Emergency Conflagration Act Invoked for Rail Ridge and Shoe Fly Fires

As of Friday morning, the Rail Ridge Fire has consumed approximately 107,371 acres and is only 3% contained.Photo byOregon Department of Forestry

By Kristy Tallman, September 6, 2024

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act on Friday to address the growing threats posed by the Rail Ridge and Shoe Fly Fires, which continue to burn across Grant, Crook, and Wheeler counties. In response, the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has mobilized its Blue Incident Management Team and several task forces to assist with firefighting efforts.

Rail Ridge Fire

As of Friday morning, the Rail Ridge Fire has consumed approximately 107,371 acres and is only 3% contained. This lightning-caused fire was first detected on September 4 and has rapidly expanded due to hot, dry, and windy conditions. OSFM’s Blue Team is now working in unified command with California Team 10, a complex incident management team that took command of the fire Friday morning. Task forces from Central Oregon and Marion County are already on the ground, with three additional task forces expected to arrive later in the evening.

Shoe Fly Fire

The Shoe Fly Fire, reported on September 2, has burned 24,188 acres and is currently 6% contained. Task forces from Clackamas and Multnomah counties were mobilized earlier this week to support efforts, and the OSFM Blue Team will be working closely with the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 1 to provide structural protection for affected areas.

Fire Marshal Statement

“The conditions on the ground are dynamic, with several fires burning in the region and no immediate relief in sight,” said Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “With a cold front expected to move in, combined with extreme heat forecasted through the weekend, fire crews will remain extremely busy.”

These two fires mark the 15th and 16th conflagrations invoked this summer, highlighting the persistent danger posed by Oregon’s fire season. The OSFM urges all Oregonians and visitors to exercise caution and take necessary steps to prevent sparking new wildfires.

About the Emergency Conflagration Act

The Emergency Conflagration Act, invoked by the governor, allows the state fire marshal to mobilize state resources to assist in protecting life and property when local firefighting capabilities are overwhelmed. This law, under ORS 476.510-476.610, provides critical support during extreme fire emergencies.

By Kristy Tallman, September 6, 2024
The Republic News

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