Major Legal Victory: $125 Million Settlement for Oregon Wineries Post-Fire Incident

$125 Million Settlement: A Landmark for Oregon's Wineries

In a significant development for the wine industry in Oregon, Watts Law Firm LLP, alongside Baker Hostetler LLP and Arnold Gallagher P.C., has successfully reached a $125 million settlement with PacifiCorp. This settlement comes in the wake of devastating wildfires that impacted the vineyards and wineries in Oregon's renowned Willamette Valley during the Labor Day weekend of 2020. The settlement represents a collective effort on behalf of 93 wineries that claimed damages amounted due to losses in their 2020 wine vintage.

The massive settlement was announced on October 19, 2025, marking a milestone in the legal battles stemming from the tragic wildfires. The negotiations were skillfully facilitated through mediations led by Hon. Karsten Rasmussen, a retired Lane County judge known for his expertise in resolving complex legal disputes. This collaborative approach was fundamental in achieving a settlement that recognizes the financial and emotional toll the fires took on local vintners.

Mikal Watts from Watts Law Firm expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that this agreement is a vital step in addressing the damages caused by PacifiCorp's equipment over five years ago. He commended the utility company for its efforts to right past wrongs, noting, "PacifiCorp has once again done the right thing, and stepped up to pay for the damage caused by its equipment more than five years ago. This is what good companies do."

Watts highlighted that while the financial compensation is substantial, the more critical aspect of this resolution lies in the proactive measures PacifiCorp has implemented since the incident. He noted that the company has transformed into a safer entity committed to preventing future fire risks. This proactive shift aims to enhance safety across Oregon, reducing the chances of similar incidents.

The wineries’ legal teams have worked diligently to highlight not only the financial implications but also the broader impact on the community. Robert Julian from Baker Hostetler LLP emphasized that unnecessary legislation aimed at curtailing ongoing litigation would only hinder the existing constructive solutions. He advocated for allowing the legal system to resolve wildfire-related claims based on the proven success of such approaches in the past.

Furthermore, Julian suggested that establishing a well-funded risk pool for wildfire damages could provide essential resources to survivors, a concept that has seen success in states like California. This proposal would enable utilities to secure funding necessary for modernizing equipment while ensuring victims can rebuild and recover from devastating incidents.

Greg Lusby of Arnold Gallagher P.C. articulated pride in their work on this case, advocating for the active collaboration between all parties involved to prioritize the safety of Oregonians. The shared goal among the firms and PacifiCorp to mitigate wildfire risks reflects a commitment to creating a safer environment in the state.

Watts Law Firm LLP stands out as a leader in wildfire litigation in the United States, having represented over 21,000 survivors across various utility-induced wildfire incidents, totaling nearly $5 billion in recoveries. Their recent efforts in negotiating settlements, such as the notable $13.5 billion agreement with PGE for the Northern California wildfires and significant settlements in Hawai'i and New Mexico, underscore their commitment to advocacy and justice for wildfire survivors.

This $125 million settlement not only provides financial relief but also serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing dialogues surrounding utility responsibility and community safety amid the increasing threats posed by wildfires. The concerted efforts showcased through this litigation highlight the importance of accountability and the need for proactive steps to safeguard vulnerable communities in the future.