening, and throughout the day if a significant update is available. For more information, including current fire regulations, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest or our website, www.swofire.com.
June 18, 2025
RUCH, Ore. (June 18, 2025) – Firefighters working on the Upper Applegate Fire are holding it at an estimated 350 acres following an aggressive initial attack that has spanned numerous hours. The fire, located on private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land along the 2000-block of Upper Applegate Road, was first reported at 12:30 p.m. on June 18 as a grassfire. Applegate Rural Fire District and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District initially responded and found a fast-moving grassfire estimated between five and 10 acres that was quickly growing in the hot, windy conditions, pushed uphill by dry vegetation.
Numerous resources were ordered for the firefight, including additional ODF engines, crews and multiple helicopters, Large Air Tankers (LATs), a Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT) and an air attack plane. Additionally, structural task forces from fire agencies across Jackson and Josephine counties were ordered during second and third alarm calls to protect homes in the area. Resources from the BLM and U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest arrived on scene to assist quickly as well.
The fire continued to quickly grow in the wind, reaching an estimated 120 acres by 2:30 p.m. and nearing 200 acres by 3:30 p.m. Two Type 2 and three Type 1 helicopters made continuous water bucket drops across the fire throughout the afternoon, and four LATs and 1 VLAT were able to create a temporary fire line of retardant on the left flank of the fire, keeping winds from pushing it further north. Firefighters are engaging in those areas to build a sturdier fire line and hold the fire there. On the right flank, resources have been engaged and fire activity is minimal. The fire’s progression and most active area remains on the east side, where it’s been driven forward by the wind.
Tonight, an additional eight 20-person crews, eight engines, six bulldozers and six water tenders will be arriving to the fire to work the overnight shift. Aircraft will be operating over the fire as long as daylight allows. More resources are being ordered to staff Thursday’s dayshift, beginning at 6:00 a.m.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management, working with firefighters to identify homes that were threatened, issued Level 3 – GO NOW, Level 2 – BE SET and Level 1 – BE READY evacuation notices. All current evacuations can be found on www.rvem.org. An evacuation shelter is currently open at Jacksonville Elementary School at 655 Hueners Lane in Jacksonville. Small pets can be taken there, and large livestock can be taken to the Expo in Central Point.
Upper Applegate Road remains closed to the public at this time, however residents will be let through. Firefighters remain working in the area; please use caution if traveling on this roadway and avoid the area if possible.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Updates on the incident will be provided in the morning and evening, and throughout the day if a significant update is available. For more information, including current fire regulations, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest.
June 5, 2025
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (June 5, 2025) – Fire danger on Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District-protected land will increase to moderate (blue) on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. Lands affected by this declaration include 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestlands in Jackson and Josephine counties. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will remain at one.
Hot temperatures and windy conditions for the past couple of weeks have prompted vegetation to dry at a slightly faster rate; this, in combination with the weather conditions, have contributed to new fire starts and growth. Since the start of fire season on June 1, ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters have responded to four fires in the span of four days, stopping all at an acre total. With temperatures predicted to reach the threshold of 100 degrees and potential thunderstorms in the forecast this weekend, fire danger will be increased to moderate and new regulations will go into effect.
Beginning Saturday at 12:01 a.m., the following new public fire restrictions will take effect:
- Open fires are prohibited, which includes campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except at locations deemed a designated campground. Portable cooking stoves or firepits 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;
Public fire restrictions currently in effect, which will remain in effect, include:
- 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. Fireworks not allowed on BLM-managed lands.
- 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.
- 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.
Following fire season regulations helps to decrease the number of human-caused fires, as these activities are known to create sparks and start fires. For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Season regulations, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest or our website, www.swofire.com. You can also 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
May 22, 2025
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (May 22, 2025) – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District will officially declare the start of fire season on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. The fire danger level will be “Low” (green) and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one). Lands affected by this declaration include 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestlands in Jackson and Josephine counties.
Consistent snow and rain across southern Oregon kept pre-season fires to a minimum until late April, when temperatures began to slowly heat up. Despite the wet spring, recent sunny and windy conditions have supported a gradual drying of vegetation. With these changes, the ODF Southwest Oregon District has responded to 12 fires for a total of 22 acres burned. As conditions continue to trend toward warmer summer-like weather, fire risk and behavior will naturally increase.
