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Fire Season Begins on Mt. Hood

Friday, July 7, 2023
by Liz Warren
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
Forest Service News Release
 
Fire Restrictions on local Forest Service lands
 
 
Due to dry and hot conditions, campfires are prohibited across both the Mt. Hood National Forest and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, beginning Monday, July 10, 2023.
 
All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires are prohibited under a Forest Order, including in developed campgrounds. Portable cooking stoves, lanterns, and heating devices using liquefied or bottled fuel, such as propane, are still allowed as they can be instantly switched off. Additionally, target shooting is temporarily prohibited because of the risk of wildfire.
 
Over the last week Fire Danger Indices have risen quickly, following rain and cooler temperatures in mid-June. Fire personnel anticipate drought and the potential for fires will continue to remain high or increase through September. With the current dry and warm long-range forecast, any wildfire start poses a greater threat to firefighter safety, public safety, and personal property. 
 
“With a dry summer ahead, we want to limit the unnecessary risk caused by abandoned or escaped campfires to our local communities and Forest visitors,” said Dirk Shupe, Fire Management Staff Officer for the Mt. Hood National Forest. “We’re grateful for the vast majority of folks who take fire safety seriously and help us protect our public lands.”
 
 
For more information about the local and regional fire outlook visit: https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/predict/outlook.aspx
 
 
And remember, fireworks and other explosive devices are always prohibited on national forests.
 
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
 
 
Photo: Campfires are prohibited on Mt. Hood National Forest beginning Monday, July 10, 2023.
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Fire Caution for Mt. Hood Over the Fourth of July

Tuesday, June 27, 2023
by Liz Warren
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
Forest Service News Release
 
Do your part to prevent
wildfires this Independence Day
 
For many, the Fourth of July means celebrating our country’s independence with barbecues, camping, and fireworks. The Mt. Hood National Forest encourages people to enjoy the holiday weekend safely – and to be especially mindful of wildfire prevention on your public lands.
 
Visitors to national forests should always use caution to prevent human-caused wildfires. Every year, unattended campfires are the number one source of wildfires on Mt. Hood National Forest. To reduce wildfire risk, please consider the following:
 
  • Before visiting, learn of any local fire restrictions by checking our website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/mthood/fire or by contacting one of our district offices.
  • Build campfires in open areas, preferably in existing fire rings.
  • Make sure campfires are fully out and cool to the touch before leaving the area using the water and shovel technique. Never leave a campfire unattended. This video demonstrates how to properly build and extinguish a campfire: https://tinyurl.com/4drjvu3e
  • When smoking, always dispose of cigarette debris in an ashtray.
  • Avoid driving and parking in tall grasses. Exhaust particles and hot exhaust pipes can start grass fires. Even chains dragging along the ground, such as those on ATVs, can spark fires.
 
Fireworks (including sparklers, bottle rockets, and smoke balls) are prohibited on federal land regardless of the season or weather. Violators can be subject to a maximum penalty of a $5,000 fine and/or up to six months in jail. Anyone who starts a wildfire can be held liable for suppression costs.
 
As you plan your visit to the Forest this summer, please “know before you go.” Road and trail conditions can change quickly, and recreation sites can fill up early in the day, so it’s important to have a backup plan. Always check the weather forecast, carry the 10 essentials, and contact one of our district offices for current conditions before your trip.
 
More information about recreation sites, seasonal road closures, and areas impacted by wildfire damage is available on our website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/mthood
 
Have a happy and safe Independence Day!

  

 

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New District Ranger at the Mt. Hood National Forest

Monday, April 24, 2023
by Liz Warren
Here's the latest news from the Mt. Hood National Forest! New District Ranger
 
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
Forest Service News Release
 
 
Mt. Hood Welcomes New District Ranger
 
Mt. Hood National Forest is pleased to announce Nicholas Seibel as the new Zigzag District Ranger, beginning May 8. The Zigzag Ranger District spans 250,000 acres on the west side of the Forest, including busy campgrounds and trails, ski areas, and summer cabins. The district also includes most of Bull Run Watershed, which provides drinking water to about a million Oregonians.
 
