Oregon firefighters are trying to save an ancient coastal Douglas fir tree that caught fire recently. This remarkable tree, around 450 years old and towering at 325 feet, stands east of Coquille. As of Tuesday, some areas of the tree were still smoldering, according to Megan Harper, a public affairs specialist with the Bureau of Land Management.
Firefighters were first alerted to the fire on Saturday. As of Monday, helicopters were able to cool down part of the canopy, but there are still hot spots near the top. Harper noted that one spot about 280 feet up continues to smoke.
The team is focusing on cooling this area, as the tree’s thick bark makes it challenging. They’ve set up a containment line and sprinklers to stop the flames from reaching the ground. Firefighters are observing the situation before planning further drops from helicopters.
Safety is a top priority, and climbing crews won’t go near the Doerner fir due to potential hazards. Falling debris from the tree can be dangerous. Instead, firefighters are exploring other methods to reach the fire safely.
Interestingly, the tree’s height makes it especially vulnerable to lightning strikes. Harper explained that during the hot summer, dried moss and bark accumulate on the tree, which are highly flammable. Older trees like this one often release pitch, a sticky substance that can ignite easily.
Wildfires are not just local issues; they have broader implications. In recent years, studies show a significant increase in wildfire frequency and intensity across the U.S. according to the National Interagency Fire Center, almost 60,000 wildfires burned over 7 million acres in 2022. This rise in wildfires is linked to climate change, making conditions drier and warmer.
Public safety remains a concern. The Coos Forest Protective Association has closed the area to visitors while firefighting efforts continue. As they work to extinguish the blaze, it serves as a reminder of nature’s vulnerability and the importance of protecting our forests.
For more details about the dangers of wildfire smoke, check out this article from The Guardian.
