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Wallowa-Whitman NF remind those seeking temporary summer employment that the time to apply begins November 30

11/4/2015

Baker City, OR: Are you thinking about a summer job working in the beautiful Blue Mountains? The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest (WWNF) is looking to fill a number of temporary job openings for the 2016 field season and this year’s timeline to submit applications is much earlier than in years past.
This year, applications for summer temporary employment will need to be submitted online at www.usajobs.gov during an 8-day period that begins November 30 and extends through December 7, 2015. Interested applicants are encouraged to create their USAjobs profile now to begin developing their application and compiling the required documentation.
Positions are available in a number of fields including:

wildland firefighting / dispatch
timber
silviculture
developed recreation
trails
botany
wildlife

Position descriptions, duty locations, grade levels and hiring manager contact information for the 2016 temporary positions are posted on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest’s website at: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/Wallowa-WhitmanEmployment

Duty locations may include District offices in Baker City, La Grande, Joseph and Enterprise Oregon as well as several remote guard stations and lookouts scattered throughout the forest.

Additional information and resources for potential Forest Service job applicants, including reference links on how to apply, application and outreach sites, and benefits are available at: www.fs.fed.us/fsjobs.

For more information about temporary hiring, please contact any WWNF Office:

Whitman Ranger District – Baker City, Oregon                         541-523-1377
LaGrande Ranger District - LaGrande, Oregon                        541-962-8563
Wallowa Mountains Office – Joseph, Oregon                           541-263-0860

Malheur, Umatilla, and Wallowa-Whitman forests seeks RAC proposals

10/9/2015

John Day, OR, Pendleton, OR & Baker City, OR: In response to the two-year reauthorization by Congress of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act in April; the Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests are soliciting project proposals to be funded under Title II of the act.
The federal legislation encourages individuals, non-profit organizations, local governments, and others to propose projects that restore watersheds, decommission or maintain roads, control noxious weeds, or otherwise improve the condition of the Forest. Proposed projects do not need to be implemented on Forest Service lands, but must show a benefit to national forest resources.

Project proposals for FY2016 funding are due electronically by November 16, 2015. Application forms, instructions, and submission guidelines can be found online at www.fs.usda.gov/main/wallowa-whitman/workingtogether/advisorycommittees. Another round of applications for project proposals will be reviewed in 2017.

“The reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools is excellent news for the Oregon counties and numerous communities that partner with the National Forests” said Jeff Tomac, Designated Federal Official and Whitman District Ranger.

Eligible project proposals submitted to the Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests will be reviewed by the Northeast Oregon Forests Resource Advisory Committee, a balanced and diverse group of stakeholders representing local communities, industry, recreational interests, environmental groups, elected officials, and more. Following their review in January the committee will provide Forest Supervisors with a list of projects recommended for funding.

“The resource advisory committee is an important part of the process to fund projects under the Secure Rural Schools Act. We recruit continuously for energetic and interested people that represent the diversity of our state and community” said Tomac.

Please submit your applications to one of the National Forests nearest you:

Susan Garner, sgarner@fs.fed.us , 541.575.3039, Malheur National Forest
Ian Reid, ireid@fs.fed.us, 541.427.5316, Umatilla National Forest
Arlene Blumton, ablumton@fs.fed.us, 541.962.8522, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

East Face Vegetation Management environmental analysis ready for public comments

10/7/2015

East Face Vegetation Management Project Environmental Analysis Ready for Public Comments
BAKER CITY, Ore. – Due to the collaborative relationship between the Forest Service (USFS), Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), and Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS), the East Face project provides a tremendous opportunity to apply compatible vegetation and fuels management treatments on federal, adjacent private lands and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife lands. The East Face Vegetation Management project area, in combination with adjacent BLM, State, and private lands, became a pilot project for the National Cohesive Wildfire Strategy (CWS) offering opportunities to apply the “all hands, all lands” principles and implement efforts to move the area towards the goals of the CWS. The East Face Vegetation Management Project Environmental Assessment (EA) documents the analysis of activities proposed on over 47,000 acres of USFS and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands.
Forest Supervisor Tom Montoya points out that “collaborative efforts not only with ODF and NRCS but also the Wallowa Whitman Forest Collaborative group have ensured that treatments proposed in the East Face project area have been closely coordinated with the fuel reduction and vegetation management activities occurring or planned to occur on adjacent private and state lands. This effort has truly made this project an integral part of the “all hands, all lands” CWS principle,” said Montoya.
A range of five alternatives was developed last winter to meet the purpose and need of this project and respond to the key issues raised during scoping. Alternatives range from no action to the creation of an extensive network of strategic fuel reduction areas focusing on key ridges, road systems, private land boundaries, wildland urban interface areas, and developed recreation areas. Analysis of the effects of implementing each of these alternatives has been completed and documented in the East Face Vegetation Management Project EA which is now available for a 30-day public comment period.
This East Face project is subject to the pre-decisional objection process at 36 CFR 218. Only individuals or organizations that submitted specific written comments during a designated opportunity for public participation (scoping or this 30-day public comment period) may object (36 CFR 218.5). The complete EA, maps, data tables, and comment requirements are available online at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=41765 .

East Face of the Elkhorn Mountains Partnership
Many adjacent private landowners have received funding for fuel reduction work from a joint federal initiative called the East Face of the Elkhorn Mountains Partnership. The primary goal of the East Face initiative is to meet the goals of the Cohesive Wildfire Strategy by reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfire through forest fuels reduction, restoring and maintaining landscapes, and improving fire response.
The partnership combines the collective skills and expertise of the NRCS, the U.S. Forest Service, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Bureau of Land Management. These agencies are working together to proactively address wildfire issues in the East Face with an “all hands all lands” approach—spanning both public and private lands.
Together these partners identified 47,000 acres for the East Face Vegetation Management Project on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest and BLM lands to target fuel reduction and forest stand improvements. The long term goal is to create areas of reduced fuel loadings across public and private lands to protect private residences and public infrastructure from the threat of wildfire, while also improving overall forest health.
The East Face effort will also reduce the threat of loss to wildfire to the watersheds that contribute to the irrigation needs of local farmers and create areas of reduced fuel loadings adjacent the municipal water supplies for La Grande and Baker City; and protect key habitat for federally-threatened bull trout, steelhead and Chinook salmon.
NRCS provides funding and technical assistance for eligible landowners to perform conservation practices on private lands. For the East Face project in 2014, NRCS funded $1.4 million for 33 contracts with private landowners in Baker and Union counties, spanning 3,076 acres.
As the lead for the Cohesive Wildfire Strategy pilot project for the Northern Blue Mountain Area (which the East Face area lies within), ODF provides technical assistance to private landowners for similar fuels reduction activities. To sign up or for more information about funding eligibility, contact the USDA Service Center in La Grande: (541) 963-4178 or Baker City: (541) 523-7121 or visit the NRCS Oregon website at: www.or.nrcs.usda.gov.
More information is available at the East Face of the Elkhorn Mountains project website: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/EastFace and the East Face Vegetation Management Project Environmental Analysis website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=41765

