Standing with our communities during wildfire season

More than 2 million acres have burned across Oregon and Washington this year, making 2026 one of the region's most active wildfire seasons in recent memory. Communities across the Blue Mountain region are facing evacuations, smoke, road closures, and loss.

Families have been displaced, homes and working lands have been lost, and Tribal communities, farmers, ranchers, firefighters, and emergency responders continue to face extraordinary challenges. Several Blue Mountain Land Trust conserved properties have been affected. This includes a 9,000-acre ranch near John Day Fossil Beds Painted Hills Unit. Many of our conservation partners are continuing to manage the risks and impacts of these fires as best they can.

Satellite imagery on August 8, 2026

The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon remains one of the communities most heavily impacted. Across the Pacific Northwest, Tribal nations and local organizations are leading relief efforts and asking for support where it is needed most.

The fires are also affecting access to public lands across our region. Closures remain in place throughout portions of the Umatilla National Forest, including trails at Horseshoe Prairie Nordic Ski Area. As a precaution, the Blue Mountain Land Trust Blues Crew warming hut has been relocated until it is safe to return for the winter season.

Please respect all wildfire closures, evacuation notices, and public land restrictions. Stay out of active fire areas and closed forest boundaries. These closures protect firefighters and emergency responders, reduce additional risk, and help ensure everyone can return home safely.

Thank you to the firefighters, Tribal crews, emergency responders, volunteers, and neighbors helping one another through this challenging fire season. We are grateful for everyone working to protect the landscapes and communities we all call home.

How You Can Help

Whether you can donate or simply help spread the word, every act of support makes a difference. The most effective way to help is by supporting organizations responding directly to community needs.