Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
July 08, 2021
Noting the unprecedented 2020 season and wildfires already burning across the state, lawmakers are asking for details on preparation efforts
Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, alongside Representatives Peter DeFazio (D-OR-04), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-03), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), and Cliff Bentz (R-OR-02), are pushing agencies in charge of federal wildfire response to step up preparedness efforts for the 2021 wildfire season—which could be as bad or worse than the unprecedented 2020 season.
In a letter to the secretaries of the U.S. Department of Interior and U.S. Department of Agriculture, the lawmakers highlighted the devastation caused by last year’s wildfires: “As you know, Oregon, and the rest of the West, experienced an unprecedented and destructive wildfire season in 2020. More than 50,000 fires burned 10 million acres with fires lasting well into the fall. Already fires and smoke have threatened the health and safety of several communities in Oregon.”
The delegation asked for detailed plans for preparation, including personnel, resources, and coordination among agencies.
“We appreciate the steps that you have taken to prepare for the 2021 wildfire season,” the lawmakers wrote. “The recent announcement of federal resources from the administration is welcome news, and we encourage you to continue to appropriately plan and prepare for what is likely to be a difficult wildfire season.”
The full letter can be read here and below.