Emergency Public Land Closure for Big Grass Fire, BLM Vale, Oregon
Oregon-Washington
Vale DO
Media Contact
BLM Office:
Vale , Ore. — Due to extreme wildfire activity across Eastern Oregon, the Bureau of Land Management’s Vale District is issuing emergency closures to protect public safety, natural and cultural resources, and reduce conflicts with firefighting and emergency personnel.
The closures encompass BLM-administered lands in the Vale District. The areas closed are generally surrounding the Big Grass Fire south of Highway 95. Closure maps and additional details will be posted online on the Fire Closures & Restrictions page.
These closures are effective immediately and will remain in place until conditions improve and safe access can be re-established. All public access to closed lands is prohibited, with specific exemptions for emergency personnel.
Violations of this closure may lead to prosecution before a United States Magistrate, fines under 18 U.S.C. 3571, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both. Vehicles found in violation may also be removed.
A limited number of areas remain accessible and are currently under Public Use Restrictions Level 2, which prohibit:
- Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire, including charcoal fires
- Smoking except inside an enclosed vehicle or while standing in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is clear of all flammable materials
- Operating a chainsaw between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.
- Operating a motor vehicle off designated roads and trails
If you’re planning to visit the areas that remain open, please use extreme caution. Cell service is spotty or nonexistent. Conditions can shift fast, and fire behavior may change with little warning.
For further information, please contact the Vale District Front Desk at 541-473-3144 or visit Oregon/Washington Fire Closures & Restrictions.
We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation as we work to protect lives, property, and public lands during this critical period.
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.