How the Rapid Spread of Misinformation Pushed Oregon Lawmakers to Kill the States Wildfire Risk Map

Published: Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 10:00 am

Oregon's Wildfire Risk Map: A Casualty of Misinformation

In the wake of a devastating 2020 wildfire season, Oregon initiated a statewide map to assess wildfire risk, aiming to guide fire-resistant construction codes and home protection measures. The map, similar to those used by real estate sites, was intended to help homeowners understand their risk and take preventative measures. However, the project quickly faced a backlash fueled by misinformation and conspiracy theories.

As insurance companies began adjusting policies and premiums, some brokers reportedly blamed the state's map, despite denials from insurers and regulators. This narrative gained traction on social media and in some news outlets, leading to public anger and accusations that the map was an attempt to depopulate rural areas. The state's lack of effective public communication further exacerbated the situation.

Despite the map's scientific basis and the potential for reducing wildfire damage, opposition grew. The map was criticized by Republican leaders, who claimed it was harming property values and hindering home sales. Even the Democratic state senator who helped draft the bill creating the map, began to waver.

Ultimately, the state withdrew the map and its associated requirements. Despite the map's scientific basis and the potential for reducing wildfire damage, opposition grew. The map was criticized by Republican leaders, who claimed it was harming property values and hindering home sales. Even the Democratic state senator who helped draft the bill creating the map, began to waver. The decision was made despite the fact that insurance companies were not using the map to set rates.

BNN's Perspective: The Oregon wildfire map saga highlights the challenges of communicating complex scientific data in a polarized environment. While the map aimed to protect communities from the increasing threat of wildfires, it was ultimately undermined by misinformation and a lack of effective public engagement. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of clear, consistent communication and the potential for misinformation to derail well-intentioned public safety initiatives.

Keywords: Oregon, wildfire, risk map, misinformation, insurance, property values, climate change, defensible space, public safety, government, regulations, homeowners, wildfire hazard, hazard zones, building codes, insurance rates, social media, conspiracy theory, Agenda 21, rural areas, state government, public communication, scientific data.

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