The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Wednesday, August 2, 2023
Willamette Valley Weather
Bedrock Fire Update
The Bedrock fire is estimated at 11,182 total acres and is 5% contained. Overall rate of spread has been approximately 500 acres per day. Fire activity and smoke production will increase after noon as the inversion lifts and the sun is able to dry and heat fuels.
Similar smoke conditions as yesterday are expected with Northwest winds continuing. The Oakridge area will again experience heavy smoke this morning into the afternoon before clearing to GOOD overnight.
Redmond to Sunriver will see GOOD-MODERATE conditions. La Pine will experience UNHEALTHY conditions this morning before improving this afternoon, then smoke and MODERATE to UNHEALTHY conditions return in the late evening.
Along the McKenzie Highway from Blue River to Sisters, MODERATE conditions are expected during the day with GOOD conditions overnight. Areas west of the fire such as Walterville, Lowell and eastern Springfield are likely to experience some brief MODERATE impacts this morning but remaining GOOD overall.
Fire crews have continued to make progress building and reinforcing fire lines around the perimeter of the fire. While temperatures and wind have picked up slightly, humidity aided the work of over 700 personnel, including Oregon Department of Forestry and private cooperators, assigned to the fire. Work continues around the entire perimeter to obtain full suppression, with tactical firing operations taking place on the southwest finger along the 1821 road.
In many places, the Bedrock Fire is burning into previous burn scars from the last few years. Generally, the Jones and Gales fire scars have much less vegetation available to burn. This can greatly reduce the rate of spread and intensity of the fire. In the previous burn scars, many of the ladder fuels that allow fire to climb into the tree tops are no longer present, which reduces extreme fire behavior. However, burned areas may have grasses or other fine fuels that carry low intensity fire and produce smoke. These characteristics are favorable to suppressing the fire in fire scars.
To share more about the current fire conditions and forecast, Bedrock Fire managers and cooperators will be sponsoring a series of public meetings to present status updates and answer questions. The meeting at Lowell will be live-streamed on the “Bedrock Fire 2023” Facebook page, and recorded for later viewing. The schedule for the meetings is:
- Tuesday, August 1 at 5:00 p.m. at Lowell High School
- Tuesday, August 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Oakridge High School
- Wednesday, August 2 at 6:00 p.m. at McKenzie High School
WEATHER: High temperatures are expected to be near 80 degrees and minimum relative humidity is expected to be in the 30 percent range. Slightly warmer weather is expected later this week. By mid-week, cloud cover is forecast to increase, but rain remains unlikely.
SAFETY: Aviation resources engaged in suppressing the fire are using local water sources. Not all of the water sources are in the fire closure. The public should be alert for helicopters or planes in the vicinity of the area.
SMOKE: Smoke from the Bedrock Fire will continue to spread into central Oregon, causing some areas to experience “unhealthy” conditions. Smoke from the Flat Fire and other fires is also impacting many areas.
Fire Crews Save Homes Threatened by Fire
Tuesday at approximately 1:40pm the Lebanon Fire District was dispatched for the report of a large natural cover fire in the area of Hazen Lane and Sodaville Cut-off. At the time of the fire Lebanon already had crews working a fire off Shelburn Drive in Scio. Crews were released from the Scio fire to respond back for the Sodaville fire.
The incident commander arrived to find an approximately three-acre fire moving rapidly through a partially harvested field with numerous homes threatened. Initial crews went to work protecting structures. A water truck also assisted fire crews and helped prevent fire from spreading to a nearby home. Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) crews arrived and worked with LFD crews to protect structures. ODF requested a helicopter to assist with firefighting operations. LCSO arrived and facilitated level 3 evacuation orders of nearby homes. Another property owner assisted crews by cutting a dozer line on the east side of the fire.
The incident commander requested additional brush units from neighboring agencies to help combat the fire. Lebanon was assisted by Tangent, Brownsville, and Sweet Home fire departments. Albany Fire Department provided city coverage during the fire. The helicopter worked the southeast flank of the fire and was able to stop the development of the fire. At approximately 2:49pm the fire was brought under control and evacuation orders were lifted. Crews continued to mop-up the fire for another four hours.
