DFPA to Issue Prescribed Pasture Burn Permits, Backyard Debris Burns Still Restricted

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. — The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) has announced it will begin issuing permits for prescribed pasture burns as weather and fire conditions allow. These controlled burns are intended to improve grazing lands for livestock and enhance wildlife habitat while reducing fire danger.

Purpose of Prescribed Burns

Prescribed pasture burns are conducted to eliminate noxious weeds, brush, insects, and plant diseases from fields and pastures. The practice also benefits fire prevention efforts by lowering the buildup of combustible vegetation. Fire officials note that many wildfires have been successfully stopped in areas where prescribed burning has reduced heavy fuel loads.

Historically, landowners in Douglas County have completed about 10,000 acres of prescribed burns annually to improve habitat and pasturelands.

Safety Requirements for Landowners

To conduct a prescribed burn, landowners must:

• Construct fire trails around the planned burn site.
• Provide sufficient personnel to ignite, patrol, and mop up the fire.
• Demonstrate they have the necessary resources, such as fire suppression equipment, to keep the burn under control.

Once fire trails are inspected and approved by DFPA and weather conditions are favorable, a permit may be issued.

Protecting Communities

Burns will only be authorized under conditions that minimize smoke impacts on populated areas. DFPA emphasizes that prescribed fire will be carefully managed to reduce risks while meeting ecological and agricultural goals.

More Information

Oregon State University offers accessible resources for landowners and community members interested in prescribed fire practices. Learn more here: Prescribed Fire Basics – OSU Extension

Important Note

At this time, backyard debris burning permits remain unavailable. Only prescribed pasture burns under DFPA permits are being considered.