January 6, 2022
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Jan. 6, 2022) – 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 June 30, however interviews will take place from March on; applying early is highly encouraged. Job descriptions and applications can be found here:
Firefighter (Entry): https://tinyurl.com/entryfirefighter
Firefighter (Experienced): https://tinyurl.com/experiencedfirefighter
Forest Officer: https://tinyurl.com/forestofficer
Dispatcher: https://tinyurl.com/swodispatcher
Detection Specialist: https://tinyurl.com/swodetection
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 Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
December 1, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Dec. 1, 2021) – Following a competitive hiring process, Tyler McCarty has been named District Forester of the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District serving Jackson and Josephine counties. McCarty, who has filled the role in an interim capacity since June 2021, brings more than 20 years of experience in fire protection, forestry and emergency services in southern Oregon to the role.
“It’s humbling to be selected as district forester of the district I’ve spent my career in,” McCarty said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead it and continue the good work in fire suppression and forestry that southern Oregon has come to expect.”
The formal recruitment drew in qualified candidates from numerous western states; each candidate that met minimum qualifications in firefighting and supervisory experience were then invited to participate in a two-panel interview process, background investigation and reference checks.
“Not only does Tyler have extensive experience in firefighting, but he has strong, established relationships with our partner agencies, local and state representatives, and above all, deep ties to the communities the district serves,” Dave Larson said, ODF Southern Oregon Area director. “I’m confident he’ll continue to lead the district forward in a successful manner – just as he did this past fire season.”
McCarty began his career in fire at 18 with the ODF Southwest Oregon District for the 2001 fire season, and as a volunteer structural firefighter with Jackson County Fire District 5. For the following two years, he interned with Grants Pass Fire-Rescue while completing his paramedic degree with Lane Community College in 2004.
Throughout this time, McCarty continued to work seasonally for ODF, quickly working his way up from a fire suppression specialist to a seasonal forest officer, permanent forest officer and eventually a wildland fire supervisor on the Medford Unit within the first six years of his career with the agency. In December 2015, he became the assistant district forester in Grants Pass, where he led the unit for the following six years. Throughout his career in fire, McCarty has also served on ODF incident management teams in a variety of roles; he will also be serving as the ODF Team 3 Incident Commander this upcoming season.
November 29, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Nov. 29, 2021) – A joint staffing program between ODF and ODOT, known as ‘Fire and Ice’ kicks off the winter season providing year-round work for employees through seasonal positions between the departments. Since the 1980s, the program retains experienced employees while providing opportunities in career advancement, leadership and relationship building.
“’Fire and Ice’ showcases the partnership between ODOT and ODF,” said ODOT Interim District 8 Manager Jeremiah Griffin. “It benefits everyone — especially our local communities —because we’re able to keep experienced staff year around between both agencies in highly specialized positions.”
These positions respond to dangerous situations in extreme conditions no matter the season, and it is ideal to have consistency from season to season and year-to-year, said Griffin. He adds the program gives ODOT needed staff, especially this year when the agency, like many others, are struggling to find enough employees to maintain roads at the level travelers expect. As a result, it may take more time to clear roads so travelers should plan accordingly.
This winter, nine ODF firefighters are transitioning to ODOT as winter road maintenance specialists through ‘Fire & Ice.’ Winter work with ODOT can vary from driving snowplows to operating equipment de-icing and sanding roadways. In late spring, they will return to ODF at the start of fire season to provide fire suppression support in Jackson and Josephine counties.
“We rely heavily on our seasonal workforce in the summer months to bolster our firefighting capabilities,” Acting ODF Southwest Oregon District Forester Tyler McCarty said. “While we’re continuing to work toward additional year-round positions, our partnership with ODOT and the ‘Fire & Ice’ program is an excellent opportunity to provide continuous work to our employees in a cost-effective way to the district, and ultimately, taxpayers.”
For additional information on ODF in Jackson and Josephine counties, follow the department on Facebook @ODFSouthwest or on Twitter @swofire. For additional information on ODOT, visit www.oregon.gov/odot, Tripcheck or follow the department on Facebook @OregonDOT or on Twitter @OregonDOT.
