Compost pile ignites near Masonic Cemetery; Hendricks Park neighbors reported smoke, flames

from Eugene Springfield Fire and staff reports

Eugene Springfield Fire was dispatched to a report of a possible brushfire in the 1800 block of Skyline Boulevard just after 9 a.m. Friday, Aug. 14. The reported area is near Hendricks Park in Eugene.

While responding, firefighters received multiple reports from area residents who reported seeing smoke, with some callers also reporting visible flames. Crews arrived and patrolled the Skyline Boulevard and Hendricks Park area but were initially unable to locate any signs of an active fire.

Additional callers then reported a possible fire near the 2500 block of Potter Street. Crews continued searching the surrounding area and ultimately located a burning compost pile in the 2500 block of University Street near the Masonic Cemetery.

Firefighters quickly contained the fire to the compost pile. Flames had begun to spread to nearby large trees, but crews were able to prevent further extension. The fire is contained, and there is no ongoing threat to the community.

The incident serves as an important reminder that compost piles can generate significant heat and, if not properly maintained, may spontaneously combust and cause a fire.

Fortunately, the fire occurred early in the day under overcast conditions and high humidity, which helped prevent significant fire spread. However, the location is within a high-risk fire area, and a similar incident occurring during hotter, drier weather or red flag conditions could pose a much greater threat.

Eugene Public Works supported ESF during the response. Deputy fire marshals also worked with the property owners and instructed them to relocate the compost pile to an area farther away from nearby trees.

Some neighbors living near Hendricks Park expressed concern to the Eugene City Council July 13 about a recent structure fire at 2680 Floral Hill Drive.

They said the narrow road—which would be their primary escape route—has no shoulder, and is growing more dangerous for bicyclists and pedestrians near the park.

LTD won’t put a bus on Floral Hill Drive, they added.