The beginning of fire season and Low fire danger brings regulations; these activities are known to cause fires and will be prohibited with the start of fire season:
- No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn.
- No fireworks on or within 1/8 of a mile of ODF-protected.
- Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.
- Campfires are allowed in designated campgrounds, and on private land with the landowner’s permission. Portable stoves using liquefied or bottled fuels may be used in areas clear of vegetation at any time.
- Smoking while traveling will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other specifically designated locations.
- Any electric fence controllers must be approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories , 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.
The start of fire season also means regulations on industrial activities. Under IFPL I (one), fire season requirements are in effect, in addition to the following:
- A Firewatch is required at this and all higher levels unless otherwise
For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Season regulations, 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
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our X account, @swofire.
February 5, 2025
JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (February 5, 2025) – Both Medford and Grants Pass ODF offices will be closed on February 5 due to winter weather conditions. Updates concerning Thursday’s schedule will be posted when available.
February 4, 2025
JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (February 4, 2025) – Due to winter weather conditions, both our Medford and Grants Pass ODF offices will open at 10 a.m. this morning.
February 3, 2025
JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore., (February 3, 2025) – Due to current and forecast weather conditions, the Medford and Grants Pass ODF offices will close at 3 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025 for the remainder of the day. Offices will open as soon as possible, however additional snow and storms in the forecast may extend this closure into the week.
For a list of all state office closures,
click here.
Updates will be made available on our website, as well as our
Facebook and
X pages.
January 27, 2025
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Jan. 27, 2025) – The Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District is recruiting for multiple positions for the upcoming fire season, including entry-level and experienced firefighters, dispatchers and detection specialists, totaling approximately 130 jobs in Jackson and Josephine counties. These seasonal positions generally span from June through October, however, duration may vary depending on conditions. Both Medford and Grants Pass offices are actively hiring; benefits include medical, dental and vision health coverage and paid holidays, as well as personal business, vacation and sick leave.
The deadline to apply for all positions is February 28, 2025, however, the first pull of applicants for review will begin February 6; applying early is highly encouraged. All jobs are listed here.
For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry, 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
Additional information is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our X account, @swofire.
November 1, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Nov. 1, 2024) – A persistent weather pattern of cooler temperatures and consistent rain has prompted a decrease in restrictions for industrial slash burning, effective Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 9 a.m. As a result, prescribed fire and industrial slash burning may increase in high-elevation, remote areas throughout Jackson and Josephine Counties. Additional information can be found here: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/Pages/burn.aspx
These restrictions are specifically for industrial use and are separate from general public debris burning regulations. Before a debris or barrel burn, members of the public should first contact their local fire district for any needed permits, and on the day of the debris burn, contact the appropriate county burn line to confirm it is a burn day:
- Jackson County: 541-776-7007
- Josephine County: (541) 476-9663
Even though the fire season is officially over, please continue to practice fire prevention when burning debris by ensuring a burn pile is never left un-attended and using caution when using machinery that could cause a spark. Please be aware that fires can still spread during dry periods in fall and winter conditions. This region is extremely prone to wildfire, and for that reason, fire knows no season.
Fire prevention tips and information from the ODF Southwest Oregon District is available online at our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our website, www.swofire.com.
October 26, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Oct. 26, 2024) – After 148 days, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District is officially declaring an end to the 2024 fire season in Jackson and Josephine Counties, taking effect Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. Consistent rain across the district and incoming rain storms throughout the next week, along with new, green grass and vegetation growing in has allowed for all fire season regulations and Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPL) to be lifted this weekend. This declaration affects 1.8 million acres protected by ODF across Jackson and Josephine counties. At this time, industrial slash burning still remains prohibited.
From June 1 to October 27, ODF firefighters responded to 243 fires across Jackson and Josephine counties, totaling 5,470 acres affected. The majority of those acres were on the Salt Creek Fire, the largest fire on the district in 2024; it reached 4,102 acres total. Due to near-record breaking heat waves with triple digit temperatures, thunderstorms with little to no rain, and steadily increasing fire danger in early July, the district ordered ODF Incident Management Team 1 to assume command of the Salt Creek Fire. This was the only IMT deployment on the district this fire season, with all other incidents being managed from start to finish by local staff.
