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Fire season ends in Tillamook Forest

"We are all glad to see it go," said ODF Forest Grove District Forester Mike Cafferata in an email sent Tuesday as the agency filed the appropriate paperwork to officially close the 2024 fire season.

Fire danger drops to 'moderate' Wednesday

Fire danger in lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association (NWOFPA) were set to “moderate” or blue at 10 a.m. Wednesday.

Fire danger drops to 'Moderate' in Tillamook Forest

Fire danger in lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association (NWOFPA) were set to “moderate” or blue at noon Monday.

91 years ago to the day, the first Tillamook Burn was sparked

Ninety-one years ago to the day, a logging crew at the end of a railroad spur in the upper reaches of the Gales Creek Watershed sparked a wildfire. That spark became the Tillamook Burn.

A century ago, the Wilson, Salmonberry, and Nehalem Rivers were examined as a source of hydropower

In the July 17, 1924 edition of the Washington County News-Times, a news story recounted an examination of three rivers in the Tillamook Forest for hydropower uses.

Fire danger to rise to 'high' Wednesday

The heat wave may be ending, but wildfire danger in northwest Oregon is increasing, prompting the Oregon Department of Forestry to move much of the region they protect in northwest Oregon to “high” fire danger starting Wednesday morning.

Fire danger to rise to 'moderate' July 4 as region prepares for heat wave

Just two days after fire season began in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association (NWOFPA), fire danger will be set to "moderate" or blue at 1 a.m. July 4 as the region braces for a heat wave expected to hit starting on Independence Day.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting set for May 16 in Buxton

The next Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting will be held Thursday, May 16 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Hornshuh Creek Fire Station on Highway 26.

Tillamook Forest Center hosts forestry history event April 27

Discover Oregon's forestry heritage on April 27 at the Tillamook Forest Center. The event, 'Unearthing Forgotten Forestry Narratives,' features a presentation from the Vernonia Pioneer Museum and Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center on historic efforts by Oregon foresters.

Tillamook Forest Center to reopen March 6

The Tillamook Forest Center, located on Highway 6 at the mid point between Tillamook and Gales Creek, will reopen for the season Wednesday, March 6.

BikePortland caught up with Salmonberry Trail Foundation's Caroline Fitchett

In a wide-ranging interview, BikePortland's publisher and editor Jonathan Maus took a dive into all things Salmonberry Trail with Salmonberry Trail Foundation Executive Director Caroline Fitchett in a 20-minute interview.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting set for January 18 in Buxton

The governing body that is responsible for the development of the Salmonberry Trail plans to meet in Buxton January 18 for a regular business meeting.

Oregon needs more money to fight big wildfires. Who should pay for it?

Two senators aim to boost funding to the state’s firefighting efforts, one funded by the public, the other by timber companies.

Salmonberry Trail Foundation seeks new treasurer, sees leadership change

The Salmonberry Trail Foundation is looking for a new treasurer, and more in this final update this year on the development of the planned trail stretching from Banks to Tillamook.

Salmonberry Trail Foundation offering guided hikes and a work party in December, January

Sometimes, "take a hike" is a friendly invitation, and that seems to be the case with six winter hikes—and a work party—scheduled by the Salmonberry Trail Foundation in December and January in the Buxton and Manning area.

Habitat plan for western state forests could cost counties $18 million a year in timber revenue

On Monday, the Oregon Department of Forestry released its long-awaited projections showing how much timber revenue each of 14 western Oregon counties would get a year for the next 70 years following the adoption of a landmark proposal that’s expected to be adopted next year.

Don't chop down a Christmas tree in the Tillamook State Forest

Can you go into the Tillamook State Forest and chop down a Christmas tree to put in your living room? No—but you can gather materials to assemble a wreath. Here's how.

Tillamook Forest Center closing soon for season

The Tillamook Forest Center will close for the winter season November 27, after one last holiday event. It's not expected to reopen until March of 2024.

Rail salvage begins between Buxton, Banks on Salmonberry route

Drive along Highways 47 and 26 between Banks and Buxton recently and notice heavy equipment working on the site of the proposed Salmonberry Trail? That's because the tracks are coming out.

Some campgrounds slated to close for season in Tillamook, Clatsop State Forests

A number of local campgrounds owned and maintained by the Oregon Department of Forestry are closing for the season in the coming days, ODF said.

Fire season to end Sunday

Fire season in this corner of Oregon will end Sunday, October 1, the Oregon Department of Forestry said.

Fire danger drops to 'low'

Thanks, rain!

Highway 6 safety study released

ODOT has published a report detailing issues plaguing Highway 6, but cautions that no funding exists to tackle most of the work.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency to meet September 27

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along online—and in-person in Wheeler with an RSVP—at a Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, September 27 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Fire danger reduced to 'moderate' again

Fire danger was at moderate until Thursday, when high temperatures brought it back to "high." Tuesday morning, ODF officials brought it back down to moderate.

Fire danger rises to 'High' on east side of Tillamook Forest

Fire danger on the east side of the Tillamook State Forest was set to high Thursday morning as temperatures rose.

Tillamook Forest Center to shift to fall hours before closing for season

This is the last weekend before the Tillamook Forest Center reduces hours for the fall and then closes in November.

