This is shaping up to be the most difficult and expensive wildfire season in Oregon’s history.

By August 20, 2.5 million acres have burned, and Oregon’s wildfire costs have reached an estimated $236.2 million. On the front line are thousands of firefighters working long, dangerous shifts to protect Oregon communities.

“I want to thank the countless firefighters and emergency response crews for protecting communities affected by wildfires this year,” said Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner, MD. “And my thoughts are with those who have lost homes, property or been displaced as wildfire season continues to impact Oregonians across the state. Oregon State Treasury (OST) stands ready to do our part, ensuring the resources are there to support wildfire response efforts.”

When a wildfire breaks out, the state mobilizes crews immediately and costs start adding up. However, the money to cover the expenses often comes much later. Federal reimbursements from agencies like FEMA can take months or even years to arrive.

In 2025, the Legislature passed House Bill 3940, which gives the Oregon Department of Forestry the ability to borrow directly from OST to cover wildfire suppression costs as they come in. The Legislature is responsible for repaying those funds later, once budget allocations and federal reimbursements catch up.

This means OST acts as a financial bridge, helping to ensure that delays in federal reimbursement or state funding don’t delay paychecks of the people on the front lines.

Wildfire Resources and Additional Information:

• Access resources before, during and after wildfires on the Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery website.

• Sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov and ensure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled on your mobile device.

• View real-time hazard updates, maps, and fire information through OEM’s Wildfire Dashboard.

• Be aware of air quality conditions that could impact health and visibility.