Fire relief: Lower Deschutes River reopens

Firefighters have made progress containing the Shaniko Butte Fire, so fire officials said late Saturday they made the decision to re-open the Lower Deschutes River beginning 6 a.m. on Sunday.

Although the area will be open to day and overnight use, officials say rafters should use caution. Helicopters will still be using the river for dipping and river staff may ask rafters to hold up temporarily while helicopters are working.

Rafters should avoid pulling off in areas that have recently burned. Black areas may still have hot spots, dangerous stump holes or rolling material.

Fire conditions on Thursday forced fire officials to make the decision to close the river to all day and overnight use between Trout Creek (River mile 88.5) and Long Bend (River Mile 57).

A reminder for people planning on visiting the Lower Deschutes River that fire restrictions are in place from canyon rim to canyon rim.

The Deschutes River Canyon contains light, grassy fuels that allow fires to ignite and spread very quickly.

People may use white gas/propane stoves and may only smoke in a vehicle or on the water