Backyard debris burns still outlawed in much of C.O.

Despite the cooler weather and scattered precipitation of the last few days, the risk of fire remains throughout Central Oregon, the Oregon Department of Forestry warned Friday.

In the past 24 hours, varying amounts of rain have fallen throughout the district, with less than .1″ in most areas. Warmer, drier weather is expected for the next few days, with temperatures near 80 degrees.

Central Oregon District fire managers continue to monitor fuel conditions for the risk of fire spread. Current fuel moisture conditions and weather forecasts pose a high fire danger for central Oregon.

Fire season restrictions and a regulated closure in effect for lands protected by ODF are intended to reduce the risk of human caused fires.

Open fires such as debris burning, campfires and warming fires are prohibited at this time, except at designated campgrounds.

Cooler fall days may give a false sense of security regarding fire danger, but the public is reminded that there has been limited rainfall the last few months, preceded by reduced snowpack and minimal spring rains.

Fire resources were dispatched Friday to several illegal debris burns.

Please contact your local ODF office or rural fire department for information regarding debris burning and other fire restrictions.

Additional information and guidance for fire restrictions is available online at www.oregon.gov/odf/centraloregon/pages/index.aspx