The Medford District of the Bureau of Land Management has reopened public lands within and near the two largest wildfires in southwest Oregon this summer.
The Upper Applegate Fire near Ruch started on June 20th and it was finally contained at 1,143 acres while the Salt Creek Fire between Eagle Point and Butte Falls started on July 7th and it was contained at 4,102 acres.
The Oregon Department of Forestry said the cause of the Upper Applegate Fire was illegal mowing of dry grass and the cause of the Salt Creek Fire remains under investigation but it was likely caused by human activity.
Before venturing out to public lands near these two wildfire areas, BLM officials warn citizens to be aware that safety concerns still exit. Ash and dust from the fires may contain toxic and cancer-causing chemicals.
Watch out for fire¬-weakened trees and limbs that can fall without warning. If the wind picks up, leave the area immediately. In wet weather, water or mud may build up quickly and cause a landslide. Stump holes can remain hot long after a fire is out and footing can be unstable if roots have burned out underground.