Fire danger to be lowered to 'moderate' Tuesday

Fire danger in this corner of the state has lowered enough that the Oregon Department of Forestry plans to reduce the fire danger level for public use restrictions to moderate (blue) Tuesday morning in the Tillamook Forest.

The Tillamook Burn ignited 90 years ago today

Ninety years ago to the day, the first fire of what would become known as the Tillamook Burn started near Gales Creek. We've gathered oral histories, written diaries, and newspaper clippings detailing what happened.

Fire danger to move to ‘high’ in local ODF-protected lands Friday

The Tillamook State Forest will be at "High" fire danger Friday. The move comes with a series of restrictions, including only allowing off-road vehicles before 1 p.m. and after 8 p.m.

Horse and woman survive harrowing plunge down ravine near Reehers Camp

Bees sent a woman and her horse hurtling down a ravine at least 50 feet deep on a trail near Reehers Camp in the Tillamook State Forest Thursday, July 20, with horse and rider somehow escaping with minor injuries after a rescue by the Washington County Sheriff's Office.

Event at Tillamook Forest Center to celebrate 50 years of the Tillamook State Forest

A celebration to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Tillamook State Forest will be held at the Tillamook Forest Center Saturday, July 22.

Fire season to move to 'moderate' in ODF protected lands Thursday

The Oregon Department of Forestry said fire danger would be raised to "Moderate" (blue) in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association (NWOFPA) region Thursday morning.

Five wildfires of note have already burned in local ODF-protected lands

As the region barrels toward a 90 plus degree Independence Day, a local state forestry official said that five wildfires of note have already burned in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association (NWOFPA) region.

Salmonberry Trail clearing event to be held Wednesday in Manning

The Salmonberry Trail Foundation is hosting another trail cleanup near Manning Wednesday, June 21. The event will cap a project to clear 7.2 miles of track between Banks and Buxton.

Fire season in the Tillamook State Forest begins June 14

Fire season will begin in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association (NWOFPA) region Wednesday, June 14 at 1 a.m.

Trail cleanup to be held in Buxton June 10

A Salmonberry Trail clean up event will be held at Public Coast Farm in Buxton starting at 10 a.m. and is expected to finish no later than 2 p.m.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency to meet May 18

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along online at STIA meeting scheduled for Thursday.

Gales Creek Campground, Reehers Camp prepare for spring opening

The Gales Creek Campground and Reehers Camp are scheduled to open to overnight campers Friday, May 19, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Browns Camp opening day postponed due to snow

The Oregon Department of Forestry was set to open its off-highway vehicle (OHV) site Browns Camp tomorrow; however, it remained buried in snow, and the department postponed tomorrow's opening to April 14. Jordan Creek opened April 1.

Salmonberry Trail cleanup in Buxton April 2

A cleanup event in Buxton will be held Sunday, April 2 to remove invasive species, clear trees and blackberries and pick up trash along one mile of the old railroad tracks that could someday become the Salmonberry Trail.

Salmonberry Trail planning moves forward at meeting in Buxton

Agency heads, representatives of local governments, interested neighbors, and board members of the Salmonberry Trail Foundation met in Buxton Thursday, Feb. 16 for a Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting.

The Tillamook Forest Center is reopening March 17

The Tillamook Forest Center is scheduled to reopen Friday, March 17, ending a three-year closure spurred by the onset of the pandemic, then extended due to staffing issues.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency to meet in Buxton Feb. 16

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along at a Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting, scheduled for Thursday, February 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hornshuh Creek Fire Station in Buxton (49021 NW Sunset Hwy).

Washington County asks state for funding to plan three miles of Salmonberry Trail between Manning, Stub Stewart

A new executive director for the Salmonberry Trail Foundation, a cleanup event on Saturday, and Washington County asks state for funding for three miles of trail planning in Manning.

OHV enthusiasts: Elliot Creek Trail closed ‘til further notice

The Elliot Creek Trail, an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail near Rogers Camp is closed due to logging in the area, the Oregon Department of Forestry said Thursday.

Western red cedars are sick. Researchers are looking at trees near the Tillamook Forest to find out why

Western red cedars are dying across the Pacific Northwest, and researchers are studying trees in the Coast Range to find out why.

Tillamook State Forest generates $30.5 million for Tillamook, Washington, Columbia Counties

Timber sales in the Tillamook State Forest and nearby forests generated $30.5 million for taxing districts in Washington, Tillamook, and Columbia Counties in fiscal year 2022, the Oregon Department of Forestry said.

Wilson River expected to crest a foot over flood stage Friday evening

The Wilson River is expected to rise above flood stage Friday evening, cresting about a foot over flood stage, the Portland office of the National Weather Service said.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency Meeting Nov. 14

STIA will meet in-person in Tillamook Monday, Nov. 14 for a regular board meeting, a tour of the proposed Barview to Garibaldi section of the trail, and more.

Body of man missing since February found near Coast Range summit

The body of Thomas Geiger, a man missing in the Tillamook State Forest since February, was found Saturday at the summit of the Coast Range near Highway 6.

Fire season in the Tillamook Forest ends

Fire season in the Tillamook Forest is over.

