Moving Forward Together: Reflecting on the Rowena Fire
As I write this, the Rowena Fire continues to affect our community. While the immediate danger has passed, the effects on our neighbors remain deeply felt. In my years serving Northern Wasco County PUD and this incredible community, I have witnessed our resilience through many challenges. Few have tested us quite like this fire.
The images are etched into our collective memory: flames racing across the landscape, threatening homes and livelihoods that families have built over generations. For many neighbors, the loss extends far beyond power lines and utility poles. We’ve seen structures reduced to ash, family memories consumed by flames, and dreams temporarily put on hold. My heart goes out to everyone grappling with such devastating loss.
What strikes me most profoundly, however, is not what we lost but how we responded. Day and night, the firefighters who battled this blaze stood between our community and complete devastation. Their courage, skill, and unwavering commitment saved countless homes and likely prevented an even greater tragedy. I want to thank every firefighter—local, regional, and those who traveled from afar—who helped us.
When the fire threatened our service territory, our crews didn’t hesitate to support the emergency response. They quickly deenergized lines, a critical step to prevent further fire spread and position us for the fastest possible restoration. I watched our lineworkers extinguish smoldering poles, navigate smoke-filled conditions, and work tirelessly to rebuild what the fire destroyed. The dedication they showed during those critical hours reflects the character that makes this team exceptional, and I couldn’t be more proud to work alongside them.
The coordination among agencies was remarkable. Wasco County Sheriff’s Office provided critical evacuation information while Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue battled the blaze. The Red Cross sheltered displaced families, contractors helped restore power, and countless volunteers provided comfort and hope. Our community’s response was truly inspiring.
As we moved into recovery, I saw why I’m proud to serve this community. Neighbors checking on neighbors. Businesses offering shelter and supplies. Families opening their homes to those who lost theirs. The same spirit that built this community emerged stronger than ever.
Our power restoration efforts succeeded because of this collaborative spirit. Working with multiple crews—our own dedicated team and contractors who came to our aid—we isolated damaged sections, replaced fire-damaged poles in difficult terrain, and restored service safely and quickly.
I know our path forward won’t be easy. Some of our neighbors face the daunting task of rebuilding from nothing. Others are processing losses that can’t be measured in dollars. But I also know this community’s strength. We’ve weathered storms before, and we’ve always emerged stronger together.
As your utility, we remain committed to serving you through this recovery and beyond. We’ll continue evaluating our fire prevention measures, strengthening our emergency response capabilities, and working with our partners to build a more resilient system.
The Rowena Fire tested us, but it also revealed who we truly are: a community that stands together, supports one another, and never gives up. Together, we will rebuild, recover, and move forward.
Manager Roger Kline