Brown wants state to do more to combat wildfire risk

PORTLAND, Ore. — Even though it’s still winter, state officials already have wildfires on the brain.

They met Monday to discuss different ways to protect Oregon from another devastating fire.

It is part of Gov. Kate Brown’s Wildfire Response Council, which was part of her executive order in January.

The council consists of 19 members who represent different agencies in the community, including timber, business, environment and health.

Brown wants the state to do more to protect against the threat of wildfires. She spoke at the council’s first meeting Monday.

The state fire marshal reports that last summer’s fires cost the state more than $31 million.

The council is looking at what tools and resources are needed to combat the risk of wildfires in the state.

Brown added that since she’s taken office, every single fire season has been historic.

"We need to make sure we're doing everything we can, that we're employing best practices in the country, and that we're building support amongst all Oregonians for sustainable funding needed to change this pattern," she said.

The governor said investments in tools, technology and more people are needed.

The group will meet regularly to produce a report this fall.