The Doerner Fir, a coastal Douglas Fir over 325 feet tall and more than 450 years old, has been burning since Saturday in Coos County within Oregon’s Coast Range. An infrared drone flight on Tuesday detected heat inside a cavity about 280 feet up, though no active flames or smoke were visible at the top, according to Megan Harper, spokesperson for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Tree Details and Environmental Conditions
CBS affiliate KCBY-TV reports that the tree measures 11.5 feet in diameter. The area has experienced hotter, drier weather this week, complicating fire suppression efforts.
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Challenges in Extinguishing the Fire
Harper said crews are exploring ways to access the cavity to douse it with water. Options include building scaffolding, climbing adjacent trees, or allowing the fire to smolder under monitoring. Crews remain on-site, with a helicopter on standby for potential water drops.
Firefighting Efforts
The Coos Forest Protective Association reported that helicopter bucket drops reduced fire activity near the tree’s top. Sprinklers were also placed at the base, and containment lines were constructed to prevent the fire from spreading. Public lands surrounding the site have been temporarily closed for safety.
Impact on Tree and Cause of Fire
Harper noted that the tree has lost approximately 50 feet from the top due to the fire and falling debris, which may affect its global height ranking. Investigators have ruled out lightning as a cause, and the fire’s origin remains under investigation.
Despite the damage, the tree is not at risk of completely burning through due to its massive size. “The tree is so big, it would take a while for it to burn all the way through,” Harper said.
Community Efforts to Preserve the Tree
Those involved in firefighting are committed to saving the historic Doerner Fir. “People really love it,” Harper said. “There’s a lot of history there, and we don’t want to lose it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Doerner Fir located?
The Doerner Fir is in Coos County, Oregon, within the state’s Coast Range near the southern coast.
How tall and old is the Doerner Fir?
The tree is over 325 feet tall and estimated to be more than 450 years old.
What caused the fire in the Doerner Fir?
Investigators have ruled out lightning as a cause, and the origin of the fire is still under investigation.
How much of the tree has been damaged?
The top 50 feet of the tree have burned or fallen, which may affect its global height ranking.
Is the Doerner Fir at risk of completely burning down?
No. Due to its massive size, the tree is not at immediate risk of burning through entirely.
What efforts are being made to save the tree?
Fire crews have used helicopter water drops, sprinklers at the base, and containment lines. They are also exploring scaffolding or climbing adjacent trees to reach the cavity safely.
Has the surrounding area been affected?
Yes. Public lands around the fire have been temporarily closed to ensure safety during suppression activities.
How is the fire being monitored?
Authorities are using infrared drone flights to track heat and monitor the fire, in addition to on-site crews and helicopters.
Conclusion
The Doerner Fir, one of the world’s tallest and oldest trees, continues to face fire damage, with efforts underway to preserve its legacy. While the top portion has been lost, the massive tree remains standing, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Fire crews are committed to protecting this historic natural landmark, highlighting the importance of conservation and swift response in safeguarding Oregon’s iconic forests.
