PHILOMATH, Ore. – Two large wildfires erupted Monday near Philomath , prompting a swift response from multiple fire agencies, said Philomath Fire and Rescue officials.
Philomath Fire & Rescue authorities said that fire crews responded just before 2:30 p.m. on August 18 to the first blaze that began near Seeley Creek on Alsea Highway, initially estimated at two acres. The Alsea Rural Fire Protection District was first on the scene, supported by the Oregon Department of Forestry and Monroe Rural Fire Protection District. Thanks to their efforts, the fire was contained to 2.96 acres with no damage to nearby homes.
Later, shortly after 5:30 p.m., a second fire broke out near Cutler Lane on Airport Road. Chief Ferguson of Philomath Fire & Rescue observed a significant smoke column and requested additional resources. The fire grew to 17.86 acres but was controlled without harm to any structures…