Bill Eliminating Wildfire Hazard Map Moves Forward
The Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire voted unanimously on April 8 to eliminate the state wildfire hazard map, introduced in SB 762. The policy also repeals the property maintenance rules that applied to high-hazard areas on the map, according to a press release.
“Today is a milestone in our wildfire journey. As a whole, SB 762 programs have great support across the state, but the hazard map, which flunked the basic common-sense test for so many property owners, had Oregonians angry and divided,” said Committee Chair Jeff Golden (D-Ashland). “Repealing the map clears the way to good collaborative programs on the ground. Now the challenge is to fund them at the levels we need.”
The policy, Senate Bill 83, will move to the Senate floor for a vote by the whole chamber.
Pilot Butte Road Opens April 14
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced the road to summit Bend’s Pilot Butte will open to vehicle traffic starting at 10am on April 14. The road will be open from 10am to 9pm daily for the 2025 season.
“We kindly remind visitors that the summit road is a shared space enjoyed by multiple users including cyclists, walkers and runners. Please reduce your speed and exercise caution while driving. Remain alert, be mindful of others and approach with patience and courtesy to ensure everyone’s safety,” Park Manager Brian Vaughan wrote in a press release.
—Julianna LaFollette
37 YEARS
—From Go Here: “Run Into Spring: The Salmon Run Returns for its 37th Year”
“When you involve touring bands from out of town, that encourages collaboration with local bands. It helps the Bend musical network grow.”
—Scottie McClelland, from the Feature story, “Bend’s HomeGrown Music Festival:
No Longer Just for Locals”
This article appears in Source Weekly April 10, 2025.
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