The fire was determined to be caused by farm equipment harvesting the field. The fire covered 39-acres of land no structures were damaged from the fire and no injuries were reported. The Lebanon Fire District responded with seven fire apparatus and three command officers. The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind the community to ensure that your homes are protected and there is appropriate defensible space around your property in the case of fire. To gain more information on defensible space please contact the Lebanon Fire District.
ODF crews stop 39-acre fire outside of Lebanon
LEBANON, Ore. (Aug. 1, 2023) – Firefighters from Oregon Department of Forestry’s South Cascade Sweet Home Unit, Lebanon Fire District and surrounding mutual aid partners responded to the Sodaville Cutoff Fire and stopped the fire’s progress at an estimated 39 acres.
The fire was reported at 1:45 p.m. and one mile northwest of Sodaville. ODF crews responded in mutual aid to assist the Lebanon Fire District. Due to the fire potential and multiple structures being threatened, firefighters provided a strong initial attack, including seven engines, one tender, one dozer, one air attack aircraft and one helicopter. Crews had the fire controlled by 3:00 p.m.
“Because of how close this fire was to homes and the fire activity we were seeing, we provided a strong initial attack,” said South Cascade District Forester Chris Cline. “We provided a unified command with the Lebanon Fire District to contain this fire quickly to protect public safety and forest resources. This is another great example of the public partnerships we have in place to protect all Oregonians.”
Firefighters are currently conducting mop-up operations to ensure the fire stays within the fire’s perimeter. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Warm and dry conditions make the landscape more at risk for wildfire, which is why public participation in wildfire prevention is so important. With the district in “High” fire danger, Oregonians should check their local fire restrictions before lighting any fireworks, operating an engine-operated machine, or starting a campfire.
“The local fire threat is approaching critical levels, and we can’t afford one more large fire on the landscape,” said South Cascade District Forester Chris Cline. “We need the community’s help to prevent fires – especially being mindful of your activities in the heat of the day.”
Check public and industry fire restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx. For wildfire prevention tips, visit www.keeporegongreen.org.
Oregon Department of Forestry South Cascade District is located at 3150 Main Street Springfield, OR 97478
2nd Annual Michael Bryson Foundation 5k Shuffle Saturday!
August 5th at 9 am at Harrisburg High School! Please Mark your Calendar and come out and help support our mission to assist in finding missing loved ones support and knowledge to their families!
Everyone is welcome! You can walk, run, shuffle or crawl.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1052088485430875/?ref=newsfeed — https://www.facebook.com/groups/1180812175619844
Benton County Fair August 2-5
The excitement is building for the annual Benton County Fair! From Aug. 2-5, the Benton County Fairgrounds will be transformed into a vibrant hub of entertainment, fun, and community spirit.
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The 2023 Benton County Fair promises to be bigger and better than ever before with an extensive lineup of attractions, competitions, exhibits, live performances, and mouthwatering treats, this year’s fair is all set to captivate the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Key highlights of the 2023 Benton County Fair include:
- Thrilling Rides and Amusements: Get ready to scream with delight as we present an exhilarating carnival filled with classic rides, thrilling roller coasters, and fun games that will delight thrill-seekers of all ages.
- Livestock Exhibits and Competitions: Agriculture and farming are at the heart of Benton County, and we are proud to showcase the finest livestock exhibits and competitions that celebrate the hard work and dedication of our local farmers and ranchers.
- Culinary Delights: Indulge your taste buds in a gastronomic adventure with a diverse selection of food vendors offering everything from classic fair favorites to international cuisines.
- Entertaining Performances: The Benton County Fair stage will be graced with talented performers, including live music concerts, dance troupes, magicians, and more, promising entertainment for everyone.
- Art and Craft Exhibitions: Immerse yourself in the creativity of local artisans and crafters as they display their remarkable works, adding a touch of culture and artistry to the fair.
- Family Fun Zone: Families will find a special haven of activities, including interactive games, educational exhibits, and fun challenges that will create lasting memories for parents and children alike.
- Community Engagement: The Benton County Fair is more than just a celebration; it’s an opportunity to foster a sense of community spirit. Local organizations, charities, and businesses will be actively participating, strengthening community bonds.
“We are thrilled to present the 2023 Benton County Fair, an event that holds a special place in the hearts of our community members,” said Benton County Natural Areas Parks & Event Director Tomi Douglas. “This year’s fair will highlight our community spirit with a commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.”
