OSFM's Community Wildfire Risk Reduction Grants Drive Critical Projects Across Oregon -09/27/23

BEND, Ore. - The Oregon State Fire Marshal is excited to share that project work is underway for the Community Wildfire Risk Reduction (CWRR) grants awarded in June 2023. These grants, awarded to organizations across Oregon, are instrumental in fortifying communities against the threat of wildfires and advancing fire safety measures.

Central Oregon is at the forefront of these vital projects, with several organizations committed to enhancing wildfire resilience in their communities. The recipients of the CWRR grants in Central Oregon include:

• Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council - $250,000
• City of Sisters - $72,000
• Crooked River Ranch Lion’s Club - $82,431
• Deschutes County - $500,000
• Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2 - $280,679
• Deschutes River Woods Neighborhood Association - $156,300
• Grizzly Rangeland Fire Protection Association - $37,500
• Ponderosa Pines Property Owner’s Association - $140,995
• River Canyon Estates Homeowner’s Association - $27,405

These grants support a wide array of critical projects, including fuel reduction, community education, and wildfire risk mitigation strategies. The collective efforts of these organizations will significantly contribute to reducing the impact of wildfires in Central Oregon and beyond.

A notable milestone in this initiative is the delivery of a chipper to the Ponderosa Pines Property Owner’s Association, scheduled for Thursday, September 28, 2023 between noon and 1 p.m. This chipper is a valuable asset in their ongoing efforts to create defensible space and minimize wildfire risks in their community. The address is 51840 Black Pine Way. 

From Bend:
South on 97 to Burgess Road
Turn right on Burgess then go to mile marker 5
Turn left on Ponderosa Way which will become Ponderosa Loop
Continue on Ponderosa Loop to Black Pine Way and turn left
Chipper area will be on the right where the buildings and water are located.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal commends these organizations for their dedication to safeguarding their communities against wildfires. The tireless work of these grant recipients is a testament to the resilience and determination of Oregonians in the face of wildfire threats.

For more information regarding the progress of the Community Wildfire Risk Reduction grants and the chipper delivery event in Central Oregon, please contact Heather Miller, OSFM Central Oregon fire risk reduction specialist at heather.miller@osfm.oregon.gov or 503-509-3534.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal

The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s mission is to protect people, property and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM is committed to strengthening the safety and security of Oregon's communities by mitigating the risks associated with wildfires. Through grant funding and strategic partnerships, the agency empowers local organizations to implement effective wildfire risk reduction measures and protect lives and property.

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