October 25, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Oct. 25, 2021) – A persistent weather pattern of cooler temperatures and consistent rain has prompted a decrease in restrictions for industrial slash burning, effective immediately. As a result, prescribed fire and industrial slash burning may increase in high-elevation, remote areas throughout Jackson and Josephine Counties.
Recent rain and precipitation in the forecast has allowed for the change, as many of the areas impacted by the wet forecast are industrial lands. 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 burning regulations. Before a debris 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
Additional information is also available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
October 20, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Oct. 20, 2021) – The 2021 fire season on the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District has officially been declared over, effective Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. This declaration affects 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city, and Bureau of Land Management forestlands in Jackson and Josephine counties and eliminates all public regulated use restrictions and industrial fire precaution level requirements.
“This summer had the potential to be another devastating fire season in southern Oregon,” Acting District Forester Tyler McCarty said. “Despite that, ODF Southwest is thankful for the season we had – busy, but successful.”
During the 2021 fire season from May 12 to October 20, ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters responded to 278 fires for a total of 273 acres burned; no homes damaged or destroyed. ODF as an agency has a goal of stopping 98% of its fires at 10 acres or less; this year, the Southwest Oregon District nearly met this goal at 97.8%. Year to date, the district has responded to 337 fires for 389 acres burned. We credit this not only to our aggressive initial attack strategies and well-trained firefighters, but our partners throughout the region, from federal agencies to local fire departments, that have helped to make this season a success.
“The relationships we have with our partner agencies are invaluable,” McCarty said. “The level of cooperation between Rogue Valley agencies was unparalleled this fire season, and made all the difference.”
The 2021 fire season was not without its challenges; the Southwest Oregon District began responding to fires consistently from the first week of March forward. Before fire season was officially declared on May 12, ODF firefighters had already suppressed 59 fires at 115 acres burned, 30 of which were caused by escaped debris burns. Between above average temperatures and warm, windy conditions, fires in the spring spread much more easily, greatly contributing to the high number of pre-season incidents. Going into the season in mid-May, the majority of the district was experiencing an extreme drought, which also played a large part in the dry fuel conditions. Between the weather and dry vegetation, it was clear this fire season had the potential to be devastating.
Despite these factors, the season has concluded without a fire progressing beyond a Type 3 incident; the largest fire on the district, the North River Road Fire, was caught at 60 acres in late June. The following are the district’s 10 largest fires of the season:
| Fire Name |
Acres |
Start Date |
During Fire Season? |
| North River Road Fire |
60 acres |
June 19 |
Yes |
| E. Antelope Fire |
49 acres |
May 29 |
Yes |
| Board Mountain Fire |
36 acres |
August 31 |
Yes |
| Tarter Gulch Fire |
33 acres |
April 14 |
No |
| Bearwallow Ridge Fire |
32 acres |
April 22 |
No |
| Fielder Creek Fire |
26 acres |
September 7 |
Yes |
| Round Top Fire |
23 acres |
August 2 |
Yes |
| Buck Rock Fire |
17 acres |
August 1 |
Yes |
| Wards Creek Fire |
8 acres |
April 6 |
No |
| Thompson Creek Fire |
8 acres |
April 5 |
No |
The remaining 268 fires were caught at six acres or less. On top of this feat, crews responded to more than 1,248 calls for service that did not result in fire suppression.
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, and 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 in which you reside:
- Jackson County Burn Line: (541) 776-7007
- Josephine County Burn Line: (541) 474-9663
While fire season is officially over, fire prevention must continue. Please be vigilant while burning debris, ensuring that a burn pile is never left unattended. Also, please use caution while using machinery that could produce a spark. Fall weather in Southern Oregon can vary greatly. This region is extremely prone to fire, and for that reason, fire knows no season; please be aware that fires can still spread in fall and winter conditions.
Despite the end of the season, the ODF Southwest Oregon District is still here to help. Fire prevention tips and additional information is available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
October 6, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (October 6, 2021) – Consistent 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 6, 2021 at 9:00 a.m., the public fire danger level will decrease to “low” (green) in Jackson and Josephine counties. Lands affected by this declaration include state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) forestlands in Jackson and Josephine counties.
