Fire danger on and around the Warm Springs Reservation remains elevated this week, with new adjustments to Industrial Fire Precaution Levels affecting how and when certain work activities can take place — and a reservation-wide burn ban still firmly in place.
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service and Warm Springs Fire Management adjusted precaution levels this week, moving Zone 1 to Level 3 and Zones 2 and 3 to Level 2. The reservation is currently rated at a “high” fire danger level.
What the Burn Ban Means
The reservation-wide burn ban prohibits open burning until weather conditions improve sufficiently. That includes campfires, debris burning, and other open flames on Warm Springs tribal lands. Residents and visitors to the reservation should not attempt any open burning until fire managers officially lift the ban.
Those with questions about the burn ban or its current status should contact Warm Springs Fire Management directly.
Industrial Fire Precaution Levels Explained
Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPLs) govern how industrial and commercial operations — including logging, road construction, and other heavy equipment work — are conducted during fire season. Higher levels impose stricter requirements, such as standby fire suppression equipment, adjusted working hours, or full shutdowns during peak afternoon heat.
Zone 1 moving to Level 3 represents a significant tightening. Operators working in affected areas should consult with Warm Springs Fire Management to ensure they are in compliance.
Wider Central Oregon: Stage 1 Since September 5
Across the broader Central Oregon region — including the Deschutes National Forest and lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management — Public Use Fire Restrictions dropped from Stage 2 to Stage 1 effective September 5, following a stretch of cooler temperatures and improved humidity.
Stage 1 restrictions still prohibit open fires, including wood stoves and charcoal briquette fires, on Central Oregon public lands. Gas stoves with shut-off valves remain permitted. Campfires are not allowed even in designated fire rings on public lands under Stage 1.
Fire officials were clear when announcing the reduction: fire season is not over. Oregon has seen active wildfires continue into late September in recent years, and conditions can shift rapidly with a return of heat and wind.
Stay Informed
Residents heading outdoors this fall should check current restriction levels before any trip:
- Central Oregon fire restrictions: centraloregonfire.org
- Oregon Department of Forestry: oregon.gov/odf
- Warm Springs fire updates: KWSO 91.9 FM or kwso.org
As the region transitions from peak summer into early fall, conditions can still create dangerous fire weather. A dry east wind or a stretch of warm days can change the picture quickly. Stay aware, follow restrictions, and report any smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.