The strategic decision of bringing in an incident management team allowed district personnel the ability to respond to 26 reports of fire that occurred during the two-week period the team was engaged on Salt Creek, significantly cutting down on the probability of another large fire on the district. Ten of those 26 fires were ignited by lightning, located on steep, remote terrain near the lower Rogue River in Josephine County, where most recently, the Rum Creek Fire of 2022 was located. Despite limited access, firefighters were able to keep all of these fires at an acre or less in size, extinguishing them all within the following 48 hours.
The largest fires of the season on the district are listed below:
| Fire Name |
Date |
Location |
Acres |
Cause |
|
| Salt Creek Fire |
July 7 |
Salt Creek Road MM 4, Jackson County |
4,102 |
Under Investigation |
| Upper Applegate Fire |
June 20 |
3900-blk of Upper Applegate Road, Jackson County |
1,142.5 |
Equipment Use |
| Highway 62 Fire |
June 20 |
Highway 62 and 234, Jackson County
|
75 |
Under Investigation |
| Dead Indian Memorial Road Fire |
July 4 |
Dead Indian Memorial Road, Jackson County |
43 |
Under Investigation |
| Holland Loop Road Fire |
June 21 |
5 miles SE of Cave Junction, Josephine County |
20 |
Under Investigation |
| I5 MM 11.5 Fire |
Sept. 4 |
5 miles SE of Ashland, Jackson County |
13 |
Under Investigation |
| Hwy 234 MM 17 |
July 31 |
Dodge Bridge County Park, Jackson County |
10.75 |
Under Investigation |
| Sugarpine Gulch Fire |
July 21 |
2 miles NW of Rogue River, Jackson County |
7 |
Lightning |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ODF has an annual goal of putting out 98% of fires at 10 acres or less; with seven out of 243 fires hitting that mark, the district nearly reached its goal, coming in at 97%. Fire season 2024 was challenging across the state of Oregon, resulting in millions of acres burned. The success on the district here locally is largely due to a fast and aggressive response to fires and collaboration with our local and federal partners.
The termination of fire season removes fire prevention regulations on equipment use and the use of fire for debris burning. This applies to the public and industrial operations on forestlands, however, industrial slash burning is still prohibited. Many structural fire agencies require permits for residential debris burning; please check with your local fire department to obtain any necessary permits before burning and ensure it’s a burn day designated by the county you reside in:
- Jackson County Burn Line: (541) 776-7007
- Josephine County Burn Line: (541) 476-9663
Even though the fire season is officially over, please continue to practice fire prevention when burning debris by ensuring a burn pile is never left unattended and using caution when using machinery that could cause a spark. While the heightened risk of fires has passed with the ending of the declared fire season, fires can still start and spread in fall and winter conditions. ODF firefighters will continue to be available to respond to fires throughout the year; partner with ODF and area fire agencies in fire prevention by following the debris burning guidelines put in place by your local fire department.
Fire prevention tips and information from the ODF Southwest Oregon District is available online at our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our website, www.swofire.com.
October 16, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Oct. 16, 2024) – Recent fall-like weather and widespread rain has made it possible to ease off on some public and industrial fire prevention regulations on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District. Effective Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 9:00 a.m., the public fire danger level will decrease to “low” (green), and the industrial fire precaution level (IFPL) will decrease to I (one) on ODF-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine counties.
In low fire danger, public 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 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 on private property with the landowners permission and in designated campgrounds.
- Smoking while traveling will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other specifically designated locations.
- 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 IFPL I (one) – 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’s Fire Season regulations, 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
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, http://www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our X account, @swofire.
September 11, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Sept. 11, 2024) – Following rain and cooler temperatures across southern Oregon, the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District will decrease to “high” (yellow) on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. This affects 1.8 million acres of state, private, county and Bureau of Land Management lands in Jackson and Josephine counties. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will remain at Level 2 (two).
