Two Bulls: Governor invokes Conflagration Act

Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act on Saturday, June 7 , at 7:08 p.m., effective immediately, in response to fires burning near Bend in Deschutes County.

In accordance with ORS 476.510-476.610 , Governor Kitzhaber determined that a threat to life, safety, and property exists due to the fires and that the threat exceeds the fire-fighting capabilities of local fire-fighting personnel and equipment.

The fires are under the unified command of the Oregon Department of Forestry Team 2 and the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal Green Team.

By invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act, the Governor ordered the Oregon State Police and the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize fire resources statewide and coordinate with all appropriate Fire Defense Chiefs for the use of personnel and equipment to suppress and contain the fire.

“With the fires so close to Bend and the city’s water supply, the State Fire Marshal and the Department of Forestry are working cooperatively with the U.S. Forest Service and the local community to minimize threats to people and property,” said Kitzhaber. “I have directed all available state resources to help contain the fires and ensure that nearby communities have every resource necessary to protect their citizens.”

This emergency is declared only for the Two Bulls Wildfire in Deschutes County and was effective immediately.

Originally two separate fires, Two Bulls Wildfire is being managed as one incident. The fires are estimated to be more than 6,800 acres.

Approximately 50 homes are currently under an evacuation order. Pre-evacuation notices have been issued to another 2,000 homes near the fires.

The Red Cross has established a shelter at High Desert Middle School in Bend. A community informational meeting will be held tonight , June 9 , at 6:00 p.m. at Bend High School.

Resources:

Oregon Department of Forestry Wildfire Blog