BLM Prepares For Aerial Seeding And Herbicide Treatments (Photo) - 09/22/26

LAKEVIEW, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management is helping scarred rangeland recover from wildfire. Crews are preparing to seed burned areas and treat invasive grasses from the air, helping restore vegetation, improve wildlife habitat, and reduce future wildfire risk across southeastern Oregon.

“Post-fire restoration is about giving native vegetation the best opportunity to recover,” said Oliver Liu, natural resources specialist at the BLM Lakeview Field Office. “By establishing desirable plants and reducing invasive annual grasses, we can help restore healthy, resilient landscapes, and improve habitat for wildlife.”

Aerial seeding projects at Bowman and Tucker Hill will support post-fire rehabilitation efforts. Aircraft will distribute a mix of native grasses and forbs across the project areas to help reestablish vegetation following the 2024 Bowman Well and Tucker Hill Fires. The work is part of the Burned Area Emergency Stabilization and Restoration effort.

The aerial herbicide treatments help control invasive annual grasses that can compete with native vegetation, increase fuel loads, and contribute to more frequent wildfires. The projects will use imazapic, a pre-emergent herbicide that prevents the germination of winter annual grasses.

Together, the seeding and herbicide treatments are intended to support the recovery of burned landscapes while reducing conditions that allow invasive annual grasses to spread.

BLM will post maps identifying treatment areas along the main roads entering the project areas.

For public and applicator safety, BLM asks people and pets to avoid camping or traveling through treatment areas while aerial applications are underway.

For more information, visit the BLM Oregon/Washington Weeds and Invasives Program webpage or contact the BLM Lakeview District Office at 541-947-2177.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Help Shape The Future Of Your Public Lands In Oregon - 09/21/26

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is urging public land users of all types to use their expertise and experience to shape decisions that keep public land across Oregon and Washington healthy, accessible, and thriving. Serving on a council is a chance to collaborate, share ideas, and make a real difference in how millions of public acres are managed for current and future generations. 

“Our resource advisory councils are integral in managing public lands on behalf of the American people,” said Kim Prill, acting BLM Oregon-Washington State Director. “Participating on these councils is a unique opportunity to collaborate and bring your perspective to the table, guiding the stewardship of public lands we all care about.”

Earlier this month, the BLM published a call for nominations to fill current and upcoming vacancies on four councils that advise the BLM across Oregon and Washington.

• Western Oregon RAC
• John Day–Snake RAC
• Southeast Oregon RAC
• Steens Mountain Advisory Council

The nomination period is open for 45 days from publication in the Federal Register, until Monday, Oct. 26. Anyone can nominate themselves or someone else.

The Secretary of the Interior appoints RAC members staggered three-year terms on each of the Councils. The BLM is looking for individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and interests, including: 

• Ranchers and holders of federal grazing permits 
• Members of the timber industry

• Energy and mineral development representatives 

• Recreation users 

• State and local elected officials 

• Tribal governments 

• Wild horse and burro interest groups 

• Environmental organizations 

• Academics & members of the public at large

Resource Advisory Councils are required by the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and operate under the Federal Advisory Committee Act to ensure balanced representation. Resource Advisory Council members meet virtually at least once per year to provide advice on initiatives, regulations, and policies that impact millions of acres of public lands.  

For more information visit the Oregon/Washington Advisory Council webpage.  

To apply, visit the BLM’s national Resource Advisory Council page.  

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Celebrate National Public Lands Day With BLM Volunteer Events In The Pacific Northwest - 09/15/26

Celebrate National Public Lands Day with BLM Volunteer Events in the Pacific Northwest

PORTLAND, Ore. – National Public Lands Day is back on September 26! Join the Bureau of Land Management to celebrate America’s 250^th birthday and participate in the nation’s largest single-day volunteer event for public lands. It’s the perfect excuse to get out, give back, and make a real difference.

“We are hosting incredible events across Oregon and Washington,” said Morgan Rubanow, outreach specialist for BLM Oregon/Washington. "Whether you are a seasoned hiker, a history enthusiast, or looking for a fun day out with the family, there is truly something for everyone.”

