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
Friday, September 1, 2023
Willamette Valley Weather
Lookout, Bedrock, Horse Creek, Pothole and Grizzly Fire Updates
CLOSURE REDUCTION: Officials reduced the closure area for the BEDROCK FIRE on Aug. 31, 2023 due to successful firefighting efforts. Many popular sites and trails that were closed by the old Bedrock closure are now open, including the full length of the Alpine Trail (#3315). Follow Bedrock Fire 2023 for latest information.
Read full closure: https://www.fs.usda.gov/…/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1125705.pdf
The Willamette National Forest is currently in Level 3 Fire Restrictions, IFPL III, and “very high” danger rating. More information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/willamette/fire.
Lookout Fire September 1, 2023 Quick Facts Size: 24,575 acres Start Date: August 5, 2023 Cause: Lightning Containment: 20% Point of origin: 3 miles North of McKenzie Bridge, OR Total personnel: 983 Resources: 66 engines l 15 crews l 13 bulldozers l 40 water tenders l 11 masticators l 21 helicopters
September 01, 2023 Quick Facts: Bedrock Fire Acres: 31,590 Containment: 80% Total personnel: 615 Crews: 11 Helicopters: 11 Engines: 27 Dozers: 7 Water Tenders: 25
Horse Creek Fire Size: 763 acres Start Date: August 24, 2023 Cause: Lightning Containment: 12%
Pothole Fire Size: 109 acres Start Date: August 25, 2023 Cause: Lightning Containment: 15%
Grizzly Fire Prompts Level 2 (Be Set) Evacuation Notice
Increased fire behavior on the Grizzly Fire, burning approximately 20 miles southeast of Dorena has prompted a Level 2 (Be Set) evacuation notice for the following areas:
🟡 All private lands & mining claims in the Bohemia areas within the Cottage Grove Ranger District of the Umpqua National Forest.
Level 2 means you must prepare to leave at a moment’s notice, and this may be the only notice that you receive. Public safety personnel cannot guarantee they will be able to notify you if conditions rapidly deteriorate.
— This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property, pets and livestock.
— The United States Forest Service has additionally implemented a forest closure for the entire Cottage Grove Ranger District.
An evacuation map is available at https://www.lanecounty.org/news/brice_dinner_grizzly_fires
Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org
CRITICAL INCIDENT REPORT — SPRINGFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT Incident: Officer Struck by Gunfire – Suspect In Custody
Location: 1800 Block of Market Street | Springfield Date/Time: Initial Call – 0809 | Suspect In Custody
NARRATIVE OF INCIDENT: The Springfield Police Department 911 received multiple calls at 8:09 am on August 31, 2023, regarding an adult male breaking items in the street and acting erratically. SPD Patrol Officers responded to the scene and attempted to contact the man who had retreated into a residence. At 8:36 am, multiple rounds were fired from inside the residence in the direction of the officers. One officer was struck and was able to move out of the direct line of fire.
The officer was transported to an area hospital and is in stable condition. A second officer was struck by fragments resulting from the shots and also received care at a local hospital. Multiple SPD officers responded to the scene. More shots were discharged from inside the residence as officers worked to establish a perimeter. Personnel from the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Eugene Police Department, and the Oregon State Police began arriving at the scene and evacuating residents of neighboring homes.
Springfield Police Department SWAT, Crisis Negotiators, and Drone Team were supported by their counterparts from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies in addition to on-scene support from Eugene Springfield Fire. Crisis Negotiators attempted contacted with the man who was inside of the residence.
The man ultimately responded to police direction and was taken into custody without further incident. Further information will be provided at a later time. If any members of the community have information regarding the incident are asked to contact the SPD Non-Emergency Line at 541.726.3714
Large fire overnight in Salem determined to be arson, suspect in custody
Salem, Ore. — At approximately 2:30 a.m. Thursday, emergency personnel responded to St. Joseph Catholic Church located at 721 Chemeketa ST NE on the report of a dumpster on fire on the property.
