Wildfire Management
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More about resilient forests:
Forests in Washington County are fire-adapted ecosystemsEcosystems that have evolved experiencing wildfire at regular intervals.:
Fire is a natural disturbance that can help control disease and insects, reduce debris buildup and overcrowding, and increase biodiversityThe number of plant and animal species living in an area.. Although wildfire is a natural process, it presents a significant risk to human lives and property. As our communities continue to grow, more people live in and around forests. Whether you live on forestland, farmland, or in town, it is essential to prepare your home and property for wildfire.
Fires can start from natural causes (like lightning strikes) or human causes (like campfires, fireworks, or vehicles). Unlike the drier areas of Eastern Oregon, fires caused by lightning strikes are infrequent in Northwest Oregon. In the absence of fire, our forests become dense and accumulate fuelFuel can include anything from living and dead trees, shrubs, grassy fields, and human-built structures.. If a fire does start, it will likely be high intensity and have the potential to burn large portions of forests.
Wildfire preparedness requires neighbors to work together:
Protecting your home:
Create a defensible zone around your home by implementing these practices within 30 feet of your house and other structures:
Additional defenses should be made within 100 feet of your house or other structures:
Protecting your woodlands:
Contact our Forest Conservation Program to learn more about wildfire risk reduction on your property.
We can visit your property and provide recommendations for reducing wildfire risk in your woodlands.
Resources:
