Almost half of a network of cameras run by the University of Oregon to monitor wildfires is at risk of being discontinued, according to an administrator.
The Oregon Hazards Lab’s network of cameras work 24-7 and operate in some of the most remote, rugged and inaccessible areas of the state. It’s helped spot smoke plumes and track wildfires in real time. In 2025 alone, the OHAZ system logged more than 11,000 smoke detections.
OHAZ director Leland O’Driscoll told KLCC that the university got involved in 2018, adding 70 cameras to the regional network along with roughly 100 previously installed by the Oregon Department of Forestry and a few utilities.
“The cameras are in place to detect fire and smoke as early as possible,” said O’Driscoll. He added that their cameras are also viewable by the public…