As day two continues with battling fires that blaze in Marion, Clackamas, and Linn counties, the Oregon Department of Forestry crews are basing resilience assets at the Aurora State Airport to fast track their efforts to contain the fires.
At least one Oregon Army National Guard Helicopter and a US Airforce Reserve Helicopter as well as several contract helicopters staged at Aurora Airport. Additional ground support equipment, tankers and mobile command trailers are also on site.
Lynx FBO Services is providing assistance with fuel, aircraft marshaling and coordination of ramp space. Jon Bickford, Lynx Line Manager is an experienced coordinator and has direct experience with the challenging coordination of aircraft in situations just like what we’re experiencing now.
The Aurora Airport Water Control District has volunteered 50,000 gallons of water per day to Oregon Department of Forestry to use in preparation for air drops once the weather and visibility allow.
“Aurora Airport businesses and the Water Control District will continue to do anything we can for our surrounding communities”, said Bruce Bennett, Volunteer Director of the Water Control District. “Many of our airport businesses are generously stepping up to help those who need us during this time. We will partner in this team effort in any way we can.”
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Thanks also to our Aurora Airport, recently the target of certain anti-growth folks outside Aurora. The Oregon Department of Forestry is using our airport to enable effective firefighting efforts in the battle against Oregon fires. Airports save lives! https://t.co/PXbkAro4Ju
Based at Aurora Airport, Helicopter Transport Services is one of those businesses.
With one of the largest and most diverse fleets of helicopters in the industry, HTS conducts missions that range from heavy lift, to fire suppression and air ambulance efforts.
HTS has already had their Skycrane Helitanker working in the Santiam Canyon area and is offering to support ODF directly from its Aurora base.
As the day continues, ODF crews and contracted and National Guard aircraft are expected to be continuing fight the wild fires in the area.
More information will be put out in the next few days as Aurora Airport continues to support this emergency wildfire situation.
Dylan Frederick is spokesman for Friends of Aurora Airport and directs public relations and communications for clients at Public Affairs Counsel.