Wallowa-Whitman NF seeks comments on fire salvage and hazardous tree removal projects on Whitman Ranger District

10/7/2015

BAKER CITY, OR – The Whitman Ranger District of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest would like to hear your concerns, suggestions, and questions regarding project proposals to address roadside danger trees and fire salvage within the Cornet/Windy Ridge, Eldorado, Eagle Complex, and Dry Gulch fire areas. Your comments will help us identify issues to be considered in the environmental review of these proposals.
BackgroundIn August and September of 2015, four large fires, the Cornet/Windy Ridge, Eldorado, Eagle Complex, and Dry Gulch, burned across portions of the Whitman Ranger District in Baker County. Collectively the fires burned just over 152,500 acres on state and private lands, and lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service. Of the total acres burned, approximately 31%, or 48,725 acres, were on National Forest System managed lands. The district is considering a variety of management opportunities across each of these fire areas including looking at salvage of fire killed trees and removal of hazard trees on or near the impacted Forest Road systems for safety of the public and employees.
Proposed ActionsThe proposed projects will look at both opportunities for salvage logging operations and danger tree removal across the lands managed by the Forest Service and impacted by these four fires. Salvage projects would increase the possibility for economic recovery of fire killed timber and reduce the potential for an insect outbreak. The proposed danger tree removal projects will provide for improved public and employee safety by felling danger trees located along Forest Roads. These roads are considered primary routes for public and administrative access in the fire areas. Felled danger trees may be removed as timber products or left in place depending on the management direction for the areas they are located and the associated environmental effects.
At this time it is anticipated that these projects can be categorically excluded from documentation in an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement. A project file will be prepared to document the environmental effects of these projects. Submitting written comments during this scoping period would establish eligibility to object to these projects under 36 CFR 218.5, should an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement be prepared.
How to Participate and Submit CommentsYou are invited to comment on the proposed actions and your comments will help identify issues to be considered in the environmental review. Please submit your written comments by October 16, 2015 so they can be considered in the analysis. Implementation is expected to begin in Fall 2015. Any comments received will be placed in the project file and shall become a matter ofthe public record (36 CFR 215.6 (b) (2)).
Please submit your comments to:
Jeff Tomac
Whitman District Ranger
1550 Dewey Ave, Suite A
Baker City, OR 97814
Ph: 541-523-1350
FAX: 541-523-6394
Those submitting hand-delivered comments may do so during the regular office hours of 7:45 to 4:30 Monday through Friday except legal holidays. Please be sure to include Whitman Fires Danger Tree Removal and Salvage as the subject for your written comments.
Electronic comments must be submitted in a format such as an email message, rich text format (.rtf), Adobe Portable Document Format (pdf), or Microsoft Word to comments-pacificnorthwest-wallowa-whitman- whitmanunit@fs.fed.us. Comments received, including the names and addresses of those who comment, will be considered part of the public record for these proposals and will be available for public inspection (Authority: 40 CFR 1501.7 and 1508.22; Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Section 21).
If you have any questions, additional information can be provided by contacting Melissa Shelley, Environmental Coordinator at (541) 523-1350.

Restrictions lowered on Wallowa-Whitman NF as wet weather moves through area

9/8/2015

Baker City, OR: Forest officials will implement Phase A public use restrictions at 12:01 AM on Wednesday, September 9th, 2015 on the Oregon side of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Cooler night temperatures and wet weather moved in over the weekend, but fire danger remains high in most locations. Phase A pertains to campfires, chainsaw use, smoking and off road/trail travel.

Beginning Wednesday, campfires will be allowed in fire pits surrounded by dirt, rock or a commercial fire ring and must be cleared of all flammable material within a 3 foot radius of the fire pit’s edge. Portable cooking stoves and wood burning stoves equipped with a spark arresting screen are allowed.

Visitors to Wilderness Areas are encouraged to locate their campfires in areas where minimal disturbance would be necessary, taking advantage of naturally cleared areas or previously used sites wherever possible.

If you intend to have a campfire you are reminded to carry a shovel or similar tool and one gallon of water, attend to you campfire at all times and extinguish it fully prior to leaving the area. For quick tips on safely building and extinguishing campfires, check out Smokey Bear’s Campfire Safety tips at: http://www.smokeybear.com/campfire-safety.asp

Chainsaw use during Phase A is limited to the hours of 8pm to 1pm, with a one hour fire watch once completing operations. When operating your chainsaw you are required to have an axe, shovel and fire extinguisher in your possession.

Travel off-road/off-trail continues to be limited to roads cleared of standing grass or other flammable material as well as prohibited on Forest Service roads where access has been impeded or blocked by berms, logs, boulders, barricades or gates. Off-road/off-trail travel to access firewood is allowed per the conditions of a valid firewood permit.

For more information on Phase A Public Use Restrictions, please contact:

Wallowa-Whitman NF: 541-523-6391
Baker City: 541-523-1234
La Grande: 541-962-8679
Joseph: 541-426-5552
www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman
www.facebook.com/WallowaWhitmanNF
www.bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com

Lower Imnaha Rangeland decision made

9/4/2015

Record of Decision Signed for Lower Imnaha Rangeland Analysis

Baker City, OR: The Forest Service signed the Record of Decision for the Lower Imnaha Rangeland Analysis on September 3rd. This finalizes a six-year process that assessed five alternatives for authorized grazing within four allotments in the Lower Imnaha project area.

The signed Record of Decision gives a summary of the current conditions (within the project area), summaries of all alternatives evaluated, description of the public involvement process, and the chosen management strategy.