Arriving Salem Fire Department personnel found the tall flames from the dumpster fire spread to the roof of the church building. Within an hour, Salem Fire crews requested assistance from regional fire agencies as the fire was upgraded to a four-alarm status.
Firefighters safely evacuated a priest living in an adjacent building on the church property. No injuries were reported. Several road closures were in place for nearly ten hours as part of the fire suppression efforts and the investigation.
The Salem Fire Department received assistance from the fire departments of the cities of Dallas and Keizer, as well as the Marion County, Mount Angel, and Polk County Fire Districts. Salem Fire Chief Mike Niblock shared, “Salem Fire firefighters and dispatchers, in conjunction with mutual aid resources, were integral in containing and suppressing this significant structure fire. I appreciate the effort by all the emergency responders on this incident.”
Due to the suspicious circumstances of the fire, arson detectives from the Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit responded to the scene for the investigation, resulting in the arrest of Billy James Sweeten, age 48.
Sweeten, who is lodged at the Marion County Jail, faces first-degree arson charges.
“My thanks to the officers and arson investigators who worked throughout the night on this case,” said Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack. “The church building holds a historical significance in our city, and their diligence in quickly apprehending the suspect helped to bring justice to the community.”
Scammers impersonating Sheriff’s Office employees
We have received recent reports of a scam in our community.
The scammers commonly identify themselves as employees of the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, either verbally, by text, or by email. The scammers will then make claims that there are warrants, missed jury duty, or unsettled legal business that involve the victim or someone the victim knows and ask for personal or financial information. In some instances the scammers appear to call from official phone numbers and/or provide fraudulent callback numbers with voicemail inboxes.
Please be aware that the Lane County Sheriff’s Office will never ask for money, awards, or compensation of any type over the telephone, by text or email.
If you are contacted by someone claiming to be a Lane County Sheriff’s Office employee and you think you are being scammed, please contact our dispatch center at 541-682-4150 opt. 1.
Update: Eugene Man Arrested in Connection with Fatal Paraglider Crash
On August 30, 2023, Benton County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested Jarrod Karl Kaplan (56) of Eugene, in connection with their investigation of a paraglider crash into the Willamette River on July 1, which caused the death of a 51-year-old Eugene man.
The tandem flight was purchased online with Kaplan, a self-pronounced paragliding instructor.
Further research by detectives determined Kaplan was actually flying northbound over the river, not southbound as originally reported, when he hit a powerline and crash into the river.
Kaplan is charged with Criminal Negligent Homicide and is currently lodged at the Benton County Jail where he is being held until arraignment.
For further information, please contact the Benton County District Attorney’s Office at 541-766-6815.
UPDATE July 2, 2023 – The initial investigation by BCSO determined a 56-year-old male from Eugene was operating his Fenix AirTap Paramotor paraglider when it crashed into the Willamette River.
There was one passenger on board the aircraft when the crash occurred. The 51-year-old male passenger from Eugene was still underwater when first responders arrived and determined to be deceased.
The two took off from Irish Bend Park, flew north following the direction of the river, and were traveling back when the aircraft crashed into the Willamette River.
Two fishermen on a boat helped rescue the pilot, who was then transported to the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
Impairment is not believed to have been a factor in the crash at this time. The investigation remains open and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Detective Lovik at 541-766-6818.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) with oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is further investigating the incident.
Any further information will be released at the direction of the Benton County District Attorney’s Office.
BCSO would like to thank the Linn County Sheriff’s Office and Halsey Fire Department for assistance with this incident.
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CORVALLIS, Ore. – On Saturday, July 1st at about 7:00 a.m., the Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) was notified about an ultralight aircraft crash in the Willamette River near Peoria, south of Corvallis.
BCSO is on scene working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office during the initial phase of the investigation.
It is unknown at this time how many occupants are on board the aircraft.
We ask the public to stay clear of the area as first responders continue the investigation and assess the scene for potential hazards to boaters/paddlers.
No additional information is available at this time. An updated news release or social media post will be pushed out as investigators learn more.
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McKenzie Willamette Medical Center Using Online reservation system to Schedule E.R. Patients
Mckenzie Willamette Medical Center is using online scheduling to help reduce E.R. wait times.
