Upper Applegate Fire 100% Lined, Mix of Direct and Indirect

June 23, 2024

RUCH, Ore. (June 23, 2024) – Lines on the Upper Applegate Fire, located south of Ruch, are now 100% complete around the perimeter, made up of both direct and indirect lines. Direct line remains at 35% tonight, as resources spent the day holding the fire in its current footprint through hot and windy conditions. Firefighters were able to walk portions of the fire today, and have GPS mapped it at 756 acres. An infrared (IR) flight is planned for tonight, which will help to solidify this data.

Firefighters were able to meet their goal today of securing water access to the southern portion of the fire. This will allow water to flow downhill and aid in efforts tonight. They also were able to bolster contingency lines. Hot, windy weather continued today, which prompted a few small spot fires near the top of a ridge. Firefighters were able to quickly knock them down and begin mopping up. Hazards continue to be the heat and wind, falling trees and rocks, and steep terrain.

Tonight, more 160 personnel are assigned are to the incident, including five 20-person crews, three engines, four bulldozers, three water tenders and numerous overhead. Aircraft will once again continue flying as needed until nightfall. Goals for the overnight shift include strengthening existing lines and continuing to mop up hotspots and the spot fires that were caught today.

Level 2 – BE SET evacuation notices remain in effect by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management for Zones JAC-434 and JAC-436. More information about zones and locations is available here: https://protect.genasys.com/.

This fire is affecting private, BLM and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. It was first reported in the late afternoon of Thursday, June 20. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation.

The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest

Direct Lines on Upper Applegate Fire Increase to 35% Overnight

June 23, 2024

RUCH, Ore. (June 23, 2024) – Lines created by firefighters on the Upper Applegate Fire are now 95% wrapped around the entire incident, with 35% being directly at the fire’s edge. This is tremendous progress considering the terrain this fire is burning on, located just south of Ruch. Steep slopes and falling trees and rocks are continuing to challenge resources. Due to the efforts to line the fire, GPS mapping has not yet occurred on this incident; for that reason, the fire remains an estimated 500 acres.

Overnight, firefighters were able to complete strategic firing operations on the southwestern side that were first started Friday night. These efforts are the reason for the increase in direct line, and have created a much more solid barrier to protect homes in that area. Additionally, resources also worked to mop up the small portion of fire that pushed past a line in windy conditions yesterday, strengthening that area as well.

The eastern side of the fire was hiked overnight and determined that a line could not be placed directly at the fire’s edge due to large amounts of trees that are primed to fall and rocks that would hamper efforts. Today, firefighters will work on bolstering a contingency line that is slightly further back, which will now be the primary line on that portion of the fire. Applegate Valley Fire District has brought in additional resources to do structure protection, home assessments and mitigation work on properties in this area as an added protection.

More than 300 personnel are assigned to this incident today, including 13 20-person crews, four engines, five tree fallers, two bulldozers and numerous overhead. Four helicopters of various sizes are assigned to the fire again today, with additional helicopters and air tankers available when needed. Resources remain focused on completing the line, especially on the eastern side of the fire, which has been difficult to work. Another focus will be establishing water access on a high point of the southern portion of the fire by bringing in portable tanks. This will allow water to flow to various portions of the fire below and give firefighters another tool on the line.

Due to the hazards, numerous landing zones around the fire have been designated for helicopters to use, should a firefighter need to be extricated for medical attention. The safety of firefighters and the surrounding community is a top priority on this incident. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management have issued are Level 2 – BE SET evacuation notices for Zones JAC-434 and JAC-436. More information about zones and locations is available here: https://protect.genasys.com/.

This fire is affecting private, BLM and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. It was first reported in the late afternoon of Thursday, June 20. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation.

The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest

Windy Conditions Test Upper Applegate Lines, Fire Remains an Estimated 500 Acres

June 22, 2024

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (June 22, 2024) – Firefighters are still holding the Upper Applegate Fire at approximately 500 acres, despite hot, dry and windy conditions on Saturday. Indirect lines were built along the northeastern portion of the fire, not completely closing the loop, but adding a contingency layer in an area that’s been difficult to work in. The fire remains with 70% indirect lines and now has 20% direct line.

