The Oregon State Marine Board has restricted recreational boating on Lake Billy Chinook to assist with emergency firefighting operations. The temporary closure was requested by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to facilitate the use of aerial scooper planes.
The restrictions come as several wildfires affect communities throughout Central Oregon. Officials are clearing the water to ensure aircraft can safely dip and scoop water from the lake to combat the nearby blazes without endangering recreational boaters.
Low visibility on the lake and the unpredictable locations where aircraft must dip or scoop water prompted the formal restriction. Boating restrictions are scheduled to remain in place through Aug. 6, 2026.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