The newly integrated system, called “In Quicker,” is found on the hospital’s website and lets the user select a time for an E.R. visit ahead of time to help reduce the amount of people waiting inside the hospital, and allow the patient to wait at home instead.
Emergency Department Manager Jan Montry said the scheduling system will help give staff the support needed to help as many patients as possible.
“Basically, it’s a tool that allows people patients with lower acute symptoms to save their place in line,” Montry said. “For us it improves our efficiency so we can spread out the arrivals and we can kind of know when people are coming.”
In the three months since the hospital started using it, they’re reporting reduced wait times in the waiting rooms and an increase in completed appointments. Montry said that 85% of patients are able to be seen as quick as 15 minutes.
Residents in Springfield feel that this scheduling system will be a massive positive for the community. Many saying that waiting for hours to be seen for something minor was a hassle. T.J. Johnson is a retired nurse who lives in Springfield, she said that getting people out of the waiting room and quickly into the hospitals data base is the best decision McKenzie-Willamette could have made.
“I’m just really thankful that this hospital is using that ability with technology to be able to get people through the system,” Johnson said. “People are sick that come to the emergency room and you don’t want to necessarily be sitting around someone hacking, coughing and sneezing and potentially putting yourself at risk if you don’t have to.”
The system will not be bypassing a patient who is in serious condition, and will only allow patients to schedule a E.R. visit if they are in a stable condition.
Up to $50,000 Reward for Information About Southside Post Office Armed Robbery
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect who robbed the Southside Post Office, located at 30 E 33rd Ave, Eugene OR 97405.
On August 16, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., an unidentified male entered the Southside Post Office, brandished a firearm, and demanded money.
The subject was described as a white male, around his mid 50s, approximately 5’8″ to 6′ tall, weighing around 250 lbs. with several black painted fingernails. He was described as wearing a dark long sleeve shirt/jacket, dark baggy pants, and a gray baseball hat, with a white/beige bandanna covering his face.
Lane County Man Finds Community at Sole Support for Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO) will host its annual awareness walk and fundraiser, Sole Support for Parkinson’s at Alton Baker Park on October 1, 2023. The annual event brings people whose lives are impacted by a Parkinson’s diagnosis together with a caring and supportive community for a walk along the riverfront spreading awareness about this neurodegenerative disease with no cure. Funds raised remain in the local community to help people living with the disease through Parkinson’s Resources (PRO) exercise, education, and wellness programs.
Sole Supporters, such as Eugene resident Larry Bradley, look forward to participating this year. Bradley, a client of PRO and member of the Board of Directors shares “Sole Support was one of the first events I participated in after my diagnosis. It was there that I learned about all the programs and services available in our community and where I was able to make new connections and find the support to face Parkinson’s disease head on. I encourage anyone who has PD or cares for someone with the disease to get involved! “
People living with Parkinson’s disease and their families and supporters from across SW Washington will participate in this year’s Eugene event to show their support and spread awareness about Parkinson’s disease. Registration is required but free.
- Saturday, October 1, 2023
- Alton Baker Park
- On-site registration and check in opens at noon – Walk begins at 1:30pm
- ~1k and ~5k routes are walker and wheelchair friendly
- Registration is free – fundraising is encouraged
To register, find out more, or donate, go to:www.solesupport.org or call 800.426.6806
About Parkinson’s Resources: Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO) is a donor supported non-profit with the sole mission of advancing the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s, their families and caregivers. With three office locations (Bend, Eugene, Beaverton), PRO provides direct care and support of thousands of families in Oregon and SW Washington. Working to address issues faced by Parkinson’s patients and their families, we can significantly improve the quality of life for all touched by this disease.
To find out more about PRO’s services or to support our programs, go to: www.parkinsonsresources.org
Oregon State Police attempting to located dangerous escapee- Public assistance requested
On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at approximately 10:45 P.M., the Oregon State Police were notified of an escaped adult in custody and patient of the Oregon State Hospital, located in Salem.