For media inquiries, interviews, and press passes, please contact Benton County Public Information Officer Cory Grogan at 541-766-6843 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
The Benton County Fair is an annual event celebrating the diverse culture, heritage, and accomplishments of Benton County, Oregon. Drawing thousands of visitors each year, the fair serves as a platform to showcase local talent, agriculture, arts, and community engagement.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
Fatal Crash — Highway 20 – Linn County
On Monday July 31, 2023, at about 8:00 A.M., the Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus bicycle crash on Highway 20, near milepost 6 in Linn County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a bicyclist, identified as Brenden Dwyer (34) of Ontario (OR), entered Highway 20 from Knox Butte Road, when It contacted a westbound Kenworth CMV (bunked, empty log truck), operated by Jamie Rowden (53) of Dallas (OR). The crash occurred in the westbound lane of Highway 20.
Dwyer suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Highway 20 was closed over 2 hours following the crash during the on-scene reconstruction investigation.
Rowden remained on scene and cooperated with investigators.
OSP was assisted by Linn County Sheriff’s Office, ODOT, and Fisher Funeral Home.
This is an ongoing investigation and will be forwarded to the Linn County District Attorney for review when complete.
LCSO Case #23-4055 — Death Investigation on the Willamette River
Lane Co. Sheriff’s Office – 07/31/23 8:51 AM
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a kayak that had flipped over on the Willamette River on Saturday afternoon at about 4:30pm. A male had been kayaking downstream from the Middle Fork Boat Launch when his kayak struck a log and overturned. A second person had been floating on an inner-tube that was attached to the kayak by rope. After striking the log, the kayak became entangled in the log and the male riding in it did not resurface. The person riding on the inner-tube was able to find their way to shore.
Lane County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol and Search and Rescue responded to the area and were able to locate the involved male underwater. They pulled him from underwater and brought him to shore but he was unable to be revived.
The victim in this case was not wearing a life jacket. A life jacket was found attached to his kayak. The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time.
$10.7 million coming to Oregon to protect forest land
A historic investment from the Forest Legacy Program will help protect more than 11,000 acres of working forest in Oregon
SALEM, Ore. – Two working forests in Oregon received a major investment from the US Dept. of Agriculture’s Forest Legacy program, which protects environmentally and ecologically important private forest lands across the country. The Minam Conservation and Connectivity Project in northeast Oregon and the Tualatin Mountain Forest Project in northwest Oregon are among 34 projects nationwide that will receive funds from the program to protect working forests for wildlife, people, and climate resilience.
These investments were made possible by the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which provided a historic $700 million over 10 years to permanently conserve state and privately-owned forestlands through the Forest Legacy program. The program is administered in Oregon by the Oregon Dept. of Forestry (ODF).
Josh Barnard, Chief of ODF’s Forest Resources Division, said, “The Forest Legacy program’s investments ensure that working forests that are vital to the fabric of local economies remain working forests. They also maintain the ecological benefits of working forests, including natural watershed functions, maintaining habitat for at-risk species and mitigating climate change.”
Kelley Beamer, Executive Director of the Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts, agrees with Barnard. “The Forest Legacy Program is a critical tool to keep working forests working while protecting important habitat for fish, wildlife, and people,” she said. “This is the largest investment in Oregon’s working lands in the Forest Legacy program’s history and land trusts are poised to leverage these funds to protect even more of these ecologically and economically important lands.”
The Minam Conservation Connectivity Project phase II will acquire 10,964 acres of working forestland and a corridor along the Minam River in Union and Wallowa counties. Spearheaded by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, this project will conserve scenic viewsheds on over 2.4 million acres of adjacent public lands. This property has been managed as a working forest since the early 1900s and will continue to generate timber and support jobs in the local area.
“This commitment of Forest Legacy funding is a vital step toward completion of a landmark conservation project that will conserve and protect habitat for elk, mule deer, fish, birds and other wildlife, while also providing access by hunters, anglers and others,” said Kyle Weaver, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation president and CEO. “We would like to recognize our partners at Manulife, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Forest Service as well as support from elected officials, both locally and in Congress, for making this conservation victory possible.”
The Tualatin Mountain Forest project will secure a 3,111-acre forest near Scappoose as a working research forest to be owned and managed by Oregon State University. The project will serve as a national model for an actively managed forest, mitigate climate change, and create public access and recreation opportunities..
“The Tualatin Mountain Forest project has great potential to develop a research and demonstration forest with expanded community benefits,” says Kristin Kovalik, Oregon program director for the Trust for Public Land, who is acquiring the land. “Projects like this require diverse partners and we are grateful for the Oregon Department of Forestry and US Forest Service ongoing commitment to the Forest Legacy Program, and Senators Merkley and Wyden for supporting the Inflation Reduction act and the Great American Outdoors Act which help fund projects like the Tualatin Mountain Forest.”
About the Coalition for Oregon Land Trusts – The Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts (COLT) serves and strengthens the land trust community in Oregon. At COLT, we build connections and advance policies that help protect our natural world—our water, wildlife and open space—for all people, forever. This work helps our coalition members—30 conservation organizations around the state—do what they do best: protect wildlife and wild places, defend working farms and forests, provide recreation and parks, drive climate solutions and science, champion clean water for all and engage communities to protect our natural world.
About ODF – The Oregon Department of Forestry protects some 16 million acres of Oregon’s forest lands from wildfire, and regulates timber harvests to protect soil, water quality and threatened and endangered species. The head of the agency – the Oregon State Forester – approves a Forest Stewardship Plan developed by ODF staff for each project approved for funding under the Forest Legacy Program. Through Oregon Department of Forestry, the Forest Legacy Program seeks projects that strengthen local communities across Oregon, through state, local and private partnerships in conservation.
FBI Portland Seeking Additional Victims After Woman Escaped Makeshift Cinderblock Cell in Klamath Falls
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Portland Field Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying potential victims of a violent sex assault offender who has lived in at least 10 states.
29-year-old, Negasi Zuberi (aka Sakima, Justin Hyche and Justin Kouassi), is in federal custody for interstate kidnapping after a Washington woman escaped his home in Klamath Falls, OR, claiming she was kidnapped, sexually assaulted and locked in a cinderblock cell.
According to court records, on Saturday, July 15, 2023, Zuberi traveled from his home in Klamath Falls, OR, to Seattle, WA, where he solicited the services of a prostitute, he then posed as an undercover police officer. The victim told investigators that he pointed a taser at her and placed her in handcuffs, leg irons and put her in the back seat of his car. He then traveled roughly 450 miles with the woman, sexually assaulting her during the trip.
According to the victim, once he arrived at his home in Klamath Falls, OR, Zuberi moved her into a makeshift cell that he had constructed in his garage. The cell was made of cinder blocks and a metal door installed in reverse so it could not be opened from the inside. Once Zuberi left, the victim says she repeatedly banged on the door and was able to break the door open and escape the room. She was able to flag down a passing motorist who called 9-1-1.
Klamath Falls Police Department obtained a search warrant for Zuberi’s residence and found the makeshift cell described by the victim. Zuberi fled and was located in Reno, NV where he was taken into custody after a brief standoff with local police.
“According to the complaint, this woman was kidnapped, chained, sexually assaulted, and locked in a cinderblock cell. Police say, she beat the door with her hands until they were bloody in order to break free. Her quick thinking and will to survive may have saved other women from a similar nightmare,” says Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Stephanie Shark with the FBI Portland Field Office. “We are fortunate that this brave woman escaped and alerted authorities. Through quick law enforcement action we were able to get Zuberi in custody the next day. While she may have helped protect future victims, sadly we have now linked Zuberi to additional violent sexual assaults in at least four states and there could be more.”
Zuberi has lived in ten states over the last ten years and FBI investigators have reason to believe there could be additional sexual assault victims.
The FBI’s investigation has extended to multiple states where Zuberi previously resided between August of 2016 and today. Those states could include: California, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Utah, Florida, New York, New Jersey, Alabama, and Nevada.
Victims may know Zuberi by the name “Sakima” and it is believed he may have used several different methods to gain control of his victims; including by drugging their drinks and impersonating a police officer.
The victims are often threatened with retaliation if they notify the police.
If you believe you have been a victim or have any information concerning Zuberi (aka Sakima) visit the website: fbi.gov/SakimaVictims or call 1-800-CALL-FBI. You can also contact the FBI Portland Field Office at (503) 224-4181, your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or you can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
The FBI would like to acknowledge our partners assisting in this investigation including the United States Attorney’s Office – District of Oregon, Klamath Falls Police Department, Oregon Department of Justice, Oregon State Police, Reno Police Department, Nevada State Police and the FBI Las Vegas Field Office, Reno Resident Agency.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Fire crews are increasing containment of the roaring Flat Fire in western Oregon.
Current Situation: Yesterday, In the southwest corner of the fire area, firefighters used Unstaffed Aerial Systems (UAS/drones) aerial ignitions to increase the burnout to about 200 feet interior from the fire line. Helicopters also used a Plastic Spherical Dispenser (PSD) for aerial firing operations further interior, bringing the main fire southwest towards the fire line. This strategy moves the main fire toward the prepared fire line under more favorable and controlled conditions. Fuels consumption is varied due to the existing vegetation mosaic on the landscape (brush, grass and timber). Aburn-out operation along the dozer line heading east from Game Lake was completed with about 150 feet of depth interior of the line to the main unburned area.
Structure protection resources continue scouting for and identifying additional homes and buildings and are collecting data to aid firefighters in protecting structures if there is a future need. The alternate control line on Forest Service Road (FSR) 3313, 1503, and 3680 is planned for completion on Tuesday.
A community meeting was held in Brookings-Harbor last night and was live streamed on Facebook. A recording can be viewed at https://fb.watch/m8b1R2JtRk/ .
Today’s activities: Firefighters willuse aerial resources to achieve additional fireline depth between the western and eastern portions of FSR 3680 in the southwestern corner of the fire. Aerial interior burning will also start in the Game Lake area. Fuels removal will begin today from vegetation cut in preparing fireline along the western containment lines. The northern containment line, from Wildhorse Lookout east to FSR 3577, is being actively mopped up and patrolled. The northeastern corner of the fire, using FSR 2308 and 150, has been prepared for firing operations if the need arises due to changes in weather conditions and/or fire activity.
With fire traffic on Bear Camp Road, all motorists on Bear Camp Road are asked to slow down, use headlights and proceed with caution.
Resources no longer needed for remaining suppressions efforts are being released to return home, get rest and be ready for future assignments as we head into the remaining fire season.
Evacuations: As of yesterday, July 31, all remaining evacuation levels were reduced to Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuation status for all areas in the vicinity of the Flat Fire.
The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue to coordinate with the Fire Incident Management Team and will notify all residents affected by the fire of any reasons to change evacuation levels.
Curry County is using Everbridge to send evacuation notices. You can sign up for notifications here: https://www.co.curry.or.us/departments/emergency_management/index.php.
Weather: Today’sforecast calls for slightly warmer temperatures (up 3-5 degrees) and lower relative humidity (down 3-5%). Today has the potential to be the warmest day on the Flat Fire so far.
Smoke: TheSmoke Outlook is available at: https://outlooks.airfire.org/outlook/en/b74901f7
Closures:The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest has issued a closure order for the fire area including trails, roads and a portion of the Illinois River. Oak Flat Campground, Game Lake Campground, Wild Horse Campground and Snow Camp Lookout Recreation Rentals are all closed as part of the area closure. The Chetco River Road (FSR 1376) and Chetco/Pistol River Road (FSR 1407) are now closed. The updated closure allows for public access to the Big Rock swimming hole on the Illinois River. More information can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/bdzbae69.
Restrictions: Fire Restrictions are in place, to learn more visit:fs.usda.gov/rogue-siskiyou
The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office has lifted all evacuations levels for the Golden Fire.
The Red Cross evacuation shelter at Bonanza High School has been closed.
Please be mindful while traveling in the area. Fire crews will remain within the fire perimeter over the next several days, also repair crews from Pacific Power and Lumen will continue to repair damage caused by the Golden Fire.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The fire has covered just over 2,137 acres about 9 miles from Bonanza. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek ended the Conflagration Act on 7 /27 /23 for the Golden Fire. OSFM ended their delegations of authority from both Klamath County Fire District #5 and the County of Klamath. OSFM costs to date are $1,338,829. Nearly 50 homes and overe 60 outbuildings were destroyed by the fire.
Bend Police Seek Assistance As Homicide Victim’s SUV Left In Klamath Falls
Bend police investigating the homicide of a 28-year-old woman at her northwest Bend home released new details and blurry security photos Friday of where her SUV was found on a Klamath Falls street and someone getting out and walking away, as they seek videos and help from the public.
Last Monday, officers responded to a call around 11:20 a.m. from a Bend man who went to the home to check on Weaver and found her unresponsive.
Evelyn Jeanette Weaver’s silver 2004 Honda CR-V was found Thursday at the corner of Shasta Way and Division Street in Klamath Falls, but surveillance video showed it had been there since early last Saturday, two days before the woman’s body was found at her NW Hill Street home, police Communications Manager Sheila Miller said.
Police located surveillance video showing the SUV stopping at the location in the early morning of Saturday, July 15, Miller said.
Police released four low-quality photos showing the vehicle at that location and a person who got out and walked away. Miller said she has no reason to believe the person returned to the SUV. A male is seen on surveillance video walking away from the vehicle. The male is wearing khaki pants and a black or dark colored long sleeve top. Investigators are now seeking video from businesses or residents in the area of Mills Addition – between the
rail lines on the west and Washburn Way on the east, and Crater Lake Parkway to the north and South Sixth Street to the south.
“Bend residents are asked to look through any surveillance video between July 8-14 for a person whose description and clothing may match” the released images, Miller said.
Businesses and residents along Highway 97 between Bend and Klamath Falls were asked to review any surveillance video they have from between 3:30 p.m. Friday, July 14 and 3:30 a.m. the next day, to look for the SUV or person in the images.
Also, anyone who traveled between Bend and Klamath Falls during those hours and who may have encountered the SUV or its occupant also is asked to contact non-emergency dispatch at 541-693-6911.
An autopsy was conducted Thursday, but Miller said the “results will take some time.” She also said investigators are not describing the SUV as “stolen” at this time; they had only said her SUV was missing from the address, then found by a member of the public.
Miller also said Friday that investigators have completed forensics and evidence collection at the home and released it to its owners.
According to her LinkedIn account, Evelyn Weaver worked as a scientist at Lonza in Bend. Weaver attended the University of Oregon, where she graduated with a masters of science in 2019.
Weaver lived alone and was renting the home on Northwest Hill Street. Caution tape was still wrapped around an entire block along the street on Thursday morning. Investigators could be seen removing items from the home, most of them in boxes.
If you live or work in these areas and have residential or business video between 7 p.m. on July 14 and 8 a.m. on July 20, we’d like to take a look at it. You can contact Det. T.J. Knea at tknea@bendoregon.gov or 541-948-0980 or Detective Sergeant Tommy Russell at trussell@bendoregon.gov or 541-408-8776.
Hundreds Of Seasonal Workers Sought For Oregon State Fair – Job Fair on Saturday
A job fair will be held on Aug. 5 to immediately fill hundreds of seasonal positions needed for the 2023 Oregon State Fair.
The job fair will be held at the Oregon State Fair and Exposition Center located at 2330 17th Street in Salem. The job fair will begin at 9 a.m. and on-site interviews will be performed until “all the positions are filled.” Workers are currently needed for fair admissions, parking, administration, carnival, security and concessions.
“Job seekers aged 16 or older can apply for carnival games and concession positions, while carnival ride positions require applicants to be 18 or older,” the Oregon State Fair announced on July 31. MORE INFO: https://oregonstatefair.org/careers/
The largest dam removal project in United States history is underway along the California-Oregon border — a process that won’t conclude until the end of next year with the help of heavy machinery and explosives.
Gillian Flaccus / AP
But in some ways, removing the dams is the easy part. The hard part will come over the next decade as workers, partnering with Native American tribes, plant and monitor nearly 17 billion seeds as they try to restore the Klamath River and the surrounding land to what it looked like before the dams started to go up more than a century ago.
The demolition is part of a national movement to return the natural flow of the nation’s rivers and restore habitat for fish and the ecosystems that sustain other wildlife. More than 2,000 dams have been removed in the U.S. as of February, with the bulk of those having come down within the last 25 years, according to the advocacy group American Rivers.
When demolition is completed by the end of next year, more than 400 miles of river will have opened for threatened species of fish and other wildlife. By comparison, the 65 dams removed in the U.S. last year combined to reconnect 430 miles of river.