South Fork Forest Camp sends hand crews to fight Fishhawk Loop Fire

Discovered Friday evening, the Fishhawk Loop Fire has grown to an estimated 120 acres in Clatsop County near the Fishhawk Lake community that straddles the Columbia and Clatsop County line.

Fisherman's Pit shooting area closed to vehicle traffic after home struck by bullets

A popular shooting area in the Tillamook State Forest is closing to vehicles after someone fired into a home, illegal explosives were detonated, and bullets flew in the direction of the Wilson River Highway.

Fire danger drops to ‘moderate’ as fall rains begin

Rain has finally doused the region, and fire danger in Oregon Department of Forestry-protected lands in and around the Tillamook Forest is now listed at “moderate” as of Wednesday. That doesn’t mean the risk is gone.

Brush fire 'under control' near Reehers Camp

A three-acre wildfire located near Reehers Camp at the eastern edge of the Tillamook State Forest is "under control," Banks Fire said.

Lawsuit by 13 counties against state over logging practices ends at Oregon Supreme Court

The Oregon Supreme Court has ended a six-year legal battle between the state and 13 western Oregon counties over logging practices by declining to hear the case.

Fire danger moving to 'high' Tuesday morning

In Zones 2 and 3 of the Northwest District, the general public will see fire danger raised from “moderate” to “high” starting Tuesday at 1 a.m.

Tillamook Forest Center plans spring reopening

The Tillamook Forest Center is expected to open next year in March. “We are anxious to reopen and host visitors with smiles and an overdue hello,” the center said.

Red Flag Warning issued for region as possibility of lightning looms

The Portland office of the National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning in effect until 6 a.m. Wednesday. Possibility of lightning and wind gusts raise danger of "numerous fire starts," including on the east slopes of the northern Coast Range.

'A short update on fire season' in this corner of Oregon

While some large wildfires have taken hold in some parts of the state, the Northwest Oregon Fire Protection Association has been quiet, officials with the Oregon Department of Forestry noted.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting virtually August 8

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along at a Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting, scheduled for Monday, August 8 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Oregon State Police seek help in solving cold case

Highway 6 striping project expected to cause delays through Thursday

Heading to the Tillamook Forest this week? Plan for extra time on Highway 6.

Fire danger will increase in Tillamook State Forest this week

Restrictions in the Tillamook State Forest and surrounding areas will increase this week in the face of increasing fire danger.

Lawsuit on state’s management of forestland moves to Oregon Supreme Court

Linn and 12 other counties, including Washington and Tillamook, have asked the Oregon Supreme Court to review a ruling reversing a $1.1 billion verdict in a case over the state’s management of forestland and revenue from timber harvests.

What does fire season mean for those working and playing in the Tillamook Forest?

With fire season beginning early Monday morning in the Tillamook Forest, what does that mean for those working, living, and playing here?

Fire season begins statewide

With the Northwest Oregon district entering fire season early Monday morning, all of the state’s Oregon Department of Forestry districts are now officially in fire season.

Closures, detours coming to OHV areas, roads in Tillamook State Forest

Lyda Camp and Jordan Creek OHV Recreation Areas, Beaverdam Road, and Kilchis Forest Road are among a number of closures due to forest operations and bridge construction this summer in the Tillamook State Forest.

Local fire season to begin July 11

The Oregon Department of Forestry announced that fire season will be declared Monday, July 11 at 1 a.m. in the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association region.

Photos: the landslide muddying North Fork Gales Creek

The cause of muddied waters, which could have negative effects on fish, drinking water, and irrigation in the Gales Creek area and into other parts of Washington County has been tracked to two large landslides located on the southeast slope of Round Top on Stimson land in the Tillamook Forest.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting virtually May 20

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along at a Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting, scheduled for Friday, May 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thanks to precautions taken in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency now meets

Oregon’s congressional delegation calls for renewal of firefighting agreement with feds

In a rare display of unity, all seven members of Oregon’s congressional delegation appealed to the U.S. Department of the Interior on Tuesday to renew a century-old agreement on managing wildfires in Oregon.

Slide on North Fork Gales Creek muddies water in Tualatin River

Over the past few weeks, Gales Creek residents have noticed muddy waters in Gales Creek intermittently, even when it wasn't raining. It's believed the likely culprit is a large landslide on North Fork Gales Creek about two miles south of Reehers Camp.

Spring cleaning at the Salmonberry Magazine

Back from our winter hibernation, the Salmonberry Magazine has a new website!

Citing staffing issues, the Tillamook Forest Center will remain 'closed until further notice'

The Tillamook Forest Center will not open the first weekend in March this year, extending a closure that first began due to the coronavirus pandemic on March 15, 2020. The Oregon Department of Forestry does not know when the center, now shuttered for almost two years, will reopen to the public.

Cal Mukumoto tapped to become next State Forester

The next leader of the Oregon Department of Forestry was selected Friday morning by the Oregon Board of Forestry, who unanimously chose Calvin “Cal” Mukumoto, of Coos Bay, for the job of State Forester. Mukumoto will be charged with leading the Oregon Department of Forestry in managing Oregon’s state-managed

Oregon Board of Forestry expected to select next State Forester during Friday meeting

The Oregon Board of Forestry is expected to vote on a candidate this week to become Oregon’s next State Forester at a special meeting scheduled for Friday, October 29. Members of the public can watch the virtual meeting on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Youtube channel [https://www.

