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, August 23, 2024
Willamette Valley Weather
Wildfires continue to produce smoke in the Pacific Northwest. Breathe a little easier by keeping up to date on air quality conditions and concerns at Fire.AirNow.gov.
We’re not out of the woods yet – Please take precautions to avoid sparking a human-caused fire, be familiar with evacuation levels, and have a go-kit ready in case you need to leave your home.”
Fire Weather Tools from the National Weather Service
As we prepare for the peak of wildfire season in the U.S., the National Weather Service (NWS) reminds wildland fire managers that we have tools to help you monitor and fight wildfires. Whether it is a prescribed burn, ground fire or crown fire, fire managers can use this information to make decisions on how best to combat fires and keep the public safe.
Fire weather forecasters – The NWS issues Fire Weather Outlooks for the next eight days. These outlooks show areas where pre-existing fuel conditions, combined with forecast weather conditions, may result in a significant threat of wildfires.
Our Fire Weather Program supports land managers and firefighters who mitigate and respond to fires. Our weather forecasts are designed to highlight times and locations where a fire may be exceptionally hard to control. For example, we offer Red Flag Warnings, which mean warm temperatures, very low humidities and stronger winds are ongoing or expected to produce an increased risk of fire danger in 12 to 24 hours for specific locations.
Need a fire weather Spot Forecast? Land managers can request a site-specific, localized forecast for prescribed burns and wildfires to assess a potential threat. NWS recently updated this tool and will deliver additional enhancements to the application later this year. Learn more about the new Spot Forecast tool.
For federal and select state large wildfires, onsite weather forecasting support to firefighters is critical. An NWS Incident- Meteorologist (IMET) can be deployed to your incident command post. IMETs arrive on scene within 12 to 24 hours after activation and can serve up to 14 consecutive days before being relieved by another IMET. https://www.weather.gov/news/241507-fire-weather-tools
OHA Publishes Final Health Consultation Report for J.H. Baxter Site
— The Environmental Health Assessment Program (EHAP) at Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has published a final health consultation report for the J.H. Baxter & Co. site in Eugene.
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The health consultation report outlines OHA’s analysis of community health risks related to industrial pollution caused by J.H. Baxter, a now-closed wood treatment facility in Eugene. The final draft of the report is available here.
The final health consultation incorporates comments received from 13 community members, collected from March to June 2023. All public comments are available here.
OHA evaluated all comments and responded to common themes. The responses can be found in Appendix E of the document. Some comments resulted in changes to final conclusions and recommendations.
Based on public comment, OHA:
- Revised Conclusion 2 to describe the residential area near J.H. Baxter impacted by contamination in more detail.
- Added a new Conclusion 3 stating what agencies do and do not know about the extent of contamination in residential yards.
- Added information about contamination at the Trainsong Park site (including a website link to a separate report).
- Added a new Appendix F providing an evaluation of dioxin exposure through breathing air contaminated from Baxter.
- Strengthened recommendations about washing home-grown produce before eating.
- Added new sampling data that were not available when OHA released the draft version of the report. For example, new environmental data published in 2023 showed that a total of 11 residential yards had dioxin levels above 40 parts per trillion (ppt), four more than what was reported in the public comment draft.
OHA will continue working with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as these agencies remove contamination from the J.H. Baxter property and perform more sampling in the affected residential area. OHA may evaluate additional public health risks if samples are taken from new areas where people could come into contact with them.
EPA believes the J.H. Baxter site is eligible for inclusion on the National Priority List for contaminated site cleanup, also known as the Superfund site list. As part of that process, EPA requested – and, in July 2024, Gov. Tina Kotek agreed – that the federal agency list the site. For more information, visit EHAP’s J.H. Baxter page.
Pleasant Hill Fire Station To Sound Alert Siren One Last Time Today
A piece of history! In this picture at the top, you see the alert siren used by the Pleasant Hill Fire District for many years. This siren, similar to an ‘air raid siren’, alerted the community and the volunteers to an emergency. Activated either by a manual push button or later by being triggered by an attached plectron device. This siren hasn’t been regularly used in nearly 2 decades, but that’s about to change one last time.
On Friday, August 23rd, at 1pm, Pleasant Hill Goshen RFPD will activate and cycle this siren one final time. The significance of this test is for two primary reasons. The first, to run the moving parts before it is removed from the station. The second, this activation and test serves as our final acknowledgement of the closing of the Pleasant Hill Fire Station for construction. That’s right!
Friday, we formally close the Pleasant Hill Fire Station as we inch closer towards the demolition of the existing building and construction of a new fire station! Much of this work is about to begin, including demolition of this fire station. All this makes room for the new future fire station. Watch for more updates regarding our new fire station projects.
If you hear the siren Friday afternoon, just know there is nothing wrong, it’s a test and we’re really excited to be moving forward! Thank you for your support of Pleasant Hill Goshen RFPD. Great things are happening for our agency and community.
Victim and Pets Rescued From Lebanon House Fire
Lebanon, Ore. – At approximately 09:26 hours on Thursday, August 22nd 2024, Lebanon Fire District responded to a structure fire in the 200 block of West Olive Street.
The first to arrive was a Lebanon Police Department officer, who was told by a neighbor that someone was still in the house. The officer kicked in the front door, located the victim, and helped him out into safety.
The first Lebanon Fire District units arrived while the officer assisting a victim from the structure. Firefighters treated both the officer and victim while preparing to fight the house fire. Both the officer and victim were transported to Lebanon Community Hospital.
The single-family residence had thick, black smoke pushing out the front and side doors. Firefighters quickly entered the home and extinguished the fire, isolating most damage to the kitchen area. Crews worked on scene for the next two hours for overhaul and fire investigation.
The Lebanon Fire District responded with 20 personnel on 11 apparatus. Albany Fire assisted, providing emergency coverage during the event. A dog and a cat were also rescued from the fire.
The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind residents of the importance of working smoke alarms. For assistance with smoke alarms in your home, contact our Fire & Life Safety Division at (541) 451-1901.
LCSO Case #24-4495 — Shooting in North River Road area
On 8/21/24 at about 8:50 p.m. the Lane County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of shots fired in the 3000 Block of Beacon Rd.
Deputies responded to the area and were unable to locate the suspect. A vehicle parked in the area was found to have damage consistent with gunfire. No one was injured during the incident.
The pictured vehicle is believed to be involved in the incident. This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4150 opt. 1.
Linn County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Male for Arson
Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports on August 21, 2024, at 7:52 a.m., the Linn County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center received a 911 call of an armed disturbance at the Pioneer Villa east of Halsey. The caller reported a male pulled a knife on them after starting a fire at one of the buildings.
The caller reported the male ran off after the confrontation. Multiple deputies and Oregon State Police Troopers responded to the area. The male, identified as Omar Ochoa Cervantes, 22, of Salem, was captured near Interstate 5 after attempting to leave the area.
During the investigation, deputies learned passing motorists noticed a fire on the building. When witnesses went to inspect the fire, they observed Omar spraying lighter fluid on an active fire consuming the electrical box. Witnesses described Omar pulling a knife out of his pocket after someone took the lighter fluid from him.
