Gorge counties issue burn bans

“Said ban on open outdoor burning shall be in full force and effect from May 18 until rescinded. The public is directed to check with the appropriate authorities concerning burning restrictions within the corporate limits of any city or town.”

Residential barbecues are allowed.

Hood River, Wasco counties

The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District declared the beginning of fire season on May 8. The district’s fire danger level is “Moderate,” and there is an Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) in Hood River and Wasco counties.

“With record low snowpack, relatively low spring rain in lower elevations, and anticipated high temperatures, fine fuels — such as grasses — in the district have begun to dry out,” said ODF in a press release.

West Side Fire District further added that escaped debris burns are the number-one human related cause of wildfires in the state.

Wasco County declared a burn ban beginning May 8, and Hood River County on May 15. The ban prohibits all open burning, including debris piles and burn barrels.

Fire districts seek volunteers

Not everyone needs to become a career firefighter to make a difference.

Fire districts throughout the Gorge need volunteers, EMTs, support personnel, and community members willing to serve. Training is often provided, and many departments welcome people with no prior experience.

Departments and volunteer programs throughout the Columbia River Gorge include:

• Cascade Locks Fire & EMS

• Stevenson Fire Department

• Skamania County Fire District 2

• South Wasco Fire & Rescue

• South West Fire & Rescue

• Hood River Fire & EMS

• Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue

• Columbia River Fire & Rescue

• Hoodland Fire District

• Dallesport Fire District

• North Bonneville Fire Department

• Klickitat County Fire Districts and rural volunteer agencies throughout the Gorge

Contact your fire district directly to for more information.