DeLong: Wildfires have changed the forests
By Terry Murry on Friday, October 16th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
UMATILLA NATIONAL FOREST – Hunters, hikers, and other recreationists are returning to the forests. Umatilla County Emergency Manager Sage DeLong says in areas where wildfires blazed, things may not be as safe as they seem.
“Don’t just look in front of you,” he said. “Look up when you’re out there hunting. Make sure you’re not putting your tent up next to a snag, which is a burned over area.”
A snag is a dead or dying tree that is still standing. Those who are pitching tents should never set their campsites under snags.
“Just make sure you get a good clearing, you’re staying away from those trees and you’re not taking a nap underneath a snag,” DeLong said. “They call them widow makers for a reason.”
Editor’s note: DeLong talked about the wildfire season on the Oct. 15 KUMA Coffee Hour. You can listen to the podcast at Coffee Hour Podcast clips – Omny.fm.
Photo of Sage DeLong from the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office
