Richardson: ‘Poor forest practices’ worsen wildfires

State Rep. Dennis Richardson, the Republican nominee for governor, on Monday said the Two Bulls Fire raging near Bend was an example of the kind of fire that results from “poor forest practices.”

“My heart goes out to the families and individuals affected by the Two Bulls Fire, and my wife Cathy and I are praying for the fire professionals and volunteers working to contain the burn,” Richardson said in a statement.

“This is a frightening time for the people who live in proximity to this blaze, as well as a tragic loss of our natural resources.,” he said. “With fire season off to an early start, it’s more important than ever that we work toward common sense forest management.”

“This weekend, policy became personal in Central Oregon,” he said. “Poor forest practices put Oregon resources, wildlife, and families at risk.

“By sustainably clearing out dead and diseased trees, clearing underbrush, and practicing common sense forest management, we can reduce the damaging impact that these disasters have on our forests, fisheries, watersheds, and neighborhoods.”