The primary difference between current fire prevention restrictions and those beginning on Thursday affects the public use of power-driven equipment, such as chainsaws, 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 now be allowed until 10 a.m. and after 8 p.m. daily. Green lawns may be mown at any time.
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 1/8th of a mile of ODF-protected land. Fireworks are prohibited on all BLM land
- Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited
- Campfires are allowed only in designated campgrounds. Portable stoves or fire pits using liquefied or bottled fuels may be used in other locations that are clear of dry vegetation at all times
- 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
- Chain saws may not be used between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high fire danger. During hours outside of this time frame, chain saws 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 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high 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 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high fire danger. This restriction includes gas, electric and battery-operated equipment. This restriction does not include mowing of green lawns, or equipment used for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops
- Any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine-use not specifically mentioned is not allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high 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
For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’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
BLM fire restrictions are available here: https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-info/oregon-washington/fire-restrictions
Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest.
September 4, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (September 4, 2024) – 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 once again increase to “extreme” (red) at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, September 6, 2024. 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. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will remain at two (2).
Fire danger decreased to high in Jackson and Josephine counties following significant rainfall in late August. Due to increased temperatures, dry vegetation, and the potential for east winds and thunderstorms, fire danger is once again increasing to extreme on the ODF Southwest Oregon District.
Beginning Friday 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, including all equipment that uses gas, electric or battery power.
- 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 1/8th of a mile of ODF-protected land are prohibited. Fireworks are also prohibited on all BLM lands.
- 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.
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.
August 19, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Aug. 19, 2024) – As of Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 12:01 a.m., the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District will decrease to “high” (yellow) and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will decrease to Level 2 (two). This affects 1.8 million acres of state, private, county and Bureau of Land Management lands in Jackson and Josephine counties.
The primary difference between the former regulations and the new decrease to high fire danger affects the public use of power-driven equipment, such as chainsaws, 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 now be allowed until 10 a.m. and after 8 p.m. daily. Power-driven equipment use on green lawns is always allowed.
Other fire prevention regulations which will remain in effect, include:
- No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels.
- Fireworks are prohibited on or within 1/8th of a mile of ODF-protected land and are prohibited on BLM lands.
- Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.
- Campfires are allowed only in designated campgrounds. Portable stoves or fire pits 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.
- Chainsaws may not be used between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high 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 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high 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 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high fire danger. This restriction includes gas, electric and battery-powered equipment. This restriction does not include mowing of green lawns, or equipment used for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops.
- Any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine-use not specifically mentioned is not allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high 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 Two (IFPL II) – limited shutdown, which is specifically for industrial operations and is separate from all public fire restrictions, the following may operate after 8 p.m. and up until 1 p.m. daily:
- Power saws, except at loading sites.
- Feller-bunchers with rotary head saws.
- Cable yarding.
- Blasting.
- Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal.
In addition, pursuant to ORS 477.665 and OAR 629-043-0030, the fire watch requirement is a minimum of two hours during breaks and at the end of the operation period.
For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’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.
July 22, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 22, 2024) – Firefighters are completing the last portions of mop-up operations on two of the 17 lightning-caused fires that were found on Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land within the last week, following numerous rounds of thunderstorms that moved through southern Oregon. Between July 15 and 22, five fires were reported on the ODF Medford Unit and 12 were reported on the Grants Pass Unit, all as a result of lightning. At this time, all are 100% contained but two, which are nearly mopped up.
Thunderstorms first materialized on the evening of Monday, July 15, with a total of 66 lightning strikes recorded across the district. From this storm, firefighters responded to 13 fires, along with numerous other reports of smoke or fire that were not found to be present. Of these 13 fires, the largest, the Waters Gulch Fire, was stopped at just two acres. The next storm system arrived late Saturday night on July 20, with 18 recorded lightning strikes across both Jackson and Josephine Counties. Four fires were reported, two in each unit. This storm arrived with little to no rain, which allowed for more natural fire growth. Despite this, the largest fire from this group, the Sugarpine Gulch Fire, was caught at just over seven acres. Today, it is 100% lined and 100% mopped up.
These results are largely due to the aggressive initial attack that took place on each fire, as well as partnerships with local agencies, ranging from local structural departments to our federal partners at the BLM and U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest; the preparation of all agencies and the readiness to respond to new fire starts is largely contributed to the success on the ground.