Grazing is an activity that is important to the rural lifestyle and economy of Wallowa County and is broadly supported by many members of the community. However, it is also recognized that grazing can have impacts on sensitive resources in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, but mitigation measures and specific design features can greatly reduce those impacts. The permittee worked closely with the Forest Service to develop a grazing strategy that could further reduce potential impacts on the significant issues, while still maintaining a viable grazing operation across the four allotments.

Forest Service Ranger Kris Stein said, “I selected Alternative C-modified because it best meets the purpose and need of the project, while providing the most balanced approach for mitigating issues and resource concerns, with a feasible and implementable livestock operation”.

Under Alternative C-modified a deferred rotation strategy was incorporated. This modification was based on discussions between the Wallowa County, the current permittee, Hells Canyon Preservation Council, and the Forest Service. An important design aspect in alternative C-modified is the movement of cattle through the pastures within the allotments based on seasonal resource conditions. The elevationally-determined rotational grazing system takes advantage of more sustainable resource conditions at different elevations in the canyon throughout the winter season. For instance, impacts on sensitive vegetation and ground resources can be reduced if cattle use pastures when the ground is frozen (hardened) rather than when soils thaw and remain wet.

This strategy will defer grazing in pastures with Spalding's catchfly and detrimental soil conditions every third or fourth year. The intent of this approach is to reduce impacts (especially soil displacement in Spalding's catchfly habitat) from cattle traveling across wet soils on steep slopes. Potential impacts are minimized when grazing occurs on soils that are dry or frozen (fall through winter season).

Forest Service policy is to contribute to the economic and social well-being of people by providing opportunities for economic diversity and by promoting stability for communities that depend on rangeland resources for their livelihood.

The Record of Decision will be available at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/projects/wallowa-whitman/landmanagement/projects

Wallowa-Whitman NF issues update on the easing of its public use restrictions

9/3/2015

Public Use Restrictions Eased on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Chainsaw use prohibited and campfires allowed only in designated recreation sites.

Baker City, OR:  Forest officials will implement Phase B public use restrictions at 12:01 AM on Thursday, September 3rd, 2015 on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Weather has moderated slightly, but fire danger remains extreme in most locations. The Phase B restrictions pertain to the use of campfires, smoking, chainsaws, internal combustion engines, and generators.

“Despite lower temperatures and cooler nights, we still have not had any significant amount of rain which means the potential for fires remains high and forecasts predict temperatures to rise again next week” said Bret Ruby, Fire Staff Officer for the Wallowa Whitman National Forest. Ruby added, “With hunting season beginning we all need to be aware of these conditions, be cautious when recreating in the forest, and think about fire prevention.”

Beginning Thursday, campfires will ONLY be allowed in designated campgrounds and recreation sites. A list of the designated campgrounds and recreation sites are listed below. Liquefied or bottled gas stoves and heaters are allowed for cooking and heating. Exceptions include:

·         The Eagle Cap Wilderness will be open to campfires, with the exception of the existing campfire restriction which prohibits building or maintaining a campfire within 100 feet of any lake or posted wetlands inside the wilderness area.

·         The Oregon side of the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area will be subject to the Phase B Public Use Restrictions, with the exception of the yearlong fire restriction on land within a ¼ mile of the Snake River. For more information about conditions and restrictions on the Idaho side of the Hells Canyon NRA, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/ipnf

Operating an internal combustion engine, such as a chainsaw, is prohibited. Firewood cutting is not allowed. This restriction applies to all internal combustion engines except motor vehicles. Generators will only be allowed in the center of an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is cleared of all flammable material, or; when fully contained within a pickup truck bed that is devoid of all flammable material, or; when factory installed in a recreational vehicle and the generator exhaust discharge is located in the center of an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is cleared of all flammable material.

Smoking is only allowed within enclosed vehicles, buildings, and developed recreation sites or when stopped in an area cleared of all flammable material.

As a reminder, no off-road/off-trail vehicle travel or travel on roads not cleared of standing grass or other flammable material; no vehicle travel on those FS roads where access has been impeded or blocked by earthen berm, logs, boulders, barrier, barricade or gate, or as otherwise identified in the Fire Order. Vehicles must still abide by all laws and regulations pertaining to the area of travel.

Regulated closures are in effect on State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) in northeast and central Oregon. Please check with your local Oregon Department of Forestry office for public use restrictions on lands protected by ODF. Visit the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch webpage at: www.bmidc.org or contact a local Oregon Department of Forestry office for more complete information. Similar restrictions may be in effect on State and private lands protected by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WA-DNR). More information can be found on the WA-DNR website at: http://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/firedanger/BurnRisk.aspx

For more information and a list of designated recreation areas and campsites where campfires are permitted during Phase B Public Use Restrictions, please contact:

Wallowa-Whitman NF: 541-523-6391
Baker City: 541-523-1234
La Grande: 541-962-8679
Joseph: 541-426-5552
www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman
www.facebook.com/WallowaWhitmanNF
www.bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com

Campfires are allowed in the provided fire pits at the following campgrounds and recreation sites:

Near Baker City, Oregon:

·   Anthony Lakes Campground and Picnic Area

·   Grande Ronde Lake Campground and Day Use Area

·   Millers Lane Campground

·   Mud Lake Campground

·   Southwest Shore Campground

·   Union Creek Campground and Picnic Area

Near Unity, Oregon:

·   Antlers Guard Station

·   Elk Creek Campground

·   Oregon Campground

·   South Fork Campground

·   Steven’s Creek Campground

·   Wetmore Campground

·   Yellow Pine Campground

Near La Grande, Oregon:

·   Birdtrack Springs Campground

·   Boulder Park Campground

·   Buck Creek Trailhead

·   Frog Heaven Campground

·   Moss Springs Campground

·   North Fork Catherine Ck. Campground, Trailhead and Group Camp

·   Oregon Trail Interpretive Park

·   Spool Cart Campground

·   Spring Creek Campground

·   Two Color Campground and Guard Station

·   Umapine Campground

·   West Eagle Meadow Campground

Near Halfway, Oregon:

·   Eagle Forks Campground

·   Fish Lake Campground

·   Lake Fork Campground

·   McBride Campground

·   Tamarack Campground

·   Twin Lakes Campground

Near Enterprise, Oregon:

·   Arrow Campground

·   Blackhorse Campground

·   Boundary Campground

·   Buckhorn Campground

·   Canyon Forest Campground

·   Coverdale Campground

·   Coyote Campground

·   Dougherty Campground

·   Hidden Campground

·   Hurricane Creek Campground

·   Indian Crossing Campground

·   Irondyke Campground

·   Lick Creek Campground

·   Lostine River Corridor Campsites

·   Ollokot Campground

·   Pole Bridge Day Use

·   Saddle Creek Campground

·   Shady Campground

·   Turkey Flat Campground

·   Two Pan Campground

·   Vigne Campground

·   Irondyke Campground

·   Walla-Walla Campground

·   Williamson Campground

Cornet-Windy Ridge Fire update for August 27

8/27/2015

Baker City, OR: The Cornet-Windy Ridge Fire, 103,887 acres, is currently 85 percent contained and continues to burn in pockets on the interior of the fire. The Eldorado Fire, 20,635 acres, is currently 80 percent contained and hot spots continue to put up smoke. Fire crews are working to mop-up the interior of the fires throughout the weekend.