Christopher Lee Pray was an adult in custody at the Multnomah County jail for multiple serious charges, to include Attempted Aggravated Murder, when he was transferred to the Oregon State Hospital on August 30. At approximately 10:45 P.M., Pray escaped from custody when he stole a white 2016 Dodge Caravan, bearing Oregon license plate E265614, and eluded law enforcement southbound on Interstate 5. Law enforcement terminated the pursuit due to safety concerns and Pray was not apprehended.
Prays whereabouts are unknown at this time. He was last seen heading southbound on Interstate 5, however he has ties to the greater Portland metro area. At the time of his escape, he was fully restrained with leg shackles, a belly chain, handcuffs, and a restraint connecting all three together. He was wearing a white t-shirt, maroon sweatpants, and black rubber slippers.
Pray is considered extremely dangerous and should not be approached. Law enforcement is urging the public to dial 911 and report any sightings of Pray or the vehicle he was operating.
Christopher Lee Pray- Poses an extreme danger to the public
- 39 years old
- 6 ft. tall, 170 pounds
- Brown hair and brown eyes
- White male
- Trimmed facial hair- may be different from photo
- Stitches on his upper lip
- Tattoos- Right arm- “PRAY”; right forearm – “S”; neck- possibly “supreme”
- Full restraints- leg shackles, belly chain, and handcuffs
- White t-shirt, maroon sweatpants, and black rubber slippers.
2016 white Dodge Caravan- (photo not actual vehicle)
- Oregon license plate- E265614 (yellow plate)
- No identifying marks
Oregon to issue an additional $39 million in Pandemic EBT food assistance to 325,000 children
- Oregon will provide approximately $39 million in food benefits to approximately 325,000 students beginning Aug. 31 and through September.
- Starting Aug. 31 and through the month of September, $120 in food benefits per eligible child will be issued to Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) cards.
- These additional food benefits are part of the P-EBT program, a temporary COVID-19 response program meant to provide additional food support for children whose access to food provided through school programs.
- Since 2020, Oregon has issued $1 billion in P-EBT food benefits to help children in Oregon get enough quality and nutritious food.
(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will begin issuing approximately $39 million in Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) food benefits to approximately 325,000 students in Oregon on Aug. 31.
“We are grateful to be able to provide these food benefits to eligible students in Oregon,” said Claire Seguin, director of the ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs. “As communities continue to be affected by COVID-19 and the rising cost of food, we know that many families are experiencing hardship and are struggling to get enough healthy food for themselves and their children. We encourage anyone who is struggling to meet their basic needs to contact our partners at 211, the Oregon Food Bank and their local Community Action Agency for support during this difficult time.”
How students will receive P-EBT food benefits — The P-EBT food benefits will be issued onto the P-EBT cards mailed to students in Spring 2023. Families who lost or threw away their card can contact the P-EBT call center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328 to request a new card.
Newly eligible students will receive two pieces of mail addressed to them:
- A letter notifying them they will receive P-EBT
- A separate envelope with their P-EBT card that has $120 of food benefits on it
Who is eligible for P-EBT food benefits — Students are eligible for this P-EBT issuance if they received free or reduced-price National School Lunch Program meals at school or attended a Community Eligibility Provision school in May 2023.
More P-EBT food benefits to come for certain children — Oregon has received federal approval to provide additional P-EBT food benefits to children under 6 years old who received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program food benefits between July 2022 and August 2023. Details about when and how these children will receive their P-EBT food benefits will be announced as soon as it is available.
What is the P-EBT program? — Since 2020, Oregon has issued approximately $1 billion in P-EBT food benefits to help children in Oregon get enough quality and nutritious food.
These additional food benefits are part of the P-EBT program, a temporary COVID-19 response program meant to provide additional food support for children whose access to adequate and quality food received through school programs may have been impacted by COVID-19.
Visit pebt.oregon.gov for more information about the P-EBT program.
Families with specific questions about their child’s eligibility or P-EBT card can contact the P-EBT Call Center at (844) ORE-PEBT or (844) 673-7328. The P-EBT Call Center is available Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific in seven language options (English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Somalian, Mandarin and Cantonese). Callers may also request a translator for additional languages.