Volunteers sought to staff Tillamook Forest Center for 2022 season

While the Tillamook Forest Center has yet to reopen following what was initially a temporary shuttering [https://salmonberrytrail.com/news/tillamook-forest-center-to-remain-closed-through-2021/] of its doors in the spring of 2020, the facility appears to be on track to reopen for the spring 2022 season. The Oregon Department of Forestry put out

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting October 15

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along at a regularly-scheduled Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting, scheduled for October 15 from 9 to 11 a.m. Thanks to precautions taken in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency now meets remotely and

Helicopter crashes in Tillamook Forest area

A helicopter crashed in a remote area in the Tillamook Forest area in Tillamook County Wednesday morning, the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office said. Responding around 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 8, the sheriff’s office and other agencies found the helicopter in a remote region near the South Fork

Tillamook Forest Center to remain closed through 2021

The Tillamook Forest Center will remain closed through the rest of the year, the Oregon Department of Forestry said Tuesday. “The closure is in place to help limit exposure to COVID-19 and to protect our entire community, to comply with state office closures, and to allow us time to rebuild

Crews mopping up fully lined 74 acre Cedar Butte Fire

The Cedar Butte Fire is now 74 acres, crews have fully lined the fire, and are now focused on containment and mop up. In what the Oregon Department of Forestry said would likely be their last update on the fire in the Tillamook State Forest, the outlook was good. All

Cedar Butte Fire remains at 60 acres as crews expect to begin mopping up this weekend

Friday afternoon update The Cedar Butte Fire remains at 60 acres, the Oregon Department of Forestry said Friday afternoon. “Ground crews made excellent progress today, working through hot, dry conditions to extend lines around almost the entirety of the fire’s perimeter,” a press release from the agency read. A

Cedar Butte Fire grows to 60 acres

In an afternoon update regarding the Cedar Butte Fire, the Oregon Department of Forestry said the wildfire had grown from an estimated 50 acres to 60 acres, calling the growth “moderate” as it burns largely within slash in the unit it started in. Crews are focusing their efforts on keeping

Cedar Butte Fire is burning in the Tillamook State Forest 18 miles east of Tillamook

Update, 3:40 p.m.: The fire is now estimated to be at around 40 acres in size, and the Hagg Lake closure has been extended until 8:30 p.m. Wednesday to allow Single Engine Air Tankers to scoop water from the lake. The park surrounding the lake remains

Eastern part of Tillamook State Forest, surrounding areas to enter 'Extreme Fire Danger' Wednesday

Facing another heat wave, the Oregon Department of Forestry will move fire danger to “extreme” in the eastern portion of the Tillamook State Forest and surrounding ODF-protected areas, and prohibit a number of activities in areas of the forest starting early Wednesday morning. Use of motorized vehicles and all campfires

Behind fire lines at the Game Hog Creek Fire

Parked across Idiot Creek Road on Thursday, July 22, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Terry Hudnall was the first indication that a wildfire still smoldered just west of the Coast Range summit in the Tillamook State Forest. Hudnall, providing traffic control at the Drift Creek and Idiot Creek Road junction

Fire crews move into 'heavy mop-up' at Game Hog Creek Fire

Fire crews are pushing into the interior of the Game Hog Creek Fire as they work to establish a 300 foot perimeter free of burning material, the Oregon Department of Forestry said on Wednesday. As fire crews move into what the department called “heavy mop-up,” portable water tanks and pumps

Oregon's salmon plates get a refreshed look

A new design for Oregon salmon license plates will be available to vehicle owners September 1, 2021, and the money from plate sales will go toward salmon habitat and restoration. The salmon plate VIP list auction opens for bids Tuesday, July 20. All bids must be received by 5:00

Game Hog Creek Fire held in place over weekend

As of the afternoon of Sunday, July 18, the 182 acre Game Hog Creek Fire was kept in check and showed low fire activity thanks to the aid of aircraft used Saturday on the fire. Crews were also able to complete line construction into the Elk Creek drainage where the

Two planes tapped to fight Game Hog Creek Fire after two helicopters grounded

Efforts to fight the Game Hog Creek Fire burning in the Tillamook State Forest have hit a snag today, with two of three helicopters expected to fight the fire knocked out of commission by mechanical problems Saturday morning. Now, the Oregon Department of Forestry is scrambling to get additional air

Three helicopters expected by Saturday at Game Hog Creek Fire

The Game Hog Creek Fire grew to 133 acres, and the Oregon Department of Forestry has tapped additional helicopter support to fight the fire. Flames pushed past some of the lines fire crews built on Thursday, adding three acres to the 130 acre fire, bringing it to 133 acres at

ODF: Game Hog Creek Fire 'held well overnight'

Efforts to fight the Game Hog Creek Fire continued overnight, and the Oregon Department of Forestry continues to express confidence in halting the wildfire’s spread. The fire has burned over 130 acres as of Thursday. “It held well overnight. We feel good about it,” said ODF Forest Grove District

Crews 'made good progress' on Game Hog Creek Fire by Wednesday evening

The Oregon Department of Forestry said that fire crews battling the Game Hog Creek Fire in the Tillamook State Forest have made “good progress” in halting the blaze. “Although the fire remains uncontained because fire lines are still being built, the fire’s spread was largely stopped at about 70

