Forest Service plans 2,800-acre fuels reduction project around Black Butte Ranch to reduce wildfire threat

The Deschutes National Forest has initiated a fuels reduction project encompassing 2,800 acres around Black Butte Ranch, a resort community at risk from large wildfires. The announcement made on October 9, 2024, emphasizes the importance of community involvement, as the Forest Service is inviting public feedback to enhance the project's scope and efficacy. This initiative acknowledges the area's troubling history with wildfires, highlighting the urgency of mitigating these threats to protect both residents and visitors. The project is part of broader efforts to manage forest health and resilience in the face of climate change and increasing fire risks. Community input will play a crucial role in shaping the strategies employed, ensuring that local concerns and insights are addressed.

The Forest Service aims to implement effective treatments that contribute to long-term ecological health while also enhancing safety. With this proactive approach, the agency seeks to foster a collaborative environment between the Forest Service and the community it serves. Ultimately, this fuels reduction project is a critical step toward securing a safer future for Black Butte Ranch and its surroundings.