JACKSONVILLE, Ore. — With wildfire season on the horizon, Jacksonville is taking important steps to reduce wildfire risks within the community. This Saturday, May 3rd, the city will hold a free event to help residents dispose of hazardous yard debris and prepare their properties for the upcoming fire season.
From 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, community members are invited to bring dead branches, leaves, pine needles, and other natural vegetation to the D Street parking lot. The event is open to all residents and is entirely free of charge, aimed at supporting efforts to create defensible spaces around homes and reduce potential fire hazards.
Jacksonville Fire Captain Chris Willis emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “Next weekend, our Firewise communities throughout Jacksonville will gather to bring debris—branches, dead leaves, anything natural—to the D Street parking lot. It’s a great way for the community to come together and work on wildfire safety.”
Volunteers from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and on-duty fire crew members will be on hand to assist with unloading debris from residents’ vehicles. The collected materials will then be chipped and safely disposed of. Event organizers are urging participants to bring only natural vegetation, as construction materials and household trash will not be accepted.
One key focus of the event is educating residents about the “zero to five-foot rule,” a fire safety measure that encourages homeowners to clear a five-foot buffer zone around their homes, free from flammable material. Trees should also be trimmed at least five feet off the ground to reduce the risk of fire spread.
“The more neighbors that participate, the safer we all are,” Captain Willis added. “It’s about creating defensible space and helping firefighters protect the community.”
The event serves as a vital opportunity for Jacksonville residents to take proactive steps in preparing for wildfire season. By working together, the community aims to strengthen its resilience and ensure the safety of its homes and families as fire season approaches.