As wildfires sweep across Oregon, the toll on the land and its people are becoming increasingly evident. The Chamberlain family, who own and operate Dairylain Farms in Vale, Ore., are among those affected. This third-generation farm, run by Jason Chamberlain alongside his parents Warren and Lori, his wife Mary, and their four children, has not remained untouched by the ravaging fires.
Chamberlain talks openly about how his farm’s landscape is covered in smoke and all they can do is take it one day at a time.
“The biggest toll the fire has had on our operation has been the smoke,” he says, noting that the smoke has caused a major increase in pneumonia in their youngstock that ranges from 8 to 15 months of age. “We have also seen an increase in scours in our hutch calves.”
Chamberlain also shares concerns about the impact of the smoke on their crops.
“The smoke blocks direct sunlight,” he says, which he believes is delaying the maturity of their corn. “Right now, our corn is at least two weeks behind where it should be from a maturity standpoint. I suspect yields will be off this year and quality may be of concern due to poor pollination.”
While the smoke has been tough on livestock and crops, Chamberlain worries about his employees working in these harsh conditions.
“Most of our employees have done well. We have had some that have worked shorter hours or missed days due to the air quality,” he shares. Some workers had evacuation orders and spent time preparing to save their homes if needed.
Adapting to New Challenges
“When something like this happens, all we can do is take it one day at a time,” Chamberlain says, emphasizing their cautious approach. They have adapted by scheduling work on a weekly basis, allowing them to respond quickly to changing circumstances. This flexible scheduling helps move workers to areas that need more help or provides extra time off for health concerns or to protect personal property during the fire.
Chamberlain praises his local community for their solidarity during these tough times.
“Anything from moving cattle, providing equipment, packing houses during evacuation situations, providing meals, and many more ways,” he says. “Even now people are still lending each other a hand as ranchers gather cattle, repair fences, and work towards regrouping.”
While most of Chamberlain’s troubles will disappear when the smokes clear, the Oregon dairy farmer admits that others will have 3-5 years of lost feed.
“This will change their operation for many years to come,” he says.
