WALLA WALLA, Wash. -- The Tri-Rivers Natural Resources Management (NRM) Office, located at Ice Harbor Lock and Dam, was destroyed by a fire on the night of May 19. An earlier wildfire in the surrounding area is suspected to have caused the blaze, which is believed to have been ignited from embers near the building. No injuries were reported.
The building, which served as the administrative office for the Tri-Rivers NRM Section, and its contents were destroyed. The Tri-Rivers NRM team is currently assessing the damage and coordinating with local emergency services to investigate the incident further.
The NRM Section is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all USACE environmental and recreational lands at Ice Harbor and McNary Lock and Dams, as well as the lands below Lower Monumental Lock and Dam. These lands include campgrounds, day use areas, and boat launches.
A reminder to visitors of USACE-managed recreational areas to always observe local fire rules before starting any type of fire. The use of fireworks on federally managed lands and waters is prohibited. Violators are subject to fines and prosecution.
For further inquiries or information, please contact the Walla Walla Public Affairs Office 509-527-7020 or cenww-pa@usace.army.mil.
Release no. 24-030