Emergency fire suppression costs insurance; considerations. (1) At the first regularly scheduled meeting of the Emergency Fire Cost Committee in a calendar year, the committee and the State Forester shall consult regarding the purchase of emergency fire suppression costs insurance and the level of coverage to purchase for the fire season of that year

(2) In determining whether the purchase of insurance is advisable, the State Forester and the committee shall consider:

(a) The cost, coverage and deductible of insurance available from private insurance carriers;

(b) The funding available for fire suppression;

(c) The current condition of forests;

(d) Long-term weather predictions;

(e) Available fire fighting resources; and

(f) Available funds for the purchase of insurance.

(3) If the State Forester decides to purchase insurance, the State Forester shall purchase insurance through the Oregon Department of Administrative Services. The insurance may be obtained through negotiation or competitive bids, whichever is in the best interest of this state. [1969 c.524 §10; 1985 c.158 §2; 1989 c.91 §1; 1989 c.769 §11; 1991 c.639 §7; 2005 c.802 §15; 2025 c.581 §27]