From beach cleanups to historic preservation, every volunteer's effort directly impacts the health and accessibility of our shared public lands. Volunteers may receive fee-free entrance coupons or volunteer t-shirts while supplies last.

Burns District

• Riddle Brothers Ranch Restoration in Hines
  7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 29
  Structure preservation and staining
• Steens Mountain Backcountry Byway Kiosk Installation
  8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26
  Help install new informational kiosks

Coos Bay District

• Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area Interpretive Event
  10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26
  Educational stations on natural resources

Lakeview District

• Warner Wetlands Accessibility Improvements in Plush
  8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26
  Hart Bar Interpretive Site improvements

Medford District

• Buck Rock Historic Road System Workday at Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument
  8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26
  Road system sign and map installation

Northwest Oregon District

• Molalla River Cleanup in Mollala
  9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19
  Trash removal, trail maintenance, and recreation site rehabilitation
• Disciples of Dirt Trail Maintenance at Carpenter Bypass
  9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19
  Mountain biking trail maintenance
• Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area in Newport
  9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26
  Beach clean-up, invasive plant removal, garden maintenance, and fee-free festivities

Prineville District

• Reynolds Pond Restoration Project
  10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25
  Site cleanup and workday
• Hampton Butte Rockhound Site Cleanup
  9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26
  Cleanup workday to fill in holes from rock collectors

Roseburg District

• Swiftwater Trailhead Clean Up at Idleyld Park
  8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19
  Trailhead and day use area restoration and maintenance

Spokane District

• Fishtrap Loop in Sprague, Wash.
  8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26
  Annual trail maintenance work party
• Fishtrap Watermelon Hill in Fishtrap, Wash.
  9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7
  Shrub planting and fence repair

Vale District

• Oasis Spruce Up Day in Huntington
  10 a.m. to 1 p.m. **Mountain Time** on Friday, Sept. 25
  Trash cleanup, invasive weed removal, and general site maintenance

For more information about specific events, please see the National Environmental Education Foundation webpage or the BLM Volunteer Opportunity webpage.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
 

BLM Baker Field Office Relocates To Wheeler Building (Photo) - 09/11/26

BAKER CITY, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management’s Baker Field Office will relocate its operations to the second floor of the Wheeler Building at 1550 Dewey Ave. in Baker City, where it will co-locate with the Forest Service’s Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Ranger District.

The move will be effective Sept. 15. The Baker Field Office had temporarily relocated from its previous location to the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in June 2025. The Field Office will now operate from its new location in the Wheeler Building.

“Co-locating with our Forest Service partners strengthens the collaborative relationship we already rely on for effective land stewardship,” said Sarah Sherman, field manager for the Baker Field Office. “This move supports our ability to deliver our mission, share resources, and remain responsive to the communities and visitors we serve.”

The Baker Field Office, which is part of the BLM’s Vale District, manages approximately half a million acres of public lands in eight counties. The office provides a range of public services, including recreation, grazing, forestry, and other multiple-use activities across northeast Oregon. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information, please stop by or contact the BLM Baker Field Office at (541) 523-1256.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

[UPDATE] Wild Horses In Peril: Riddle Mountain Rescue Operation Halted - 09/10/26

BURNS, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management’s plans to rescue horses on Riddle Mountain have been postponed due to a temporary restraining order related to ongoing litigation. After a record dry winter and a fire season that consumed 70% of the herd management area, the herd’s health is under immediate threat from severe food and water shortages.

“It’s our responsibility to manage and protect these herds,” said Don Rotell, Burns District Manager.  “When fire and severe drought shrinks water sources and reduces forage, it’s the horses and other plants and animals that pay a price.”

“We want healthy horses on healthy rangelands,” Rotell continued. “Unfortunately, the practical implication of this delay is that it may not be possible to round up these horses before late fall storms make roads in the area impassable.”

The rescue operation was planned to start September 9. The BLM will provide any additional updates online.