During the afternoon, gusty winds pushed the fire over a line on the southeastern side of the incident; with the use of retardant from multiple air tanker drops and the repositioning of a crew, firefighters were able to catch it at an estimated five acres. It’s currently re-lined and resources are working to strengthen those areas.

Due to the conditions and out of an abundance of caution, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management increased the evacuation notices. The evacuation levels for Zones JAC-434 and JAC-436 have increased to Level 2 – BE SET. More information about zones and locations is available here: https://protect.genasys.com/.

Tonight, more than 170 personnel are assigned to the fire, including five 20-person crews, three engines, three bulldozers and three water tenders. Aircraft will continue flying as needed until dark. Firefighters will be working to continue progress from the previous shift and strengthen lines where possible.

This fire is affecting private, BLM and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. It was first reported in the late afternoon of Thursday, June 20. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation.

The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest

Upper Applegate Fire Lines Hold Overnight, Size Remains the Same

June 22, 2024

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (June 22, 2024) – Overnight, firefighters on the Upper Applegate Fire made excellent progress, keeping the fire at an estimated 500 acres, securing lines and creating new ones. The fire, located south of Ruch, is affecting private, BLM and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. Direct line at the fire’s edge has increased overnight to 15% and indirect line remains at 70%. Today, firefighters will focus on that final 15% of unlined fire edge, located on the eastern portion of the fire. This area has been a challenge the entire duration of this incident, as it’s steep and rocky. This kind of terrain can be nearly impossible to build line on, and for that reason, firefighters have been scouting the closet location to the fire’s edge to complete the perimeter.

More than 200 personnel are assigned to the fire today, including 27 overhead, seven 20-person crews, three engines, two water tenders, three bulldozers, six tree fallers and a Rapid Extraction Mobile Support Team (REMS) to provide aid and assistance should a firefighter be injured. The terrain on this fire has posed numerous safety issues, from the steep slope to hazardous trees and rocks that have been falling. While tactics remain aggressive to corral this fire fully, the safety of those working the incident is also a top priority.

The protection of homes and the community near the fire also remains a top priority. Overnight, firefighters were able to complete strategic firing operations on the southern portion, which is near to houses across the road. The work done last night nearly connected the fire’s edge to a bulldozer line that has been in place. High relative humidity overnight made this operation a safe option, and helped to reduce fuel that could have carried fire and threatened that line. That portion is now more secure.

Weather may once again impact fire behavior today, as temperatures are predicted to be in the high 80s to low 90s with a slight wind in the afternoon. Firefighters will be watching this potential and planning accordingly. Today, a Type 1, Type 3 helicopter and two Type 2 helicopters are assigned exclusively to this incident, and air tankers will be ordered as needed, much like yesterday. Last night, an illegal drone was spotted over the fire, shutting down aircraft operations for the last hour of the day. Flying drones over fires is not only illegal, but has the potential to cause an aircraft to crash, creating an extremely dangerous situation for the pilots flying and the firefighters working below. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office searched into the evening for the drone pilot but were unable to locate them. If you have information, please call the JCSO Tip Line at (541) 774-8333.

Level 1 “BE READY” evacuation notices issued by Jackson County Emergency Management and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office remain in place. They are for Zone JAC-436: Little Applegate Rd, west of Upper Applegate Rd, and eastern portions of Sterling Creek Rd., Jacksonville, and Zone JAC-434: Eastside Rd south of Little Applegate Rd to north of McKee Bridge, Jacksonville. More information about zones and locations is available here: https://protect.genasys.com/

Progress on the Highway 62 continued overnight; the fire remains 75 acres, 100% lined and is now 40% mopped up. Firefighters were able to check the fire for hot spots 50 feet into its perimeter, ensuring there isn’t any heat or smoldering material that could later reignite. Today, two 20-person crews, three engines and one water tender will be working that incident, with a goal of pushing that mop up to 100 feet in. Due to the tremendous progress on this fire, this will be the final update unless conditions significantly change.

