MISSION –Residents of Mission and other Eastern Oregon communities may be eligible for up to $250 to help pay for defensible space projects thanks to the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM).
Defensible space is the area around homes and buildings managed to keep embers from having a place to land and catch fire. Creating and maintaining defensible spaces is one of the most effective ways to protect a home during a wildfire, according to the OSFM.
The OSFM recently announced that it is extending the program to include more communities, including cities and unincorporated communities across Eastern Oregon, to help fortify communities against wildfire.
Along with Mission, other eligible communities in Eastern Oregon include Pendleton, Hermiston, Stanfield, John Day, La Grande, Ontario, Pilot Rock, Richland, Ukiah, Umatilla and Vale. For a full list of eligible communities click here.
While supplies last, home and property owners in select wildfire-vulnerable communities may be eligible to receive a $250 payment following a defensible space assessment by the agency or a participating fire agency. The assessments are free and can be scheduled at Defensible Space Assessments Referral ExpBuilder.
“On the heels of a record-breaking wildfire season, we know that now is the time to prepare our homes for next season,” said State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “We strongly encourage home and property owners to schedule an assessment. Taking this first step can make a significant difference in protecting your home and neighborhood from wildfire risks.”
Eligible communities were chosen based on their vulnerability to wildfire to get money to those who need it the most. After the assessment is complete, those who qualify will receive the payment in the mail. For eligibility requirements, click here.
“The Oregon State Fire Marshal understands that money may be a barrier to complete these projects and the incentive is designed to encourage people to implement the recommendations received during their assessment,” the OSFM states. “The OSFM’s defensible space program is a crucial step toward building more fire-adapted communities in the face of increasing wildfire risks. By empowering Oregonians to take proactive measures, we will reduce the impact of wildfires on lives, property, and the environment.”
