DFPA NEWS RELEASE: LITTLE PARADISE FIRE

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ELKTON, ORE: On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at approximately 5:30 p.m., the Douglas Forest Protective Association's (DFPA) camera detection center identified a smoke column approximately 3.7 miles north of the incorporated city of Elkton, Oregon. Ground and aerial resources from DFPA and ODF Western Lane were immediately dispatched as part of a mutual aid response.

DFPA's fixed-wing air attack aircraft arrived first on scene and reported a moderately moving, wind-driven slash fire in a previously logged timber unit. Strong winds caused spotting ahead of the main fire, prompting an aggressive initial attack by both aerial and ground resources.

Two helicopters, including an ODF severity helicopter, conducted water bucket drops to slow the fire's forward spread and cool areas of active fire while firefighters on the ground constructed handline, established a progressive hose lay, and secured a water supply with water tenders. Dozers were utilized to construct a control line around the fire perimeter.

A total of 9 DFPA engines, DFPA's fixed-wing air attack aircraft, two helicopters, two squads, one dozer, one water tender, overhead command staff, and three ODF engines were utilized during the initial attack.

Firefighters continued suppression efforts throughout the night, completing 100% control line around the fire perimeter. Today's day shift is focused on mop-up operations within the estimated 3- to 3.5-acre fire area. Smoke may remain visible as crews continue to extinguish hot spots for several more days.

No homes or structures were threatened during the incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

This will be the only update shared for this fire.

Effective 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, Fire Danger will increase to HIGH on all lands protected by the Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) due to increasing temperatures, lower relative humidity, and drying fuel conditions.