UPDATE: A devastating wildfire known as the Flat fire has engulfed over 22,000 acres in central Oregon, destroying vital wildlife habitats and threatening nearly 4,000 homes. The fire, which ignited on private land near Culver, has left a trail of destruction, including the Native Bird Care sanctuary operated by Elise Wolf and her husband Whitney Lowe.
On Monday, Wolf returned to her property near Sisters, Oregon, only to discover that while their home was spared, the fire had ravaged much of the sanctuary. “The property is blackened,” Wolf stated, describing how the fire “checkerboarded” the land, decimating vital facilities just after they celebrated the sanctuary’s 15th anniversary.
Authorities report that the Flat fire has already destroyed at least four homes and several outbuildings. It is currently 5% contained, with over 1,200 fire personnel actively battling the blaze. Gov. Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act last week, mobilizing additional state resources to combat the rapidly spreading flames.
The fire has been fueled by dry conditions and low-lying grass, forcing local officials to caution residents about the unpredictable nature of wildfires in the area. “We have a lot of resources poised for that exact scenario,” said EJ Davis, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Forestry.
As the fire rages on, communities in and around Sisters are facing new realities. Mayor Jennifer Letz emphasized the importance of fire preparedness, urging residents to actively clear their properties and prepare for swift evacuations. “That’s definitely not the scenario anymore,” she warned, highlighting the urgency for homeowners to adapt to the changing wildfire landscape.
Local businesses are also feeling the impact. Valori Wells, co-owner of Stitchin’ Post, evacuated her home on the Whychus Canyon rim and noted that the community has banded together to become a “firewise community,” practicing fire prevention measures.
Families like that of Jessica Nylund, who moved to Oregon from Texas, faced life-altering decisions as they prepared to evacuate while fighting to protect their newly built home. Despite the chaos, Nylund expressed gratitude for the firefighters: “I have a lot of confidence in our firefighters,” she said, reflecting the community’s resilience in the face of disaster.
The emotional toll of the fire is palpable. Wolf and Lowe, now staying in a trailer on family property in Bend, witnessed the aftermath of their beloved sanctuary. However, there is a glimmer of hope. “Somehow they saved one of our aviaries,” Wolf shared, expressing gratitude for the firefighters’ efforts.
The birding community has already begun mobilizing support for the rebuilding of the Native Bird Center, showcasing the strength and compassion that often emerge in times of crisis. Amidst the destruction, Wolf found solace in the survival of several birds she had released just days before the fire struck.
As the Flat fire continues to burn, residents are urged to stay informed and prepared. With forecasts predicting potential thunderstorms and erratic winds, the situation remains precarious. The community’s resilience and the tireless efforts of firefighters will be crucial in the challenging days ahead.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
