2024 WCSO Annual Report - Report - Page 18
16 | WCSOOregon.org
SAFEGUARDING LIVES
WCSO Response to the
2024 Lee Falls Fire
EVACUATING ANIMALS UNDER FIRE
As the fire intensified and a Level Three
evacuation order was issued, many families
were forced to flee with little time to secure
When the Lee Falls Fire ignited in July 2024, rapidly
their livestock and pets. Recognizing the
consuming nearly 290 acres and prompting emergency
urgency, 14 Posse members put their training
evacuations in Cherry Grove, the Washington County
and personal resources to work, braving active
Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) mobilized in full force to
evacuation zones to rescue at-risk animals.
support affected residents and ensure public safety.
Using their trucks and trailers, they successfully
From deputies coordinating evacuation routes to
evacuated:
emergency responders maintaining order, the entire
office responded to the crisis. Among those who went
• 1 alpaca
above and beyond were the dedicated volunteers of
• 4 horses
the WCSO Posse, who played a critical role in rescuing
and sheltering animals in the path of the fire.
• 34 goats
These animals — left vulnerable to the rapidly
• 13 cattle, including a bull
spreading fire, were transported to safety at Westside
• 3 sheep
Commons (formerly the Washington County
Fairgrounds), where other Posse members had already
• 25 poultry
established temporary shelters.
• 9 ducks
