Oregon Joins LA in Recycling Fire-damaged Trees

Over 1.57 million board feet of lumber is being put up for sale by the state’s Bureau of Land Management.

Following similar actions from the city of Los Angeles after its devastating wildfires earlier this year, fire-stricken lumber from across 250 public areas in Baker County, southwest of Durkee, is being offered for sale. The Bureau said the 1.57 million board feet will produce enough timber to build roughly 100 homes, feed local mills and support jobs in Oregon communities.

“These trees were damaged in the 2024 Durkee Fire and are now a safety hazard to the public enjoying our public lands,” said BLM district manager Shane DeForest. “Selling the timber mitigates those hazards, supports local jobs and converts the material to lumber and other wood products that improve life for all Americans.”

This past spring, Angel City Lumber said it was recycling trees from the Palisades and Altadena neighborhoods fires that destroyed over 16,000 structures and an estimated 40,000 acres throughout the Los Angeles area. Owner Jeff Perry said he estimated that his firm will be able to produce enough low-cost, millwork-grade board for 500 homes to be rebuilt in the affected areas.

Sealed bids for the Oregon lumber were due earlier this month and the timber is expected to be allocated to the winning bidders soon thereafter.

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