On Tuesday, July 8, Audrey DeWittie, Regional Mitigation and Recovery Coordinator with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), joined Sheridan McClellan, Emergency Manager at the Wasco County Sheriff's Office, and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to assess wildfire damage in the Rowena area of Wasco County.

The group conducted a preliminary damage assessment to determine the extent of the impact and explore potential recovery assistance programs available through the SBA. These assessments are an essential step in helping communities pursue federal disaster resources, such as low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses.

OEM continues to work closely with local and federal partners to support recovery efforts and help communities recover after disaster.