Rescuing these horses from the range was also part of the BLM’s post-fire emergency stabilization and rehabilitation plan for the land. When a severe wildfire burns hot enough to destroy vegetation and alter soil structure, recovery doesn't happen on its own. Without quick action, winter storms can wash away topsoil, invasive weeds can take hold, and damage can last for decades. Resting the land ensures it can continue to provide habitat for the herd, other wildlife and support additional land uses. During this rest period, cattle will not be grazing on these lands, allowing the rangeland to recover without added pressure to its limited forage and water resources.  

Public safety and animal welfare remain top priorities. The Wild Horse and Burro Program is committed to the humane and sustainable management of wild horse populations and their habitats. These drive-trap gather operations are guided by the Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program, which sets handling standards that prioritize the care and well-being of the animals. Through collaborative efforts, the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro Program seeks to maintain healthy herds on healthy rangelands now and for future generations.

VIDEO: BLM video of the herd traveling through the scorched rangeland is available here.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

BLM To Temporarily Close Virtue Flat OHV Area For Special Event - 09/09/26

BAKER CITY, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management announces that parts of the Virtue Flat Off-Highway Vehicle Area, approximately 12.5 miles east of Baker City, will temporarily close for the Bar to Bar Off‑Road Motorcycle Race. The closure applies during active race periods on Sept. 12–13, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and is necessary to ensure public safety, support event operations, and avoid conflicts with other recreationists.   

"Public safety is our highest priority during high-speed events like this motorcycle race, and the eastern trails will remain open for other recreationists to enjoy,” said Erich Schow, Baker Field Office Assistant Manager. “We appreciate the community's cooperation and patience as we work to host a safe and successful event."

During race activities, officials will close the designated racecourse, staging, pit, parking, and start/finish areas. Public recreation access to these areas will not be permitted during the closure period. Trails and routes on BLM land to the east of the course will remain open for recreational use.

For more information about the closure, please contact the BLM Baker Field Office at (541) 523-1256.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Celebrate Native Wildlife At The See Our Salmon And Friends Event - 09/08/26

Fire Season Isn’t Over When Summer Ends, BLM Warns - 09/04/26

Wild Horses In Peril: Emergency Operations Start Next Week On Riddle Mountain - 09/03/26

Urgent Rescue Launched For Wild Horses Running Out Of Water In Southeast Oregon - 09/02/26

VALE, OR – Emergency rescue operations begin tomorrow to save wild horses whose health is under immediate threat from severe food and water shortages. The Bureau of Land Management is initiating the lifesaving gather in southeast Oregon, where the animals’ survival is compromised by a lack of resources due to an especially dry winter and recent wildfires.

Currently, there are about 1,200 wild horses in the Sheepshead/Heath Creek Herd Management Area, which can sustainably support roughly 500 to 900 wild horses. Last winter was especially dry, reducing the amount of forage and water available for the oversized herd, and this season’s wildfires exacerbated the situation.

“Ongoing drought has left this herd with only two of the usual 63 water sources available,” said Cassandra Andrews-Fleckenstein, Deputy District Manager for the Vale District. “We are taking this necessary, humane step to prevent widespread suffering and a further decline in the animals’ health.”

The BLM will gather up to 499 horses and transport them to off-range holding facilities, where they will receive veterinary evaluations, appropriate care, high‑quality feed, and continuous access to fresh water. The facilities provide ample space that meets established agency standards. Once they have been evaluated and are ready, some of the horses will be available for adoption through the BLM Online Corral.

The BLM will provide updates about the Sheepshead/Heath Creek Emergency Gather on blm.gov.

Public safety and animal welfare remain top priorities. The Wild Horse and Burro Program is committed to the humane and sustainable management of wild horse populations and their habitats. These drive-trap gather operations are guided by the Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program, which sets handling standards that prioritize the care and well-being of the animals.

Removing these horses from the range will support rangeland health and help the land recover from the recent wildfire, ensuring these areas can continue to provide habitat for wildlife and support multiple land uses. Through collaborative efforts, the program seeks to protect the welfare of wild horses and burros while preserving rangeland ecosystems for future generations.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

BLM To Close Reynolds Pond For Public Safety Sept. 11–13 - 08/31/26