The La Grande Airtanker Base is closed due to significant damage to various taxi routes including the apron.  The Airtanker Base shall remain closed to all airtanker operations until repairs are completed. Forest and Regional Fire and Aviation staff consulted with the National Aviation staff prior to closing the Airtanker Base.

A portion of the asphalt ground movement areas have deteriorated to the point where they are no longer serviceable or safe to operate aircraft.  During a visit on April 7, 2010, inspectors noted eight inch cracks, sagging, and loose asphalt throughout the apron.  The inspection also noted an increase in the number of cracks throughout the newer portion of the apron as well.  A recent Geo-Technical Report completed during the design phase of the repaving project cited subsurface failure is possible with a high probability of eminent failure which could ultimately result in a serious accident or injury.

Recommendation:
The Airtanker Base repair project was the number one regional priority in 2010 and we are anticipating national funding for the project during FY 2011.  Unfortunately, budget delays have impeded our ability to commence repair work.  Despite this challenge, we fully anticipate repair work to begin this summer once funding has been secured and the contract is awarded.   Regrettably, we do not anticipate repair work to be completed prior to the end of the current fire season.