Along the Klamath, the dam removals won’t be a major hit to the power supply; they produced less than 2% of power company PacifiCorp’s energy generation when they were running at full capacity — enough to power about 70,000 homes. Though the hydroelectric power produced by dams is considered a clean, renewable source of energy, many larger dams in the U.S. West have become a target for environmental groups and tribes because of the harm they cause to fish and river ecosystems.
The project will empty three reservoirs over about 3.5 square miles near the California-Oregon border, exposing soil to sunlight in some places for the first time in more than a century.
For the past five years, Native American tribes have gathered seeds by hand and sent them to nurseries with plans to sow the seeds along the banks of the newly wild river. Helicopters will bring in hundreds of thousands of trees and shrubs to plant along the banks, including wads of tree roots to create habitat for fish.
This growth usually takes decades to happen naturally. But officials are pressing nature’s fast-forward button because they hope to repel an invasion of foreign plants, such as starthistle, which dominate the landscape at the expense of native plants.
PacifiCorp built the dams starting in 1918 to generate electricity. The dams halted the natural flow of the river and disrupted the lifecycle of salmon, a fish that spends most of its life in the Pacific Ocean but returns to the chilly mountain streams to lay eggs. The fish are culturally and spiritually significant to a number of Native American tribes, who historically survived by fishing the massive runs of salmon that would come back to the rivers each year.
A combination of low water levels and warm temperatures in 2002 led to a bacterial outbreak that killed more than 34,000 fish, mostly Chinook salmon. The loss jumpstarted decades of advocacy from Native American tribes and environmental groups, culminating last year when federal regulators approved a plan to remove the dams.
The project will cost $500 million, paid for by taxpayers and PacifiCorps ratepayers. Crews have mostly removed the smallest of the four dams, known as Copco No. 2. The other three dams are expected to come down next year. That will leave some homeowners in the area without the picturesque lake they have lived on for years.
The Siskiyou County Water Users Association, which formed about a decade ago to stop the dam removal project, filed a federal lawsuit. But so far they have been unable to stop the demolition.
“Unfortunately it’s a mistake you can’t turn back from,” association President Richard Marshall said.
The water level in the lakes will drop between 3 feet and 5 feet per day over the first few months of next year. Crews will follow that water line, taking advantage of the moisture in the soil to plant seeds from more than 98 native plant species including wooly sunflower, Idaho fescue and Blue bunch wheat grass.
Tribes have been invested in the process from the start. Resource Environmental Solutions hired tribal members to gather seeds from native plants by hand. The Yurok Tribe even hired a restoration botanist.
Each species has a role to play. Some, like lupine, grow quickly and prepare the soil for other plants. Others, like oak trees, take years to fully mature and provide shade for other plants.
“It’s a wonderful marriage of tribal traditional ecological knowledge and western science,” said Mark Bransom, CEO of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, the nonprofit entity created to oversee the project.
The previous largest dam removal project was on Washington state’s Elwha River, which flows out of Olympic National Park into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Congress in 1992 approved the demolition of the two dams on the river constructed in the early 1900s. After two decades of planning, workers finished removing them in 2014, opening about 70 miles of habitat for salmon and steelhead.
Biologists say it will take at least a generation for the river to recover, but within months of the dams being removed, salmon were already recolonizing sections of the river they had not accessed in more than a century. The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, which has been closely involved in restoration work, is opening a limited subsistence fishery this fall for coho salmon, its first since the dams came down. (SOURCE)
BLM celebrates Great American Outdoors Day with free day-use access 8/4
PORTLAND, Ore, — The Bureau of Land Management is waiving recreation day-use fees for visitors on August 4, 2023, in celebration of the third annual Great American Outdoors Day. The BLM is inviting all communities to explore the unique and diverse natural landscapes and recreation facilities available on their public lands throughout Oregon and Washington.
Within Oregon and Washington, the BLM’s standard amenity day-use fees will be waived at the following:
- Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
- Cape Blanco Lighthouse
- Wildwood Recreation Site
- Hyatt Lake Recreation Area
- Gerber Recreation Area
- Yakima River Canyon
- Loon Lake Recreation Site
- Alsea Falls Recreation Site
- Shotgun Creek Recreation Site
- Edson Creek Recreation Site
- Spring Recreation Site
The standard amenity fee waiver does not guarantee admission to some busy recreation areas where reservations for day-use, group sites, and overnight camping are recommended. Please contact the local BLM office if you have any questions about a recreation site you are interested in visiting.