P-EBT does not replace any child nutrition program already offered and families are encouraged to continue to participate in meal programs in their schools and communities.
P-EBT food benefits are issued in addition to regular SNAP benefits. P-EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test.
Resources to help meet basic needs
- Find food resources in your community: needfood.oregon.gov
- Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
- Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org.
- Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
- Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: www.caporegon.org/find-services/
About SNAP — Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 million eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Oregonians in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at https://govstatus.egov.com/or-dhs-benefits. For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-ORE-ADRC or 1-855-673-2372.
About P-EBT — Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) is part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. P-EBT is money for children whose access to adequate and quality food may have been impacted by COVID-19.
P-EBT is a program in partnership with the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE).
Oregon Political Leaders Delighted By State Revenue Forecast
Oregon will have plenty of tax money to spend on public services as corporate tax collections are increasing in a strong post-pandemic economy, state economists said Wednesday.
Total general fund resources for the 2023-25 budget are projected to be $437 million higher than state economists projected ahead of final budget votes in June, officials said. Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek welcomed the news from the Office of Economic Analysis.
“We must leverage the opportunity presented by another positive forecast to invest in housing production and other urgent needs to support Oregon families and the state’s long-term economic growth,” Kotek said.
Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, leader of the minority Republicans in the Oregon House of Representatives, urged that funds be dedicated to combat crime and the flood of fentanyl into the state. House Speaker Dan Rayfield, a Democrat, said the healthy revenue forecast means Oregon can continue to address homelessness, access to mental health and health care, community safety and education.
State Economist Josh Lehner said that as inflation slows, income gains are outpacing price increases, leading to rising living standards.
“Today’s forecast means we can sustain critical funding for services that directly impact the lives of Oregon families,” Democratic Senate President Rob Wagner said.
Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp urged bold investments in infrastructure like roads, sewer systems and water.
An increase in revenues at the end of the 2021-23 biennium will result in a larger personal income “kicker” than previously estimated, state economists said. The typical Oregonian is expected to receive a $980 credit on their state income tax under Oregon’s unique “kicker” law. (SOURCE)
Joint Task Force Arrests Phoenix Man for Sexually Exploiting Several Children Through Social Media, Detectives Believe He May Have Other Victims
JCSO Case 23-1667
PHOENIX, Ore. – A Phoenix man is now lodged in the Jackson County Jail on child cyber-sex crime charges. The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) joint inter-agency task force arrested the man yesterday morning and served a search warrant at his apartment in the 600 block of North Main Street in Phoenix. SOCET began an investigation after receiving a report from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office of a child being sexually exploited through the social media site X, formerly known as Twitter.
The suspect, Joshua Ray Pool, 40, of Phoenix, is charged with using a child in display of sexually explicit content and first-degree encouraging child sex abuse. During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) for further evidence of child exploitation.
Investigators believe Pool may have been communicating with other child victims from throughout the United States. If you have any information on the suspect, contact investigators through the Sheriff’s App “Submit a Tip” feature. Download the App here: https://apps.myocv.com/share/a72997501. You can also call the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) Tip Line at (541) 774-8333 and reference case number 23-1667.
JCSO deputies, Federal Bureau of Investigation, SOHTCTF, Medford Police Department, Phoenix Police Department, and Jackson County District Attorney’s Office assisted with the warrant service. Detectives are interviewing possible witnesses and involved parties, and investigations are ongoing.
SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation and human trafficking. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO and Homeland Security Investigations; as well as prosecutors from our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson and Josephine County.
REMINDER: Resumption of federal student loan repayments begins in October
Salem –The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is reminding everyone with federal student loans that payments will resume for all borrowers in October, following a pause implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interest accrual resumes Sept. 1, potentially affecting borrowers’ outstanding loan balances. Since March 2020, interest on most federal student loans had been temporarily paused.
“An important aspect of this transition is that people’s student loan balances have remained unchanged, but with the resumption of interest accrual, they will begin to rise,” said Lane Thompson, Oregon student loan ombuds. “We encourage borrowers to be active in understanding the implications of this change on their financial obligations.”
