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, December 27, 2024
Willamette Valley Weather
Christmas Night Storm Rumbles Across Region
Christmas night brought gusting winds through parts of the Pacific Northwest, knocking down trees and causing power outages across the state. The Willamette Valley sustained outages and damages too as lightning and thunder rumbled with the wind and pouring rain.
The next morning, the Eugene Water & Electric Board power outage map noted four active outages impacting 1,084 customers. Most impacted customers were located in the River Road-Santa Clara area of Eugene and in the Leaburg and Vida areas up the McKenzie River.
One unconfirmed outage in south Eugene impacted about six households. In Vida, 754 customers were without power. Leaburg had 45 EWEB outages while the River Road area of Eugene had 279 EWEB power outages confirmed.
Out of more than 40,000 electricity customers tracked by FindEnergy.com in Lane County, 771 customers had outages confirmed on the morning of Dec. 26. The Central Lincoln PUD had approximately 358 customers without power at that time. The Lane Electric Cooperative had 281 outages, Pacific Power had 74 and the Blachly-Lane County Cooperative Electric Association had 58 customers without power.
There are at least 13,000 people without power in western Oregon following high winds in the region. Pacific Power was “responding to widespread outages across our Oregon service territory due to storm damage,” as crews addressed 234 outages affecting 9,866 customers.
The National Weather Service recorded winds at the Eugene Airport as high as 30 miles per hour around 11 p.m. on Christmas night. Gusts began in Eugene around 6 p.m. before increasing in frequency. These high winds continued until around 4 a.m. Most of the high wind warnings issued by the NWS are no longer in effect, while rain and wind remain in forecasts.
NWS still had a winter weather advisory and a winter storm warning for the Cascade Mountain passes in effect on Thursday morning. The winter weather warnings were expected to be in place until noon on Friday.
Aaron Orlowski, EWEB spokesperson, said wind-driven power outages began around 10:45 p.m. on Christmas night with outage numbers increasing steadily until about 1 a.m. He said the upriver territory is the most heavily impacted by this storm damage and that work crews mobilized in the middle of the night to address the outages caused by tree branches being blown into power lines by high winds.
Orlowski said that at the storm’s peak, about 1,500 customers experienced outages. Power has been brought back to urban customers by midday Thursday. Crews were still working to restore power upriver throughout Thursday afternoon to fully restore power for the few remaining outages by the end of the day.
Eugene Springfield Fire responded to an apartment fire in Eugene Thursday evening
Firefighters were called to the 1200 block of Railroad Blvd at 5:12 PM on December 26th. While fire crews were enroute, dispatchers relayed information that a child was trapped on the second floor. Firefighters from the Whiteaker station arrived in just over four minutes to find heavy fire from the back of a two story apartment over a commercial occupancy. Firefighters immediately began their search for a victim and fire attack.
During the fire, information was gathered from occupants that every human was accounted for, but two dogs were missing. Firefighters encountered high heat and zero visibility on the second floor where they requested an additional hose-line over a ladder and through a window while a truck company performed vertical ventilation. Vertical ventilation allows the release of hot gasses and smoke to improve visibility and viability of the interior spaces. The fire was contained on the second floor. There were no injuries to occupants or Firefighters, unfortunately two dogs perished in the fire. The cause is under investigation.
Eugene Firefighters Rescue People From Flooding Creek
At 1:15 a.m. on December 26th, Eugene Springfield Fire’s Engine 10 from Bailey Hill and Battalion 2 responded a weather related rescue. 911 callers reported subjects trapped by rising flood water underneath the Oak Patch overpass at the Fern ridge path off West 11th.
When crews arrived, they found fast moving water from the recent storm had risen to the tent openings, and while one individual was able to self-extricate, two others and their dogs were trapped inside the tents. Engine 10 quickly deployed a ladder down the side of the slough and was able to turn the tents and extricate the individuals and their canine friends before the water overtook them. There were no injuries reported.
LCSO Case #24-6784 – Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue Saves Lost Person On Christmas Day
On December 24th at about 6 p.m., the Lane County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing mushroom picker in the area of Big Fall Creek. The person was somewhat prepared for the weather, but not to stay out overnight.