Resources and equipment were also strategically used from the Salt Creek Fire, which was caught and lined at just over 4,100 acres and nearly entirely mopped up within the week and a half that the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 1 was in command of it. As progress was quickly made on this incident, resources were available to respond to new fire starts and staff lightning-caused fires, even as the Salt Creek Fire transitioned to local control once more. Despite this pull on resources throughout its duration, the Salt Creek Fire is now 100% contained.
See the list of lightning-caused fires by date, name, location, size and current status: https://swofire.com/2024/07/22/salt-creek-fire-100-contained-17-lightning-caused-fires-all-stopped-at-under-10-acres-in-a-week/purple-and-white…able-a4-document/
In the coming days, additional lightning-caused fires from these storms may surface. ODF Detection Center staff continues to monitor lightning strike areas and firefighters are keeping an eye on strike zones daily within their patrol areas. Reconnaissance flights will be conducted as needed. While these fires can’t be prevented, human-caused wildfires can be; the fire danger level in Jackson and Josephine Counties is extreme and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is 3. Help firefighters by following all current regulations to prevent human-caused fires. More information is available here:
BLM-managed lands in the area of the Salt Creek Fire remain closd for safety. For more info go to: https://www.blm.gov/orwafire
July 21, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 21, 2024) – Firefighters worked all day on four new lightning-caused fires across the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District, and as of 6 p.m., all fires are 100% lined and in various stages of mop up.
The current fire status on ODF-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine Counties is as follows:
- The Sugarpine Gulch Fire, located northwest of Rogue River in Jackson County. This fire was the most challenging one, and the last to be 100% lined due to steep terrain and windy conditions. Currently 100% lined, 10% mopped up, and caught at just over seven acres. Numerous aircraft worked this incident all day, including one Type 3, two Type 2 and two Type 1 helicopters; some aircraft remain available and on standby but have not recently been needed. Engines, a bulldozer, crews, tree fallers and firefighters remain engaged on the ground and will continue to strengthen the line overnight and push forward on mop-up operations.
- The Eastside Road Fire, located along Upper Applegate Road and west of Buncom in Jackson County. This fire has been holding at an estimated two acres and is 100% lined and 20% mopped up. Operations are ongoing this afternoon and will continue overnight.
- The Canyon Creek Fire, located west of Highway 227 and northwest of Trail in Jackson County. This fire is now 100% lined and 30% mopped up. It was caught at just over six acres. Firefighters are engaging in mop-up operations that will continue overnight.
- The Old Baldy Fire, located in the hills between Wimer and Grants Pass in Josephine County. Firefighters caught this fire at an acre and a half, and have it 100% lined and 30% mopped up. Mop up operations are ongoing.
- The Sexton Fire, reported on the east side of Interstate 5, between Hugo and Sunny Valley in Josephine County, not found by firefighters after a thorough search.
A second recon flight was been conducted and no new fires have been found. Detection camera operators will continue to search lightning strike areas for any smoke or fires. Firefighters remain ready to respond to any new fire starts across the district.
The fire danger level in Jackson and Josephine Counties is extreme and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is 3. Help firefighters by following all current regulations to prevent human-caused fires. For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s fire season public and industrial restrictions, visit our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page @ODF Southwest Oregon District.
July 21, 2024
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 21, 2024) – Thunderstorms that moved into southern Oregon late Saturday night have already caused five small fires across the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District, and firefighters are currently engaged in an aggressive initial attack on nearly all of them.
- The Eastside Road Fire, located along Upper Applegate Road and west of Buncom in Jackson County. The fire is currently estimated to be 1.5 acres, and forward progression has been stopped. Early this morning, firefighters were able to build a line around 70% of the fire. A 20-person crew is en route, as well as aircraft. This work will continue this morning and then mop-up will begin.
- The Canyon Creek Fire, located west of Highway 227 and northwest of Trail in Jackson County. This fire is currently estimated to be two to three acres. Additional resources are arriving on scene and firefighters are engaging in an aggressive initial attack.
