200 Acre Priceboro Fire Slows as Additional Crews Ordered

In a statewide effort, firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry’s South Cascade District, two task forces from the Oregon State Fire Marshal, local districts, and private contractors rallied together to significantly slow the Priceboro Fire, which ignited eight miles northeast of Eugene outside of Harrisburg.

ODF crews responded swiftly to the emergency on Friday evening, commencing a strong initial attack with a fleet of seven aircraft, 14 engines, two hand crews, four tenders, and three dozers. Throughout the night, crews worked continuously, establishing dozer lines and handlines around the fire to contain its current footprint. Additional resources have been called in and are set to join the firefighting efforts in the morning.

The fire’s development has been fueled by unseasonably dry conditions and powerful winds, leading to extraordinary fire behavior. Chris Cline, ODF District Forester, commended the crews’ hard work, stating, “We dropped a lot of water and retardant on the fire to slow its spread. The fire is currently holding at around 200 acres, and we are confident we can maintain it at this size. Tonight, we aim to secure the edges, preparing for a proactive approach heading into Saturday.”

With the scorching heat and dryness prevailing in the area, Cline urges the public to cooperate and assist in fire prevention efforts. He stressed, “The vegetation is highly susceptible to fire, so we’re asking the public to be vigilant and do their part in keeping fire off the landscape.”

The fire’s origin remains under investigation, with reports suggesting it started around 4:00 p.m. on Friday. As a precautionary measure, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 3 evacuation (go now) notice, which is still in effect. In light of the ongoing emergency response, fire officials have requested the public to refrain from traveling on area roads near the fire to ensure unhindered access for emergency responders and equipment.

As the firefighting efforts continue, the collaboration between various agencies demonstrates the commitment to safeguarding lives and properties in the face of a challenging fire season.

You can track this fire through our 2023 Wildfire Season partner’s Wildfire Aware app.