Salem, OR – In a rapid response to the ongoing wildfire crisis in California, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has dispatched six strike teams to Southern California to assist with the growing blazes. Within 24 hours of the request, the teams were on the move, demonstrating the effectiveness of state-to-state mutual aid agreements in times of crisis.
The ODF strike teams, consisting of six engines with up to four firefighters per engine, made the journey south over the weekend. This marks the second time in less than a year that Oregon has activated a mutual aid agreement with Cal Fire. The agreement, first put in place last July, has already proven its value, as both states have come to each other’s aid during intense fire seasons.
TJ Ramos, Assistant Area Director for the Southern Oregon Area and ODF’s Agency Representative in California, spoke to the importance of this collaborative relationship. “It’s a relationship, and it’s great to make it reciprocal. The first time, their folks came to us. Now we get to go back and help them out. They came up in a trying time for us. It’s always nice to know that somebody’s got your back,” said Ramos.
After initial safety checks in Davis, California, the teams were dispatched to the Eaton Fire in the southeastern part of the state. The strike teams were later split between the Eaton and Palisades fires, working tirelessly to contain the blazes.
Despite challenging conditions, including the possibility of high winds and red flag warnings, Ramos reported that the situation was improving. “Both fires are looking really good. We have some red flag warnings that are in effect the next couple days. The winds were supposed to come in last evening, but they stayed pretty high level. They didn’t come surface level, so right now things are looking really good,” he said. With only 24 hours left to continue their work, the ODF teams were optimistic about their progress.
The Oregon firefighters, many of whom have trained together from different parts of the state, are accustomed to wildland fires. However, battling fires that have pushed into urban areas presents unique challenges. “These fires did push into the urban areas more than what we’re used to. We’re used to trees. We’re used to slopes. We’re not used to buildings and necessarily all the stuff that comes with it,” Ramos noted. The firefighters must stay vigilant of power lines, as well as the presence of the general public in areas more densely populated than their usual rural battlegrounds.
Jessica Neujahr, Public Affairs Officer for ODF, emphasized that Oregon’s firefighters are volunteering their time and expertise to assist California during the off-season. “In this off-season, it’s not a mandatory requirement for them to do this. They do this because they believe in helping people,” Neujahr explained. “Last year, California sent firefighters up to us to help, and this is kind of our opportunity to return that favor.”
The commitment to mutual aid was crucial during the 2024 wildfire season in Oregon, which saw unprecedented levels of destruction. The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office (OSFM) reported that this was the most severe fire season on record for the state. As a result, California sent 21 management-level firefighters to help Oregon fill critical gaps in leadership, while hundreds of Oregon firefighters were also sent to assist with other states’ emergencies.
Neujahr also emphasized that Oregon takes careful precautions before sending firefighters out of state. “Before we send out any of our firefighters out of state, we look at our conditions. We look at the climate and the weather for the next two weeks and make sure that we are in a good space to send people out because first and foremost, Oregon is our priority,” Neujahr said.
Though the teams are stationed in California for two-week assignments, this period can be extended or shortened depending on the evolving situation. California reimburses Oregon for any expenses related to the deployment, ensuring that resources are efficiently allocated.
For those on the front lines, the sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility is evident. “It’s just very humbling for us to be here, and we’re happy to be here. Morale is great, production is good, and our crews are being effective in what they’re being asked to do,” said Ramos.
With both Oregon and California relying on mutual support to manage the ongoing wildfire threat, the collaboration between these two states serves as a powerful example of solidarity in the face of adversity. As the strike teams continue their efforts, both states remain committed to protecting lives, property, and natural resources from the ever-present dangers of wildfires.