Mop-up occurs after a fire or when any part of a fire is controlled or contained. Mopping up includes:

Extinguishing all smoldering material along the fire's edge.
Ensuring logs/debris cannot roll across the fire line.
Making sure all burning fuel is burnt out or is spread or buried to stop sparks from travelling, both along the fire line and in the interior of the fire area.
Clearing both sides of the fire line of snags, rotten logs, stumps, singed brush and low hanging limbs of trees.
Searching for underground burning roots near the line.

Dry weather conditions are forecasted for the weekend in Eastern Oregon and additional interior burning is expected. The Cornet-Windy Ridge Fire will have 1 20-person crew, 7 engines, 1 water tender and 2 dozers while the Eldorado Fire will have 1 20-person crew, 8 engines, and 2 dozers. Each fire will have 4 engines and a 20-person hand crew for several more days to continue mop up and rehabilitation activities.

“We would appreciate it if the public would use caution when traveling near the fire areas due to the increased traffic from firefighting activities,” said Katy Gray, Public Affairs Officer for the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. “Public and firefighter safety remain our number one priorities,” added Gray.

Phase C Public Use Restrictions remain in effect on the Wallowa-Whitman, Malheur and Umatilla National Forests. Under Phase C:

Campfires are not allowed. Liquid and bottle gas stoves only.
No internal combustions engine operation, except for motor vehicles.
Smoking is allowed only in enclosed vehicles and buildings, developed recreation sites, or cleared areas.
No off-road/off-trail vehicle travel or travel on roads not cleared of standing grass or other flammable material; no vehicle travel on those Forest Service roads where access has been impeded or blocked by earthen berm, logs, boulders, barrier, barricade or gate, or as otherwise identified in the Fire Order.

For Fire Information in the Blue Mountains please continue to visit http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/ and http://www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/

Falls Creek Fire nearly triples in size overnight

8/23/2015

Falls Creek Fire Morning Update 8/23 and Public Meeting Announcement

Joseph, OR: The Falls Creek Fire, last reported size of 200 acres, is located four miles southwest of Joseph, Oregon. The cause is undetermined. A red flag waring is in effect noon today through Monday for hot, dry and unstable air conditions. The fire is currently zero percent contained.

A Type 3 Incident Management Team, led by Incident Commander Francis Tyler is currently managing the fire. Firefighting resources are on scene and additional resources have been ordered. Additional firefighting resources will be routed to this fire as they become available from other incidents around the nation.

A Public Meeting will be held tonight at 6 pm at the Joseph Community Center in downtown Joseph.

Wallowa County officials have issued a Level 1 evacuation notice for the residents of Hurricane Creek Road. Questions regarding evacuation notices and the evacuation process can be directed to the Wallowa County Communication Center at 541-426-3131. Any changes to the evacuation notice will be coordinated by Wallowa County Communication Center.

Road closures have been implemented for public and firefighter safety and include:

- Hurricane Creek Road (Open to local traffic only)

-Forest Trail 1807 (Hurricane Creek)

-Forest Trail 1753 (Falls Creek)

Additional information about Public Use Restrictions and emergency closure areas on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/ Oregon smoke condition information is available athttp://oregonsmoke.blogspot.com/

Falls Creek Fire burning in Hurricane Creek drainage prompts Level 1 evacuation notices to residents on Hurricane Creek Road

8/22/2015

Joseph, OR: The Falls Creek Fire, currently 70 acres, is burning in the Hurricane Creek drainage four miles southwest of Joseph, Oregon. The cause is undetermined.

Wallowa County officials have issued a Level 1 evacuation notice for the residents of Hurricane Creek Road. Questions regarding evacuation notices and the evacuation process can be directed to the Wallowa County Communication Center at 541-426-3131.

Road closures have been implemented for public and firefighter safety and include:

- Hurricane Creek Road (Open to local traffic only)

-Forest Trail 1807 (Hurricane Creek)

-Forest Trail 1753 (Falls Creek)

A Type 3 Incident Management Team, led by Incident Commander Francis Tyler and will be managing the fire beginning August 23, 2015.

“We would appreciate it if the public could avoid the area to allow for firefighting activities,” said Jake Lubera, Deputy District Ranger for the Wallowa Mountains Zone. “Public and firefighter safety remain our number one priorities,” added Lubera.

Additional information about Public Use Restrictions and emergency closure areas on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/

Baker County JIC gives update on Cornet, Windy Ridge, El Dorado fires and Eagle Complex for August 14

8/16/2015

Road Closures

Highway 245 still closed 11 miles north of Hereford

Highway 7 has reopened

Highway 26 closed from milepost 213-231

Interstate 84 has reopened, but may need to close again depending on fire conditions

Structure Loss

Several structures have been destroyed by the fires. Field crews are still working to determine exact numbers and locations. In some cases, assessments are hampered by dangerous trees that still need to be felled before crews or residents can safely access the area.

Some homes were saved due to work done in advance by homeowners and firefighters to create a defensible space and keep areas wet and clear. For more information about improving your home’s odds of withstanding a wildfire, visit http://www.oregon.gov/odf/pages/homewildfiresafety.aspx

Areas Affected

Cornet Fire – 26,000 acres, five percent contained

Windy Ridge Fire – 22,862 acres

Eagle Fire Complex – 900 acres

El Dorado Fire -12,000 acres

Shelters

The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at the Baker City Middle School with 100 beds currently available. The shelter is open 24-hours and has food, bedding and toiletries for evacuees. For more shelter information, contact David Morman at 503-569-1380.

