08/11/2021
Bruler Fire closure area greatly reduced in size. All recreation sites and trails in vicinity reopen.
Effective as of Aug. 11, officials greatly reduced the size of the Bruler Fire closure area and all recreation sites and trails in the vicinity of the Bruler Fire have reopened. The footprint of the Bruler Fire has been held to 195 acres for the last two weeks due to the cooperative efforts of the Incident Management Teams, the Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry, and adjacent private timberland owners.
While it is not possible to completely put the fire out due to steep, rugged country, rolling rocks, and large trees falling, crews have established a line around the fire, with sprinklers around the entire perimeter. Even with the work accomplished to this point and the measures that have been taken to keep the line secure, there still remains the possibility that a wind event could carry the fire into the tree canopy and fire could escape beyond the line. Firefighters will maintain a watchful eye on conditions through patrols with staff on site, decreasing the probability of fire escaping its current footprint.
“We ask that the public stay vigilant in the area. Pay attention to strong winds and be aware that it is very dry - there remains the possibility of additional lightning-caused fires. Be prepared to leave the area with little to no warning should it become necessary,” Agency Administrator Nikki Swanson said. “Please be aware of fire traffic sharing the roads and drive slowly and carefully. And, most importantly, do not be the spark! Thank you for doing your part to keep the forest green and open for all to enjoy.”
For more information about fire-related closures on the Willamette National Forest, including maps and full text of closure orders of the Bruler Fire, Knoll Fire, Middle Fork Complex, Kwis Fire (an incident within the Middle Fork Complex), and the Washington Ponds Fire, visit https://go.usa.gov/xFEP2. Please check back often for updates.