- The Sugarpine Gulch Fire, located northwest of Rogue River in Jackson County. This fire is currently estimated to be half an acre. Additional resources are currently en route and responding to this fire for an aggressive initial attack.
- The Old Baldy Fire, located in the hills between Wimer and Grants Pass in Josephine County. It’s estimated to be one acre and is burning on a ridgetop. Aircraft will likely be key on this fire, as it may be difficult to access.
- Sexton Fire, located on the east side of Interstate 5, between Hugo and Sunny Valley in Josephine County. Resources are currently en route, please be aware of firefighters working near the road throughout the morning on this incident
Lightning struck across both Jackson and Josephine overnight, and more fires will likely be found today. ODF has already launched a recon mission, which was used to locate a few of the above fires. Additional recons are planned for later this morning and into the afternoon to ensure any new fires are caught early.
The fire danger level in Jackson and Josephine Counties is extreme and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is 3. Help firefighters by following all current regulations to prevent human-caused fires. For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry’s fire season public and industrial restrictions, visit our Facebook page @ODF Southwest Oregon District.
July 18, 2024
RAND, Ore. (July 18, 2024) – Firefighters worked overnight on numerous small fires along the lower Rogue River in Josephine County, making good progress on most incidents and extinguishing others completely. Following thunderstorms earlier this week, 10 fires were reported on the steep terrain northwest of Rand and Galice. Resources from ODF, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest immediately responded. As a result, all fires have been caught or are being held at an acre or less and only three remain active with firefighters engaged. Today, resources include numerous crews, engines and six helicopters of various sizes.
As of this morning, the active fires are as follows:
- Horseshoe Bend Fire, the original fire is holding at an estimated quarter-acre and a second fire roughly the same size has been found nearby. Overnight, Rogue-Siskiyou Rappellers were dropped near the second fire and are now working on mop-up. Both fires are located north of Horseshoe Bend Campground, north of the Rogue River on steep ground with no road access for miles. The U.S. Forest Service Rogue-River Siskiyou National Forest and ODF are encouraging people to avoid camping at all Horseshoe Bend campsites while fire operations use the river for helicopter-bucket dipping and working in the area.
- Big Windy Creek, estimated to be a quarter-acre. Now 100% lined. Located on steep, remote ground just north of the East Fork Big Windy Fire. Today, an engine is assigned to this fire to continue mopping up.
- Trout Creek Fire, estimated to be half an acre. Now 100% lined, resources working on mopping up. Located north of Trout Creek and south of the Rogue River, southwest of the Zane Grey Cabin. This fire is a two-mile hike from the nearest road and firefighters had to cut a significant amount of dead trees to clear a path to the incident. One tree is remaining within the perimeter of the fire and firefighters will focus on this today, as it has a high potential of reigniting if not properly extinguished.
The following fires are extinguished:
- Crooks Creek Fire, caught at one acre. Currently 100% lined and 100% mopped up. Located in the hills above Crooks Creek Road, north of Dryden and east of Selma.
- Hewett Creek Fire, estimated to be just under a quarter-acre. 100% lined and mopped up overnight. Located south of BLM road 32-10-36.
- Howard Creek Fire, extinguished by aircraft at an estimated 1/100 of an acre. Located northwest of Rand and south of the Rogue River. Firefighters continue to monitor this area.
- East Fork Big Windy Fire, extinguished at 1/100 of an acre. Located east of East Fork Big Windy Creek and south of the Rogue River on steep, remote county with limited access.
- Missouri Creek Fire, estimated to be half an acre. Now 100% lined and mopped up overnight. Located north of Bear Camp Road and south of the Zane Grey Cabin.
- Montgomery Creek Fire, caught and extinguished at 1/100 of an acre. Located southwest of Rainie Falls and south of the Rogue River. Currently 100% lined and 100% mopped up.
- Long Gulch Fire, estimated to be a quarter-acre. Located southwest of the Trout Creek Fire. This fire is 100% lined and 100% mopped up. Resources will continue until the fire is completely extinguished.
This will be the final update for these fires unless conditions significantly change. Chances for thunderstorms are once again predicted for this weekend. While these fires cannot be prevented, many can. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of human-caused fires in our communities. Additional information is available here:
