Fire Engulfs Marr Bros. Processing Plant in Monmouth, Oregon

In the early hours of November 15, 2024, a significant fire erupted at the Marr Bros. processing plant in Monmouth, Oregon, located along Highway 99. The blaze was reported around 2:30 a.m., prompting an immediate response from local fire departments. Firefighters from Monmouth, Independence, and neighboring communities collaborated to combat the flames, working tirelessly through the night to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to adjacent structures.

The Marr Bros. facility, established in 1972, is known for producing landscaping materials such as bark mulch, sawdust, topsoil, and compost. The plant’s operations involve processing and storing large quantities of organic materials, which likely contributed to the rapid escalation of the fire. The exact cause of the blaze remains under investigation, with fire officials examining potential sources, including equipment malfunction and spontaneous combustion of stored materials.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported among the plant’s employees or the responding firefighters. The facility was unoccupied at the time the fire started, and the swift actions of the fire crews were instrumental in preventing any casualties. However, the plant sustained extensive damage, with several buildings and storage areas affected. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but it is anticipated that the incident will significantly impact the company’s operations in the near term.

Local authorities have advised residents to avoid the area surrounding the plant while cleanup and assessment efforts are underway. Highway 99 experienced temporary closures during the firefighting efforts but has since reopened to traffic. Environmental agencies are also monitoring the situation to address any potential concerns related to air quality and runoff from the site.

The Marr Bros. company has expressed gratitude for the prompt response of the emergency services and the support from the community. In a statement, a company representative noted, “We are deeply thankful for the efforts of the firefighters and first responders who worked tirelessly to control the fire. Our priority now is to assess the damage and develop a plan to resume operations as soon as possible.”

As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for a swift recovery and the eventual restoration of the Marr Bros. facility, recognizing its longstanding contribution to the local economy and landscape industry.