The Almeda Fire was a wake-up call. Accelerating climate change coupled with flammable vegetation and homes have put Ashland in a dangerous situation. Fortunately, we are working on all fronts and upcoming controlled burns under the Ashland Forest Resiliency Project (AFR) are a critical piece of the puzzle. Research points to burning as a critical component of fire safety and forest health.  

With the onset of wet weather, controlled burning could begin soon at high elevations and will continue through spring.To keep you informed on our burning, Ashland Forest Resiliency is using updated smoke communication protocols thanks to your ongoing input. COVID-19 health and safety measures are in place in coordination with Oregon Health Authority. 

To receive non-emergency burning and smoke alerts:

1. Text WATERSHED in the message line to 888777 for non-emergency notifications
2. Register for the AFR email list at www.ashlandwatershed.org
3. Follow AFR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AFR.Project
4. Or find us on Twitter @ashlandforest

Additional Resources: 

1. Smokewise Ashland has information to help protect you and your family should smoke affect the community. 
2. Learn where AFR Partners will conduct burns in 2020-2021 on the controlled burn map. 
3. Visit fireadaptedashland.org to take actions now for your home and family.

Ashland Forest Resiliency partners include Lomakatsi Restoration Project, The Nature Conservancy, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and The City of Ashland. AFR is a fifteen-year stewardship project designed to reduce the risk of severe wildfire in the watershed and to protect water quality, older forests, wildlife, people, property and quality of life.