Oregon will be receiving $28,512,515 to fund six wildfire prevention programs across the state. Oregon U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden made the announcement on Friday, saying the federal investments will go toward protecting homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The six projects span multiple counties, primarily focusing on hazardous fuel reduction, mitigation efforts, and improving defensive space. The funding comes from the U.S Forest Serviceโs Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program, created and funded by Congress.
According to a press release, the following Oregon projects selected for funding include:
- $8,711,040 for the Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance Districtโs Wildfire Ready Linn County project. This project will develop a strategic, sustainable, and collaborative project pipeline for fuels management, accelerate the pace of defensible space work, increase access for at-risk communities, and empower residents and partners with knowledge, decision-making tools, and resources to understand and reduce wildfire risks.
- $6,124,970 for Douglas County Public Worksโ Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project: Safeguarding Our Communities at Highest Risk of Wildfires. This project will enable Douglas County to complete targeted hazardous fuels reduction work along 21 road systems, totaling 117.5 road miles. This work will coincide with hazard tree felling and limb removal within County rights-of-way. Hazard tree removals, crown reductions, and large canopy limb removals work will be completed by qualified tree companies. County crews will complete roadside mowing, some tree trimming, brushing, and chipping.
