As of Tuesday morning, open fires are now allowed in the Willamette National Forest. That’s due to the cooler temperatures that arrived over the weekend.
The lifting of Public Use Restrictions for campfires in the Willamette National Forest also includes charcoal fires.
The Terwilliger Fire, which has been burning in the Willamette since mid-August, is at about 11,500 acres and 80% contained. A closure area was implemented on August 30th and includes Forest Service Road 19 and Terwilliger Hot Springs. Just under 200 staff remain on site. Crews are currently repairing areas affected by earlier firefighting efforts. This includes fixing damaged roads and the removal of unstable rocks and trees, especially before the arrival of winter weather that can make the slopes even more prone to erosion.
Fire officials ask those visiting or camping in the Willamette to continue to use caution with fire.