Game Hog Creek Fire 'appears manageable' but terrain challenges firefighting efforts

The Game Hog Creek Fire is now estimated to be between 70 and 100 acres. “The main body of the fire appears manageable,” said Oregon Department of Forestry spokesperson Laura Fredrickson, who noted that the information came from fire crews on the ground. “The biggest issue is the fire fell

Game Hog Creek Fire grows to 70 acres in the Tillamook State Forest

This story was updated at 10:15 a.m. with additional information. The Game Hog Creek Fire escaped fire lines Tuesday afternoon and is now growing in the Tillamook State Forest. The fire was estimated Wednesday morning to be around 70 acres in size. Overnight, crews estimated the fire was

Crews working to complete mop up of Game Hog Creek Fire in Tillamook Forest

What the Oregon Department of Forestry is now calling the Game Hog Creek Fire in the Tillamook State Forest continues to burn [https://salmonberrytrail.com/news/small-wildfire-under-control-in-the-tillamook-state-forest/] at around six acres, though fire crews are close to the mop-up stage of the fire. The fire is burning in the understory

Board of Forestry to meet July 12 in state forester search process

The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet virtually on Monday, July 12 to continue the search for Oregon’s next state forester. The meeting will begin at 4 p.m. Monday, where members of the board will review materials relating to the job search — expected to take about three months

Tillamook Forest Center to remain closed through most of summer

The Tillamook Forest Center will remain closed until at least September. The Oregon Department of Forestry-owned and operated facility and property, located along the Wilson River in the heart of the Tillamook State Forest, closed in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns. “To help limit exposure to COVID-19 and help protect

Small wildfire under control in the Tillamook State Forest

A small wildfire burning in the Tillamook State Forest is under investigation by authorities who believe it may have been caused by fireworks. Fireworks are not permitted on state forestland, and the region entered fire season on June 22. In a phone call with this publication, Oregon Department of Forestry

Interactive map for Tillamook Co. features hundreds of recreation sites, including in the Tillamook Forest

A new interactive map [https://tillamookcoast.com/recreation-map/] featuring more than 800 sites in and around Tillamook County released by a consortium of tourism and government agencies in Tillamook County has placed a number of recreation sites in the Tillamook State Forest and beyond into a more useful format for

ODF crews, South Fork inmate crews ready for fire activity

As temperature records are broken and locals everywhere seek ways to stay cool, Oregon Department of Forestry fire crews and inmates incarcerated at the South Fork Forest Camp are on standby in case of wildfire in the Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests and surrounding areas. Most of the region’s

Fire season in Tillamook State Forest to begin June 22

Fire season in this corner of Oregon will begin Tuesday, June 22 at 1 a.m. In a June 16 email signed by the three Oregon Department of Forestry district foresters for the Forest Grove, Tillamook, and Astoria districts, the district heads noted that recent rainy days delayed the onset

Salmonberry Trail Foundation sets June 19 trail cleanup, discussion in Buxton

The Salmonberry Trail Foundation plans to host a cleanup day on the planned site of the Salmonberry Trail in Buxton and a discussion on race in the outdoors on June 19, coinciding with Oregon’s soon to be newest official state holiday, Juneteenth, which commemorates the ending of slavery in

Keep Oregon Green launches billboard contest, fire season draws near, and more forestry news

Those with artistic skill and a vision for “keeping Oregon free of wildfire” can enter a billboard poster art contest launched June 1 by Keep Oregon Green in honor of their 80th anniversary. “We are excited to celebrate our important milestone by offering this fun opportunity to all Oregon residents.

Nancy Hirsch appointed Oregon Department of Forestry's acting state forester

The six members of the Oregon Board of Forestry unanimously voted to appoint Nancy Hirsch as interim state forester in a short special meeting held Thursday morning. Her first day on the job will be June 1. Hirsch, who retired from the Oregon Department of Forestry in 2019 as the

All Tillamook, Clatsop State Forest campgrounds reopening by Memorial Day weekend

The Oregon Department of Forestry has announced that all campgrounds in the Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests will have reopened by Memorial Day weekend, with the last few stragglers opening Thursday, May 27. Joining campgrounds opened throughout the last few weeks are Brown’s Camp, Gales Creek Campground, Jones Creek,

Board of Forestry to vote on interim state forester candidate May 27

The search for an interim state forester continues, with a vote on a candidate coming on Thursday, May 27 at a special meeting called for that purpose. Among other duties, the state forester, who serves as the chief executive officer of the Oregon Department of Forestry, will be among the

Oregon Senate Bill 868 would strip Board of Forestry of power to appoint state forester

A bill introduced in the Oregon Senate on Wednesday, May 19 by a bipartisan group of senators would strip the Oregon Board of Forestry of their statutory power [https://www.oregonlaws.org/ors/526.031] to appoint Oregon’s state forester, reducing their role to that of an advisory one

Oregon Board of Forestry to seek new State Forester following Peter Daugherty's resignation

The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet Thursday, May 20 to discuss the appointment of an interim State Forester and a recruitment process to select a permanent replacement for State Forester Peter Daugherty, who announced his resignation May 7. Daugherty’s last day in the position will be May 31.