Lane County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue responded and searched the area until the early morning hours without success. They resumed the search Christmas morning, and also deployed a drone to assist in the search. At about 10 a.m., the SAR team found the subject. After warming the subject and providing dry clothes, they hiked out of the area and reunited the person with friends.
The Lane County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the many SAR volunteers involved in the search who gave up their Christmas eve or Christmas morning with family to make sure the missing person was rescued.
Duck fans flying south for the Rose Bowl game have another option for getting there.
On New Year’s Eve, travelers can catch United Flight 2713 from Eugene to Los Angeles International Airport. They’ve also added a return flight on January 2. Oregon’s football team is ranked #1 in the nation and is in the College Football post season playoffs.
The game is scheduled for Jan. 1 and kicks off the Ducks’ inaugural year in college football’s new expanded playoff. The Ducks will play the winner of Saturday’s matchup between No. 8 Ohio State.
Here are the two direct flights United Airlines added to accommodate Rose Bowl travel:
- Flight 2713, departing at 11:55 a.m. from Eugene (EUG) to Los Angeles, Calif. (LAX)
- Flight 2714, departing at 12:30 p.m. from LAX to EUG.
The upcoming match-up will be the Ducks’ ninth trip to the Rose Bowl and it’s first time returning since 2020. Information on buying Rose Bowl tickets can be found here and flights can be booked online at United.com.
Troopers from OSP’s Springfield Patrol Office recently teamed up with the Eugene Police Department‘s traffic safety unit to enhance patrols along Hwy. 99 from Eugene north to the Harrisburg/Monroe areas.
The focused patrols were in response to concerns from area residents and businesses about high speeds and other traffic violations.
OSP regularly partners with local agencies on traffic safety operations to address unsafe driving behaviors. We focus on the Fatal-5 driving violations, which contribute to serious injury and fatal crashes. Remember, your safety is our #1 priority.
Lane County Government
· 
State of the County Address 
When: Monday, January 6, 10:00 a.m. Where: Harris Hall, 125 E. 8th Avenue, Eugene
Join Board of County Commissioners Chair Laurie Trieger as she shares progress made over the past year while focusing on the innovation, collaboration with community partners, and transformative initiatives helping Lane County embody its purpose to improve lives.
The morning will also include a ceremonial swearing-in for re-elected Sheriff Cliff Harrold, newly-elected District Attorney Chris Parosa, re-elected Commissioner Pat Farr (District 4, North Eugene), and re-elected Commissioner Laurie Trieger (District 3, South Eugene). 
Livestream: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/webcasts 
Comcast Channel 21 (Eugene-Springfield area)
𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗼𝗿𝘀: 𝗟𝗮𝘇𝘆 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻
The Lazy Days Mobile Home and RV Park, rebuilt by Homes for Good after the Holiday Farm Fire, has 20 2-bedroom modular homes that are available to rent for Holiday Farm Fire survivors.
You may be eligible if: 
You were a renter who lost your primary residence in the Holiday Farm Fire. You lost the home you owned in the Holiday Farm Fire and you either did not own the property it was on or you owned the property but it is now unbuildable.
𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟭 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲, 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗶𝘀. Applicants should be at no more than 80% of the Area Median. For example, 80% AMI means:2 people = $57,050 annual income 4 people = $71,300 annual income Rent is $1000 per month and includes utilities (water, sewer, garbage). Two ADA-accessible units are available.
Funding to provide the modular homes to fire survivors is provided by Oregon Housing & Community Services. Homes for Good is property owner and has led construction on the site. Lane County is assisting with the application process. 
Learn more: http://www.homesforgood.org/…/lazy-days-rv-and-mobile…
Apply starting December 11: www.cognitoforms.com/LaneCounty1/LazyDaysApplication
LRAPA BURN ADVISORY #lanecounty – Burning prohibited until Spring 2025 based on LRAPA info below.
BURNING OVERVIEWThe Lane Regional Air Protection Agency is responsible for overseeing burning programs in Lane County. LRAPA administers a Home Wood Heating advisory program and an Outdoor Burning advisory program.