A manager from the building used a fire extinguisher on the fire and, soon after, Omar walked toward the manager with the knife causing the manager to spray Omar with the fire extinguisher. Omar began leaving the area and witnesses provided continuous updates to dispatch on his direction of travel. During the police response, Omar attempted to throw things at a pursuing witness, to include a rock and a stick of deodorant which struck a witness in the head.
Due to quick actions of the witnesses, the damage was minimized, and the fire was limited to the exterior wall and electrical box. The value of the damage is still under investigation.
Omar was ultimately arrested and transported to the Linn County Jail where he was lodged on charges of Arson I, Harassment, Menacing and Attempted Assault IV. Linn County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Oregon State Police and Halsey Fire Department.
Update in Fatal Shooting North of Coburg
UPDATE — 8/20/24 – The deceased victim in this case was identified as Derrick Adam McKee, 49, of Harrisburg. LCSO Case #24-4448 –
–8/19/24 – At about 9:30 p.m., Detectives arrested Sean Joseph Lynn, 30, for Murder in the 2nd Degree. He was lodged at the Lane County Jail. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending next of kin notification.
— On August 19th at about 3 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies, Oregon State Police, Coburg Police and Linn County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported shooting in the 33000 block of Coleman Road north of Coburg. When they arrived at the location, a male was deceased from a gunshot wound. Detectives began interviewing involved residents, and the investigation is ongoing. There is no ongoing danger to the public.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4141 and reference Case #24-4448.
Lane County Jail partners with Emergence to connect people released from custody with resources
Last year, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office began partnering with Emergence, a local non-profit focused on addiction counseling. The partnership aims to provide resources to people released from custody before they even leave the Lane County Jail. The goals are to save lives, prevent overdoses, and provide a positive alternative to the behaviors that may lead to re-arrest.
Emergence peers are available in the jail lobby during peak release times, and a kiosk of resources is always available. Peers assist with the opportunity to take positive steps toward recovery by connecting with needed treatment and shelter services.
Emergence has a broad network of community partners who are involved in this work, including Restored Connections Peer Center, Eugene Mission, Ideal Option, and the Behavioral Health Resource Network of Lane County (BHRN-LC). This allows Emergence to efficiently provide individual strategies for people to create structure in their lives.
But you don’t have to end up in the jail lobby to get help. If you or a friend or family member wants to quit using substances and needs help, please call the BHRN-LC hotline at 1-800-422-2595.
Learn more about the assistance Emergence provides our community at 4emergence.com.
Lane County Sheriff’s Office — Have you heard about our new partner in service to Lane County?
Mobile Crisis Services starts today! Learn more at www.lanecountyor.gov/mobilecrisis
Eugene Police Department – Gear up! Click It or Ticket Campaign to be August 19 through September 1
Oregon Department of Transportation has funded a high visibility seat belt enforcement event from August 19 through September 1 and Eugene Police will provide additional enforcement during that period. The Eugene Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit is reminding drivers about the lifesaving benefits of wearing a seat belt and proper child safety restraints as we all approach the end of summer and Labor Day.
“Modern passenger cars and trucks are equipped with various advanced safety features. However, if a driver or their passengers are not properly restrained – using safety belt systems, child safety seats, and or belt positioning boosters – no amount of technology will keep an occupant safe,” said Sergeant Nate Pieske of the Eugene Police Traffic Safety Unit. ”An overwhelming amount of the serious injury crashes and deaths related to traffic crashes in this community could have been mitigated or prevented entirely had occupants been properly restrained during traffic crashes.”
The Eugene Police Traffic Safety Unit, Eugene Police patrol officers, and participating law enforcement agencies will be taking a no-excuses approach to seat belt law enforcement, writing citations day and night. In Eugene, the presumptive fine for a seat belt violation is $150. For more information on the Click It or Ticket mobilization, please visit www.nhtsa.gov/ciot. Online Resources:• Car Seat Types: Determine whether your child fits best in a rear-facing car seat, forward-facing car seat, booster seat, or seat belt.• Car Seat Recommendations: Review NHTSA’s recommendations for the best car seat for your child’s age and size. •
Find and Compare: Find and compare car seats with NHTSA’s handy car seat finder, which also searches specific brands. Oregon Department of Transportation Seatbelts and Child Seats: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFC2K2AfdJMMore ODOT information on safety belts and child seats at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/TS/Pages/safetybelts.aspx
We are now hiring for 911 dispatchers. Learn more by visiting https://www.eugene-or.gov/917/Central-Lane-9-1-1 to find detailed information about how you can join our team in Eugene.
Lane County Sheriff’s Office recruiting cadets to gain law enforcement experience
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office Cadet Program trains young men and women between the ages of 18 and 21 for a career in law enforcement. Our Cadet Program provides an opportunity to get first-hand experience and develop skills and knowledge necessary for full-time employment. Although being a Cadet is not a pre-requisite to becoming a Deputy Sheriff, it is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience for a successful career.
LCSO has a limited number of spots available, however applicants who aren’t selected are encouraged to apply the next time we recruit.
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements:
– Must be a US Citizen
– Must be between 18 and 21 years of age
– Must possess a high-school diploma or be enrolled in a high school or GED program.
Cadets will:
– Receive training in law enforcement tactics, legal issues, use of force, corrections, and patrol operations
– Learn the differences between a Sheriff’s Office and municipal, state, or federal police counterparts
– Attend community events to assist deputies
– Participate in law enforcement ride-alongs
– Be prepared for a future career with the Sheriff’s Office
– Be mentored regarding the culture of service expected from Sheriff’s Office members
– Receive opportunities to work with many of the special teams and assignments offered by the Sheriff’s Office (Dunes Patrol, Marine Patrol, Special Response Team, Forest Patrol, etc.)
To apply, visit www.cognitoforms.com/LaneCountyOR/CadetApplication
Suspect identified, wanted by police — Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit detectives ask for the public’s help in a 2023 homicide case.
On the evening of February 13, gunfire rang out in a northeast Salem neighborhood after a verbal dispute between several men gathered in the street near Arbon DR and Vallejo ST NE. The incident left Alejandro Silva-Ramirez and two other victims with gunshot wounds. Silva-Ramirez, age 27 of Salem, died on‑the-scene. The adult and teen who were also struck by gunfire survived their injuries.
Evidence developed in the investigation led to Fermin Flores, age 33 of Salem, as the suspect in the incident. Flores, who also uses the name Alejandro Chavez Mando, has a warrant for his arrest on the charge of second-degree murder.
Detectives have exhausted all efforts to locate Flores and request the public’s help with this case. Flores is a Hispanic male adult, with black hair and brown eyes, is 5 foot 3 inches in height, and has a slender build. He generally wears his hair shaved and may have facial hair.
Anyone with information about Flores’ whereabouts is asked to call the Salem Police Tips Line at 503‑588-8477. If you see Flores, call police authorities. Do not approach him. He is considered armed and dangerous.
