ODF Seeking Volunteers for the Washington Co. Forest Classification Committee for Wildland Fire

ODF is preparing to begin a process to classify lands in Washington County for the purpose of wildland fire protection.  ODF provides fire protection for public and private lands classified as forestland within the protection district boundaries.  Forestland is defined in ORS 477.001 as "any woodland, brushland, timberland, grazing land or clearing that, during any time of the year contains enough forest growth, slashing or vegetation to constitute, in the judgment of the forester, a fire hazard, regardless of how the land is zoned or taxed."  The committee will operate from approximately 2/1/19 until 3/1/20.  It is a six member committee, comprised of three members of the public, one ODF staff, One appointee by the State Fire Marshal, and one from OSU Extension.

Lands classified as forestland are assessed fees for fire protection services.  Fees vary based on costs of fire protection and are currently about $1.25 per acre.  There is a minimum assessment of $18.75 per tax lot.  "Improved lots" with structures or other types of improvements have a surcharge of $47.50.  The General Fund of Oregon also contributes to fire protection costs in an equal match to the private landowner contributions

If you are interested in serving on this committee, contact the Forest Grove District of the Oregon Department of Forestry for more information.