VIDEO: The Oregon Department of Forestry is targeting Prineville as a wildfire aircraft base, possibly year-round. The move would bring more wildfire fighting resources to Central Oregon.
Airport manager Kelly Coffelt confirms that high-level discussions are underway with the Oregon Department of Forestry.
The agency would lease hangar space for a year-round firefighting base if talks move forward. Crook County leaders said this would strengthen the partnership between the county and ODF.
As for this wildfire season, there will be four Single Engine Airtankers stationed at Prineville for the second straight year.
ODF told Central Oregon Daily in April that two are contracted with ODF and two with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.
An advanced Twin Otter firefighting plane will also be based at the airport for the full summer. The $8 million plane can stay in the air longer and can transport more people and supplies when needed.