“Providing outdoor recreation opportunities to all communities is a top priority,” said Anita Bilbao, BLM Oregon/Washington Associate State Director. “We invite everyone to enjoy the spectacular beauty of your public lands firsthand.”
The Great American Outdoors Day was established to celebrate the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act into law on August 4, 2020, which invests in the protection and sustainment of public lands. With GAOA funding, the BLM is addressing deferred maintenance needs and improving public access to numerous popular outdoor recreation destinations throughout Oregon and Washington, including the Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River, Loon Lake Recreation Site, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, and Hyatt Lake Campground. You can comprehensively search all available BLM recreation opportunities to explore on your public lands here.
Know before you go:
• Be fire aware. Check for local fire restrictions and active fire closures.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles and leave your public lands cleaner than you found them.
• The fee waiver only applies to standard amenity fees for day-use at the recreation sites listed. The waiver does not apply to any expanded amenity fees for overnight camping, group day-use, and cabin rentals or individual Special Recreation Permit fees along permitted rivers.
Fee-free days occur each year in celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Washington’s Birthday, Juneteenth National Independence Day, Great American Outdoors Day, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day.
The remaining fee-free days in 2023 are:
• September 30 (National Public Lands Day)
• November 11 (Veterans Day)
For more information about the BLM’s recreation fee program, please visit https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-fees.
-BLM-
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Red Cross Needs Help to Avert a Blood Shortage
Chance at shark dive trip, $10 e-gift card for donors in August
— After a summer of declining donations, the American Red Cross needs the public’s help to prevent a blood shortage. When a donor makes and keeps an appointment to give blood or platelets in the weeks ahead, they can help ensure trauma patients, those undergoing cancer treatment, and people with lifelong blood disorders can get the blood they count on.
Right now, the Red Cross especially needs type O negative, type O positive and type B negative blood donors, as well as platelet donors. Donors of all blood types can schedule an appointment to give by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. for the theatrical release of Meg 2: The Trench to celebrate a summer of sharks and help stave off a summer blood and platelet shortage. All who come to give through Aug. 12 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Those who come to give throughout the month of August will also get a $10 e-gift card to a movie merchant of their choice. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Movie.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities Aug. 1-15:
August 2, 2023
Russellville Park Gives Back, 20 SE 103rd Ave., Portland, OR, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Blood Donation Center, 1174 Progress Drive Suite 102, Medford, OR, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Blood Donation Center, 815 SW Bond Street Suite 110, Bend, OR, 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
August 4, 2023
Oregon City Public Library, 606 John Adams St., Oregon City, OR, 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Embassy Suites Portland-Downtown,319 SW Pine St., Portland, OR, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Blood Donation Center, 5109 NE 82nd Ave., Vancouver, WA, 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
August 5, 2023
Pursue Fitness, 555 West Centennial Blvd, Springfield, OR, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
August 7, 2023
Riverside Seventh Day Adventist Church, 463 N. Shepherd Rd, Washougal, WA, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
American Pacific Mortgage, 1200 Executive Parkway, Suite 100, Eugene, OR, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
City of Bend Police Dept., 555 NE 15th St, Bend, OR, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Ascension Lutheran Church, 675 Black Oak Drive, Medford, OR, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
August 8, 2023
Fowler Student Center, 0615 SW Palatine Hill Road, Portland, OR, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Portland Blood Donation Center,3131 N Vancouver Avenue, Portland, OR, 12:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
August 9, 2023
Islamic Community Center of Hillsboro,7270 NW Helvetia Rd, Portland, OR, 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
August 10, 2023
Village Church,330 SW Murray Blvd., Beaverton, OR, 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
To find a donation site near you, visit www.redcrossblood.org and put in your zip code.
How to donate blood — To make an appointment, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Amplify your impact − volunteer! — A stable blood and platelet supply is critical to national preparedness. Additionally, as we approach the beginning of what is expected to be another active hurricane season, the Red Cross urges everyone to get ready now and consider becoming a volunteer to help people affected by the growing number of climate-driven disasters.
Support impacted communities by assisting at Red Cross shelters, using your professional skills as a licensed health care provider or becoming a member of the Red Cross Disaster Action Team. To learn more, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.
About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and is the primary blood supplier to 65 hospitals throughout Washington and Oregon; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. — American Red Cross – Cascades Region
