EDITOR’S NOTE: The 2024 wildfire season is not over, and has already been one of the most devastating, and likely record-breaking, the state has seen. Currently, there are 141 fires, and over 1.4 million acres have burned; 30 structures have been lost and over 2,300 homes are at some level of evacuation. Thousands of firefighters and volunteers are on the fire lines; the weather forecast is calling for increased heat through this week. Please be careful out there, and respect the area and road closures.
Salem, Ore – The Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) is calling on its members and the wider community to rally in support of those affected by the severe wildfires currently ravaging our state. With 129 active fires burning over one million acres, nearly half of which is critical grazing land, the impact on Oregon’s agricultural community has been profound.
“Our beautiful state is facing one of the most challenging wildfire seasons that we have seen in a long time,” said Angi Bailey, President of the Oregon Farm Bureau. “This year’s devastating fires have not only threatened lives and property but have also deeply impacted the heart of our agricultural community.”
In response to this crisis, the OFB has established the Wildfire Relief Fund to provide essential support to those affected. The funds will be directed towards rebuilding infrastructure, replacing lost livestock, supplying replacement feed, and other urgent recovery efforts. OFB will take no administrative fee from these donations, ensuring that every contribution is fully allocated to the affected counties based on need.
How You Can Help:
1. Make a Donation: Contributions can be made online through the secure donation portal at oregonfb.org/donate or by sending a check to 1320 Capitol Street NE #200, Salem, Oregon 97301 (please note “Wildfire” on the check).
2. Spread the Word: Share information about the Wildfire Relief Fund with friends, family, and social networks to increase the reach and impact of the support.
3. Hay Donations: In collaboration with North Valley Agriculture, donations of hay will be accepted at 15240 NE North Valley Rd, Newberg, Oregon 97132. Donations will be accepted on Fridays between 11 am and 6 pm starting August 9th. All hay donations will directly support impacted ranchers. For questions and assistance with your donation, contact Austin McClister at austin@oregonfb.org.
“The strength of our community lies in our ability to come together in times of need. Oregon Farm Bureau is a family – it’s time to show up and support one another,” said Bailey. “Together we can help our friends and neighbors get through this difficult time.”
For more information on how to donate or get involved, please visit oregonfb.org.
Thank you for your continued dedication to Oregon agriculture and for your generosity towards our friends and neighbors.