The Four County Point Trail is a short out-and-back to a unique spot in Oregon

A unique cartographical feature of the region is the point in northwest Oregon — located in the Tillamook Forest — where four county corners meet, the only such location in Oregon. While not as glamorous as the more well-known Four Corners Monument [https://navajonationparks.org/tribal-parks/four-corners-monument/] where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico,

Tillamook, Clatsop State Forest recreational sites begin to reopen

Several campsites and recreation areas in the Tillamook State Forest and the Clatsop State Forest are reopening after an extended closure due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry. The Tillamook State Forest’s recreation team moved forward on May 6 with opening two sites, the

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting May 7

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along at a regularly-scheduled Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting, scheduled for May 7 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thanks to precautions taken in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency now meets

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency meeting March 15

Those interested in the development of the Salmonberry Trail can follow along at a regularly-scheduled Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) meeting, scheduled for March 15 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Thanks to precautions taken in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency now meets remotely

Stagecoach Horse Camp closed due to logging operation in area

A logging operation near the Stagecoach Horse Camp, located just west of Browns Camp, has closed the horse camp temporarily, the Oregon Department of Forestry said. According to ODF spokesperson Jason Cox, the closure is tentatively expected to be around two to four weeks long, but could vary depending on

Tillamook State Forest timber sales drive $31.4 million to local counties

The Oregon Department of Forestryissued an annual report [https://www.oregon.gov/odf/Documents/workingforests/cftlc-annual-report-2020.pdf] that shows revenue from timber operations in the Tillamook State Forest to Tillamook, Washington and Columbia County totals $31.4 in revenue in the 2020 fiscal year. Of that pool, Washington County and

Tillamook, Clatsop forests to reopen to public use Friday

The Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests are expected to reopen to public use on Friday, September 18 at 1 a.m., according to the Oregon Department of Forestry. However, the fire danger is expected to remain at “High,” which comes with additional restrictions for those hiking, biking, kayaking, hunting, off-roading,

Oregon Department of Forestry extends public forest shutdown through Wednesday

The Oregon Department of Forestry plans to keep all forests under their purview closed to public entry and use through at least Wednesday, September 16. The earliest they could open is Thursday, September 17. “Fire danger remains extreme, air quality is bad to hazardous, and last week’s wind storms

In September, 124 South Fork Forest Camp inmates deployed to wildfires

At least 124 inmates from the South Fork Forest Camp, a joint Oregon Department of Corrections and Department of Forestry facility, have been deployed to fight fires this month, according to a spokesperson for the DOC. The men at this facility have been deploying to fight wildfires, a tradition and

Region closed to logging, other industrial forest use

Beginning Friday, September 11 at 1 a.m., logging and other industrial forest activities in the entirety of the Northwest Oregon Forest Protective Association region will be closed due to wildfire danger and limited firefighting resources. The move by the Oregon Department of Forestry to shift the forests to Industrial

Tillamook State Forest closed to public use

The Tillamook State Forest is closed to the public, as are other forestlands protected by the agency in northwest Oregon due to extreme wildfire danger and limited firefighting resources. In an alert issued Wednesday afternoon, the agency said that the order applied to the Tillamook, Clatsop, and Santiam State Forests,

Hot weather prompts shift in precautions for logging in region

For those who work in the Tillamook State Forest and surrounding forests protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry [https://gisapps.odf.oregon.gov/firerestrictions/ifpl.html], logging and other commercial activities will need to shift certain activities out of the hottest parts of the day as much of the

'Worst fire danger of the year:' ODF warns of hazardous conditions in Tillamook Forest for Labor Day weekend and beyond

“We’re looking at our worst fire danger of the year,” said Oregon Department of Forestry Forest Grove District Forester Mike Cafferata in a phone call with the Banks Post on Tuesday morning. “People might feel the colder nights which are really nice, but unfortunately the fuels are really dry

Hillsboro hunter killed by elk in Tillamook County

A Hillsboro man has died after an elk he wounded while bow hunting gored him to death. According to the Oregon State Police, Mark David, 66, was hunting on private property in the area of Trask Road in Tillamook County on Saturday, August 29 when he wounded a 5×5

Fire danger will move to 'High' Thursday morning for much of Tillamook Forest

NW OREGON – Temperatures are expected to soar into the upper 90’s this weekend, according to the Portland branch of the National Weather Service, and the Oregon Department of Forestry will place much of the region on “High” fire danger beginning Thursday, August 13 at 1 a.m. “This is

Stream restoration projects continue on Gales Creek in Tillamook Forest

GALES CREEK – Over the past two years, staff from the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife have planted 1,000 western red cedars along a mile-long stretch of Gales Creek in the Tillamook State Forest. “As these trees grow, they’ll provide shade to

Salmonberry Trail officials seek members for planning committee

TIMBER – The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency is forging ahead with plans for the Salmonberry Trail, and for the next portion of the trail planning process, seeks members of the Timber community and other members of far west Washington County for the Canyon and River segments of the Salmonberry Trail. “The

Fire Season Begins Statewide

OREGON – Fire season began July 1 for the Tillamook State Forest beginning July 1, and as of Monday, July 6, the rest of the state’s ODF protected lands have followed suit, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry. ODF’s Southwest Oregon was the first area in the state

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will meet Oct. 11 in Tillamook

Tillamook–The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting on Friday, October 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Port of Tillamook Bay Officers’ Mess Hall, 6825 Officers’ Row Road just outside of Tillamook. The board is expected to discuss a number of

Tillamook Forest Heritage Trust will host 'Routebeer' event to recognize supporters

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST – The Tillamook Forest Heritage Trust, an Oregon nonprofit organization that has spearheaded projects and initiatives in the Tillamook State Forest such as the Tillamook Forest Center, the Salmonberry Trail, and the State Forests Recreation Fund is hosting a gathering to honor their supporters and contributors on Saturday,

River cleanup comes to the Wilson River on September 21

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST – The Tillamook-based nonprofit Wilson River Cleanup Group (WRCG) is holding its annual river cleanup September 21, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The group wants to make sure the river may be enjoyed by all, so it annually organizes a cleanup day where participants

OHV trails reopen in Tillamook State Forest, Columbia Co. fires now at 5

VERNONIA – Oregon Department of Forestry officials now say that the number of confirmed fires from lightning strikes early Thursday morning has grown to five, with crews investigating reports of three more smoke plumes. A storm cell moved through the region overnight, with multiple lightning strikes recorded in Columbia County northeast

ODF, South Fork Forest Camp crews mobilize to fight small Columbia Co. wildfires

VERNONIA – A storm cell moved through the region overnight, with multiple lightning strikes recorded in Columbia County north of Vernonia around 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Thursday, August 29. At least four small fires ignited as a result, with crews from the Oregon Department of Forestry, fire

OHV trails close in the Tillamook State Forest amid high fire danger

NW OREGON – While the fire season has been mild for most of the northwestern portion of Oregon, the next few days will bring heightened danger as temperatures spike into the upper 90’s. Much of the Willamette Valley has already been placed into a red flag warning by the Portland

Tillamook State Forest road closures coming during hunting season

By Daniel Pearson – Salmonberry Magazine TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST – TheOregon Department of Forestry [https://www.oregon.gov/odf/Pages/index.aspx](ODF) announced it will resume road restrictions this fall in the western part of theTillamook State Forest [http://tillamookforestcenter.org/]to improve deer and elk escapement during hunting season. The

Manning Trailhead expansion ribbon cutting ceremony to be held on Saturday, June 14

By Chas Hundley and Olivia Johnson MANNING – Several Oregon state agencies have teamed up to refurbish and expand access to the Manning Trailhead on the Banks-Vernonia State Trail. The project is expected to nearly triple the capacity for vehicles at the busy access point for the trail, which is also

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will meet June 7 in Tillamook

SALEM–The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting on Friday, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Officer’s Mess Hall at the Port of Tillamook Bay, 6825 Officer’s Row, Tillamook Ore. The meeting will open with a work session

Planned burns can reduce wildfire risks, but expanding use of 'good fire' isn't easy

Courtney Schultz [https://theconversation.com/profiles/courtney-schultz-526107], Colorado State University [http://theconversation.com/institutions/colorado-state-university-1267]; Cassandra Moseley [https://theconversation.com/profiles/cassandra-moseley-417147], University of Oregon [http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-oregon-811], and Heidi Huber-Stearns [https://theconversation.com/profiles/heidi-huber-stearns-528706], University of Oregon [http://theconversation.com/inst

Wildflower and butterfly sketching workshop coming to the Tillamook Forest Center Sunday, April 28

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST – A wildflower and butterfly sketching workshop hosted by Seaside-based artist, educator and forager Dorota Haber-Lehigh is coming to the Tillamook Forest Center Sunday, April 28 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. The workshop, intended for participants ages 12 to adult, requires registration and a $25 fee

Oregon Department of Forestry seeks public input in Northwest Oregon State Forests Management, Habitat Conservation Plan

SALEM – Public input is sought on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan and Habitat Conservation Plan at a roundtable discussion scheduled in Salem on Friday, April 12. The discussion will begin at 1 p.m. in the Tillamook Room at the Oregon Department

April events at the Tillamook Forest Center

April 6 & 7 (Sat & Sun) 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. ARBOR WEEK CELEBRATION Staff will guide each participant to a tree planting site and provide native tree seedlings for planing in the Tillamook State Forest. Participants will receive a tree planting certificate. The event

State officials will meet in Salem on April 5 to plan the development of the Salmonberry Trail

SALEM – The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting on Friday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Classroom Conference Room at the ODFW HQ Office, located at 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE, Salem, Ore.

