Oregon Allocates $47.5 Million for Wildfire Response

The Oregon Legislative Emergency Board has approved a $47.5 million allocation to the Oregon Department of Forestry to address the financial burdens of a record wildfire season, which has already cost nearly $250 million, significantly exceeding budgeted amounts. This year has seen over 2,000 wildfires that have burned almost 2 million acres, more than three times the 10-year average. Senate President Rob Wagner praised the Forestry Department for their efforts under challenging conditions, while Governor Tina Kotek has invoked the Conflagration Act 17 times this year, also a new record. Kotek has called for federal assistance and regulatory flexibility for affected farmers and ranchers, alongside a push for increased funding for federal agencies and firefighter salaries. Experts predict the state's five-month wildfire season may conclude in mid-October, although a few high-risk days might remain. The Emergency Board's funding decision highlights the ongoing financial and operational challenges faced by Oregon in combating unprecedented wildfire conditions.