The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.

Firefighters Push Line and Mop Up Percentages Forward on Jackson County Wildfires

June 21, 2024

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (June 21, 2024) – Firefighters continued to make good progress on both the Highway 62 and Upper Applegate Fires during Friday’s day shift. The Upper Applegate Fire, located south of Ruch, remains an estimated 500 acres on private, BLM and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. The Highway 62 Fire, located south of Shady Cove, remains at 75 acres and 100% lined. Tonight, it’s 100% plumbed with fire hose, allowing water usage across the entire incident. It’s also 20% mopped up at this time, affecting both private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. Resources tonight will be 53 personnel total, including overhead, two 20-person crews, and an engine. Resources will continue to work on mop up operations and take advantage of the naturally decreased fire behavior overnight.

Meanwhile, the Upper Applegate Fire is holding as the district’s top priority. Firefighters have been able to build indirect line around 70% of the fire and 10% direct line at the fire’s edge, however steep, rocky terrain and hazardous snag trees are creating challenges for resources and slowing down progress. Portions of these areas are affected by Conifer mortality; there are significant patches of dead Douglas fir trees. The dead trees are a result of climate change, decades of fire suppression, prolonged drought, and periods of high temperatures. Today, tree fallers were working to safely remove these trees, which will allow firefighters to work closer to the fire’s perimeter.

For Friday’s overnight shift, 47 personnel are assigned to this fire, including six 20-person crews, two engines, two water tenders and two bulldozers. Numerous aircraft remain assigned to the incident as well, and will fly as long as they are needed until the sun goes down. Today, three federal Large Air Tankers (LAT) and one Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT) were used on the fire out of the Medford Air Tanker Base (MATB) to create temporary fire lines using retardant. This largely helped to keep the fire within it’s footprint, despite hot and windy conditions today.

Tonight, resources will be focusing on creating as much direct line as possible along the eastern border, where there currently is no line or control aside from retardant perimeters. Safety remains a top priority with the potential for falling trees and rocks on the steep terrain. Structure protection will also continue on homes nearby.

Resources from across Oregon have been mobilized to this fire, including overhead members of ODF’s Incident Management Team 2. These individuals work in ODF districts across the state and dispatch to incidents where additional help is needed, allowing for surge capacity on the local district. The Oregon State Fire Marshal also deployed two strike teams this morning to the fire. Additional resources that have been working on this fire since it was first reported include BLM, USFS, Applegate Valley Fire District and firefighters and resources from agencies across Jackson and Josephine Counties.

On the Upper Applegate Fire, Level 1 “BE READY” evacuation notices were issued by Jackson County Emergency Management and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office for Zone JAC-436: Little Applegate Rd, west of Upper Applegate Rd, and eastern portions of Sterling Creek Rd., Jacksonville, and Zone JAC-434: Eastside Rd south of Little Applegate Rd to north of McKee Bridge, Jacksonville. Both remain in place this morning. More information about zones and locations is available here: https://protect.genasys.com/

The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest

Firefighters Work to Contain Two Wildfires That Occurred Within Minutes of Each Other

June 21, 2024

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (June 21, 2024) – Despite numerous hazards, firefighters are making good progress on two wildfires on opposite ends of Jackson County that were reported in the space of 15 minutes on Thursday afternoon. The Highway 62 Fire, located south of Shady Cove, remains at 75 acres, is 100% lined, and 60% plumbed with fire hose for water access. It’s affecting both private and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. The Upper Applegate Fire, located south of Ruch, is challenging firefighters more; this morning, it’s estimated to be at least 500 acres, and is burning on extremely steep terrain affecting private, BLM and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.

This morning, resources will continue to build and strengthen the lines that were dug on both flanks of the Upper Applegate Fire. Wind and terrain pushed the flames up a steep hill, creating a long and skinny fire footprint. The majority of each side is currently lined, however the most eastern portion still remains uncontrolled. Firefighters are working to gain access and put line in that area. Today, 108 personnel are assigned to this incident, including four 20-person crews, two engines, two water tenders and two bulldozers. Three helicopters are also assigned to work exclusively on this fire, including a Type 1, 2 and 3. Additional aircraft will be ordered as needed. Approximately a dozen homes were protected from this fire yesterday and overnight; structure protection will continue to be a priority as resources work today.