March events at the Tillamook Forest Center

March 9 (Sat.) 11:00 a.m. SEE THE FOREST FOR THE BEES Oregon Department of Forestry forensic scientists will demonstrate how Oregon’s forests are managed as part of the Fresh Brewed Forestry series, which showcases presenters once a month during the spring and fall. This presentation focuses on

A busy year for the Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency

SALEM – The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) compiled a report to show their achievements and actions, as well as those of the Tillamook Forest Heritage Trust, taken since October 2017 through 2018. While many of the items in the report deal in legal work and agreements necessary to running a

Announcing the Salmonberry Magazine

We’re rebranding—and expanding— our mission. This is Chas Hundley—editor of this site—and I’ve got a quick announcement to make about the direction we’ll be taking this year. Contrary to popular belief, we arenot the official website of the nonprofit or government arms of the

Tillamook Forest Center opens Friday, March 1

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST – The Tillamook Forest Center will open for the 2019 season on Friday, March 1, kicking off the year with a presentation series showcasing forest management and an exhibit of the wood sculptures of Martin Conley. The “Fresh Brewed Forestry” series will focus on Oregon Department of Forestry

New nonprofit to support Salmonberry Trail begins formation

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST – A long-planned evolution in the development of the Salmonberry Trail took its first steps recently with the announcement by the Tillamook Forest Heritage Trust that the Salmonberry Trail Foundation would be formed. The foundation will take over assisting with Salmonberry Trail development from the Tillamook Forest Heritage

ODOT seeks public input in coastal bike route planning

Oregon Coast –The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is seeking the public’s assistance with a major planning effort along the coast. ODOT wants the public to help its planners identify areas of the 370-mile Oregon Coast Bike Route (OCBR) that need improvement. The OCBR, which takes many cyclists six

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will meet December 7 in Salem

Salem –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting on Friday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Tillamook conference room at the Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State St., Salem. Topics on the agenda include discussions and updates on strategic plan

Cycle Oregon ‘Gravel’ ride coming to Tillamook State Forest Oct. 5 – 7

Timber, Ore.-On October 5 – 7, more than 400 cyclists, staff, and volunteers will flock to Timber and the surrounding region for Cycle Oregon’s inaugural ‘Gravel’ ride, starting at Reehers Camp and traversing dozens of gravel logging roads through the Tillamook State Forest and private forestland. Participants, who’ve

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will host annual Salmonberry Coalition meeting on October 4

Banks, Oregon –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will host the annual meeting of the Salmonberry Trail Coalition on Thursday, October 4 in Banks. The public meeting runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at the at Banks Fire District 13, 13430 NW Main St, Banks, Oregon 97106. The agenda will

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will meet August 3 in Tillamook

Tillamook – The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting on Friday, August 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tillamook County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Commissioner’s Meeting Rooms A&B, 201 Laurel Avenue, Tillamook, OR. Topics on the agenda include an update

STIA board meeting set for June 1 in Banks

Banks, Oregon –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting on Friday, June 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Banks Fire District #13, located at 13430 NW Main St., Banks. Topics on the agenda include an update on the Valley segment of the

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency Meeting set for April 6 in Tillamook

Tillamook –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting in the Officers’ Mess Hall at the Port of Tillamook Bay offices in Tillamook on Friday, April 6 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Topics on the agenda include an update on the Valley segment

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency Meeting set for February 2 at Oregon Capital

Salem –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will hold a board meeting in Room 50 at the Oregon Capital in Salem on Friday, February 2 at 10 a.m. Topics on the agenda include an update on the Valley segment of the trail, which runs from Banks through Manning and

Volunteer opportunity: Winter Cleaning Party at the Tillamook Forest Center

Tillamook State Forest –The Tillamook Forest Center will hold a cleaning day on Saturday, February 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to prepare for the center’s upcoming spring season opening on Thursday, March 1. According to the Tillamook Forest Center, volunteers can expect to

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency seeks members to join Valley segment advisory committee

Banks, Oregon –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) is seeking 10-15 local community members to form the Valley Segment Planning Ad-Hoc Advisory Committee. The committee will advise the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), Washington County, and the Washington County Visitor’s Association (WCVA) on all matters related to the development

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency board meeting to be held in city of Banks December 1st

Banks, Oregon –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will hold a board meeting at Banks Fire District #13 [https://goo.gl/maps/FvQ8DCvPWFU2] on Friday, December 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. to discuss ownership issues, fundraising, legal concerns, and planning the “Valley” segment of the trail route, which includes

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency to host annual Salmonberry Coalition meeting on October 3

Tillamook  –The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency will host the annual meeting of the Salmonberry Trail Coalition on Tuesday, October 3 in Tillamook. The public meeting runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Officer’s Mess Hall at the Port of Tillamook Bay, located at 6825 Officer’

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency Board meeting set for August 4

Grande Ronde – The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) board will meet at Spirit Mountain Casino in Grande Ronde on August 4th from 10 am to 1 pm for a regularly scheduled board meeting to discuss issues related to the management and ownership of the proposed 84 mile Salmonberry Trail.  The

Federal lawsuit filed on behalf of landowners along proposed Salmonberry Trail not likely to thwart project

By LeeAnn Neal and Chas Hundley Washington, D.C. –On Aug. 1, Stewart Wald & McCulley LLC [http://www.swm.legal], a Kansas City, Missouri legal firm claiming to have settled “nearly all the largest rails-to-trails cases to date” filed a lawsuit against the United States government on behalf of

Salmonberry Trail public meeting to be held in Timber

Timber-The proposed Salmonberry Trail [http://galescreekjournal.com/news/the-salmonberry-trail-forges-ahead/] will have a public meeting in Timber on Monday. The organization of the public meeting is largely due to the efforts of Trinity Herr, a local resident.  Herr had been in the process of working with a group of local residents

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