John Day, Ore. – Residents in the John Day Valley have been living with fire for more than a month.
Fall rains will eventually extinguish the interior fire within the Canyon Creek Complex Fire, but in the meantime some residents within the fire perimeter are working with the local Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Unit in John Day to remove hazards and clean-up fire damaged vegetation.
This is the first step for these landowners to move toward their new “normal.” Fire may be used to burn debris piles from these activities.
Smoke and flames may be visible from these fires, however the public should not be concerned as piles are well within the black perimeter and have no chance for escape. ODF personnel is working closely with landowners to ensure there is no risk of fire growth.
ODF’s Central Oregon District remains in fire season with a regulated closure in effect. Open fires, including debris burns, warming and campfires are allowed by permit only. Permits will only be issued inside the Canyon Creek Complex Fire perimeter until there is widespread moisture in the area, and regulated closure is terminated.
Inciweb – Crews during defensive burn operations
The John Day Unit is issuing these permits to homeowners as they prepare to rebuild. Removing fuels near new building sites will provide for defensible space in future years and allow residents to return home sooner.
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