Oregon Department of Forestry officials have declared the start of fire season for the Central Oregon District beginning Friday, May 8, 2026, at 12:01 a.m., citing dry conditions and an increasing risk of wildfire across the region.
The district’s fire danger level will be set at “Moderate,” while the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) in Hood River and Wasco counties will be raised to Level I.
According to ODF, a combination of record low snowpack, below-average spring rainfall at lower elevations, and forecasted warm temperatures has already caused grasses and other fine fuels to dry out earlier than normal.
So far in 2026, the Central Oregon District has responded to 13 fires that have burned a combined 27.66 acres. Officials said half of those fires were caused by escaped debris burns, which remain the leading human-caused source of wildfires in Oregon.
Many counties in Central Oregon have already enacted debris burning bans. Residents are encouraged to check current outdoor burning regulations through beforeyouburn.net.
Under the Moderate fire danger level, several restrictions are now in effect within lands protected by ODF, including:
- No debris burning, including burn piles or burn barrels, unless specifically permitted by a local forester.
- Prohibition of exploding targets, tracer ammunition, and bullets containing pyrotechnic charges.
- No smoking while traveling through or working in operational areas.
Industrial operations under IFPL Level I must also maintain a fire watch for at least one hour during breaks and after operations conclude for the day.
ODF officials warned that additional restrictions could be implemented later in the season as conditions worsen. Residents and travelers are urged to regularly check local fire restrictions before conducting outdoor activities.
The agency also emphasized the importance of wildfire prevention efforts, noting that reducing human-caused fires helps preserve firefighting resources during the height of the season.
Wildfire prevention information is available through Keep Oregon Green.
The Central Oregon District protects state and private lands in Hood River, Wasco, Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Grant, Wheeler, Gilliam, Klamath, Umatilla, and Harney counties.
More information about district regulations and fire season restrictions can be found at ODF Central Oregon District and ODF Fire Restrictions Page.
Residents seeking local burn information can contact:
- Prineville-Sisters Unit: (541) 447-5658
- John Day Unit: (541) 575-1139
- The Dalles Unit: (541) 296-4626
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