Incident Priorities

Night fire crews are working on triaging and preparing structures near fire areas.

Weather Forecast & Smoke Conditions

Tomorrow, temperatures are expected to be mostly sunny with a high near 82.

Less wind is expected for the weekend. Shifting winds will impact fire operations and pose safety concerns for fire commanders. Numerous fires in Baker County and the surrounding area may make smoke an issue. To monitor the air quality index, the public can access the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s website at www.deq.state.or.us/aqi.

Recreation Areas

Regulated closures are in effect on State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) in northeast and central Oregon. Please check with your local Oregon Department of Forestry office for public use restrictions on lands protected by ODF. Visit the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch webpage at: www.bmidc.org or contact a local Oregon Department of Forestry office for more complete information. Similar restrictions may be in effect on State and private lands protected by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WA-DNR). More information can be found on the WA-DNR website at: http://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/firedanger/BurnRisk.aspx.

14aug15jicupdatepm.pdf
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Cornet Fire spots to Stices Gulch; evacuations in place (08-13-15)

8/16/2015

The priority for today was protection of structures in Stices Gulch due to spotting that occurred overnight. However, due to extreme fire behavior today, fire managers pulled Firefighters continued working the south and west flanks of the Cornet Fire today and worked the were held yesterday due to firefighting efforts.

Firefighters will continue to build line today to the northeast as resources are available.

• The fire spotted into Stacies Gulch overnight. Two threatened structures were protected. The priority today is to stop progression of the fire into Stacies Gulch. Baker County is protecting structures and more structure firefighting resources are arriving today due to Conflagration Act being invoked.
Overall objectives
• Provide for safety of firefighters and public.
• Stop fire progression into areas with residences, minimize acres burned on private land and in sage grouse habitat, and protect communication infrastructure, mines and cattle.
• Keep communities and interested parties informed of fire conditions and fire management actions.
• Coordinate with emergency management agencies.

Resources There are 267 resources on the fire.

Weather Breezy conditions again today with south to SW winds at 9 to 15 mph and gusts upward of 20 mph. Local terrain can affect speed and direction of winds in the fire area. Temperatures will be 95 to 100. Minimum RH in the teens.

Fire Behavior Fire is mainly in grass and shrubs in the alleys changing to juniper and pine further upslope. There is a mix of conifer at higher elevations and ridges. Slopes are steep and with the wind, contribute to rapids spread rates and spotting. Fire behavior is likely to increase significantly around 2 pm and continue until the sun lowers around 8 pm.

Closures Baker County Sheriff’ Office has issued a Level 3 Evacuation Order for Stices Gulch and a level 2 Evacuation Order for Rancheria Creek, Black Mountain and Denny Creek. Area closure on the Wallow Whitman Forest.

Winds challenge firefighters on Eagle Complex (08-14-15)

8/15/2015

Eagle Complex Fire Update
Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, 9:00 p.m.
Fire Information: (541) 523-1267

Winds Challenge Firefighters

Strong winds and continued hot, dry conditions caused additional growth of the Eagle Complex on Friday. An estimate of the increased acreage burned was not available at the time of this release. A more detailed news release will be sent out on Saturday. Key information available at this time includes:

·       No structures were burned.

·       Level 2 Evacuation Notices remain in effect.

·       A Type 2 Incident Management Team has been ordered and will transition over the next couple of days with the current Type 3 team currently working on the Complex.

For continued information on the Eagle Complex, go to: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4481/

The fire danger rating has increased to EXTREME and Public Use Restrictions involving campfires and chainsaw use are in effect. For more information about the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest’s Public Use Restrictions, please contact any forest office, or visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/ or on the Blue Mountain Fire Information BlogSpot at http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/.

Sinkhole repairs can wait; fires can't (08-13-15)

8/15/2015

Anthony Lakes Highway Sinkhole Repairs on Hold

Baker City, OR: Repairs to the Anthony Lakes Highway Sinkhole near Antone Creek were originally scheduled to begin on Monday, August 17th and run through Thursday, August 20th, during which time the road was scheduled to be closed in the vicinity of the construction.

Due to increased fire activity on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest permanent repairs planned for the Anthony Lakes Highway (Forest Service Road 73) have been placed on hold. The road will remain open and a temporary patch is in place. Caution signs are on the road to warn drivers of the temporary repair, and forest officials urge continued caution while driving on Anthony Lakes Highway.

The final repairs will resume once fire activity has slowed in the region.

Eagle Complex fire update for August 13

8/15/2015

Eagle Complex Fire Update
Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2015, 9:00 p.m.
Fire Information: (541) 523-1267 Conditions Remain Hot and Dry

Today’s Operations: Difficult terrain combined with hot weather and wind contributed to fire growth on the Eagle Complex, which is now approximately 1500 acres in size. The fire is burning 10 miles east of Medical Springs, Oregon.

A level 2 evacuation notice has been sent to residents along Forest Service Road 77 near Tamarack Camp Ground, Bennett Peak and Main Eagle areas associated with the Eagle Complex. A Level 2 evacuation notice means residents should be SET (Ready, Set, Go) to evacuate and continue to closely monitor local media and incident information. Questions regarding evacuation notices and the evacuation process can be directed to the Baker County Emergency Management at 541-523-8200.

An area closure has been implemented for public and firefighter safety and can be viewed at http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4481/ Firefighter and public safety remains the highest priorities.

Structure protection and continued safe fireline operations are planned for Friday. No structures have been burned.

The fire danger rating has increased to EXTREME and Public Use Restrictions involving campfires and chainsaw use are in effect.

For more information about the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest’s Public Use Restrictions, please contact any forest office, or visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/ or on the Blue Mountain Fire Information BlogSpot at http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/. Eagle Complex Fire information: can be found on Inciweb at: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4481/

La Grande Ranger District gives update on Merry-Go-Round Fire (08-14-15)

8/14/2015

La Grande, OR: The Merry-Go-Round fire was reported on Wednesday, August 12th as a result of recent lightning activity and is estimated to be between 25 and 30 acres. The fire is located in the Catherine Creek Area off the Hess Cabin Rd (Forest Service Road 2036).

A District Type 3 Incident Management Team, led by Incident Commander Woody Wright took command of the fire today. Resources on scene include 35 fire fighters and a type 2 hand crew. Aerial resources are being used as they come available. Fire officials are recommending that people avoid using Forest Service Road 2036 due to increased firefighting traffic. The safety of the public and firefighters is very important.

