DFPA to Begin Issuing Permits for Prescribed Pasture Burns

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - The Douglas Forest Protective Association will begin issuing permits for prescribed pasture burns when weather and fire conditions allow.

Prescribed burning is commonly used by landowners to improve pastures, control weeds and brush, enhance wildlife habitat and reduce vegetation that could fuel a wildfire.

According to DFPA, firefighters have seen wildfires slow or become easier to suppress when they reach open grass fields and hillsides where prescribed burning has been conducted periodically.

Officials said the window for completing a successful pasture burn is often short and dependent on the weather. Grass and other vegetation must be dry enough to burn effectively, but conditions must also allow the fire to remain under control. Once new green growth begins, the burns can become less effective.

Before receiving a permit, landowners must establish fire trails around the planned burn area and have enough people available to conduct the burn, patrol the property and complete mop-up work.

They must also demonstrate that adequate fire suppression equipment and personnel will be on site. DFPA may issue a permit after the fire trails have been inspected and approved and weather conditions are considered suitable.

Smoke conditions will also be evaluated. Burns will only be approved when weather and fire conditions are favorable for keeping smoke away from homes and populated areas.

DFPA emphasized that these permits apply specifically to prescribed pasture burns. The association is not currently issuing permits for backyard debris burning, which remains restricted.

Landowners seeking additional information about prescribed pasture burn permits can contact DFPA at 541-672-6507.