Tag WILDFIRE
Trump said cuts wouldn’t affect public safety. Then he fired hundreds of workers who help fight wildfires.
Ongoing cuts, funding freezes and hiring pauses have weakened the nation’s already strained firefighting force by hitting support staff who play crucial roles in preventing and battling blazes.
New Oregon Department of Forestry report says PacifiCorp wasn’t responsible for Santiam Canyon fire
A long-awaited report by the state Department of Forestry supports PacifiCorp's version of the deadly Santiam Canyon wildfire in 2020.
Bill that could have offered utilities protection from fire lawsuits gets fix
A single sentence change in House Bill 3666 ensures certificates awarded to utilities for wildfire prevention plans are not used to determine their legal liability in a wildfire.
Bill would create $1 billion fund to aid utilities in paying wildfire victims
In a document circulated last fall, Oregon power brokers argue wildfires endanger the entire state’s economic health.
Oregon Democrats in U.S. House, others warn that firings could mean dire wildfire season
Federal employees not only put out fires, they also manage prevention work, like controlled burns to clear out undergrowth that can fuel catastrophic blazes under dry, windy conditions.
Bill on wildfire prevention work could give utilities immunity from lawsuits
House Bill 3666 would set minimum standards for wildfire prevention work by utilities but lawyers say it also offers statutory immunity from lawsuits.
Gov. Kotek, Legislature want to pause action on wildfire hazard map to quell public frustration
Kotek directed the state forestry department to pause any further action based on the map until the Legislature decides to keep, update or repeal it.
Salem firefighters headed to Los Angeles area to help fight wildfires
Marion County fire agencies are sending 44 firefighters and 10 engines to the Los Angeles area. They’re on the road and expected to arrive Thursday morning to help.
Judge dismisses $33 million timber lawsuit against U.S. Forest Service over 2020 wildfire response
A federal judge denied Freres timber companies’ complaint that firefighters did not do everything possible to stop the spread of the Beachie Creek Fire