Single Publication

Willamette Complex North Daily Update
2024.WillametteComplex.North@firenet.gov

Information line: 541-208-1262, 8 am to 8 pm
Facebook: https://facebook.com/OreFireInformation2024;; https://www.facebook.com/PyramidFireInfo2024/

Monday, September 9, 2024 Message: California Incident Management Team 13 assumed command of three new fires. In addition to the Pyramid, Ore and Linton Creek, the IMT also has the Boulder, Round Top, and the “374” fire within the Willamette Complex North.  Resources remain identified and available to respond for initial attack fires if needed.

Suppression Objectives: The Boulder Creek, Ore, Linton Creek, Pyramid, 374, and Roundtop Fires are full suppression fires.  Many different strategies used to protect values at risk, including infrastructure, communities, and Highway 126, the Middle Santiam Wilderness, HJ Andrews Experimental Forest, and private timberlands are being implemented. Firefighters are building direct fire line where possible, and strategic indirect contingency line as needed. In addition, heavy equipment, fire retardant, and water dropping air support are being used. 

Current Situation: Many fires are currently burning on the Willamette National Forest. If more fires come under the command of Team 13, fires will be prioritized for values at risk to life and property. 

Boulder Fire: 5 Miles West of McKenzie Bridge, acres, 0% contained, lightning caused. Firefighters are shifting resources to the Boulder fire. Fire personnel will be coming in and out Highway 126 to access key locations to engage the fire. Please be advised of fire traffic. A Level 1 (Be Ready) evacuation notice is in effect for North of Highway 126 East from the east end of Drury Land to Old Clear Lake Cutoff Loop. View an Interactive Evacuation Status Map.

Ore Fire: 7 miles Northeast of Blue River, 3,397 acres, 43% contained, human caused. Firefighters are continuing with cleaning up the 1509 road to secure and clean up below the Ore Creek drainage. Material from activity fuels will be hauled away to improve and secure fire lines.

Linton Creek: 621 acres, 0% contained, lightning caused. Firefighters scouted access points and are gathering intelligence on areas to engage the fire. This is being managed under a full suppression strategy. 

Pyramid Fire: East of Middle Santiam Wilderness, 1,312 Acres, 98% contained, lightning caused. Work will continue with masticating and chipping on contingency lines. Material created from this work will be hauled away.  

Safety:  check Lane County and Deschutes County for evacuation orders within the Willamette Complex North. 

Closures & Fire Restrictions:  Willamette National Forest - Alerts & Closures (usda.gov) 

Everyone is reminded to stay out of all fire closures for firefighter and general safety. Violations of these prohibitions are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000. All campfires, charcoal fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires are prohibited, including in developed campgrounds and wilderness areas. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters that can be switched on and off are allowed. Please see Forest Order 06-18-00-24-27 for additional information.

Beginning at noon on Monday, travelers near McKenzie Pass can expect traffic control changes to support fire operations. Highway 242 will be closed to all traffic at the intersection with Highway 126 (mileposts 55 to 77). Crews will remain in the area to assist with evacuations. Highway 126 between mileposts 15 and 17 will be reduced to one lane with pilot cars guiding traffic. Do not divert onto forest roads to avoid closures, check TripCheck for updates.