To facilitate a smooth transition and ensure accurate communication, all borrowers are urged to log in to studentaid.gov, the official U.S. Department of Education platform for federal student aid, and verify the accuracy of their contact and servicer information. Also, it is recommended that borrowers review their repayment options. Circumstances can evolve over time, making it essential to align repayment strategies with current financial status.
“A lot can change in three years, so it is paramount for people to verify the accuracy of their information,” Thompson said. “Ensuring that contact details are up to date will help borrowers stay informed about their loan status.”
In conjunction with the resumption of payments, the Biden administration has introduced an on-ramp program, which includes a fact sheet. This initiative aims to provide some relief to borrowers by prohibiting loan servicers from reporting missed payments to credit bureaus for one year. This measure offers a safety net for those facing difficulties in making payments after the extended payment pause.
DFR advises all borrowers to remain vigilant against potential scams. Instances of fraud have been reported in which scammers attempt to deceive people into making payments to unauthorized entities instead of their legitimate loan servicer.
“Scammers are out and trying to take advantage of the situation,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “Borrowers are encouraged to seek written communication, such as letters, from their servicers to verify authenticity.”
The Oregon Attorney General’s office is also integral in safeguarding those with student loans.
“My office plays a vital role in protecting student loan borrowers from misleading and deceptive practices. This fall will be no exception – we will be closely watching what happens when the pause on repayment ends in October,” said Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum. “If you have a concern about a practice of your loan servicer pertaining to your student loans, I urge you to file a complaint.”
It is critically important for borrowers to find out their loan servicer’s name and contact information, and understand their repayment plan and options. This knowledge empowers people to effectively manage their loan obligations.
For more information and guidance on student loan repayments, visit DFR’s help page or contact the student loan ombuds office at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .bankingporducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.bankingproducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.
### About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and www.dcbs.oregon.gov.
A federal judge has found that a Trump-era rule change that allowed for the logging of old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest violates several laws.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Hallman on Thursday found that the U.S. Forest Service violated the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Forest Management Act and the Endangered Species Act when it amended a protection that had been in place since 1994.
The findings came in response to a lawsuit filed by multiple environmental groups over the change.
Hallman recommended that the Forest Service’s environmental assessment and finding of no significant impact should be vacated and that the agency should be required to prepare a full environmental impact statement related to the change.
“The highly uncertain effects of this project, when considered in light of its massive scope and setting, raise substantial questions about whether this project will have a significant effect on the environment,” Hallman wrote.
The Forest Service didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The agency has two weeks to object to the judge’s findings and recommendations.
The protection changed by the Trump administration banned the harvesting of trees 21 inches (53 centimeters) or greater in diameter and instead emphasized maintaining a mix of trees, with trees at least 150 years old prioritized for protection and favoring fire-tolerant species.
The area impacted by the rule is at least 7 million acres (2.8 million hectares), approximately the size of the state of Maryland, on six national forests in eastern Oregon and southeast Washington state.
The Trump administration said the change, which went into effect in 2021, would make forests “more resistant and resilient to disturbances like wildfire.”
“We’re looking to create landscapes that withstand and recover more quickly from wildfire, drought and other disturbances,” Ochoco National Forest supervisor Shane Jeffries told Oregon Public Broadcasting at the time. “We’re not looking to take every grand fir and white fir out of the forests.”
The lawsuit, however, said the government’s environmental assessment didn’t adequately address scientific uncertainty surrounding the effectiveness of thinning, especially large trees, for reducing fire risk. The groups said the thinning and logging of large trees can actually increase fire severity.
The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Pendleton, Oregon, also said overwhelming evidence exists that large trees play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change and that eastern Oregon is lacking those trees after “more than a century of high-grade logging.”
Greater Hells Canyon Council, Oregon Wild, Central Oregon LandWatch, Great Old Broads for Wilderness, WildEarth Guardians and the Sierra Club were all plaintiffs in the lawsuit with support from the Nez Perce Tribe.
