BLM closes certain lands in Crook County due to Willow Fire
Prineville, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management announces an immediate temporary closure of public lands in Crook County due to an active fire in the area. This action is taken to ensure public safety, protect land health, and maintain resource integrity, while minimizing conflicts with emergency response teams engaged in fire suppression efforts.
Closure Details: The affected public lands include portions of the following townships as shown on the attached map:
- Tp. 20 S., Rg. 23 E
- Tp. 20 S., Rg. 24 E
- Tp. 21 S., Rg. 23 E (north of Buck Creek Road)
- Tp. 21 S., Rg. 24 E
This closure is effective immediately and will remain in place until conditions permit safe public access.
Exceptions to the Closure: Certain individuals may be exempt from this closure, including:
- Federal, State, or local officers or members of emergency crews engaged in official duties.
- BLM employees and contractors performing their official tasks.
- Individuals with existing rights for access or those holding written approval from the BLM Authorized Officer.
Legal Penalties: Violations of this closure may result in legal action, including fines and potential imprisonment. Vehicles found violating this order may be towed.
For further information, please contact the Prineville District Front Desk at 541-416-6700.
Details of the closure and relevant maps will be available online at Fire Restrictions - Oregon/Washington Bureau of Land Management.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.