Governor Kulongoski Invoked Emergency Conflagration Act in Response to Egley Complex Fire
Salem– Last night Governor Ted Kulongoski invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act in response to a fire known as the “Egley Complex Fire” located west of Hines in Harney County .
In accordance with ORS 476.510-476.610, the Governor determined that a threat to life, safety, and property exists due to the fire and that the threat exceeds the fire-fighting capabilities of local fire-fighting personnel and equipment.
By invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act, the Governor ordered the Oregon State Fire Marshall to mobilize fire resources statewide and coordinate with all appropriate Fire Defense Chiefs for the use of personnel and equipment to suppress and contain the fire.
“The resources necessary for protection of life and property from the Egley Complex Fire are beyond local capabilities,” Governor Ted Kulongoski said. “My priority is to ensure the safety of the citizens of Harney County and their communities, which is why I have directed all available state resources to be mobilized immediately to suppress and contain this fire.”
According to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, the fire threatening Hines has burned more than 18,000 acres of grass and brush and threatens 147 structures. The structures are a mix of residences and commercial and outbuildings. No evacuations have yet been ordered. A large portion of the Malheur National Forest has been closed to the public. There are no reports of injuries or structures lost at this time.
This emergency is declared only for the Egley Complex Fire in Harney County and was effective immediately.
Media Contact:
Anna Richter Taylor, 503.378.6169
Rich Hoover (State Fire Marshal), 503.373.1540 ext. 217
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