Under this designation, 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 forestlands.
- 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.
The industrial fire precaution level (IFPL) will remain at I (one). 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, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 18, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Sept. 18, 2021) – A combination of widespread rain and a steady drop in temperatures 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 Sunday, September 19, 2021 at 12:01 a.m., the public fire danger level will decrease to “moderate” (blue), and the industrial fire precaution level (IFPL) will decrease to I (one) in Jackson and Josephine Counties.
For public use, restrictions on chain saws, brush cutters and other power-driven or spark-emitting machinery are being slightly relaxed, allowing the use of equipment until 1:00 p.m. and after 8 p.m. Today will be the last day power-driven and/or spark-emitting machinery is completely prohibited.
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 1/8 of a mile of forestlands.
- 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 using liquefied or bottled fuels may be used in other locations.
- Motorized vehicles 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 1:00 p.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 1:00 p.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 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. during high fire danger. 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 1:00 p.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 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, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 9, 2021
ROGUE RIVER, Ore. (September 9, 2021) – Mop-up operations on the Fielder Creek Fire, located northwest of Rogue River on the 900-block of Fielder Creek road, continued overnight; firefighters were able to reach 75 feet into the perimeter around the entire fire, meeting, and in some areas exceeding, their goal. Fire lines are continuing to hold strong, and the fire remains 32 acres, affecting private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land.
Four crews, seven engines, two fallers and three water tenders are assigned to the Fielder Creek Fire on Thursday; these resources are tasked with progressing mop-up efforts, with a goal of reaching 100-150 feet mopped in by the end of the day. Hazardous trees will continue to be removed deeper into the interior of the fire, mitigating safety risks to firefighters.
On Wednesday night, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management lowered evacuation notices to residents on Fielder Creek Road to a Level 1 (BE READY) just after 6 p.m. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Due to the steady progress and minimal fire activity, this will be the final update on this incident, unless conditions significantly change. Residents may see smoke in the area in the coming days; this is due to hotspots currently being targeted by firefighters on the ground. The fire will continue to be staffed 24 hours a day until heat can no longer be detected in the area; it will then be patrolled for smoke.
ODF would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the agencies that responded alongside our resources on this incident, including Rogue River Fire District 1, Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire Rescue, Jackson County Fire District 3, Evans Valley Fire District 6, and the U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. We also would like to recognize the residents of Fielder Creek road and Rogue River; the support from our communities is greatly appreciated.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 8, 2021
ROGUE RIVER, Ore. (September 8, 2021) – Resources assigned to the Fielder Creek Fire, located northwest of Rogue River on the 900-block of Fielder Creek road, continued to further progress on the incident, bolstering fire lines, falling hazardous trees and continuing mop-up operations. The fire remains 32 acres, affecting private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Minimal fire activity was reported today, with only a few hotspots flaring up well within the interior of the fire.
Due to steady conditions, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management lowered evacuation notices to residents on Fielder Creek Road to a Level 1 (BE READY) just after 6 p.m.
At this time, crews have mopped up 25-75 feet from the perimeter of the fire; firefighters will remain engaged overnight and continue these efforts, with a goal of reaching 100-150 feet into the interior. The cause of this fire remains under investigation.
Today marks one year following the devastating September 8 wildfires that greatly affected the Rogue Valley and southern Oregon as a whole. ODF Southwest would like to recognize the efforts and resilience of our local firefighters and communities in keeping fire off the landscape this fire season. While we haven’t experienced the strong east winds and combined red flag conditions that drove the Almeda, South Obenchain and Slater Fires of 2020, our district has responded to 299 fires for a total of 355 acres burned in Jackson and Josephine counties during an extreme drought year; we feel these statistics speak for themselves. The vigilance of our residents and fire personnel combined has largely kept our district fire-free, and kept active incidents small. From early reporting by our communities to aggressive initial attacks, ODF Southwest is thankful for the support and partnerships from our residents and the tireless efforts of our local firefighters and partner agencies in firefighting.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 8, 2021
ROGUE RIVER, Ore. (September 8, 2021) – Firefighters assigned to the Fielder Creek Fire, located northwest of Rogue River on the 900-block of Fielder Creek road, were able to complete the fire line along the entire perimeter of the fire overnight. By early Wednesday morning, crews had lined and plumbed the entire incident with hose, allowing access to water anywhere on the fire. Following GPS mapping, the fire was determined to be 32 acres in size, affecting private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Recent fuels reduction work by the BLM played a large role in firefighters quickly controlling this incident. Firefighters were also able to save the home of residents who completed their own fuels mitigation on their property through ODF fuels reduction programs. No structures were lost or damaged, and no injuries have been reported.
