PORTLAND, Ore. – Fire restrictions remain in effect on all Bureau of Land Management public lands in Oregon and Washington as the region navigates an exceptionally strenuous wildfire season. With more than 2 million acres already impacted by wildfires in the Northwest, BLM officials are calling on all public land visitors to exercise extreme caution, follow fire restrictions and closures, and help prevent additional wildfires. 

Fire restrictions vary by location based on fire danger, weather conditions, and fuel moisture. Before visiting public lands, visitors should check local restrictions and closures. These restrictions address when power tools may be used, whether campfires or portable stoves are allowed, and what fire prevention equipment must be on hand. 

"Preventing a single wildfire can make a real difference for firefighters, communities, and the landscapes we're working to protect," said Josh O'Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. "Please double-check your gear and follow every local restriction to the letter." 

While firefighters continue responding to active wildfires, BLM is also beginning the work of helping burned landscapes recover. The agency has already begun Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation efforts in areas affected by wildfire. ESR is a time-sensitive, post-fire response designed to address immediate risks and help stabilize burned forests, grasslands, and watersheds. 

"Recovery starts as soon as we can safely begin assessing what the landscape needs," said Kim Prill, acting BLM Oregon/Washington State Director. "Our teams are already working to stabilize areas affected by wildfire and protect the forests, grasslands, and watersheds that are so important to our communities and local economies." 

Depending on the conditions of a burned landscape, ESR work can include measures to reduce erosion, protect water quality, stabilize soils, and limit the spread of invasive species. These efforts help reduce the potential for additional damage and give affected landscapes a stronger foundation for long-term recovery. 

Individuals responsible for starting wildfires may face fines of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, and liability for the full cost of wildfire suppression. 

For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire. 

-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. 
 

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service conducts operations in close coordination with the Bureau of Land Management. As a unified federal entity under the Department of the Interior, the USWFS integrates expertise to streamline wildfire prevention, response and recovery under our shared mission to foster fire-resilient landscapes and safeguard communities across America’s public lands.