On the Highway 62 Fire, resources have a goal of connecting hose across the entire fire this morning, allowing water access on every portion of the incident for mop up operations. More than 100 personnel are assigned to this fire today, including four 20-person crews, four engines and two water tenders. Aircraft will likely not be needed, but will be available.

Hot temperatures, winds and low relative humidity will help to naturally fuel fire behavior today. Firefighters are aware of this potential and are planning accordingly. Both fires have hazard trees, and a few have already fallen. Resources are also challenged with steep terrain. Safety will remain a top priority on both incidents as work continues.

On the Highway 62 Fire, Level 1 “BE READY” evacuation notices were issued for Zone JAC-164: in the area of Hwy 62 and Hammel Rd, south of Shady Cove. This has been cancelled this morning.

On the Upper Applegate Fire, Level 1 “BE READY” evacuation notices were issued by Jackson County Emergency Management and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office for Zone JAC-436: Little Applegate Rd, west of Upper Applegate Rd, and eastern portions of Sterling Creek Rd., Jacksonville, and Zone JAC-434: Eastside Rd south of Little Applegate Rd to north of McKee Bridge, Jacksonville. Both remain in place this morning. More information about zones and locations is available here: https://protect.genasys.com/

Numerous resources responded to both of these incidents, including ODF, BLM, USFS, Applegate Valley Fire District, Jackson County Fire District 4 (Shady Cove), and both the Rogue Valley Wildland Strike Team and Task Force, comprised of firefighters and resources from agencies across Jackson and Josephine Counties. This combined effort is a prime example of how fire agencies within the Rogue Valley collaborate and work together to protect our communities.

The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest

Due to High Temperatures and Dry Fuels, Fire Danger Level Increasing to Moderate on Thursday

June 18, 2024

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (June 18, 2024) – The fire danger level on Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine counties will increase to “moderate” (blue) on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. Please be aware that this level change means that additional fire restrictions for the public will be in effect. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level will remain at Level I (one).

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.

Beginning Thursday at 12:01 a.m., the following 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.

For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District’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

Rogue Forest Protective Association to Meet April 18

April 4, 2024

Agenda: 04-18-2024 RFPA BOD Agenda_DML

ODF Southwest Oregon District Now Hiring for Fire Season 2024

January 26, 2024

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Jan. 26, 2024) – 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 weather and fuels 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 May 30, however interviews will take place from early March on; applying early is highly encouraged. Job descriptions and applications can be found on ODF Southwest Oregon District’s website.

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.

Rogue Forest Protective Association Meets Dec. 6

December 1, 2023

The Rogue Forest Protective Association will hold its regular fall board meeting Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm at the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District, 5286 Table Rock Road, Central Point, OR 97502.

Agenda: 12-06-23 RFPA Membership Agenda

Consistent Fall Weather Across the ODF Southwest Oregon District Brings and End to Fire Season

October 13, 2023

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Oct. 13, 2023) – Following 134 days, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District has officially declared an end to the 2023 fire season in Jackson and Josephine Counties. Consistent rain across the district and new, green grass and vegetation growing in has allowed for all fire season regulations and Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPL) to be lifted. This declaration takes effect Friday, October 13, 2023 at 9:00 a.m., and affects 1.8 million acres protected by ODF across Jackson and Josephine counties. At this time, industrial burning still remains prohibited.

The 2023 fire season on the Southwest Oregon District was not without its challenges; Firefighters on the district responded to 207 fires since the season began on June 1, 2023, for a total of 1,634 acres burned. The largest fire of the season, the lightning-caused Smith River Complex, originated in California and burned north into Oregon. While ODF firefighters weren’t able to respond during initial attack on this incident due to its location, the District was proactive with its federal partners at the U.S. Forest Service Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management as the fire began to burn toward the Oregon border. As a direct result, of the fire’s 85,429 acres, only 1,440 acres affected ODF-protected lands in Josephine County. This fire aside, ODF Southwest Oregon firefighters responded to 206 fires during initial attack and stopped them at a collective 194 acres burned. The second largest fire on the district, the Whiskey Creek Fire in Josephine County, was stopped at just 27 acres.