The Fielder Creek Fire was first reported just after 5:30 p.m. Tuesday night. Rogue River Fire District 1 and ODF engines were first on scene, and quickly began an aggressive initial attack. Numerous homes were in the direct surrounding area, and structural engines began defending them immediately. A second and third alarm were called, bringing resources from Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire Rescue, Jackson County Fire District 3, Evans Valley Fire District 6, Douglas Forest Protective Association and the U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest (U.S.F.S.). Multiple aircraft were ordered and utilized, including ODF Southwest Oregon District’s Type 3 and two Type 2 helicopters, a U.S.F.S. Type 1 helicopter, two Single Engine Air Tankers (SEAT’s) and two Large Air Tankers (LAT’s). A contract crew and multiple engines were called in to staff the fire overnight.
For Wednesday’s dayshift, four crews, seven engines and two tree fallers are assigned to the fire. Multiple aircraft are also available if needed. Hazardous trees and steep terrain are posing safety risks to firefighters, and will remain the focus today. Goals include holding the line and removing snag trees to ensure a safer mop-up for personnel.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management placed residents on Fielder Creek road in a Level 2 (BE SET) evacuation notice Tuesday night. That will remain in effect at this time until lifted by these agencies. The cause of this fire is under investigation.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 2, 2021
JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (September 2, 2021) – Firefighters assigned to the Board Mountain Fire, located northwest of Trail off of Highway 227, were able to meet their goal of mopping up 50 feet into the perimeter on Thursday, and continued to fall hazardous trees 300 feet into the perimeter. The fire remains 36 acres, affecting private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. As progress remains continuous, this will be the final update unless conditions on this incident significantly change.
Just before 3 p.m., the Swede Cabin Fire was reported near Willow Lake. ODF’s District Type 3 helicopter arrived on scene first, and reported an estimated acre was involved. When engines made access, they discovered it was an active logging operation that had been shut down appropriately at 1 p.m.; the person assigned to the mandatory 3-hour fire watch reported the fire, called their workers back to the jobsite, and began creating a bulldozer line around the fire with equipment on scene. The U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest responded as well. Between the industrial workers and firefighters, the fire was quickly stopped at just under two acres. Mop-up operations are ongoing, and once complete, the area will be turned over to the company to patrol overnight.
Fires on industrial operations are rare, but do happen; to help lower the risk of fires, the Oregon Department of Forestry implements an Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL), similar to public fire danger restrictions. All industrial operators are required to have fire suppression knowledge and training, have a fire extinguisher, shovel and axe available for each employee, as well as have water on the jobsite. Currently, the IFPL is 3 locally. The company was found to have followed all requirements set forth by this designation, and greatly helped fire crews with stopping the spread of fire any further.
Information on IFPL requirements and fire season updates are always available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 2, 2021
TRAIL, Ore. (September 2, 2021) – Firefighters assigned to the Board Mountain Fire, located northwest of Trail off of Highway 227, continued to hold fire lines and strengthen the perimeter overnight Wednesday into Thursday morning. The fire remains 36 acres, affecting private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. At this time, there is no active fire on the landscape; mop-up efforts remain the focus for Thursday, with a goal of reaching 50 feet into the perimeter all the way around the fire.
Nearly 190 personnel are assigned to the fire today, including six 20-person crews, nine engines, six water tenders, two bulldozers and three tree fallers. Hazardous trees remain a challenge to crews, and the biggest safety concern on the incident. Tree fallers will continue to remove snags to allow firefighters better access today. Aircraft will be available as needed.