The National Fire Preparedness Level is at 5, the highest possible. The preparedness level ranges from one, indicating minimal activity, to five, which signals very high activity. It assesses the degree of wildfire activity, the current commitment of fire resources, and the probability of continued severe conditions. A red flag warning with strong, gusty winds and low humidity is in effect through Friday evening.

Fire officials want to remind everyone that the current fire danger rating remains at EXTREME and Public Use Restrictions involving campfires and chainsaw use are in effect on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Regulated closures are in effect on State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) in northeast and central Oregon.

For more information about the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest’s Public Use Restrictions, please contact any forest office or visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/. Additional Fire information can be found atwww.bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com

Eldorado Fire has burned 2,500 acres of Wallowa-Whitman National Forest (08-14-15)

8/14/2015

Eldorado Fire Update
Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, 12 p.m.
Fire Information: (541) 786-0501

Baker City, Oregon: The Eldorado Fire is currently burning near the junction of Forest Service Road 16 and Highway 26, 8 miles Southeast of Unity. The fire is approximately 2500 acres in size. There are several dozers and fire engines on scene as well as air resources and a Type 3 Incident Commander. A Type 1, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) team, with Incident Commander Link Smith, will be taking over management of the fire on Saturday, August 15th.

The fire was reported Friday morning and is burning in sage brush and grass. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. Fire officials are recommending that people avoid driving near the fire due to increased firefighting traffic. The safety of the public and firefighters is very important. Additional Eldorado Fire can be found at:http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4502/

Baker County Sheriff has issued evacuation notices for the following locations:

-          Level 1 (READY):

o   Shirts Creek

o   Job Creek & South of Job Creek Road

o   East of Bull Run Road

o   South of Campbell Lane

-          Level 2 (GET SET):

o   Dry Gulch Area

o   Ripley Gulch Area

-          Level 3 (GO):

o   Beam Creek Area

o   Eldorado Ditch Area

o   Long Creek Area (Baker Co.)

o   Long Creek Reservoir

o   Camp Creek South of Highway 26

Highway 26 is closed between Milepost 231 and Milepost 213 in Unity. Oregon Department of Transportation and Fire Officials recommend checking www.tripcheck.com before traveling in the area.

The National Fire Preparedness Level is at 5, the highest possible. The preparedness level ranges from one, indicating minimal activity, to five, which signals very high activity. It assesses the degree of wildfire activity, the current commitment of fire resources, and the probability of continued severe conditions.  A red flag warning with strong, gusty winds and low humidity is in effect through Friday evening.

Fire officials want to remind everyone that the current fire danger rating remains at EXTREME and Public Use Restrictions involving campfires and chainsaw use are in effect on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Regulated closures are in effect on State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) in northeast and central Oregon.

For more information about the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest’s Public Use Restrictions, please contact any forest office or visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman/. Additional Fire information can be found at www.bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com

Lightning sparks two large fires in Baker County, Oregon (08-11-15)

8/13/2015

Lightning sparks 2 Large Fires in Baker County

Baker City, OR – As a result of recent lightning activity, 2 large incidents have ignited across Baker County, with smoke and fire fighting aircraft visible from Baker City.

The larger of the two fires is the Cornet Fire, which is currently burning on private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest and Vale BLM District approximately 7 miles east of Hereford, Oregon. The fire is currently 5,000 acres and with just over 100 personnel on scene. Additional resources are on order. Oregon Interagency Incident Management Team 4 (ORIMT4), with Incident Commander Brian Goff, will assume command of the fire on Wednesday evening, Aug 12th. ORIMT4 brings a wealth knowledge and skill to the table, with many of the team members coming from local, Northeast Oregon Interagency organizations.

The second incident is a small complex of 3 fires, the Eagle Complex, burning 10 miles east of Medical Springs, Oregon. The 3 fires are currently 120 acres, 40 acres and 10 acres in size and are burning on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry. Resources on scene include 4 engines and two, 10 person hand crews as well as several aviation resources. Additional resources are on order. An Interagency Type 3 Management team will assume command of the fire on Wednesday, August 12th.

A level 1 notice has been sent to residents in the Stices Gulch and Black Mountain area associated with the Cornet Fire, and along Forest Service Road 77 near Tamarack Camp Ground, the Bennett Peak and Main Eagle areas associated with the Eagle Complex. A Level I notice means residents should be READY to evacuate and continue to closely monitor local media and incident information. Questions regarding evacuation notices and the evacuation process can be direction to the Baker County Emergency Management at 541-523-8200.

Fire officials want to remind everyone that the current fire danger rating remains at EXTREME and Public Use Restrictions involving campfires and chainsaw use are in effect. Regulated closures are in effect on State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) in northeast and central Oregon. On the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest lands Public Use Restrictions are in effect, including campfire restrictions and use of chainsaws.

Vale BLM Unit is also managing several large fires in the Burnt River area; additional information can be found at:  http://www.blm.gov/or/districts/vale/fire/report-fire.php.

Additional information on the Cornet Fire and Eagle Complex can be found on the following sites:

Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center – www.bmidc.org

Blue Mountain Fire Information Blog – www.bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com

Cornet Fire on InciWeb - http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4478/

Wallowa Whitman National Forest –

-          Website: www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman

-          Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WallowaWhitmanNF

-          Twitter: @WallowaWhitman

Crews to repair sinkhole on Anthony Lakes Highway August 17-20 (8-11-15)

8/11/2015

Baker City, OR - The sinkhole on Anthony Lakes Highway (Forest Service Road 73) near the crossing of Antone Creek will receive final repairs on Monday August 17 through Thursday August 20.

Forest Service Road 73 will be closed during repairs beginning August 17 through August 20 and there will be no through traffic. The sinkhole is located on a narrow section of road and the undercutting from Antone Creek will prevent crews from piloting traffic around the construction site.

The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest will update the website www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman and facebook page www.facebook.com/WallowaWhitmanNF beginning Monday August 17 with information about the construction and lane closures.

During construction, Anthony Lakes and the surrounding areas will remain accessible from Sumpter on Forest Road 73, from Ukiah on Forest Road 52 and from La Grande on Forest Road 51. The estimated completion date is Thursday morning August 20.

An alternate route around the construction area is available on Forest Service Road 7312 from Pilcher Creek Reservoir. This is a two lane gravel road recommended for high clearance vehicles.

