Vensel Road Fire, The Dalles, July 7

OR Dept. of Forestry release – The Dalles, Ore. –Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) The Dalles Unit resources have responded to the Vensel Road Fire, about 4.5 miles southeast of Mosier. The fire is currently about two acres in size and forward progress of the fire has been stopped at this time. ODF’s two fire boss aircrafts were utilized to assist in firefighting operations. ODF is receiving support and assistance from Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue, Mosier Fire District, U.S. Forest Service – National Scenic Area, Oregon State Police, and Wasco County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office has put evacuation orders in effect, as described below. Level 2: GET SET Evacuation has been ordered from 3300 Vensel Rd. to the intersection of Vensel Rd. and Ketchum Rd. Level 1: GET READY Evacuation from 2970 Vensel Rd to the intersection of Vensel and Osborn Cutoff. ODF and its partners are responding aggressively to try and keep the fire’s footprint as small as possible. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The Dalles area is currently in ‘High’ fire danger. Oregonians should remain aware of public and industry fire restrictions and actively practice wildfire prevention. For up-to-date evacuation orders, follow the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook.