By Garrett Christensen on Friday, August 7th, 2026 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories
EASTERN OREGON — (Update from the U.S. Forest Serivce) The Malheur, Umatilla, and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests have further reduced the temporary closure areas surrounding the Salmon and Olive Butte Fires, effective August 7, 2026. However, a modified closure remains in effect for public safety and to support ongoing firefighting operations.
The revised closure prohibits public entry to National Forest lands surrounding the Salmon and Olive Butte Fires. Full closure information and a map are available on each forest’s website under the Alerts section. Closure signs will be posted on the ground, and a detailed map of the closure will also be available at any Forest Service office.
Residents should continue to be aware of changing conditions and monitor updates to evacuation levels as fire activity can shift rapidly. The Baker County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to provide updated evacuation notices as conditions change. To sign up for notifications in your area, visit Grant County Everbridge or Baker County Alert.
Forest officials advise the public to use caution when traveling on all three Forests, as roads and trails may be impacted by hazards such as fallen trees, rocks or boulders. Fire vehicles and personnel will remain active in the area. Forest conditions can be dynamic this time of year and may change throughout the day and week. Visitors are encouraged to have a forest map and always plan an evacuation route in the event of a wildfire.
For additional information on forest conditions, public use restrictions and current fire activity, please visit:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/malheur
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/umatilla
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/wallowa-whitman
Information for the Salmon Fire and Olive Butte Fire can be found at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SalmonFireOR2026/
InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/orumf-salmon-fire
Email: 2026.salmon@firenet.gov