The opening of fall outdoor burning season has been delayed for a second time this month, the Benton County Fire Defense Board announced.
The decision, which was made in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Forestry, will remain in effect at least until Oct. 21 when the board will meet again to review fire risk conditions and make an updated determination on whether to open burn season or extend the closure.
The Benton County Fire Defense Board represents the fire agencies of Adair, Alsea, Blodgett, Corvallis and Corvallis Rural, Hoskins-Kings Valley, Monroe and Philomath.
The decision to delay the fall burning season was driven by ongoing fire risk conditions and safety concerns. Factors related to temperature, low humidity, precipitation and wind can create an elevated risk of wildfires spreading rapidly if outdoor burning restrictions are ended too soon.
“Conditions still remain unstable until we have more soaking rain events, and until that happens, there is no projected open date at this time,” Philomath Fire and Rescue Deputy Fire Chief Rich Saalsaa said.
Saalsaa said that Benton County is within the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Western Oregon District, which has the ultimate authority for making the decision.
When fall outdoor burning season opens, there will be specific hours and days that are allowed for burning and a permit is required through the Philomath Fire and Rescue website. Burn hours are updated online daily or the public can call the burn line at 541-929-5903.
Saalsaa extended a thank you to area residents for understanding and patience on the matter.
“In the meantime, it is suggested that you cover your burn piles until the season opens,” he said.
For those with specific questions on this decision, call the ODF office at 541-929-3266.
For updates on the outdoor burning season, check the Willamette Valley Open Burning Announcement.