The cause of this fire remains under investigation. From initial attack to present time, no homes were ever threatened by this fire, and no evacuations or road closures were put in place. Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 1, 2021
TRAIL, Ore. (September 1, 2021) – The Board Mountain Fire, located northwest of Trail off of Highway 227, is now 100% lined and plumbed, following excellent progress during Wednesday’s dayshift. The fire, GPS mapped at 36 acres, is burning on private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Despite windy conditions, all lines held strong and the fire didn’t grow in size.
Throughout the day, firefighters remained focused on removing hazardous trees and constructing fire line. Existing lines were strengthened, and the remaining portion was completed in a safe, efficient manner. With more than 170 personnel were assigned to the fire on Wednesday, mop-up operations were also started; this work will continue throughout the night.
The Board Mountain Fire was first reported just after 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday evening. Multiple ODF and Jackson County Fire District 4 resources responded, including ODF’s District Type 2 helicopter, bulldozers, water tenders, engines and a 20-person crew. Despite cooler temperatures, fire activity increased overnight, demonstrating how extremely dry fuels remain at this time in the fire season. Steep terrain and hazardous trees also posed safety risks to firefighters on scene and slowed down initial progress on a portion of the perimeter.
While the cause hasn’t been determined, industrial activity has been ruled out. No homes are threatened, and no roads are currently closed. Additional information about fire season is also available online on our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
September 1, 2021
TRAIL, Ore. (September 1, 2021) – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District has completed 75% of hand and bulldozer line around the Board Mountain Fire, first reported Tuesday night just after 7:30 p.m. The fire is located northwest of Trail off of Highway 227 on an inactive industrial logging site; while the cause remains under investigation, industrial activity has been ruled out. The fire has been GPS mapped at 36 acres in size and is burning on private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land.
When the Board Mountain Fire was initially reported, Jackson County Fire District 4 was the first resource on scene. ODF engines arrived shortly after and estimated the fire to be 3-5 acres burning on steep terrain. Helicopter 468, a Type 2 ship, was returning from the Devil’s Knob Complex and was able to perform a few water bucket drops prior to landing for the evening. Additional resources were called in as fire activity increased, getting into heavy timber within the steep drainage; multiple bulldozers, water tenders, engines and a 20-person crew staffed the fire overnight, making significant progress despite the tough terrain.
More than 170 personnel are assigned to the Board Mountain Fire for Wednesday’s dayshift, including five 20-person crews, eight engines, five bulldozers, six water tenders, and three tree fallers. Hazardous trees, or snags, are posing a serious safety risk to firefighters on the remaining 25% of unlined fire perimeter; the main goal for resources today is to remove snags and complete the fire line, while strengthening and holding lines already constructed. Aircraft will be available as needed.
There are no homes threatened, and no evacuation notices or road closures in place. Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
August 6, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (August 6, 2021) – Significant progress continues to be made on the Round Top and Buck Rock Fires, the only active incidents left on the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District following thunderstorms last weekend. ODF Southwest firefighters responded to more than 65 fires in a five-day period. Following aggressive initial attacks and coverage on incidents around the clock, nearly all fires have been extinguished, the largest reaching only 23 acres.
On the Round Top Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Shady Cove, firefighters have mopped up 150-feet into the interior of the fire from its perimeter; it remains 23 acres in size. On the Buck Rock Fire, located 5 miles north of Trail, crews have mopped up past the 200-foot mark into the interior. It is also still holding at 17 acres. As progress remains steady and fire lines are holding strong, this will be the final update on these fires unless conditions significantly change.
The Rogue Valley experienced clean air on Friday; multiple fires in Douglas County and Northern California have been causing smoke to settle across Jackson and Josephine counties. Through the weekend, smoke may settle once again throughout the region. Smoke-related information and forecasts are available on https://fire.airnow.gov/ and https://airquality.weather.gov/sectors/pacnorthwest.php.
Information on the fires burning in Douglas County on Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) protected land and the Umpqua National Forest can be found on https://www.facebook.com/skylineridgecomplex/, https://www.facebook.com/2021-Devils-Knob-Complex-112079071131008, https://www.facebook.com/DouglasForestProtectiveAssociation and https://www.facebook.com/UmpquaNationalForest.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
August 5, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (August 5, 2021) – Despite strong winds, firefighters were able to hold fires lines on the two active fires on the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District. Potential thunderstorms in the forecast didn’t materialize, and smoke in the valley cleared out slightly to allow for air operations.
The Round Top and Buck Rock Fires are still holding at 23 and 17 acres respectively. Crews on both fires were able to strengthen lines and push forward on mop-up operations. Overnight, resources assigned to these incidents will continue checking for hot spots.
Just after 3 p.m., a grassfire was reported along Interstate-5 on the northbound side near MP 47 outside of Rogue River. Resources from ODF Southwest, Rogue River Fire District #1, Grants Pass Fire Rescue, Rural Metro Fire and Evans Valley Fire District all responded, and through an aggressive initial attack, the fire was quickly extinguished; it was caught at a quarter-acre in size. ODF investigators on scene determined the fire was caused by a catalytic converter. At the points of origin, pieces of a catalytic converter were found. It is unlikely that the vehicle those pieces came from will be identified, however, if anyone driving in the area at the time of ignition has information, please contact the Grants Pass ODF office at (541) 474-3152.
Despite the activity on our district, ODF Southwest continued to provide resources to fires burning in southern Douglas County on Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) protected land and the Umpqua National Forest. Information on these specific fires can be found on https://www.facebook.com/skylineridgecomplex/, https://www.facebook.com/2021-Devils-Knob-Complex-112079071131008, https://www.facebook.com/DouglasForestProtectiveAssociation and https://www.facebook.com/UmpquaNationalForest.
As fire activity has diminished from the thunderstorms over the weekend, updates will only be given once a day starting on Friday, unless conditions significantly change, and fire behavior increases. Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
August 5, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (August 5, 2021) – A significant shift in the weather pattern on Thursday could challenge fire lines and crews; this potential is the biggest focus today on active incidents on the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District. The National Weather Service is predicting a slight chance of thunderstorms in the morning with strong, shifting winds throughout the day. Not only could these conditions affect the progress crews have been making, but it increases the risk of new fires starting.
Smoke in the area from various fires surrounding southern Oregon is also affecting visibility and may impact the use of aircraft; firefighters on the ground are taking this into account, and adjusting their strategies based on the potential of losing this resource for the better part of Thursday. The smoke is also impacting the ODF Southwest Detection Center, and detection center camera views are limited from the haze. Smoke information is available on https://fire.airnow.gov/ and https://airquality.weather.gov/sectors/pacnorthwest.php.
Crews on the two remaining fires on ODF-protected land in Jackson and Josephine Counties are continuing to make progress on strengthening perimeters and general mop-up; The Round Top Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Shady Cove, is still holding at 23 acres. Firefighters have been able to mop up 50 feet into the interior of the fire, and will continue that work today. Four 10-person crews, two engines and three water tenders are assigned to the Round Top Fire today. The Buck Rock Fire, located 5 miles north of Trail, remains at 17 acres. A 10-person crew, 20-person crew, five engines and three water tenders are assigned to this fire today to continue mop-up operations. On both of these incidents, steep terrain and hazardous trees have challenged crews and caused safety concerns. Firefighters assigned to these fires will be taking these factors into account as they continue to push forward on suppression efforts.
ODF Southwest is continuing to provide resources to fires burning in southern Douglas County on Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) protected land and the Umpqua National Forest. Information on these specific fires can be found on https://www.facebook.com/skylineridgecomplex/, https://www.facebook.com/2021-Devils-Knob-Complex-112079071131008, https://www.facebook.com/DouglasForestProtectiveAssociation and https://www.facebook.com/UmpquaNationalForest.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
August 4, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (August 4, 2021) – Firefighters working the Buck Rock and Round Top Fires on the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District are continuing to make good progress on strengthening fire lines. The Buck Rock Fire, located 5 miles north of Trail, remains 17 acres, and the Round Top Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Shady Cove, is still 23 acres.
Mop-up efforts continued Wednesday on both fires, as crews work from the perimeter moving inward, extinguishing smokes and smoldering areas. Overnight, this will continue to be the focus of firefighters assigned to these incidents. Hazardous trees on both fires have been a safety concern, which has slowed down crews. Steep terrain is also an added challenge on these fires.
