ODF Mobilizes Oregon National Guard to Combat Wildfires

Salem, Oregon– The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has mobilized four hand crews through the Oregon National Guard (ORNG), as per Governor Kotek’s State of Emergency Declaration, which grants ODF the authority to request firefighting resources from the National Guard as needed. This action follows previous orders for two medevac helicopters and additional air support to address the ongoing multijurisdictional fires.

Governor Kotek emphasized the urgency and collaborative effort required to tackle the wildfire crisis. “The wildfire situation on the ground is dynamic and challenging, and we need all hands on deck,” she stated. “I want to thank the Oregon National Guard for their dedication and cooperation in fighting Oregon’s wildfires and protecting Oregon’s communities and natural resources.”

The newly mobilized hand crews consist of 92 personnel, including 22 firefighters per crew, along with two liaisons and two support personnel. The teams will be divided equally between Air Guard and Army Guard members.

Kyle Williams, ODF’s Deputy Director of Fire Operations, highlighted the relentless nature of this year’s fire season. “This year’s extreme weather has tested our limits, but our unwavering commitment to protecting Oregon’s communities and natural resources remains. We are leveraging every resource available to fight the wildfires, including our partners at the Oregon National Guard,” he said.

The National Guard members will undergo administrative processing for State Active Duty (SAD) orders on Wednesday, July 31, and Thursday, August 1. Following this, they will be deployed to various fire assignments through ODF for a 14-day period, supporting the U.S. Forest Service in managing multijurisdictional fires.

Lt. Col. Stephen Bomar, Director of Public Affairs for the Oregon Military Department, remarked on the Guard’s readiness. “The Oregon Guard is engaged and supporting first responders to what is shaping up to be another busy fire season. We are prepared to continue support as requested to assist our fellow Oregonians as needed.”

Jacque Buchanan, Regional Forester for the Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service, acknowledged the significant boost in firefighting capabilities provided by the National Guard. “We recognize and appreciate the support the Oregon National Guard are giving to our unified efforts. Their assistance comes at a pivotal time and will bring a welcomed boost in suppression response capabilities on the numerous wildfires impacting our communities,” she said.

ODF continues to utilize all available resources, including partnerships with the Oregon National Guard, in-state partners, landowners, state-to-state mutual aid agreements, and the Northwest Compact, to mobilize additional firefighters and resources in response to the ongoing wildfire crisis.