Wind-driven burn near Bend airport grows to nearly 7 acres

A wind-fueled fire near Bend spread to nearly seven acres Monday afternoon after escaping control, officials said.

The incident occurred around 3:40 p.m. along Powell Butte Highway, just south of the Bend Municipal Airport. According to Bend Fire & Rescue, the blaze began when a property owner was burning vegetation in drainage ditches, and strong winds carried flames beyond the intended containment area.

Fire crews, supported by Oregon Department of Forestry and the Bureau of Land Management, worked to bring the situation under control. No injuries were reported, and nearby structures and fencing were not damaged.

Authorities said the fire primarily affected pasture land, along with some trees and brush.

While the property owner had a valid burn permit and complied with most regulations, officials noted that adequate water resources were not in place to safely manage the burn.

Open burning remains permitted outside city limits through May 31, though officials warned that ongoing dry conditions could lead to restrictions being introduced earlier than expected.