Firefighters Race to Save World’s Tallest Tree, Doerner Fir, in Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. – Authorities in Oregon are continuing their intensive efforts today, August 20, 2025, to extinguish a persistent fire burning within the Doerner Fir, one of the world’s tallest trees, located near the state’s southern coast. The monumental coastal Douglas Fir, standing over 325 feet tall and estimated at over 450 years old, has been ablaze since Saturday, August 16, in Coos County.

Despite an infrared drone flight on Tuesday, August 19, showing no active flames or smoke at the tree’s summit, heat was detected within a cavity approximately 280 feet high in the trunk, according to federal Bureau of Land Management spokesperson Megan Harper. Crews remained on-site yesterday, with a helicopter on standby for potential water drops, highlighting the ongoing challenge in accessing the internal blaze.

The Coos Forest Protective Association reported Monday, August 18, that helicopter bucket drops had reduced fire activity near the top, and sprinklers were deployed at the base to prevent spread. However, the unique nature of the fire within the tree’s cavity presents significant tactical difficulties, with options like scaffolding or climbing adjacent trees being considered.

The fire has already caused significant damage, with approximately 50 feet of the tree’s top lost. While the Doerner Fir’s standing in global height rankings may be impacted, authorities emphasize the tree is not currently at risk of completely burning down due to its immense mass. Investigators have ruled out lightning as a cause, and the origin of the fire, which is isolated to this single tree, remains under investigation.

Officials are committed to saving the historic Doerner Fir, recognizing its immense cultural and natural significance.

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