Forest Service plan calls for Delta Campground closure

The Willamette National Forest will hold a virtual public meeting on a proposal to decommission Delta Campground on the McKenzie River Ranger District. The Zoom meeting is scheduled from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on March 17th. Officials say their proposal is being considered because the 2020 Holiday Farm Fire burned the area at a very high intensity and killed all the trees in the campground as well as the adjacent Delta old-growth grove.

The dead and burnt trees have been identified as posing an imminent hazard to the public, making the area no longer safe or suitable for camping.

Information during the session will include the history of Delta Campground, a description of the current state of the campground, and the "why and need" of the proposed action. Additionally, participants will have space to share concerns with Forest Service staffers as well as ideas about what types of recreational experiences are needed in the area.

The proposed action includes removing all campground infrastructure, including bathrooms, fire rings, signs, picnic tables, bridge remnants, and paved surfaces. Removed infrastructure will either be repurposed or disposed of. Documents will be available before the public meeting via our website.

"I know this area holds sentimental and historical value for our local community," said McKenzie River District Ranger Darren Cross. "We want our proposal to be transparent and want to hear your thoughts and suggestions."

People planning to log in to the virtual meeting can register via Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/290995524447. Registration is not required to participate. Participants may join the meeting via any mobile device at http://www.zoom.us. The meeting ID is 161 714 8459; the passcode is WNFDelta2! Another option is to call into the meeting at 1 (669) 254-5252 and then enter meeting ID 1617148459. Call the district office at (541)822-3381 if you need special accommodations for meeting participation.

Sign up for Willamette National Forest planning email alerts at https://go.usa.gov/xzW3e. Once signed up, people can select to receive forest-wide planning information or specific project information in the subscriber preferences section.