ALERT: MISSING PERSON: SPECIAL ATTENTION ALONG HWY 138 EAST
Myrtle Creek Police Department is working on a missing person case involving 69-year-old Kathleen Wilson, who left the Myrtle Creek area on the morning of August 5. Her vehicle, a red or maroon 2012 Chevy Cruz bearing Oregon license plate#747EDB, was last seen heading east on Highway 138E leaving Roseburg just before 7:00 AM.
Her intended destination is Chiloquin, Oregon in Klamath County, where she never arrived. Information so far is that she has medication she did not take with her and was getting confused while driving. She is currently listed as missing and endangered. If you see her or her vehicle, please call 541-440-4471 immediately.
Fire Updates
For further information visit the Inciweb links for each Cottage Grove-Lane 1 fires below: Lane 1: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/…/or77s-Cottage-Grove-lane-1Clark 900: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident…/or770s-clark-900Quartz: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident…/orupf-quartzJack Saddle: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident…/orupf-jack-saddleAdam Mountain: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident…/orupf-adam-mountainMineral: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident…/orupf-mineralPuddin: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident…/orupf-puddinHours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM E-mail: 2024.lane1@firenet.gov Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CottageGroveLane1Fires2024
For More Information Phone: (541) 208-1742, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Email: 2024.willamettecomplex@firenet.gov InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/…/orwif-willamette-complex… Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillametteComplexFires YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WillametteComplexFiresSouth
Summary: Firefighting crews have made progress strengthening containment lines on the Willamette Complex South fires. Recent favorable weather conditions have aided their efforts. https://www.facebook.com/WillametteComplexFires
U.S. Forest Service – Willamette National Forest – · The Willamette National Forest has expanded an emergency closure order for the Pyramid Fire on the Sweet Home Ranger District to include the Slate Fire area. The closure order, which is for public and firefighter safety, is effective through Nov. 15, 2024, unless modified or rescinded sooner.
Hwy 126 Closures For Repaving Impacts Belknap Springs Area
The Oregon Department of Transportation will close parts of Oregon Highway 126 to repave sections of the highway and resurface three bridges. While efforts are being made to minimize disruption, local businesses and residents may see an impact on tourism and daily commutes.
The Oregon Department of Transportation is working near Belknap Springs to re-pave parts of OR 126 and re-surface three bridges along the highway. From August 1 to August 8, parts of 126 will be closed overnight — from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. — and August 20 will be the first day of a 48-hour closure.
ODOT said they recommend checking Trip Check before traveling on Highway 126 and always plan ahead. They recommend using Highway 58 or Highway 20 as a detour route during the closures.
Eugene police are actively searching for two suspects involved in the July 13 shooting death of 16-year-old Fernando Aguirre. Arrest warrants for Athel Morgan, 19, and Jayson Blackwell, 18, were issued by the Lane County District Attorney’s Office on July 26.
Both Morgan and Blackwell are individually charged with one count of unlawful use of a weapon with a firearm. Both were present at the scene of Aguirre’s shooting.
Since the shooting, the Eugene Police Department claimed officers were working to minimize acts of retaliation between two groups of teenagers and young adults after responding to two shootings allegedly related to Aguirre’s death.
One shooting was in the 1500 block of Mill Street where property was struck. Another shooting occurred in the 3600 block of W. 13th Ave. where a 20-year-old victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, according to Eugene Police.
As part of the investigation, detectives identified a suspect involved in the shootings as Lekoff, who was arrested in Springfield and later arraigned in a Lane County Circuit Court for one count of attempted assault in the first degree with a firearm and two counts of unlawful use of a weapon with a firearm.
Lane County Sheriff’s Office Still Seeking Suspect in Homicide
In June, a deceased female was located in the Cottage Grove area who appeared to be the victim of homicide. Lane County Sheriff’s detectives identified the victim as a missing person, Rozaleena Faith Rasmussen, 29, from Cottage Grove.
Detectives identified the suspect as Anthony Wesley Tyrrell, 31, of Cottage Grove. A nationwide warrant has been issued for his arrest. Tyrrell is described as a white male adult with brown hair, brown eyes, weighing approximately 165 pounds and standing approximately 5’9” tall. He was last seen with his head shaved and wearing a white shirt, black trench coat, black pants, and black boots.
Tyrrell is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to call 911 and avoid approaching or contacting him.
“When It Hits The Fan”: A New Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management
Lane County Emergency Management is excited to announce the launch of a new podcast, “When It Hits The Fan,” now available on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan.
About Lane County Emergency Management – Lane County Emergency Management is committed to preparing the community for emergencies and disasters through education, planning, and response coordination.
White Bird Clinic – · Crisis intervention is a 24/7 need in our community, and CAHOOTS, as part of White Bird Crisis Intervention programs, responds.
White Bird CAHOOTS Springfield Coverage: 11 am – 11 pm, 7 days a week (541-726-3714) — Eugene Coverage: 24/7 (541-682-5111)
Oregon State Fair Kicks Off Today!
185 Acres of Amazing Things to Explore!!! https://oregonstatefair.org/
If you missed out on pre-fair deals , there are still ways to save on specific days.
Admission on opening day is $5 courtesy of sponsor Mattress Firm. The $5 tickets can only be purchased that day at the gates and is a half-price or better deal on regular admission for children 6-12 ($10) and adults 13-64 ($12). Fair admission is $3 for seniors (65 or better) and free for children 5 and under.
“Share at the Fair Day” is Wednesday, Aug. 28, with $2 off admission when you donate two cans of food. The deal cannont be combined with any other offer. The National Association of Women in Construction will build the state of Oregon and an Oregon Trail wagon out of nearly 10,000 cans of beans. After the fair, they’ll dismantle the sculpture and donate the cans to Marion Polk Food Share.
Free admission for children ages 6-12 is Thursday, Aug. 29, saving families $10 a kid. Ages 5 and younger are free every day during the fair.
“Heroes Day” is Monday, Sept. 2, with free admission for military, first responders, teachers, health care workers and their families.
Free parking passes are available with purchase at Oregon Wilco stores through Sept. 2, or while supplies last. The limit is one per purchase, with no minimum dollar amount required. Wilco locations include Salem, Silverton and Stayton. MORE INFO: https://oregonstatefair.org and on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oregonstatefair
Milder Weather Gives Oregon Firefighters Brief Respite Amid Wildfire Season
In what’s been one of the most devastating wildfire seasons in Oregon’s history, this last week has been a much-needed reprieve for firefighters across the state. An extended period of milder weather coupled with scattered showers has kept fire activity minimal.
And in some cases, like the Dixon Fire southeast of Oakridge, it’s allowed crews to more or less deal with the fire entirely. However, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) isn’t treating this as a break, instead they are treating it like ‘half time.’
“So right now we’re saying we’re in a bit of a half time. We’ve done the first half; we’ve seen how it works. We have this reprieve now, we don’t know [how] the second half is going to go, but we’re preparing for all those different potential threats that we might have as we go into September,” said Jessica Neujahr, ODF’s Public Information Officer.
With September right around the corner, the biggest concern for ODF as it stands is eastern winds; which have caused fires to explode in size in the past.
“The general fear is always just when those fuels are still dry and we have a strong wind, those fuels are primed and ready to burn. And so, we want to make sure as we’re moving forward, we can preposition our engines to be in the best spot necessary.”
While Neujahr and ODF crews are thankful for the milder conditions, she emphasized that crews are ready to ramp up firefighting efforts when needed.
Oregon’s Wildfire Season Breaks Historical Records For Acres Burned
Wildfires across Oregon have burned more acres this year than ever before in recent history, according to data from state and federal fire officials — and the season is still far from over.
Why it matters: The record-breaking 1.5 million acres — or 2,400 square miles — burned so far in 2024 shows how climate plays a significant role in efforts to control blazes.
State of play: Oregon saw below-average precipitation and above-normal high temperatures earlier this spring, leading to dry conditions and reduced moisture levels in vegetation — factors that “complicate efforts to control wildfires,” Erica Fleishman, director of the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, told Axios.
- Even though humans cause the majority of wildfires, weather events such as recent summer heat waves and high winds exacerbated conditions quickly and made on-the-ground firefighting difficult.
The latest: Firefighters have been able to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and rain this week to increase containment, Jessica Neujahr, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Forestry, told Axios.
- Yes, but: Temperatures are expected to rise again soon and September “is known for east winds,” she said. “We are prepared to scale operations back up as needed.”
By the numbers: As of Tuesday, there were 71 large fires in Oregon responsible for burning the majority of the state’s 1.5 million acres.
- That’s the most acres affected by fire since 1992, when the most reliable records are available, according to Carol Connolly, a spokesperson for the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center.
- 295,000 scorched acres came solely from the Durkee Fire — the sixth largest wildfire in the state’s history — near the eastern border with Idaho, which is 95% contained.
- Half of the firefighters available in the U.S. — over 11,000 — are currently fighting fires in Oregon and Washington.
- The Falls Fire has so far been the most destructive, destroying nearly 30 residences, buildings and other commercial properties, Connolly told Axios.
The intrigue: This time last month, the state’s wildfires had already burned 694,000 acres (more than in all of 2023) as the season got off to an aggressive start.
Flashback: The last record-breaking wildfire season was in 2020, when the Labor Day wildfires burned 1.2 million acres, destroyed more than 4,000 homes and killed 11 people.
The bottom line: While this year has not been as destructive as far as lives lost or structures destroyed, dozens of communities in eastern and central Oregon remain under air quality advisories and evacuation orders. (SOURCE)
As we move through 2024, wildfires continue to shape the landscape of the PNW—the impacts have been widespread.
A combination of dry conditions, high temperatures, and strong winds have fueled these wildfires. The ongoing drought has left many forests and grasslands extremely dry, creating ideal conditions for fire spread.
Although rain, cooler temperatures, and higher humidity are expected in some parts of the region, 
conditions are still dry enough for active fire behavior. Significant lightning with little precipitation is forecast for eastern Oregon today with Red Flag Warnings in effect. PLEASE: Do your part to prevent human-caused starts and follow all fire restrictions.
How You Can Help:• Be Firewise: Take steps to protect your home and property from wildfires.• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest fire information and follow local authorities’ instructions.• Support Relief Efforts: Consider donating time to organizations assisting those affected by these fires. https://www.facebook.com/NWCCInfo
Most fires are human-caused and accidental. The most common fire causes we respond to are everyday activities that ODF regulates in the summer in an effort to cut down on these types of fire starts. Help prevent wildfires and Keep Oregon Green by following the current regulations: https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions/
Large wildfires have burned tens of thousands of acres across the PNW, with human activity and lightning being a significant contributing factor. The uptick in human-caused fires, which include those started by campfires and debris burns strains firefighting resources significantly. Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyone—help mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.
Monitor Fires in Oregon – Updated Daily
Large Fires in Oregon 8/23/24 9:00am per INCIWEB
| Incident | Type | State | Incident Size | UpdatedSort ascending |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Willamette Complex – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 4452 Acres | 17 seconds ago |
| Willamette Complex Fires – South – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 13082 Acres | 8 minutes 44 seconds ago |
| Diamond Complex – ORUPF | Wildfire | Oregon | 11106 Acres | 22 minutes 15 seconds ago |
| Middle Fork Fire – ORCLP | Wildfire | Oregon | 5244 Acres | 22 minutes 15 seconds ago |
| Sandstone Fire – ORMHF | Wildfire | Oregon | 702 Acres | 25 minutes 5 seconds ago |
| Whisky Creek Fire – ORMHF | Wildfire | Oregon | 2058 Acres | 25 minutes 55 seconds ago |
| Crazy Creek – OROCF | Wildfire | Oregon | 86963 Acres | 28 minutes 55 seconds ago |
| Homestead Complex – ORUPF | Wildfire | Oregon | 5898 Acres | 37 minutes 32 seconds ago |
| Cottage Grove – Lane 1 – OR77S | Wildfire | Oregon | 25265 Acres | 2 hours 1 minute ago |
| Falls Fire – ORMAF | Wildfire | Oregon | 151689 Acres | 12 hours 40 minutes ago |
| Telephone Fire – ORMAF | Wildfire | Oregon | 54005 Acres | 12 hours 45 minutes ago |
| Red Fire – ORDEF | Wildfire | Oregon | 738 Acres | 16 hours 44 minutes ago |
| Dixon Fire – ORUPF | Wildfire | Oregon | 1970 Acres | 2 days ago |
| Battle Mountain Complex – OR97S | Wildfire | Oregon | 183026 Acres | 3 days 1 hour ago |
| Warner Peak Fire – ORSHR | Wildfire | Oregon | 65866 Acres | 4 days ago |
| Courtrock Fire – OR95S | Wildfire | Oregon | 20019 Acres | 5 days 18 hours ago |
| Town Gulch – ORWWF | Wildfire | Oregon | 18220 Acres | 6 days 16 hours ago |
| Cliff Mountain – ORWWF | Wildfire | Oregon | 1108 Acres | 1 week ago |
| Porcupine Fire – ORBUD | Wildfire | Oregon | 6491 Acres | 1 week 3 days ago |
| Lone Rock Fire – ORPRD | Wildfire | Oregon | 137222 Acres | 1 week 3 days ago |
| Badland Complex 2024 – ORVAD | Wildfire | Oregon | 54563 Acres | 1 week 5 days ago |
| Microwave Tower Fire – OR95S | Wildfire | Oregon | 1313 Acres | 1 week 6 days ago |
| Durkee Fire – ORVAD | Wildfire | Oregon | 294265 Acres | 2 weeks 1 day ago |
Please Help Prevent Wildfires!
In these dry conditions, a single spark can cause a lot of damage. Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention page.
Thousands of Birds Die of Bird Flu and Botulism At Wildlife Refuges In Southern Oregon
At least 5,000 birds have died so far this summer at a network of wildlife refuges on the Oregon-California border, sparking fears of another large outbreak of disease and calls for more water releases in a region roiled by drought and water uncertainty made worse by climate change.
The deaths are likely caused by a rare combination of avian flu and botulism, said John Vradenburg, supervisory biologist at the refuge complex. Virus-caused avian was confirmed at one of the refuges in July, Vradenburg said. Avian flu has been on the rise in recent years, leading to die-offs in poultry and wild birds.