Rob Klavins, an advocate for Oregon Wild based in the state’s rural Wallowa County, said in a news release that he hopes the Forest Service will take this decision to heart and called on the Biden administration to stop defending the Trump-era rule change.
Earlier this year, President Joe Biden signed an executive order directing federal land managers to identify threats to older trees, such as wildfire and climate change, and develop policies to safeguard them.
As the Forest Service goes “back to the drawing board, we expect them to meaningfully involve all members of the public to create a durable solution,” Klavins said. (SOURCE)
Harris Beach health advisory issued Aug. 31
High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact
PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Harris Beach in Curry County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.
Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.
Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.
Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:
- Stormwater runoff.
- Sewer overflows.
- Failing septic systems.
- Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.
Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.
Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.
While this advisory is in effect at Harris Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.
For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).
Registration is Live for the Beach & Riverside Cleanup
– Get ready to participate in a time-honored tradition as SOLVE presents the Annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup. This eagerly anticipated event brings families and communities together to engage in beach cleanups, river cleanups, habitat restoration projects, and neighborhood litter pickup events throughout Oregon.
SOLVE is hosting over 60 project sites statewide between September 9th through September 17th – with the main events culminating on Saturday, September 16th. This extensive reach encompasses locations from the Coast to Portland, as well as the Willamette Valley, Central and Eastern Oregon. Volunteer registration is now live. Visit www.solveoregon.org to learn more about the available projects and to register for this impactful event.
From its inception in 1986, the Beach & Riverside Cleanup has evolved into a cherished annual event for countless Oregonian families. “It stands as a testament to our shared dedication to environmental stewardship, offering a safe and efficient way to make a lasting impact,” says Kris Carico, SOLVE’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our journey through the years has fostered a deep connection to Oregon’s waterways, from their origin to the sea. We encourage all fellow Oregonians to sign up for this statewide cleanup event.“
Since its start, the Beach & Riverside Cleanup has accounted for the removal of more than 2.5 million pounds of litter and marine debris. To put this in perspective, that’s equivalent to the weight of six Boeing 747 airplanes. Last year’s impressive effort involved almost 3,000 volunteers across 147 sites in Oregon, resulting in the collection and removal of approximately 50,000 pounds of discarded trash. September 16th is also International Coastal Cleanup Day and SOLVE is proudly joining forces with the Ocean Conservancy Group, contributing to a global endeavor aimed at preserving our coastlines.
SOLVE’s Beach & Riverside Cleanup is in partnership with Subaru of Portland, with additional support from OnPoint Community Credit Union, Bamboo Sushi, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Metro, BottleDrop, Knife River, Koin, Fred Meyer, Chevron, Clean Water Services, Tillamook County Creamery Association, and Tektronix.
About SOLVE — SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings Oregonians together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, and build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
5,000th Wish Granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation in Oregon and Southwest Washington
The Make-A-Wish Foundation has hit a new milestone. On Wednesday night, they granted their 5,000 wish in Oregon and Southwest Washington.
The wish recipient was a Molalla teen named Brandon who wished to customize his 2001 Acura TL.
Almost exactly one year ago, Brandon had an enlarged lymph node removed from his neck shortly after he was diagnosed with lymphoma.
His family says the car marks a new path forward after he spent months fighting for his life.
Make-A-wish shared a statement from Brandon with us.
“Well, I had this car, and I really wanted to do stuff to it but at the time I really couldn’t do anything,” he said. “So, it was kind of a long shot but it ended up working out, and I just wanted to pretty much make it look how it is now.”
The first wish Make-A-Wish Oregon granted was back in 1983.
“It’s pretty cool that in Oregon and southwest Washington alone we have granted 5,000 wishes for local children, and it is pretty amazing to be able to say we have made this huge impact, not only on the community of the kids we have granted their wishes, but also all of the people who get to donate and help and be a part of the magic of granting a wish,” said Laila Cook, CEO of Make-A-Wish Oregon.
Make-A-Wish expressed their gratitude for everyone here who helps them make wishes come true.