Home Wood Heating is the burning of wood in fireplaces and wood stoves for heat. Wood burning creates particulate matter, which is Lane County’s most common form of pollution, and can dramatically degrade air quality during periods of air stagnation when many home wood heating devices are in use. LRAPA issues daily green, yellow, and red burn advisories from October 1 2024 through May 31, 2025 based on air quality conditions. These advisories permit, limit, or restrict the use of fireplaces and wood stoves.Home Wood Heating Advisory Line: (541) 746-4328
Outdoor burning is the disposal of woody yard material by burning it. Burning rules vary throughout Lane County depending on location, size of property, weather forecast, and fire danger conditions. LRAPA rules also limit the type and quantity of debris which can be burned. LRAPA issues daily burn advisories during burn season. Always check this page or call the advisory line before burning. Outdoor Burning Advisory Line: (541) 726-3976 Coastal Outdoor Burning Advisory Line: (541) 997-1757 https://www.lrapa.org/air-quality…/burning-overview/
Declutter and donate to reduce holiday waste: BRING now collecting reusable materials at Lane County’s Glenwood Transfer Station to reduce holiday season waste
With the holiday season here, BRING encourages residents to clear out their old, reusable items to make room for the new. This year, Lane County residents can donate directly at the Glenwood Transfer Station, where BRING recently opened a donation site in partnership with Lane County Waste Management and St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County. This site offers residents a convenient one-stop solution for donating, recycling, and disposing of household and building materials, promoting reuse while reducing landfill waste.
With increased holiday activities, waste generation can increase by as much as 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. BRING and Waste Wise Lane County—a part of Lane County Waste Management—encourage the community to consider sustainable practices like reuse, especially during high-waste times of the year. BRING’s new collection site allows residents to easily donate gently used building materials, garden supplies, furniture, tools, and more, helping these items find new life and reducing their environmental impact.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that construction and demolition (C&D) debris accounts for more than twice the amount of municipal solid waste, with 600 million tons of C&D debris generated annually in the United States. BRING’s efforts at the Glenwood site and its main location are part of a larger initiative to help Lane County achieve its goal of recovering 63 percent of its waste stream through reuse, recycling, and composting.
Since the Glenwood donation site opened in August, BRING has already diverted 32,579 pounds of reusable materials from the landfill. By donating at this auxiliary location, community members can contribute to BRING’s Planet Improvement Center, which provides affordable, environmentally-friendly options for local DIYers, contractors, and residents looking to repurpose quality materials.
Residents planning renovations or holiday declutter projects are encouraged to gather reusable materials for donation and save a trip by combining it with their visit to the transfer station. For a full list of accepted items or to learn more about the waste reduction initiative, visit www.bringrecycling.org.
About BRING: BRING is a Eugene-based home and garden thrift store committed to recovering construction waste and building materials from the waste stream, providing environmental education to Lane County communities, and highlighting the importance of reuse. Today, we focus on the urgent issues of consumption, climate change, and community resiliency. Through these initiatives we fulfill our mission to provide vision, leadership and tools for living well on the planet we share. BRING has consistently been voted one of the “100 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon.”
About Waste Wise Lane County: Waste Wise Lane County— a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.
Lane County Government — Part of being prepared for an emergency is knowing how you will receive emergency alerts and life safety information. Lane County uses several tools to alert residents.
Watch the video below to learn more about those tools and decide which ones you will rely on in the event of an emergency or disaster. 
https://vimeo.com/565852770Sign up to receive Lane Alerts emergency alerts at www.LaneAlerts.org#NationalPreparednessMonth
“When It Hits The Fan”: Podcast by Lane County Emergency Management
This month on Lane County Emergency Management’s 𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐼𝑡 𝐻𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛, Emergency Manager Tiffany Brown shares essential tips on what to do when staying home isn’t an option.
Tiffany dives into how to prepare your Go Bag, with everything you need to sustain yourself for 72 hours: water, medications, warm layers, and more. She also breaks down the 𝟲 𝗣𝘀 – the must-haves when you need to evacuate:
People & Pets 
Prescriptions 
Personal Computer 
Papers 
Pictures 
Plastic (credit cards, important IDs)Get ready, stay informed, and make sure you’re prepared for anything! 
