Fire Management

Report a Wildfire: Call 911 or contact the Columbia Cascade Communication Center (WACCC) at (360) 891-5140.   

Fire Restrictions

What are Fire & Public Use Restrictions? 

When fuel moistures and weather conditions create increased wildfire potential in the Columbia River Gorge, public fire restrictions are put in place on Forest Service-managed lands. These fire restrictions help reduce the chance of a human-caused wildfire start. 

These restrictions are always carefully considered and are based on data prior to being implemented. Depending on the level of fire restriction, you may be able to use a propane stove or portable campfire for that highly enjoyable and coveted ambiance and means to enjoying a delicious s'more.

Restrictions can affect where you are allowed to smoke, the types of roads you can travel, and where – or even if – you are allowed to have a campfire. We always recommend to KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a major wildland-urban interface. Help us prevent wildfire by being aware of current fire dangers and restrictions.

• Public Use Restrictions

  

  Effective Monday, July 15 at 12:01 a.m., Public Use Restrictions are in effect on the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.  

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• Fire Danger Rating

  

  Effective July 8 at 12:01 a.m., the Fire Danger Rating is Very High.

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• Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL)

  

  Effective August 21 at 12:01 a.m., the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (or IFPL) is at II. 

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• Current Wildfires

  

  Find information on active wildfires of significant size and duration as well as information about current fire closures. 

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• Scenic Area Fire Program

  

  The Columbia River Gorge is a challenging and dynamic fire environment. We fight fire aggressively due to the wildland-urban interface, and we have a proactive fuels management program.

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• Firewise Tips

  

  Help reduce the risk of wildfire damage and loss by learning more about the Firewise USA™ program, which provides proven tools and resources to help you minimize your exposure to wildfire hazards.

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​More Resources

• Northwest Interagency Coordination Center. Provides logistical support and intelligence relative to anticipated and ongoing wildfire activity for all federal and cooperating state wildland fire suppression agencies.
• Washington State Department of Natural Resources- Fire Information and Prevention
• Oregon Department of Forestry-Fire Information and Prevention
• Northwest Fire Prevention Education 
• National Interagency Fire Center - The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) in Boise, Idaho is the nation’s support center for wildland firefighting.