31 new fires sparked in the Blue Mountains (8-11-15)

8/11/2015

La Grande, OR, Pendleton, OR & Baker City, OR: Recent lightning activity across the Blue Mountains has sparked several news fires. Both lookouts and aerial reconnaissance have reported a total of 31 new lightning caused fires thus far across the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center foot print. Including:

-          NE Oregon ODF: 9 new fires

-          Wallowa-Whitman National Forest: 12 new fires

-          Umatilla National Forest: 9 new fires

-          Washington DNR: 1 new fire

Additional hold-over fires are possible as the conditions are dry and increased winds are expected throughout the week. Isolated thunderstorms and increasing winds are expected over the next 4 days.

Fire officials want to remind everyone that the current fire danger rating remains at EXTREME and Public Use Restrictions involving campfires and chainsaw use are in effect. Regulated closures are in effect on State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) in northeast and central Oregon. On Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forest lands Public Use Restrictions are in effect, including campfire restrictions and use of chainsaws.

Visit the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch webpage at: www.bmidc.org or contact a local Oregon Department of Forestry or Forest Service office for more complete information. Similar restrictions may be in effect on State and private lands protected by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WA-DNR). More information can be found on the WA-DNR website at: http://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/firedanger/BurnRisk.aspx .

Additional Blue Mountain Fire information can be found at: http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/

Blue Mountains Elk Initiative celebrates 25 years

7/31/2015

The authors of the Blue Mountain Elk Initiative pictured above. From left to right, Back row: Dr. Michael Wisdom, First BMEI Coordinator, Starkey Ungulate Team and Research Wildlife Biologist; Jeff Blackwood, retired Forest Supervisor of Umatilla NF; John Lowe, retired Regional Forester; Marty Vavra, retired Supervisory Rangeland Scientist and Starkey Ungulate Ecology Team Leader, OSU Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center; Dr. Jack Ward Thomas, retired Chief of the Forest Service and PNW Starkey Project Leader; Bob Munson, Founder, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Front – Marie Dick, wife of Louie Dick, Jr. former Vice Chairman of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation

Baker City, OR – The Blue Mountains Elk Initiative (BMEI) celebrated 25 years this summer. The date was marked by a two day celebration, June 30 – July 1, in Pendleton Oregon. The BMEI is the longest running, most successful initiative of its kind. The success is due to the strength of the partnerships between Federal, State, private landowners and industries, Tribal Nations, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and other sportsman’s organizations and conservation groups. The mutual goal is to improve habitat for elk and other wildlife across the Blue Mountains of northeast Oregon and southeast Washington.

Nearly ten million dollars have been leveraged since 1990 for habitat improvement, conservation education and research. These dollars have come from federal, tribal, state, county, and private sectors. In addition, dozens of private landowners have donated money, labor, materials, and equipment for projects on farms and ranches. Many private landowners have also received money and assistance to enhance elk habitat or alleviate problems with elk on their property.

For 25 years the BMEI has improved elk habitat and distribution across the Blue Mountains through forage and security enhancement projects including prescribed burning, seeding and planting, aspen enhancement, thinning, noxious weed treatments, road work, salting stations, water developments and fence improvements. The on the ground benefits for elk and other wildlife extend well beyond the boundaries of the land that has been treated. For example, damage from elk on private lands has been alleviated by improving forage and reducing disturbance on adjacent public land summer ranges.

Designing effective road systems is an effort to attract and hold elk for greater periods of time on public land. This reduces impacts to private land caused by elk and improves the health and productivity of the elk populations. Creating secure habitat on spring, summer and fall ranges involves providing reasonable motorized for recreation and management, with the need to attract and hold elk on their seasonal ranges.

The two day event included a visit to the Starkey Experimental Forest and Range. There the participants spoke about the four original studies; roads and traffic, intensive timber management, breeding bulls and forage allocation. On day two there was a Tribal Welcome and an Elder Prayer prior to the recognition and awards dinner hosted by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. The keynote speaker was Jack Ward Thomas, the 13th Chief of the Forest Service and a former Director of the Pacific Northwest Laboratory in La Grande, Oregon.

Dr. Thomas noted the importance of seeking out partnerships as well as working at the local level with local politicians and community leaders. He urged the audience to be innovative and creative and make plans that work across all land ownerships; federal, state and private. And finally, to think big!

Mark Penninger, Wildlife Biologist for the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, noted “We are so busy these days, we rarely take a little time to reflect on where we’ve been and celebrate our successes. From this celebration we can chart a path forward with renewed enthusiasm and commitment.”

Current issues facing elk in the Blue Mountains include; poor elk distribution, low calf recruitment (survival) and invasive weeds that quickly overtake large areas, rendering them unusable for elk and many other native wildlife species. Future projects of the BMEI will improve habitat conditions for elk distribution including; continued prescribed burning, thinning of dense forest stands, and restoring aspen stands. Invasive weeds treatments will be implemented in ways that are suitable for specific locations and weed species. The BMEI will continue to improve fencing to minimize entanglement hazards and remove unneeded fences. Continued research on predation and nutrition will help with calf recruitment and calf survival. More information available atwww.fs.fed.us/pnw/

North Central Idaho RAC seeks nominees

7/20/2015

Kamiah, Idaho (July 20, 2015) – The Secure Rural Schools Act authorizes the use of Resource Advisory Committee (RACs) as a mechanism for local community collaboration with federal land managers in recommending Title II projects on federal lands or that will benefit resources on federal lands.

The North Central Idaho RAC represents Idaho, Clearwater and Latah counties and includes the Nez Perce, Clearwater, Payette, Salmon-Challis, St. Joe, Wallowa-Whitman, and Bitterroot national forests.

Each RAC consists of 15 members appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. Committee members are representatives of many interests in three categories. The North Central Idaho RAC is soliciting for nominees for Category B, which may include 5 persons that represent:

·       Nationally recognized environmental organizations

·       Regionally or locally recognized environmental organizations

·       Dispersed recreational activities

·       Archaeological and historical interests

·       Nationally or regionally recognized wild horse and burro interest groups, wildlife or hunting organizations, or watershed associations

Currently, the RAC’s Category B includes 3 members that represent Dispersed Recreational Activities, and 1 member that represents a Regionally or Locally Recognized Environmental Organization. Therefore, the RAC is particularly seeking nominees that represent wildlife or hunting organizations, or watershed associations. There are also 3 Replacement Member vacancies in Category A, B, and C to be filled. USDA requires two applicants per position.

