SPRINGFIELD, Ore. – A fire started on the southeast side of Mt. Pisgah at approximately noon today.  The South Cascade District of the Oregon Department of Forestry responded to the fire and is currently overseeing operations. The park areas have been evacuated and closed to public access.

There are currently between 75-100 personnel working the fire, with 3 type 2 helicopters, 2 single seat aircraft, 1 air tanker and air attack.  There are also three 20 person hand crews and a 10-person inmate crew at the fire.

The Pisgah Fire is currently at approximately 50 acres.  The fire is burning in grasses, brush and timber.  No structures are threatened at this time.

Spokesperson Devon Ashbridge with Lane County Emergency Management stated that, “Howard Buford Recreation Area (Mt. Pisgah) will remain closed to all visitors throughout the weekend as fire crews continue to mop up after Thursday afternoon’s wildfire. No visitors will be allowed entry to the park. Entrances will remain barricaded until the closure is lifted.  Lane County Emergency Management asks residents to respect the closure of the park for their own safety and so that responders can focus on fire-fighting efforts.”

“We are aggressively attacking this fire and plan to have ground crews work throughout the night and as long as needed to contain the fire completely.”  said Michael Currin, Unit Forester of ODF South Cascade District.  “To maintain quick access to the fire and safety for all concerned, we ask that the public please avoid the area until further notice.” 

The Department of Forestry is working jointly with Lane County Parks, Lane County Emergency Management, Oregon State Police, local rural fire departments, Oregon Department of Transportation and multiple private contractors.  The Willamette National Forest is assisting with sending hand crews.

                                                                                      # # #