October 28, 2024 3:20 a.m.

After 148 days, the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District officially declared an end to the 2024 fire season in Jackson and Josephine counties, effective on Sunday morning.

Public Information Officer Natalie Weber said consistent rain across the district and incoming rain throughout the upcoming week, along with new, green grass and vegetation growing in has allowed for all fire season regulations and Industrial Fire Precaution Levels to be lifted. Weber said the declaration affects 1.8 million acres protected by ODF across both counties. Industrial slash burning remains prohibited.

From June 1st through October 27th, ODF firefighters responded to 243 fires across Jackson and Josephine counties, totaling 5,470 acres. The majority of these acres were on the Salt Creek Fire. It was the largest fire on the district this year, reaching 4,102 acres.

More information about the ODF Southwest District is available at: www.swofire.com