Botulism, which paralyzes birds from the bottom up until they are unable to fly and then to breathe, is caused by a toxin produced by soil-dwelling bacteria. Tests are still pending for botulism at the refuge complex, but symptoms closely match past botulism outbreaks, Vradenburg said.
The six refuges, known collectively as the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex, contain the largest wetland network west of the Mississippi River. They’re a stopping point for 80% of the birds that migrate on the Pacific Flyway, a major north-south flyway for a diverse number of migratory birds in the Americas that use the refuges to rest, water and feed.
In 2020, at least 60,000 waterfowl and shorebirds died of botulism at the refuges, the worst outbreak in over four decades. READ MORE: https://www.oregonlive.com/environment/2024/08/thousands-of-birds-die-of-bird-flu-and-botulism-at-wildlife-refuges-in-southern-oregon.html
Oregon Division of Financial Regulation to give out up to $125,000 in sponsorship awards to boost financial empowerment
Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has announced its third annual Statewide Outreach Sponsorship Program for organizations that engage in financial empowerment work. The program will award sponsorships of $25,000 to up to five organizations for one-year contracts.
Organizations can attend a free information session through Zoom on Thursday, Sept 5. at 3 p.m. or Friday, Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. to learn more about the program. For those not able to attend, the session’s slide deck will be made available on DFR’s website after the session. Go to DFR’s community engagement and consumer education page for more information. The Zoom link for the information sessions will be provided on that page when it is available.
The goal of the sponsorship program is to collaborate with trusted community partners in delivering financial education to consumers in underserved communities. The program will help empower consumers to make decisions about insurance and other financial services that are best for them and raise awareness of free services and resources offered by DFR.
The cost of insurance is often one of the biggest expenses for people, yet national studies show that they do not understand insurance and are not confident to shop around for the best coverage at the best price. People are more confident and understand insurance better when they can turn to an expert for information.
“The first two years of the program has been extremely successful,” DFR Administrator TK Keen said. “As we go into the third year of this program, we want to continue to expand our reach to more people so they can build their skills and confidence to manage money and choose insurance and financial products and services that meet their needs.”
Preference will be given to nonprofits, public schools, public charter schools, and tribal entities currently conducting financial empowerment work in Oregon. Solicitation materials are available on the DFR website. Proposals are due Sept. 27.
Organizations will be evaluated on their ability to help underserved communities, including African Americans; Latino, Latina, and Latinx people; Native Americans; Asians and Pacific Islanders; other people of color; women; LGBTQ+ people; survivors of domestic violence; immigrants and refugees; youth who are underserved; previously incarcerated people; people with disabilities; and seniors.
### About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov
Financial help to meet domestic violence survivors’ critical safety needs increases to $3,200
(Salem) – Domestic violence survivors are now able to receive up to $3,200 for assistance with safety related needs including moving. Previously, financial help for survivors was capped at $1,200 within a 90-day period.
This support may be used for items such as:
- Deposits for rent or utilities
- Replacing items left behind such as clothing or furniture
- New locks, security cameras or alarms, and
- A post office box.
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is implementing the increase this month after receiving a one-time investment from the Oregon Legislature to raise the maximum grant amount for Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors (TA-DVS).
“Ensuring that resources and information are available to survivors when they are needed is crucial for their safety. The increase is an important step forward for anyone at risk,” said Claire Seguin, Director, ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs.
Families and pregnant individuals receiving TA-DVS on or after Aug. 11, 2024, will have access to the increased grant amount to support their safety and stability.
Individuals may apply for this support by phone, in person, or by submitting an application. For more information on how to apply go to oregon.gov/odhs/dv.
ODHS also provides confidential domestic violence advocates in most of its Self-Sufficiency Programs and Child Welfare offices to support with:
- Safety planning
- Resources, and
- Someone to talk to.
About the Oregon Department of Human Services
The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.
Measure 110 shows overall client gains with some exceptions
SALEM, Ore.— Measure 110 service providers reported continued increases in client engagement in all areas since the establishment of the statewide networks, excluding slight declines in client counts during the sixth quarter of reporting, from Oct. 1 through Dec. 30, 2023.
The largest gains in client numbers between the fifth and sixth quarter were in supported employment and housing services (29 percent and 10 percent),respectively.
Over the same time, screening services dropped by 23 percent. However, screening services have registered overall gains of 346 percent since the inception of the Measure 110 networks.
The remaining service categories remained relatively stable.
Modest fluctuations in client counts are expected as the statewide networks near full capacity.
Overall, however, Measure 110 providers reported a pattern of strong demand over the 18 months Behavioral Health Resource Networks have been in existence. Measure 110 providers have now reported six quarters of data and expenditures since July 1, 2022, when the first network was established.
Over those 18 months, supported employment services reported a 573 percent increase in client growth. Housing services has realized gains of 317 percent and peer supported services showed a 256 percent increase.
Black and African American client counts have steadily increased over the past four quarters. Over that time, the data show that people reporting as American Indian or Alaska Native had the highest rates of any race/ethnicity group in accessing Measure 110 substance use treatment programs.
Measure 110 network providers report the number of clients they serve and the number of encounters they have with their clients as a measure of overall engagement. Some clients may receive multiple services within a network or within multiple service networks.
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) maintains a comprehensive Measure 110 data reporting dashboard that includes quarterly data, expenditures, key demographic information, and aggregated narrative summaries for the 42 statewide service networks.
The deadline for the next round of reporting for expenditure and program data is in October and will cover the time from April 1 through June 30. OHA expects to publish that data in December.
To learn more, visit OHA’s Measure 110 webpage.
Umatilla Man Faces Federal Charges for Making Threats of Sexual Violence Against Children and Possessing Dozens of Photos and Videos Depicting Child Sexual Abuse
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Umatilla, Oregon man who is alleged to have made several hoax phone calls threatening sexual violence against children and possessed dozens of photos and videos depicting child sexual abuse has been indicted in federal court.
Thomas Loren Goatley, 20, has been charged with receiving and possessing child pornography and making interstate threats.
According to court documents, between approximately January 5 and April 30, 2024, Goatley is alleged to have made more than 60 phone calls to various schools, police departments, emergency lines, and animal shelters in at least 12 states. During many of these calls, Goatley claimed that he was sexually assaulting a child, or that he was about to do so. While investigating these threats, special agents from the FBI discovered Goatley was also the subject of numerous CyberTipline Reports submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) indicating that he was active in receiving and distributing child sexual abuse material.
On July 22, 2024, investigators executed a federal search warrant on Goatley’s person and residence in Umatilla, and he was placed under arrest. A later search of Goatley’s cell phone revealed dozens of illicit images and videos depicting child sexual abuse.
On July 23, 2024, Goatley made his initial appearance in federal court before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was detained pending further court proceedings. He was arraigned Thursday and pleaded not guilty. A four-day jury trial is scheduled to begin on October 22, 2024.
Receiving and possessing child pornography is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison with a five-year mandatory minimum sentence. Transmitting interstate threats is punishable by up to five years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Umatilla Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Mira Chernick, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
ACLU sues Medford police for allegedly ‘spying’ on liberal groups they dislike
The ACLU of Oregon filed suit Tuesday against the Medford Police Department, claiming it has illegally been compiling secret files on individuals and groups who protested against the Minneapolis police murder of George Floyd, pushed for LGBTQ+ rights, criticized the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade and advocated for homeless people and drug users.
The suit alleges that the southern Oregon police department monitored social media accounts and combed news stories to build files against individuals and groups when they weren’t suspected of any criminal activity.
“Simply put, MPD is abusing its power to spy on activists whose views it dislikes — and, not only that, building and maintaining files about such people and organizations without any justifiable law enforcement purpose, a blatant violation of Oregon law,” states the lawsuit, filed in Jackson County Circuit Court.
The suit doesn’t seek a dollar amount. Rather, it asks a judge to order police to stop the practice.
The suit alleges police kept files on the following plaintiffs: the Rogue Valley Pepper Shakers, which advocates for queer and unhoused people; Stabbin Wagon, which seeks to prevent drug overdoses; and Melissa Jones, a former executive of Stabbin Wagon.
“The Medford Police are monitoring people like me because of what we care about, not for anything related to crime,” said Toren McKnight, co-founder of the Rogue Valley Pepper Shakers, in a news release issued by the ACLU.
But City Attorney Eric Mitton refuted the lawsuit’s claims, saying in a written statement Tuesday that the police aren’t judging “individuals’ political, religious, or social views” as the department keeps tabs on various groups.
“The Medford Police Department reviews publicly available social media to address legitimate public safety concerns related to public rallies and protests,” Mitton said. Those concerns include “potential traffic disruptions,” “possible breaches of peace” and “potential conflicts between protesters and counter-protesters,” he said.
Police Chief Justin Ivens added: “This ensures our ability to address potential safety concerns while safeguarding those exercising their constitutional right to free speech.” (SOURCE)
COVID Cases Surge in Oregon As Wastewater Readings Show Outpacing Virus Levels Elsewhere In Nation
The level of COVID-19 detected in Oregon wastewater has surged this summer, outpacing virus levels detected in other western states and across the nation in recent weeks, federal data shows.
COVID-19 has been on the rise in Oregon since late April, driven by omicron variants, said Dr. Paul Cieslak, medical director for communicable diseases and immunization at the Oregon Health Authority.
The rate of people testing positive for COVID climbed from 3.1% in April to over 18% during the last week of July, according to data reported to the health authority.
The number of COVID patients hospitalized in Oregon increased to 223 at the beginning of August, compared to 79 at the end of April.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Wastewater Surveillance System shows that virus levels detected in Oregon sewage began a rapid climb at the end of June, fell slightly at the end of July and ticked up again in August. As of the week ending on Aug. 10, Oregon’s wastewater viral activity level measured at 22.78 compared to a national average of 8.8 and a reading of 14 in other Western states. Anything over 8 is considered “very high,” the CDC website says.
Cieslak said Oregonians should make sure they’re up to date on the currently available COVID-19 vaccine and make a plan to get an updated dose when the vaccine for the 2024-25 COVID season becomes available. Oregonians should avoid large indoor gatherings and consider masking, especially in enclosed areas, Cieslak said. Those at higher risk should make a plan for getting tested and treated quickly if they develop COVID-19 symptoms.
Researchers at Oregon State University are celebrating the completion of an epic mapping project. For the first time, there is a 3D map of the Earth’s crust and mantle beneath the entire United States. The map could help the utility industry protect the power grid and prevent wide-scale blackouts.
This map depicts locations where researchers collected date to measure the Earth’s electrical currents. Green dots represent locations that were mapped under National Science Foundation support, multicolored sites in California and Nevada were completed with NASA support and red dots are sites to be completed by OSU through a new cooperative agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey Map.
OSU professor in the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, Adam Schultz, is the principal investigator on the mapping project.
It’s a big deal to scientists and electric companies to see how naturally occurring geomagnetic currents and solar storms interface with the electrical substations that keep our lights on and our cell phones buzzing.
In May, residents of planet Earth experienced the strongest solar storm in more than 30 years, and many witnessed of the rate site of the aurora borealis, or northern lights, across large swaths of the United States and elsewhere.
Schultz said the storm also affected radio and some cellular phone service, and caused power grid irregularities and problems with GPS systems. “We didn’t see any wide-scale power issues during that storm and the power industry had access to the data we have provided through this effort, so that’s an indication of the project’s success,” said Schultz.
“This is vital information that helps tell them how geomagnetic currents will interface with electrical substations,” Schultz said.
Oregon State’s National Geoelectromagnetic Facility is the largest facility for this type of measurement in the world, making the university a natural fit for the project, Schultz said. In all, he and his team received nearly $15 million in federal grants to support the work.
The information Schultz and dedicated researchers have been gathering has been shared freely during the project on the EarthScope Consortium | Powering Geophysics website. Now the first 300km of the entire U.S., from surface through the Earth’s mantle and crust, are visible in 3D, Schultz said. (READ MORE)
Oregon Residents Will Vote In November On A $1,600 Annual Universal Basic Income
A ballot measure to give Oregon residents a $1,600 tax rebate faces bipartisan opposition.
Oregon Rebate, or Measure 118, proposes taxing corporations more to redistribute money to residents.
Democrats and Republicans alike say it would hurt the state economy.
Democrats and Republicans alike are fighting a ballot measure in Oregon that would increase corporate taxes to give residents an annual rebate.
The proposal, known as Ballot Measure 118 or the Oregon Rebate, would add a 3% tax on corporations in the state once they make $25 million a year. The plan was originally known as Initiative 17 . The money would be distributed among state residents, including children, as a $1,600 annual rebate.
Despite the opposition from lawmakers, it’s not up to them. Ballot measures give residents a chance to vote directly on an issue. Oregonians themselves will be able to vote in favor or against the measure in November’s general election.
Antonio Gisbert, the chief organizer behind the effort, told Business Insider he remains optimistic that a majority of voters will support the measure in the general election.
“It kind of does seem a little bit like some of these elected [officials] are more beholden to corporations and corporate interests than they are to the interests of everyday Oregonians,” Gisbert said. “We are super committed in instituting some degree of corporate tax justice.”
Cash payments with no strings attached are gaining popularity in the United States as a way to support vulnerable populations. Guaranteed basic income programs piloted across the nation have found that recipients, who are typically low-income, spend the money on rent , groceries, and transportation.
While guaranteed basic income programs are aimed at specific groups, like low-income residents or new mothers , the Oregon Rebate would benefit all residents, making it more similar to a universal basic income.
While Democrats are typically the primary supporters of basic income programs in city and state governments, many Oregon Democrats joined Republicans in opposition to Measure 118. In a joint statement from state House and Senate Democrats, the legislators said they have concerns about the rebate coming from corporate taxes.
“In these tough times, we all want working families to get every break they can, but Measure 118 is not the answer. We have grave concerns it will slow job growth and cause cuts to critical services like road maintenance, fire fighting, and addiction recovery,” the Democrats wrote in a joint statement shared with Business Insider.
