Increases in wildfire frequency and severity across the western US have prompted changes to fire management programs in many states. In Oregon, SB 762(2021) created a number of programs and a significant, one-time investment from the State to address recommendations from a 2019 Wildfire Council Report related to three key strategies: create fire-adapted communities, develop safe and effective wildfire responses, and increase the resiliency of Oregon’s landscapes.
Now, HB 5701 Budget note #5 (2024) directed the Department of Forestry and Department of State Fire Marshal to convene a broad interest work group to develop recommendations for a sustainable funding strategy that will support fire related programs of the two agencies to protect public health and safety, and natural resources. The Work Group includes representation of tribes, fire protection services, conservation, forest products industry, landowners, utilities, insurance, local governments, public health, and research. The Work Group will develop and deliberate on concepts throughout the summer and fall 2024, with an aim toward making recommendations to the agencies to inform their reporting and recommendations during the 2025 Legislature.