JOHN DAY The Oregon Department of Forestry is reminding landowners that the season for slash pile burning ends this Saturday.

Slash fires need to be dead out by the end of the day on March 31.

The John Day Unit has responded to higher than normal number of escaped fires during the last three months, and the agency decided to end the season despite what may be considered moderate weather for burning slash.

Permits are required for burn barrels and other burning as well, and can be acquired from the Oregon Department of Forestry office in John Day. Even with permits, people are urged to determine first if it is a good day to burn, to avoid burning on windy days, and to have tools and water on site. Do not leave burning unattended.

To report a fire, call John Day Interagency Dispatch Center at 541-575-1321 or Burns Interagency Communication Center at 541-573-1000.