An analysis from the state’s legislative revenue office found that Measure 118, which would increase corporation taxes while reducing personal income taxes, would “significantly” alter how the state draws on tax money to pay for public services.
Citing the revenue report, the coalition of Democrats said the rebates would “increase prices for consumer goods and slow Oregon’s job growth.”
“Meanwhile, the ‘rebates’ would go to every Oregonian — including the ultra-wealthy. As a matter of public policy, we believe this is a bad deal for Oregonians,” they said in the statement.
In a statement on Thursday from the organizers behind Oregon Rebate, Gisbert said the initiative doesn’t need legislators’ support.
“Our opponents can keep paying lip service to their donors and we’ll keep working to turn out voters in November,” Gisbert said in the statement. Read the original article on Business Insider
Missing Oregon Man’s Vehicle Found Abandoned On California Logging Road
The vehicle of a man reported missing out of Tillamook County, Oregon was found abandoned on a logging road in northern California earlier this week.
According to the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office, 69-year-old Gregory Alan Russell was reported missing from the Tillamook County area on August 5. However police say the initial report indicates Russell drove away from his home on August 1, but wasn’t reported as missing until four days later.
Police later learned that Russell was seen at a casino in the North Bend area prior to traveling to California. He reportedly had contact with people he knew in Trinity County, however the sheriff’s office believes none of those individuals knew Russell had been reported missing.
On Tuesday, Russell’s vehicle was found parked on a logging road in the Deerlick Springs area, however Russell was not in the area. According to the sheriff’s office, “Russell has in the past had some peculiar behaviors in regards to his actions and it is believed that he wandered from the vehicle into the woods.” The following morning, search and rescue efforts began and are currently ongoing.
Russell is described as 5 foot 10 inches and 190 pounds. He has green eyes and brown hair. Anyone who has seen Russell or knows his whereabouts are asked to contact the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office at 530-623-2611.
Mt. Bachelor Ski Area Up For Sale
Bachelor ski area has decided to put it and two other properties up for sale, the company confirmed Thursday. Officials at Powdr Corp., the Utah-based corporation that has owned Mt. Bachelor since 2001, said it could take six months or longer for a sale to go through.
“The upcoming ski season and Bachelor’s employees will not be impacted,” said Stacey Hutchinson, Powdr Corp. vice president of communications and government affairs.
In the next few weeks Mt. Bachelor, Eldora ski resort in Colorado and SilverStar in British Columbia will be listed with JP Morgan Chase. The company has already sold Killington Resort and Pico Mountain in Vermont. It is retaining its ownership in Copper Mountain in Colorado and Snowbird resort in Utah, as well as the Woodward brand, which includes camps and ski mountain centers and two national park concession contracts.
When Powdr Corp. merged with Mount Bachelor ski area in 2001 it outbid the Pape Co. of Eugene, according to The Bulletin’s reporting in 2001. It wasn’t until years later, in 2016, that Powdr purchased Sun Country Tours, also based in Bend and for sale. With that acquisition, the ski area was able to expand summer activities that were approved by the U.S. Forest Service.
Mt. Bachelor ski area has 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain, making it the seventh largest ski area in North America, according to the company website. It’s popular because of its light, dry snow and long season. Generally the season begins right after Thanksgiving and runs through spring. Each year it gets about 400 inches of snow.
Share your experiences and thoughts on e-bikes in Oregon State Park survey
SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is inviting the community to share their experiences and opinions on electric assisted bicycle (e-bike) and other electric micromobility (e-micromobility) devices in an online survey through Aug. 31.
OPRD is seeing an increase in the use of e-bikes and e-micromobility devices in Oregon State Parks, which can present both opportunities and challenges.
Earlier this year, the Oregon Legislature adopted a 3-class classification system for e-bikes based on the type of motor, level of electric assistance and speed capabilities. OPRD plans to update its e-bike rules later this year in line with these changes.
Currently, electric assisted bicycles that fit the definition under Oregon law (ORS 801.258) may ride on bicycle trails 8 feet and wider unless otherwise marked at Oregon State Parks or on beaches where motor vehicles are allowed. However, e-bikes, when used by a person with a mobility-related disability, are considered other power-driven mobility devices (OPDMD) by the ADA, which means they’re allowed for accessibility.
By participating in this survey now, the public can inform OPRD about their current e-bike and e-micromobility use, concerns and opinions. Additional opportunities for public involvement will be available through the rulemaking process.
This online survey only takes a few minutes to complete. Respondents can also choose to enter a drawing for an annual state parks parking permit upon completing the survey. Responses will be accepted until midnight August 31, 2024.
Taking part in this survey will help the agency gain a better understanding of the role of electric devices in outdoor recreation.
OPRD encourages everyone to follow the rules and guidelines for riding safely in Oregon State Parks. Learn more about riding safely at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=350.
Seeking proposals to run Smith Creek Village, other concessions at Silver Falls
SILVERTON, Oregon—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking proposals to operate Smith Creek Village retreat center, South Falls Café and two historic ranches at Silver Falls State Park.
Smith Creek Village is a retreat center on the south side of Silver Falls that includes lodging (13 cabins and 4 lodges) and a restaurant with a commercial kitchen, dining room and seating area with lots of natural light
“Silver Falls is one of the crown jewels of the park system, and this is an incredible opportunity to be a part of this breath-taking destination,” said Willamette Valley District Manager Sarah Steele.
The park is one of the most popular in the state with an estimated 1.5 million day-use visits per year and features the nationally recognized Trail of Ten Falls.
In 2021, OPRD signed an agreement with Silver Falls Hospitality to run two services— Smith Creek Village and the historic ranches—and a separate agreement with Oregon Commission for the Blind to run South Falls Café. Both contracts will expire at the end of October, prompting a new request for proposals. The new 10-year contract will include all three business opportunities.
The opportunity includes:
- Smith Creek Village, a retreat at the south end of the park with a restaurant, dining area, and lodging including 13 individual cabins and four group overnight lodges as well as outdoor event space, historic buildings, meeting areas and a commercial kitchen.
- South Falls Café, a popular café near the trailhead for the Trail of Ten Falls with a full kitchen and indoor and patio space at the South Falls Lodge. Concession services at the South Falls Café currently include casual dining, food to go, and snacks for picnicking and hiking.
- The Davidson Ranch and the Foothills Ranch, two large overnight facilities with commercial kitchens for private retreats and group lodging for weddings and other gatherings.
OPRD is looking for a business or individual to run all three opportunities. The deadline to apply is Aug. 30. OPRD will host an open house 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 16, and 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 17 for prospective concessionaires. Registration is required. Email utler@oprd.oregon.gov“>Winona Butler by 2 p.m. Aug. 14 to register.
Silver Falls is expected to see continued growth with work now underway to develop the North Gateway: a new campground, visitor center and park improvements slated to open in 2026.
The park offers everything from camping, hiking and biking to picnicking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Several of the park’s structures date back to the Civilian Conservation Corps established in 1933. The architecture features the now-iconic look of stone facades and timber beams seen at Silver Falls Lodge.
