FireFree marks record free yard debris disposal

This past weekend marked the final days at Deschutes County transfer stations to dispose of yard debris in an effort to create and maintain defensible space around your home.

Residents from across Deschutes County responded by bringing 5,010 cubic yards of flammable yard waste to transfer stations in Sisters, Redmond and La Pine on May 15 & 16. This is an 11% increase in participation from last year at the surrounding transfer stations by local residents

This brings the total FireFree material collected this spring to 37,959 cubic yards! This is the most yard debris collected in the 16-year history of FireFree and a 27% increase in participation when comparing to 2014.

“Residents in Central Oregon proved that they understand their responsibility when it comes to wildfire preparedness and are more prepared than ever for our fast approaching fire season,” comments Alison Green, FireFree Program Coordinator.

The Westside Transfer Station located on Simpson Avenue had a FireFree FIRST, bikes hauling yard debris. This shows that residents of central Oregon will not let even a barrier such as a vehicle to haul debris hinder their efforts to be more prepared for fire season.

Green reminds residents that the FireFree message is a year-round effort to educate community members about how they can be prepared for wildfires. Residents are encouraged to visit www.FireFree.org for more information on reducing the structural vulnerability of homes and getting prepared for fire season.

FireFree is a public education campaign designed to increase resident participation in wildfire defense and to mitigate losses due to wildfire. The annual clean up days are a key part of involving area residents in removing debris from around their homes and property, and increasing awareness about other steps they can take to reduce the potential for wildfires reaching homes and neighborhoods.

Visit the FireFree website at www.firefree.org for more information about FireFree Activities in your area or call you local fire department or Project Wildfire are 541-322-7129.