Banning the Burn: ODF pulls plug on fires in HR, Wasco counties on June 11
A view of the fire near Old Dufur Road on August 30, 2022. Wildland fire is very difficult to stop in high winds, which Wasco and Hood River counties experience frequently. A fire ban by all districts, as well as the ODF, will shut down all burning on June 11 in an attempt to limit such fires. Photo Credit: Amanda Huelle
From Stephanie Krell, Wasco County Public Information Officer:
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and all the fire districts in Hood River and Wasco County have issued a burn ban beginning at 12:01 AM on Sunday, June 11. This is to ensure the safety of Wasco County residents and to prevent dangerous wildfires from occurring.
Fire safety is of the utmost importance in Wasco County, as wildfires can cause significant damage to property and threaten the health and safety of our community. This burn ban will help protect our region from the dangers of uncontrolled fires, and we urge all county residents to abide by these regulations.
These gentlemen used good judgement and got their pile burning in the cool wet of fall in The Dalles last year. But with recent hot temperatures and low precipitation, bans have been implemented in Wasco and Hood River Counties starting on June 11.
During this time, all residential burning is prohibited in Wasco County, including burn piles and burn barrels. Residents are encouraged to use other methods of disposal for yard debris such as composting or chipping and remain cautious if you decide to have a campfire, conduct an agricultural burn or use fireworks.
We thank everyone for their cooperation in keeping our community safe and fire-free. For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.