ODF Southwest, along with the U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, is continuing to provide resources to fires burning in southern Douglas County on Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) protected land and the Umpqua National Forest. ODF will continue to assist on these active incidents. Information on these specific fires can be found on https://www.facebook.com/skylineridgecomplex/, https://www.facebook.com/DouglasForestProtectiveAssociation and https://www.facebook.com/UmpquaNationalForest.
Weather conditions Thursday could increase fire activity, including strong winds and a slight potential for thunderstorms. A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service from 12 – 10 p.m. on Thursday due to these factors. Firefighters will take this into account on the line, as it may impact fire behavior.
Smoke from multiple fires in Douglas County are causing smoke to settle across Jackson and Josephine counties; smoke information is available on https://fire.airnow.gov/ and https://airquality.weather.gov/sectors/pacnorthwest.php.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
August 4, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (August 4, 2021) – Firefighters on the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District continued to make good progress overnight on a number of fires burning on the district. Out of 66 fires ignited by lightning since Thursday that ODF Southwest, there are currently only 2 active fires in Jackson and Josephine counties – the Round Top and Buck Rock Fires:
- The Round Top Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Shady Cove. It remains 23 acres, 100% lined and 100% plumbed, meaning they have hose secured around the fire and will have water easily accessible. While containment didn’t increase overnight, lines are holding strong, and mop-up work will likely begin today, depending on conditions.
- The Buck Rock Fire, located 5 miles north of Trail. It remains 17 acres and 100% lined. Containment jumped from 10% to 80% overnight. Those mop-up efforts will continue on Wednesday.
There are number burning in neighboring districts, including the Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) and U.S. Forest Service Umpqua National Forest that ODF is assisting on. DPFA and USFS Umpqua National Forest are working on several fires in the Railroad Gap area; ODF Southwest and the U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest have both sent resources to our neighbors up north; ODF will continue to assist on these active incidents however we can. Information on these specific fires can be found on https://www.facebook.com/skylineridgecomplex/, https://www.facebook.com/DouglasForestProtectiveAssociation and https://www.facebook.com/UmpquaNationalForest.
ODF will continue to do reconnaissance flights to check on fires that have been extinguished and search for potential new fires that could ignite in windy conditions today. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the eastern portion of Jackson County on Wednesday, from 2 – 10 p.m.; fires can start and spread easily in these conditions.
Smoke from wildfires burning in Northern California remains in the air over Jackson and Josephine Counties. Information on general smoke reports can be found online at https://fire.airnow.gov/.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
August 3, 2021
JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (August 3, 2021) – An overnight flight of Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Multi-Mission Aircraft fixed-wing plane detected two new fires on the Southwest Oregon District, and confirmed a third that resources had already been dispatched to. Using a combination of infrared technology and night vision goggles, the plane can pick up heat sources and even give fire behavior reports.
From this flight, the Skyline Fire was confirmed in northwestern part of Jackson County; it’s estimated to be a quarter acre. In the same area, the Horse Mountain Fire was discovered. It’s estimated to be a quarter acre as well, and resources were dispatched to it first this Tuesday morning. The third fire, the Jack Creek Fire, is located on U.S. Forest Service Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forestland; ODF Southwest has sent an engine to assist on this incident. None of these fires are threatening homes.
The three largest fires on the district remain:
- The Buck Rock Fire, located 5 miles north of Trail.
- The Round Top Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Shady Cove.
- The North Fork Anderson Creek Fire, located on Anderson Butte near Talent.
Firefighters on all three of these fires continued to hold lines overnight, and in some cases, slightly increase containment. All three are burning on steep slopes in high elevations, creating challenges for crews to dig line. There are currently no homes threatened across the district. An update on acreage and containment will be available in our evening update.
Smoke from wildfires burning in Northern California remains in the air over Jackson and Josephine Counties. Information on general smoke reports can be found online at https://fire.airnow.gov/.
Additional information about fire season is also available online on our website, www.swofire.com, our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest and our Twitter account, @swofire.