Those who are interested in learning more can contact Contract Specialist Winona Butler at utler@oprd.oregon.gov“>winona.butler@oprd.oregon.gov or go OPRD’s website and click on the Silver Falls Concession Opportunity. The deadline to apply is Aug. 30, 2024. Photos of the properties are available for download.
Act now to secure Summer EBT benefits – application deadline is Sept. 2, 2024
(Salem) – As summer begins to wind down, families have a limited window to secure essential food assistance through the new Summer EBT program. The program offers $120 per child to help cover grocery costs when school food programs are not as easy to access. With the application deadline quickly approaching on Sept. 2, 2024, it’s crucial for eligible families to act now.
Thousands of families may be unaware that they qualify for this essential benefit. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) are urging families to check their eligibility and apply before the deadline. Remember, once benefits are received, you have 122 days to use them.
Most eligible children received their benefits automatically on June 28, 2024, if their households:
- Participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Participate in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Are Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) members in households with incomes under 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level
Children in foster care also automatically received Summer EBT.
However, families who did not receive benefits automatically, particularly those with children in Head Start programs that participate in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs, should still apply to determine their eligibility.
Families are encouraged to visit sebt.oregon.gov or contact the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-ORE-SEBT (833-673-7328) to verify their eligibility and apply. ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht said, “Making sure children have access to nutritious food throughout the summer is critical. This small action could provide significant support to families in Oregon.”
Interview with ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht
Since June 28, 2024, more than 329,000 eligible school-aged children have been issued $39.5 million in Summer EBT food benefits. More than 60 percent of families receiving benefits in the initial issuance were able to immediately use benefits on existing Oregon EBT cards; the rest received new cards in July.
“The results of the Summer EBT launch so far have far exceeded our expectations, but we know that there are many more families out there who have children who may be eligible for the $120 Summer EBT benefit,” ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams said. “We encourage our schools and Summer Meals providers to have flyers on site to raise awareness and get our families the benefits they qualify for.”
Interview with ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams
Act now and don’t let this opportunity pass by. Make sure your family receives the assistance it deserves by applying for Summer EBT before Sept. 2, 2024.
To learn more:
- Call 833-ORE-SEBT (833-673-7328). The call center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
- Visit sebt.oregon.gov.
SNAP Double Up Food Bucks Benefits for Oregon Residents
You can use 
Double Up dollars when purchasing eligible items at participating farmers markets across the state. Just bring your SNAP EBT card with you to a participating farmers market and visit the information booth before you begin to shop.
Adapted from the Fair Food Network’s national model, Oregon Double Up Food Bucks makes it easy for low-income Oregonians to eat more fruits and vegetables while supporting family farmers and local economies. Double Up is Oregon’s first statewide incentive program, designed to be convenient for shoppers.
The program doubles the value of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (sometimes called “SNAP” or “food stamps”) benefits at participating farmers markets, grocery stores, and CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farms so shoppers can bring home more fresh produce.
Double Up is currently offered at over 85 farmers market locations, 35 grocery stores and more than 40 CSA farms across the state — with new locations joining the program each year.
For every $1 in SNAP you spend, you will get $1 of Double Up Food Bucks to spend on more fresh fruits and vegetables, up to $20 per transaction. For example: if you spend $20 in SNAP benefits, you’ll get an extra $20 free that you can use to buy more produce. Learn more at OregonFoodBank.org/DoubleUp.
Oregon Wildlife Agencies Want Your Help Tracking Roadkill
This summer, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Oregon Zoo started asking Oregonians to do their own tracking and upload pictures of roadkill.
“The state wants to get a better idea about where different animals, different species are getting struck and killed by cars,” said Rachel Wheat, the ODFW wildlife connectivity coordinator.
If Oregon’s naturalists can identify roadkill hotspots, then maybe the state can reduce the number of animals killed in interactions with people each year by removing vegetation that attracts wildlife to a specific area or by building a wildlife crossing.
Roadways and vehicular traffic are a significant contributor to fragmentation of habitat and impacts to wildlife, including injury and mortality. The purpose of this project is to improve our understanding of the impacts of roads on Oregon’s wildlife, and to identify roadkill hot spots and vulnerabilities among a diversity of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. This information can help reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and make roadways safer.
To sign up and for more information visit: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/roadkills-of-oregon
PLEASE Help Prevent Human-Caused Wildfires
- Immediately call 911 to report fires.
- Drones and other unmanned aircrafts are illegal to fly near fires.
- Fireworks, incendiary/tracer ammunition and exploding targets, are prohibited during fire season (May-October).
- Use caution when target shooting. Clear a 20-foot radius around the target by removing all vegetation and rocks.
- Ensure vehicles and trailers are properly maintained
- Make sure chains and other metal parts are not dragging.
- Keep exhaust systems clean and use spark arrestors.
- Do not park on dry grass.
- Carry extra water, shovel, and/or a fire extinguisher with you.
- Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving your campsite by making sure it is cool to the touch.
- Please don’t smoke and if you do, don’t throw out cigarette butts.
- Please be mindful and think about your actions
To ensure all Oregonians remain safe during the 2024 wildfire season, we urge everyone to stay tuned into these communications channels and follow all official safety guidelines related to air quality and recreation:
Watch Duty app: Download this app on your smartphone to understand where wildfires are in real time as well as monitor air quality and other metrics. https://app.watchduty.org
Northwest Interagency Coordination Center: During fire season, this web-based interactive map is updated daily with current fire perimeters and locations. This website acts as the wildfire resource coordination center for the Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, Oregon Dept of Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Washington Dept. of Natural Resources and the National Park Service. https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/index.aspx
InciWeb the Incident Information System: The federal interagency all-risk incident information management system provides an interactive map with real-time location information on wildfires. https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/
Oregon Department of Forestry Wildfire News: The official wildfire news blog for the Oregon Department of Forestry. Look here for all wildfire news related to state forest lands. https://odffire.com/
Keep Oregon Green: A partnership comprised of statewide and interagency groups working together to promote awareness of the risk and causes of wildfires and how to be prepared in case of a wildfire emergency. https://keeporegongreen.org/
OregonLive Wildfire Map: A project managed by OregonLive that incorporates data from InciWeb, National Interagency Fire Center, Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, Oregon Office of Emergency Management, NOAA into an easy-to-use map tool. https://projects.oregonlive.com/wildfires/map
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality – Air Quality Monitoring Data: A real-time map and cell phone application you can use to track air quality, including wildfire smoke impacts, across the state. Check your app store for OregonAir. https://oraqi.deq.state.or.us/home/map
Purple Air – Air Quality Map System: Real-time air quality information using crowdsourced data and data from EPA air sensors. https://map.purpleair.com/1/mAQI/a10/p604800/cC0…
NOAA High Resolution Rapid Refresh Data Visualization: The High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency(NOAA) is an experimental data visualization tool for wildfire smoke. Be sure to turn on the “Vertically Integrated Smoke” layer to see smoke paths. https://hwp-viz.gsd.esrl.noaa.gov/smoke/index.html
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either.
Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
