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Malheur National Forest

Air Quality Alert issued August 29 at 12:13PM PDT by NWS Pendleton OR

August 29th, 12:13 PM — 12:00 PM

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Advisory until noon PDT Monday. For the Smoke Air Quality Advisory, wildfires burning in the region combined with forecasted conditions will cause air quality to reach unhealthy levels. Pollutants in smoke can cause burning eyes, runny nose, aggravate heart and lung diseases, and aggravate other serious health problems. Limit outdoor activities and keep children indoors if it is smoky. Please follow medical advice if you have a heart or lung condition. For additional information...please visit the Web site at http://www.oregon.gov/DEQ

Alcohol Prohibitions

This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.

Aquatic Invasive Species

This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.

Overview

Malheur National Forest is a 1.7 million acre forest in the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon, encompassing elevations from 4,000 to 9,038 feet at Strawberry Mountain. The forest is currently open with moderate fire restrictions in the south zone and low restrictions in the north zone. Recent prescribed pile burning operations have been ongoing as of December 2024. The forest enforces a standard 14-day camping limit within any 30-day period. Current conditions include fall/winter weather patterns typical for high desert terrain. The forest features two designated wilderness areas (88,350 acres total), Wild and Scenic River stretches on the Malheur River system, and serves as headwaters for the undammed John Day River. Four historic guard stations and one fire lookout are available for rental. Christmas tree permits were recently made available. Industrial fire prevention levels (IFPLs) remain in effect with varying restrictions by zone. For backcountry travelers, note that winter access can be limited by snow at higher elevations, though lower sage and juniper areas remain accessible year-round.

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