News Release //  Oregon Parks and Recreation Department + Oregon Department of Forestry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE // July 13, 2018 + 6 p.m.

Contacts:

Chris Havel, Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept, 503-931-2590, chris.havel@oregon.gov

Bobbi Doan, Oregon Department of Forestry, 503-507-4481, bobbi.j.doan@oregon.gov

Small fire closes back-country trails at Silver Falls

Silverton OR – A fire, currently less than 6 acres, in the southeastern corner of Silver Falls State Park has forced the closure of several back-country trails. Drakes Crossing Fire District and the Oregon Department of Forestry have responded with  aircraft and 30 personnel.

Main points:

• There is a small fire -- less than 6 acres -- near the eastern boundary of Silver Falls State Park.
• Back country trails in the area are closed. See attached map. Camp Silver Creek, a YMCA youth camp, is in the affected area and was in use, but all children and staff, totalling about 185 people, have left the site.
• Oregon Department of Forestry and local fire crews are engaged with Heavy Airtanker, Single Engine Airtankers (SEATs), helicopter  and ground support.
• While other areas of the park remain open, there will be equipment and aircraft in the area. Any visitors who planned to visit the park are advised to wait until more information is available about the status of this small fire.
• Conditions can change quickly; watch for updates on https://bit.ly/2meFGMP.

No injuries or facility damage have been reported.

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