Fire danger has reached the "extreme" rating across Central Oregon public lands as the region enters its first full week of summer, with conditions officials say are primed for rapid fire spread. Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions are currently in effect on the Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland, and Prineville District Bureau of Land Management lands — a reminder issued by Central Oregon fire officials just this past Friday.

"Extreme fire danger means that new fire starts are likely to rapidly spread," officials warned in a notice published June 19. Jefferson County residents and visitors heading to public lands this week are urged to be especially cautious as the summer solstice passes and temperatures remain elevated.

What Stage 1 Restrictions Mean for You

Under Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions, the following are prohibited on Central Oregon public lands:

  • Open fires of any kind, including wood fires, charcoal briquettes, and wood stoves — except in designated campgrounds within Deschutes National Forest Wilderness areas (Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Washington, Three Sisters, Diamond Peak, and Mt. Thielsen)
  • Smoking unless inside a vehicle, building, or a 3-foot area cleared of all flammable material
  • Driving or parking on dry grass
  • Operating chainsaws or portable generators between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Fireworks and exploding targets remain permanently prohibited on all National Forest System lands in Central Oregon and are currently prohibited on BLM-administered lands as well.

A Season of Elevated Risk

The 2026 fire season officially began May 8 by declaration of the State Forester — weeks ahead of the typical June 15 statewide transition. Forecasters had predicted an above-normal fire season east of the Cascades starting in June, driven by record-low snowpack and a historically dry spring. Oregon’s new State Forester Kacey KC noted earlier this year that rangeland areas like those surrounding Madras and Warm Springs face the highest early-season risk.

Jefferson County Rural Fire District 1 already closed its burning season earlier than anticipated due to multiple runaway brush fires sparked by high winds earlier this spring.

What to Do

Residents are encouraged to make campfire-free plans for any outdoor activities on public lands. Have alternative cooking options — camp stoves with on/off valves remain permitted under Stage 1 — and always check current restriction status before heading out.

For current fire restriction information, call the Central Oregon Fire Use Information Line at 1-800-523-4737 or visit centraloregonfire.org. To report a wildfire, call 9-1-1. For smoke and air quality information, visit fire.airnow.gov.