“Zigzag Ranger District is receiving national attention and investment for Forest Service priorities,” said Mt. Hood National Forest Supervisor Meta Loftsgaarden. “Nick has a wealth of experience leading and collaborating with teams during complex projects. He’s the right person to help lead the implementation of these key priorities for both the Forest and our communities.”
 
Seibel is a retired combat controller in the U.S. Air Force, where he served for 24 years. During his military career, Seibel deployed to combat zones seven times, taking part in numerous high-risk missions providing support to both air and ground forces.  
 
Seibel has extensive experience in emergency management, including leading task forces during national emergencies such as hurricanes Harvey and Irma. As a member of Oregon Air National Guard Seibel has come to know Mt. Hood well, leading and participating in search and recovery missions to locate and rescue lost or injured hikers. 
 
Seibel lives in West Linn with his wife, son, and their two dogs. The Seibel family enjoys spending time together in the great outdoors, and they frequently explore Mt. Hood skiing, hiking, and camping.
 
“As someone who has always had a deep love and appreciation for the outdoors, I am thrilled to join the Zigzag Ranger District and Mt. Hood community,” said Seibel. “The opportunity to be a part of a team that stewards the natural beauty of this stunning mountainous region while supporting outdoor recreation is inspiring and fulfilling.” 
 
Seibel succeeds previous District Ranger Bill Westbrook, who retired in late winter after 16 years in Zigzag. 

 Photo of District Ranger Seibel with Mt. Hood in the background.​

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Mt. Hood National Forest Opens for Woodcutting!

Tuesday, April 18, 2023
by Liz Warren

Great News for folks who like to cut their own firewood! The Mt. Hood National Forest has just released this info. Don't forget to get your permit. You can cut up to six cords of wood annually!
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
Forest Service News Release
 
Firewood cutting season opens on Mt. Hood National Forest
 
Just as snow has finally started to melt, firewood season has kicked off on Mt. Hood National Forest and will remain open through November 30. Woodcutters are required to obtain a valid personal use permit, available at no cost, before harvesting. Each household may harvest up to six cords annually.
 
Permits can be acquired in person at any Forest office or by submitting a firewood permit application via mail or email. Woodcutters must carry a permit, firewood load tags, firewood map(s), and a current information sheet while harvesting. Firewood harvested for resale purposes requires a commercial firewood permit. More firewood information is available at: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/mthood/firewood
 
Firewood harvesting can help improve forest health. Do your part to ensure that Mt. Hood has a sustainable firewood program and please follow these guidelines:
  • Do not fall standing trees, dead or alive.
  • Firewood cutting of marked timber or within timber sale boundaries is prohibited.
  • Adhere to IFPL restrictions and carry required equipment, including saws equipped with a 0.023-inch or smaller mesh spark arrestor; a long-handled shovel with an 8-inch blade; and a pressurized chemical fire extinguisher 8 ounces or larger.
  • Contact a district office for conditions updates and closure information before harvesting. 
  • If you see illegal or questionable harvest practices notify the local district office.
 
Know Before You Go
Most post-fire burn areas on the west side of the Forest have reopened. While these areas may have considerable firewood to harvest, we ask visitors to use caution as there are also increased safety risks. Hazards include falling trees and limbs, unstable ground, falling rocks and landslides. Learn more about safety in burned areas: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/mthood/burnsafety
 
Bring the 10 Essentials while harvesting. Let friends or family know when you are leaving and returning home. Many Forest Service roads are inaccessible until snow melts and much of the Forest has no cell service.
 
Some roads remain closed on the Barlow and Clackamas River Ranger Districts due to damage from the 2020 wildfires. Know all closures and stay up to date on Mt. Hood National Forest fire recovery progress: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/mthood/2020fires
Historic photo of firewood stuffed into the front trunk of Volkswagen beetle car.
 
