ODF works to reduce overgrown vegetation near Central Point homes

CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry is doing fuel reduction work near Bear Creek in Central Point.

Crews removed hazardous fuels like overgrown blackberry bushes and evergreen trees that were within 200 feet of people’s homes.

ODF is partnering up with Fire District 3, Central Point Parks and Recreation Department, and Central Point Public Works to make it happen.

“There is also some individual home sites that will have some fuel reduction work done on them just to lessen that chance of wildfire,” said Ashley Blakely, public information officer with ODF.

The agencies involved say this will better protect residents in the event of a wildfire.

Already, ODF has completed the first phase of the project by clearing two acres of land. The agency hopes to work with other departments to continue work. The project alone cost ODF $4,000.