Bend, Ore. – The U.S. Forest Service announced that beginning Friday, Sept. 4, additional sections of the Ochoco National Forest will be reopened after weeks of fire‑related closures. The Rowe Creek Complex and Shingle Fire, both ignited by a July 15 lightning storm, have been partially cleared, and officials say hazards are being mitigated so the public can safely return to hunting, hiking and other outdoor activities.
What remains closed
While many areas will be accessible again, portions of the burned zones will stay closed. Forest officials continue to advise visitors to stay clear of restricted sections to protect both public safety and ongoing firefighting operations. The closures were put in place after more than 35 wildfires sparked across the Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland and surrounding lands.
Restoration and safety work underway
Fire crews are still securing firelines, removing hazardous trees and establishing safe access routes to recreation sites, grazing allotments and private property. Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) teams began assessments earlier this month on the Coyote, Henry, Shingle, Akawa and Round Butte fires. BAER evaluations for the Rowe Creek Complex are slated for early September and will guide erosion control, hazard‑tree removal and protection of natural and cultural resources.
Forest supervisor’s message
Jeff Marszal, forest supervisor for the Ochoco National Forest, acknowledged the deep impact the fires have had on the region. “These fires have changed familiar places across the Forest and Grassland and we know those changes are deeply felt,” Marszal said. “Even as firefighters continue suppression work, our BAER and restoration teams are laying the groundwork for recovery. We appreciate the strength and patience of our communities as we work together to restore access and support the land.”
Drought and fire risk
Central Oregon remains in a drought status. Although some precipitation is expected later this week, officials note it will not end the fire season. Dry fuels will continue to burn despite cooler temperatures and scattered moisture. Stacy Long, public affairs officer for the Forest Service, emphasized that human‑caused fires represent only a small fraction of the total acreage burned this season.
Ongoing monitoring
Forest Service staff will keep evaluating closure boundaries daily and plan to reopen additional areas as soon as conditions are deemed safe. Residents and visitors are encouraged to check the Forest Service website or contact local ranger stations for the latest updates before heading into the forest.
The reopening of these lands is a welcome sign for Central Oregon’s outdoor community, restoring access to beloved hunting grounds and trail systems while the agency continues its diligent work to protect the forest’s long‑term health.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