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
 
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
 
Mt. Hood National Forest | 16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055
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Mt. Hood Vacation Rentals

Saturday, April 8, 2023
by Liz Warren

Mt. Hood vacation rentals are some of the most popular types of properties that buyers look for in our area.  If you are thinking about purchasing a Mt. Hood vacation rental and want to do some research you might want to check out some helpful websites that will help you gather information. With over 800 vacation rentals in the Mt. Hood area including Government Camp, Rhododendron, Welches and Brightwood, you know we are a mecca for vacation rentals.

 

All of these websites offer information on short term rental markets, occupancy rates, average nightly rates, and revenue projections.

 

  1. AirDNA  https://www.airdna.co/:
  2. VRBO:  https://www.vrbo.com/
  3. Booking.com
  4. TripAdvisor:  https://www.tripadvisor.com
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History of Ski-Way Bus transport in Government Camp Back in the 50's

Thursday, January 5, 2023
by Liz Warren

Here's a great video of the history of the 1950's Ski Way bus which ran from Government Camp to Timberline Lodge. The original starting point is the current Thunderhead Lodge. Over three miles of cables took tourists and skiers on a bus up to the lodge. The video was made by Peter Dibble.        

 

              

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Government Camp Growth Article

Saturday, December 3, 2022
by Liz Warren

Here is a link to Portland Monthly magazine's recent article on

Government Camp growth on Mt. Hood. It includes the challenges of traffic,

the Timberline gondola and housing issues on Mt. Hood.

 

 

                    Inside Government Camp’s Growth Spurt

 
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Christmas Tree Cutting on Mt. Hood

Monday, November 21, 2022
by Liz Warren

From our good friends in the Mt. Hood National Forest

 

 
Christmas tree permits now available
on Mt. Hood National Forest
 
Create memories and explore the forest while hunting for a Christmas tree this holiday season! Christmas tree permits for the Mt. Hood National Forest are available online at Recreation.govand in person through Dec. 31. Permits are $5 per tree with a limit of five permits per household.
 
Christmas tree permits are available for purchase online at Recreation.gov and must be printed to be valid. Recreation.gov charges an additional $2.50 service fee per order.
 
Finding and cutting a Christmas tree is a long-standing tradition and a way to spend time with loved ones on your national forest. 
 
“There’s just something special about cutting your own Christmas tree,” said Cara Lewis, Forester for Mt. Hood National Forest. “The Christmas tree program helps other trees grow larger and can open areas to provide food for wildlife. Not only does the permit system improve forest health, but it’s a fun way to get families outdoors and exploring their public lands.”
 
Tree cutting is prohibited along Highways 26, 35, 216, and 224; in designated Wildernesses; in the Bull Run and The Dalles Watersheds; Camp Baldwin; and areas closed to public entry. 
 
Christmas tree permits are also available in person at the following local businesses:
  • Estacada Ace Hardware: 310 SE Main St., Estacada. 503-630-3769
  • Estacada Tackle Shop, 210 SE Hwy 224, Estacada. 503-630-7424
  • Hood River Tum-A-Lum Lumber, 408 Hwy 35, Hood River. 541-386-1001
  • Sportsman’s Warehouse, 9401 SE 82nd Ave., Portland. 503-777-8700
  • Mt. Hood Village Market, 73265 Hwy 26, Rhododendron. 503-622-4652
  • Sandy Ace Heritage Hardware, 39181 Pioneer Blvd. #417, Sandy. 503-668-8731
  • The Dalles Tum-A-Lum Lumber, 240 Terminal Ave., The Dalles. 541-296-5414
  • Tygh Valley General Store, 57723 Tygh Valley Road, Tygh Valley. 541-483-2324
  • Wamic Market and Supply, 57016 Wamic Market Road, Wamic. 541-544-2333
  • Hoodland Thriftway, 68280 Hwy 26, Welches. 503-622-3244
  • Welches Mountain Building Supply, 67250 Hwy 26, Welches. 503-622-3000
 
Permits are also available at forest offices.
 
