Oregon State Marine Board

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News Release

Recreational Boaters Urged To Give Way To Aircraft For Wildfire Operations - 07/31/26

The Oregon State Marine Board, on behalf of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, is asking recreational boaters to give way to aircraft on all portions of Lake Billy Chinook during periods when firefighting operations require the area to be cleared. The aim is to support aerial scooper planes for firefighting operations and to protect boaters’ safety.

 

Currently, several wildfires are affecting communities throughout Central Oregon. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and partner agencies have been present on the water during aircraft operations to keep boaters clear up until now. However, due to limited visibility and the unpredictable locations for aircraft to dip or scoop water from the lake, officials aim to minimize safety risks to recreational users and will initiate a temporary closure if necessary. 

 

Message from Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office:
Lake Billy Chinook boaters: Stay clear of firefighting aircraft and follow all directions. Interference may force a full or partial closure of the lake. Details: https://www.facebook.com/JeffersonCountyORSheriff/

 

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Recreational Boaters Urged To Give Way To Aircraft For Wildfire Operations - 07/31/26

The Oregon State Marine Board, on behalf of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, is asking recreational boaters to give way to aircraft on all portions of Lake Billy Chinook during periods when firefighting operations require the area to be cleared. The aim is to support aerial scooper planes for firefighting operations and to protect boaters’ safety.

 

Currently, several wildfires are affecting communities throughout Central Oregon. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and partner agencies have been present on the water during aircraft operations to keep boaters clear up until now. However, due to limited visibility and the unpredictable locations for aircraft to dip or scoop water from the lake, officials aim to minimize safety risks to recreational users and will initiate a temporary closure if necessary. 

 

Message from Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office:
Lake Billy Chinook boaters: Stay clear of firefighting aircraft and follow all directions. Interference may force a full or partial closure of the lake. Details: https://www.facebook.com/JeffersonCountyORSheriff/

 

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