The Lostine Canyon neighborhood has become northeast Oregon’s first nationally recognized “Firewise” community, an event that could lead to more efforts to prevent or combat wildfires in Wallowa County.
Firewise communities are a part of the association’s program that teaches people how to adapt to living with wildfire and encourages neighbors to work together and take action now to prevent losses.
The approximately 110 properties with 120 structures make up about 15 square miles or 9,600 acres south of Lostine. About 45 individuals are participating in the community, according to Mike Eng, the leader of the Lostine Canyon Firewise Committee.
On Friday, Oct. 11, at the Lostine Wildlife Area the Firewire groups and Commissioner Susan Roberts met to dedicate signs along the road recognizing the Firewise community. Roberts expressed hopes that Lostine’s actions will be an example to other communities in the county.