Clackamas River Ranger District
Monday- Friday, 8:00- 4:00
Saturday from Nov. 26 to Dec. 17, 8:00- 2:00
 
Zigzag Ranger District
Monday- Friday, 8:00- 4:00
Saturday & Sunday from Dec. 3 to Dec. 18, 8:00- 2:00
 
Barlow Ranger District
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:00- 4:30
 
Hood River Ranger District
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays, 9:00- 3:30
 
Do you have a 4th-grader at home? All 4th-graders can receive one free Christmas tree permit at forest offices as part of the national Every Kid Outdoors initiative. For students to receive their free tree permit, they must present a 4th-grade recreation pass or a valid paper voucher, which can be printed at the Every Kid Outdoors website.
 
Remember, winter weather in the forest can change rapidly. Most forest roads are not maintained for winter driving. Forest staff recommend bringing traction devices and a shovel, extra food, drinking water, winter clothing, blankets, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget a tool, such as a hand saw, for cutting the tree and a rope or cord to secure it to vehicles. Tree cutting and travel may take longer than anticipated, so let someone know where you’re going and leave the woods well before dark.
 
 
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
 
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Hydro Express Coming to Mt. Hood!

Thursday, November 3, 2022
by Liz Warren

Direct From NOAA, Batten down the hatches and get the raincoat ready for Friday and Saturday!

Mt. Hood Hydrologic Outlook

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More Housing Blows from DLCD

Wednesday, September 14, 2022
by Liz Warren

More Blows to Housing from DLCD

Take Action by Friday, September 16th

Less than two months after the Oregon Land Conservation and Development Commission adopted the well-intentioned but ill-advised “Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities” rules that will increase the costs and complications of developing housing in Oregon, DLCD is at it again.

This time, in the name of “Wildfire Adapted Communities” DLCD is again proposing regulations that would dampen Oregon’s housing supply and choice at a time when we face the worst housing crisis in our state’s history, and in the nation.

The draft recommendations include items such as limiting where housing and commercial development can be located, requiring fire breaks in addition to the defensible space requirements for individual lots, and limiting where critical facilities such as schools, hospitals, and community lifelines can be sited.

The Legislature directed DLCD to report back by October 1, 2022 regarding “updates to the statewide land use planning program and local comprehensive plans and zoning codes that are needed in order to incorporate wildfire risk maps and minimize wildfire risk.”

The problem is, there are no maps.  The Wildfire Risk Maps were pulled last month after major errors were identified and after strong public and community backlash. 

Yet despite the fact that we don’t know where the regulations will apply, DLCD is charging ahead with them.  That’s nonsensical.  And now DLCD is using undefined terms like "areas of greatest wildfire risk” that, if interpreted broadly, could affect vast portions of the state.

To make matters worse, DLCD’s proposed requirements would apply above and beyond the new defensible space and home hardening regulations that are already being developed by other state agencies.

It’s important to protect our communities from wildfire risks.  But we can’t develop regulations when we don’t know where they will apply.  And any new regulations must not exacerbate Oregon’s housing crisis.

This is unjustifiable, and we must act now to stop it. Please email LCDC through the link below by Friday night and tell them not to advance their recommendation on new development considerations.

Written public comments delivered to the Commission Assistant at least 10 days prior to the meeting can be copied and distributed to the commission.

To submit comments electronically, please email the Commission Assistant at: est​[email protected]​

To mail in comments, please use this address:

Land Conservation and Development Commission
Attn: Esther Johnson, Commission Assistant
Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development
635 Capitol Street NE, Ste. 150
Salem, OR 97301

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Displaying blog entries 31-40 of 372

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