Salem, Oregon – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) officially lifted fire restrictions across all districts on Wednesday, marking the close of what officials are calling a record‑breaking 2026 fire season.
Governor Tina Kotek praised the collective effort, saying, “Oregon’s resilience shines brightest in moments like these, and I am deeply grateful for the courage and collaboration that carried us through.” She thanked first responders, landowners, contractors, local governments, Tribal Nations, the Oregon National Guard and other state and international responders.
Scale of the season
The Northwest Interagency Coordination Center reported that more than 2.5 million acres burned statewide this year, surpassing the previous record of 1.9 million acres set in 2024. Drought conditions from a reduced snowpack, combined with multiple lightning strikes and hot, windy weather, created a perfect storm for fire ignition and rapid growth.
On ODF‑protected lands alone, there have been about 1,023 fires this year, burning 226,557 acres. ODF highlighted that 93 percent of those fires were contained at 10 acres or less, reflecting the agency’s emphasis on a “safe but aggressive initial attack.” State Forester Kacey KC noted, “While the fire environment has dramatically increased in complexity over the years, we still do all we can to keep fires small to limit the impacts of fire and smoke on Oregonians, communities, and our natural resources.”
Resources and cooperation
ODF mobilized its Complex Incident Management Teams (CIMT) seven times this season. In a notable out‑of‑state partnership, a CIMT from Florida was deployed under a mutual‑aid agreement to take command of the East Evans Creek Fire after the local team’s assignment expired.
In total, ODF brought in 280 resources from 19 states, provinces and territories to support Oregon’s firefighting effort. Deputy Director of Fire Operations Kyle Williams described the season as “one of the most demanding fire seasons we’ve ever experienced,” adding that the extreme conditions tested the entire national system.
What’s next for Oregonians
With fire season officially over, ODF‑imposed restrictions on its lands have been lifted. However, many municipal fire departments may still require permits for debris burning, and slash burning continues to need a permit year‑round. Residents are urged to check the “Before You Burn” website or contact their local ODF office before lighting any fires.
As the state moves into fall and winter, ODF districts are shifting focus to wildfire prevention, fuels reduction, mitigation and planning. The agency encourages the public to visit its Fire Prevention website and the Keep Oregon Green site for tips on protecting homes, families and property from future wildfires.
Community gratitude
Across the state, volunteers, contractors and community members have been lauded for their dedication. “Everyone gave it all they had,” Williams said, underscoring the collaborative spirit that helped Oregon weather this unprecedented season.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
