Tracer Paint Will Help Nab Winter Shelter Firewood Thieves

Date: October 21, 2009
Media Contact: Judith McHugh 541.915.5372
Willamette National Forest

Oakridge, OR – A warm refuge on a cold winter’s day can make all the difference. Ski enthusiasts who visit any of the High Cascades huts eagerly anticipate a warm shelter, a bit of rest, and perhaps a hot drink to refresh them before continuing on.

Unfortunately, some folks have been persistently removing firewood that is placed in the shelters. Each autumn, teams of volunteers spend hours cutting and hauling firewood in anticipation of making a winter day more enjoyable. Over the last few years, some have started another tradition: taking that very wood for their own purposes.

Recreation managers at the Middle Fork RD are taking a new approach to this problem: all warming hut firewood will now be marked with orange tracer paint, and law enforcement officers will cite violators who take the wood off-site.

Citizens who see firewood thefts from the warming huts are encouraged to call the Middle Fork RD at 541.782.2283 with a description of the individuals and vehicle as soon as possible.

“We appreciate the community helping us as we strive to provide a great winter recreation experience. Let’s join together and keep this small minority of folks from ruining everyone’s good time,” commented District Ranger, Chip Weber.