The largest fires of the season on the district are listed below:

ODF has an annual goal of putting out 98% of fires at 10 acres or less; with eight out of 207 fires hitting that mark, the district nearly reached its goal, coming in at 96%.

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:

• 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 un-attended and using caution when using machinery that could cause a spark. Please be aware that fires can still spread 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.

Fire Danger Level Decreases to Low Across Jackson and Josephine Counties

September 27, 2023

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Sept. 27, 2023) – Due to widespread rain, the fire danger level on Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine counties will decrease to “low” (green) as of Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. Please be aware that this level change means that some fire restrictions for the public will remain in effect. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level will remain at one.

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.

In low fire danger, the following activities are prohibited:

• 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 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 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 Southwest Oregon District’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.

Fire Danger Level Decreases to Moderate Due to Widespread Rain and Additional Forecasted Precipitation

September 25, 2023

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (Sept. 25, 2023) – The fire danger level on Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine counties will decrease to “moderate” (blue), and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will decrease to Level I (one) as of Monday, September 25, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. Please be aware that this level change means that some fire restrictions for the public will remain in effect.

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.

During Moderate fire danger, the following public fire restrictions remain in effect:

• 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.
• Smoking while traveling will only be allowed in enclosed vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water and other specifically designated locations.
• Open fires are prohibited, which includes campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except at locations deemed a designated campground. Portable cooking stoves 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;
• 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 I (one), which pertains to industrial operations and is separate from public regulations, 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 Southwest Oregon District’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.

Fire Danger Level Decreases to High on ODF-Protected Lands in Jackson and Josephine Counties

September 5, 2023

Beginning Friday, September 1, 2023 at 12:01 a.m., the following public fire restrictions will take effect:

• • No debris burning, including piles and debris burned in burn barrels

  • No fireworks on or within 1/8^th 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 only in designated campgrounds. Portable stoves 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 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

NOTE: Zoom in on the map, then click on your location. The sidebar will display fire restrictions and/or the proclamation. For additional information, contact your local ODF office or our Facebook page.

Fire Danger Level, IFPL Increases in Jackson and Josephine Counties

July 28, 2023

JACKSON & JOSEPHINE COUNTIES, Ore. (July 28, 2023) – 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 increase to “extreme” (red) at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, July 29, 2023, and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will increase to Level 3 (three). 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.

Beginning Saturday 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.
• 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 1/8^th of a mile of ODF-protected land are prohibited.
• 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.

Under IFPL III, the following are prohibited between 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.:

• Power saws at loading sites;
• Loading or hauling of any product or material;
• Blasting;
• Welding, cutting, or grinding of metal;
• Any other spark emitting operation not specifically mentioned.

In addition, the following are permitted to operate overnight to the morning, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., where mechanized equipment capable of constructing fire line is immediately available to quickly reach and effectively attack a fire start:

• Ground-based operations (tractor/skidder, feller-buncher, forwarder, or shovel logging operations);
• Power saws on ground-based operations;
• Rotary head saw feller-bunchers with a continuous Firewatch;
• Non-rotary head saw feller-bunchers;
• Tethered logging – winch-assisted, cable-assisted, traction-assisted, etc. systems, which enable ground- based timber harvesting machines to operate on steep slopes.

This is considered a restricted shutdown and the following activities are not permitted at any time, except as noted:

• Cable yarding systems, except that gravity operated logging systems using non-motorized carriages or approved motorized carriages may operate between 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., when all blocks and moving lines are suspended at least 10 feet above the ground (except the line between the carriage and the chokers).

In addition, pursuant to ORS 477.665 and OAR 629-043-0030, the fire watch requirement for this level is reduced from a minimum of three hours to a minimum of two hours during breaks and at the end of the operation period.

For more information about the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District’s fire season restrictions, visit our Facebook page @ODF Southwest Oregon District.