Fire
Latest Stories

Parishioners catch first glimpse of Salem church since destructive 2023 arson
It was the first chance for many parishioners to see the inside of the church since 2023, when an arsonist set a dumpster fire that spread and destroyed much of the building.

Kotek says Oregon is ready for fire season, but federal help is uncertain
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek warns that gaps in federal support could complicate Oregon’s wildfire response during what’s expected to be a severe summer.
Portland firefighters quickly extinguish Laurelhurst Park tree fire Thursday
Portland Fire & Rescue spokesperson Rick Graves said wind could have made things worse as Oregon enters what could be a challenging fire season.
Makeshift stove likely caused fire at former Blue Heron Paper Mill
A makeshift stove likely caused the massive fire that broke out on Jan. 30 at the former Blue Heron Paper Mill in Oregon City.
Cleanup underway at former Blue Heron paper mill damaged by fire
Clean up efforts continue after a large fire broke out Thursday at the former Blue Heron Paper Mill in Oregon City.
Fire at old paper mill rains ash and embers on downtown Oregon City
The fire at the former Blue Heron paper mill closed Highway 99E in Oregon City Thursday morning.

Politics
Oregon lawmakers approve rush of wildfire funds in speedy emergency session
The Legislature spent $218 million to cover the costs of the most expensive fire season on record.

Explaining Oregon’s problem paying for wildfire work
Oregon has hundreds of millions of dollars in unpaid bills from this year's wildfire season. Here's what you need to know.
Difficult fire season strains relationship between forestry department and Eastern Oregon landowners
Officials attribute discord to strained firefighting resources and rising fire protection rates.
Benton County residents report odor and fire risks at Coffin Butte landfill
Neighbors report experiencing frequent "bad-air days," when a strong acrid or chemical smell from the landfill wafts through the area.