EUGENE, Ore. — May 26, 2026 — The University of Oregon Hazards Lab is expanding its wildfire detection network in Wasco County, adding new artificial intelligence-integrated cameras designed to identify smoke within minutes and improve early response in the Columbia Gorge.
Google is providing $250,000 to install and maintain the cameras in and near The Dalles where in 2025, the Rowena Fire burned more than 3,700 acres in just two weeks, destroying dozens of homes and buildings. The fire was one of nearly 30 fires in the region last year.
“State and regional forecasts are already pointing to what could be a challenging fire season for Oregon,” said Leland O’Driscoll, director of the Oregon Hazards Lab. “Investments like this help communities get ahead of that risk by detecting fires faster and supporting a quicker, more effective response.”…