Each nominee is required to submit a form AD-755 to the appropriate local Forest Service official such as the RAC Designated Federal Official (DFO), RAC coordinator, Forest Supervisor or District Ranger. The DFO will assemble a list of nominees using the RAC nomination and selection form.

Forest Supervisors forward a slate of nominees with recommendations for appointments through the Chief to the Secretary. These recommendations consider the advice of Forest Supervisors, tribal officials and county officials, and the following criteria: qualifications to represent the specific interest outlined in the Act, geographic representation across the area potentially affected by RAC advice, gender, ethnic diversity, persons with a disability, community support, consensus-building ability, dedication to serving the community's interests, and active participation in current natural resource issues.

The Secretary’s office performs a background check on nominees, based on information provided on the AD-755. After nominees are cleared through the background check, the Secretary reviews the nominations and makes the selection of members. Newly appointed members receive a letter from the Secretary and a certificate of appointment. The process of nominating, reviewing and selecting members may take a few months or more.

For a more detailed description of the member appointment process and recruitment form, please see:   http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/pts/specialprojects/racs. For additional questions, please contact Laura Smith, Designated Federal Official, North Central Idaho RAC, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, 104 Airport Road, Grangeville, Idaho 83530, call: (208) 983-5143or email at:  lasmith02@fs.fed.us.

Northeast Oregon forests seek members for RAC

6/23/2015

John Day, Pendleton and Baker City, Oregon – The Northeast Oregon Forests Resource Advisory Committee is seeking nominees to serve on a 15-member Resource Advisory Committee (RAC). The committee’s duties include recommending projects and funding to improve forest health, watersheds, roads and facilities on or adjacent to the Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests.

The Northeast Oregon Forests RAC has a proven track record of improving collaborative relationships. The group works across a wide variety of interests to propose projects and associated funding for improvements that benefit the residents of northeast Oregon, as well as those who come to visit the Malheur, Umatilla, and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests. Past projects include; noxious weed control, trail construction, thinning and improvement of fish passage to restore native species. Many of these projects are accomplished by employing youth crews.

RAC committee members will be officially appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture for a term of 2 years; shall not receive compensation; and must be able to commit the time necessary to carry out the committee responsibilities of one or two full-day meetings each year. Travel and per diem will be paid to compensate for expenses associated with attending meetings. To the extent possible, members should reside within the Baker, Crook, Harney, Malheur, Morrow, Union, Wallowa, Wheeler and Grant County.

New advisory committee members must represent a wide variety of interests. These committees are to be balanced and diverse with equal representation from industry, environmental groups, recreation groups, elected officials, and local residents. Specifically, the composition of each RAC is to be balanced according to the following three interest categories identified in P.L.106-393. Current vacancies on the Northeast Oregon Forests RAC exist in all three categories.

Category A: Represents one or more of the following interests:

Organized labor or non-timber forest products harvester group
Developed outdoor recreation, off-highway vehicle users, or commercial recreation
Energy and mineral development
Commercial timber industry
Federal grazing permit holders or land use permit holders within the RAC area

Category B: Represents one or more of the following interests:

Nationally recognized environmental organizations
Regionally or locally recognized environmental organizations
Dispersed recreation activities
Archaeological and historical interests
Nationally or regionally recognized wild horse or burro groups

Category C: Represents one or more of the following interests:

State-elected office holders or their designee
County or local elected office holders
American Indian tribal representatives from tribes within or adjacent to RAC areas
School officials or teachers
Citizens representing the affected public at large

Nominees will be evaluated based on their training and experience working with the interest they represent, their demonstrated commitment to collaborative decision-making, and their contribution to the balance and diversity of the RAC. Nominations will be accepted until all positions are filled.

If you are interested in serving on the Northeast Oregon Forests RAC, or would like more information about the responsibilities of the RAC, please contact any of the following individuals:

Jeff Tomac, Northeast Oregon Forests RAC Coordinator (541) 523-1301or by email at: jtomac@fs.fed.us
Arlene Blumton, Wallowa-Whitman NF RAC Coordinator (541) 962-8522 or by email at: ablumton@fs.fed.us
Susan Garner, Malheur NF RAC Coordinator (541) 575-3039 or by email at: scgarner@fs.fed.us
Ian Reid, Umatilla NF RAC Coordinator (541) 427-5316 or by email at: ireid@fs.fed.us

Wallowa Mountain Loop Road 2015 Construction schedule released

6/10/2015

Wallowa Mountain Loop Road 2015 Construction Schedule:

Southern 13 miles closed and gated until June 18.

June 18 – June 30: Southern 13 miles closed and gated Tuesday at 8 am thru Thursday at 5pm.

July 1 – October 15: Open every day but travelers can expect up to 1 hour delays and a flagger / pilot car.

Forest Service Road (FSR) 66 to Fish Lake is open and free and clear of snow all the way through from Halfway to the 39 rd. This is the detour route for the construction on the 39 road.

The detour route is 30 miles in length and is a well-maintained single-lane gravel road with pullouts. The route is suitable for vehicles with trailers; however it is not recommended for motor homes. If unsure of suitability, please contact the Wallowa Mountains Office at 541-426-5546 or the Pine Field Office at 541-742-7511.

Cattle guard to be installed in Forest Road 39 next week

5/11/2015

Baker City, OR – Forest Service Road (FSR) 39 will be closed approximately 300 feet south of the junction between FSR 39 and FSR 3915/3920 near Salt Creek Summit Snow Park on Monday, May 18, and Tuesday, May 19, to install a cattle guard.

The detour will begin at the junction of HWY 350 and County Rd 4602 (Little Sheep Creek). Travelers will then head east on HWY 350 to the town of Imnaha, and turn right (south) on County Road 727 (upper Imnaha River Road), which becomes FSR 3955 at the Forest boundary. The detour will end at Gumboot Creek on the 39 Road.

Construction continues on the southern 18 miles of FSR 39. This section will remain closed and gated until June 15 from the junction of FSR 39 and FSR 66 to Highway 86.

FSR 66 is currently clear of snow and ice to Twin Lakes. Beyond Twin Lakes the road is blocked by four feet of deep snow. FSR 39 is clear of snow and ice, but is not maintained until June 15. Rocks remain in the roadway and travelers are advised to use caution when traveling forest roads.