New Fire, New Restrictions

A couple of days ago a new fire was detected in the Coast Range. This one is about 18 miles inland from Tillamook and less than 20 miles from the wildfire named Hog Creek/Game Hog, that started in July, was doused but rekindled again a few weeks later. This fire is still being monitored as it will not be completely out until the fall rains or later, luckily it is fully encircled and the fireline is holding it in check.

The new fire is called Butte Creek and is burning on State land. Currently at 60 acres and only about 12% contained. Water is being dropped by planes and helicopters along with ground crew of local fire departments, Oregon Department of Forestry, and South Fork work crew.

Along with the new wildfire, the Oregon Department of Forestry detailed  another go-round of hot dry weather through the weekend. The fire potential increases with each day so our restrictions as to what can be done in the forest is monitored more strictly. With the industrial level at 3, it means no saws can be used in the forest. No logging can be done in the woods. Working in the landing with wood that has already been brought out of the forest can be sawed, stacked and hauled but only until 1pm when a mandatory 3 hour fire watch is needed before leaving the area. Recreational vehicles like dirt bikes, ATVs, 4-wheelers and the like are not allowed in the forest.