By Susan, Madras Bulletin
June 17, 2025
As Central Oregon braces for what could be one of the most dangerous wildfire seasons in recent memory, two active fires—the Rowena Fire near The Dalles and the Alder Springs Fire northeast of Madras—are igniting concern and disruption across communities.
🔥 Rowena Fire: First Major Conflagration of the Season
- Outbreak & Growth: The blaze began on June 11 in Wasco County along Interstate 84. By June 16, it had consumed approximately 3,600 acres and destroyed more than 50 homes and 91 outbuildings.
- Containment & Response: As of June 16, containment reached about 37% thanks to efforts from 670 personnel supported by engines, helicopters, bulldozers, and tenders. Governor Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act, enabling swift mobilization of state firefighting teams.
- Impact: Level 3 evacuation orders were later downgraded, allowing many residents to return. Interstate 84 remains open, and livestock shelters have been set up at local fairgrounds.
⛰️ New Threat: Alder Springs Fire Near Madras
- Rapid Spread: Ignited on June 16 in the Crooked River National Grasslands, this fire grew to about 2,500 acres in just hours amid breezy, dry conditions.
- Evacuations & Mobilization: Level 2 (Get Set) evacuation notices were issued for Crooked River Ranch and surrounding areas. Level 1 alerts were posted for nearby public lands.
- Firefighting Efforts: Multiple fire engines, smokejumpers, helicopters, and air tankers are engaged. The Oregon State Fire Marshal declared this the county’s second conflagration of the year. Animal shelters are open in Redmond for livestock.
🔥 Human-Caused Sparks & Rising Danger
- The Oregon Department of Forestry confirms that about 75–85% of wildfires in our region begin due to human activities—including mowing, debris burning, and equipment sparks.
- One recent fire near Madras was traced to a mower striking a rock.
- Much of Central Oregon remains in moderate drought—34% of the state is abnormally dry and 18% in Level 1 drought.
🛡️ How You Can Prepare & Stay Safe
- Know the Evacuation Levels
- Level 1 (“Get Ready”): Prepare to leave at short notice.
- Level 2 (“Get Set”): Be prepared to evacuate soon.
- Level 3 (“Go Now”): Evacuate immediately.
- Fire Prevention Starts at Home
- Avoid mowing during high fire-risk times.
- Dispose of cigarettes and fireworks safely.
- Check local fire restrictions.
- Stay Alert & Informed
- Sign up for Jefferson and Deschutes county emergency notifications.
- Keep an evacuation kit ready (meds, documents, food, pet supplies).
- Monitor air quality regularly.
🌤️ What’s Ahead
- The Ferry Fire (Gilliam/Sherman counties) is also burning over 10,000 acres and prompting evacuations.
- With drought, heat, and wind on the rise, the wildfire season could intensify—early action and awareness are key.
Madras Bulletin will continue to update readers with the latest information. Stay safe and take care, neighbors.