Listen now: www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube
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. Listen at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/fan.
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)
Starting in the new year, White Bird Dental Clinic will offer more walk-in clinic times. Currently, we offer walk-in clinics at 1415 Pearl St. every Monday and Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. In January, we will also add every other Friday at 7:30 a.m. Find more information at whitebirdclinic.org/dental
Operation Winter Survival Stockpile
Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with the First Christian Church today announced the launch of Operation Winter Survival Stockpile. The operation is an effort to create a stockpile through donations of clothing and other supplies that will help those in our community experiencing homelessness better brave the elements.
“Every winter those in our community who are without shelter are faced with life-threatening temperatures and weather,” said Maria Cortez, Lane County Human Services Program Coordinator. “These donations will be absolutely crucial to helping these community members stay warm and stay alive.”
To help kick off Operation Winter Survival Stockpile, First Christian Church is hosting a one-day donation drive event where community members can drop-off donations and enjoy refreshments Monday, November 25th from 1 pm to 5 pm. After the donation drive, items can continue to be dropped off Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 2 pm. Items can also be purchased on Amazon and sent to 1166 Oak St., Eugene OR 97401.
The Operation’s Amazon Wish List can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share
Distribution of items will be prioritized to homeless outreach providers such as CAHOOTS that come into direct contact with individuals who are unhoused and unsheltered.
For more information on Operation Winter Survival Stockpile, please contact Maria Cortez at ia.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov“>Maria.Cortez@lanecountyor.gov
Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene – We’re thrilled to announce that our Winter-Spring 2025 Youth Empowerment Programs will be launching soon! 
Registration opens on December 10th for our FREE programs.
Some programs are drop-in, so no registration is required—just show up and get involved!
For more information and links to register, visit our website: https://www.eugene-or.gov/4888/Youth-Empowerment-Program
Oregon Lawmakers Introduce Bill Barring Utility Rate Increases
Three Oregon lawmakers say they plan to introduce a bill that would bar utilities from raising rates if they have unresolved wildfire lawsuits for three or more years, describing it as an effort to hold PacifiCorp accountable as the utility faces a series of lawsuits stemming from the deadly 2020 wildfires that ravaged the state.
Republican state Reps. Jami Cate, Virgle Osborne and Ed Diehl announced their proposal in a statement Monday, on the heels of an approved rate increase for PacifiCorp customers and a federal lawsuit against the electric power company.
The federal government sued PacifiCorp last week over the Archie Creek Fire, which ignited in Oregon’s Douglas County in September 2020 and burned more than 200 square miles, about half of which was federal land. The complaint accuses the company of negligence for failing to maintain its power lines to prevent wildfires. In its filing, the government says it brought the suit to recover “substantial costs and damages.”
A PacifiCorp spokesperson said in an emailed statement Monday that the company was working with the U.S. government to resolve the claims.
“It is unfortunate the U.S. government decided to file a lawsuit in federal district court, however PacifiCorp will continue to work with the U.S. government to find reasonable resolution of this matter,” the statement said.
The federal lawsuit was filed on the same day the Oregon Public Utility Commission approved a 9.8 percent rate increase for PacifiCorp’s residential customers next year. In its rate case filings, the company said its request to increase rates was partly due to higher costs stemming from wildfire risk and activity.
When the new rate takes effect in January, PacifiCorp rates will have increased nearly 50 percent since 2021, according to the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, which advocates on behalf of utility customers.
The three lawmakers said they will introduce their bill in the upcoming legislative session, which starts in January.
“The federal government is doing the right thing by filing this lawsuit, and we stand firmly behind it,” Osborne, who is set to be the future bill’s co-chief sponsor, said in a statement. “PacifiCorp needs to pay up and take responsibility for the destruction they’ve caused, and putting a stop to rate hikes is the best way to achieve it.”
PacifiCorp is poised to be on the hook for billions in damages in the series of lawsuits over Oregon’s 2020 fires.
The company has already reached two settlement agreements over the Archie Creek Fire, including one for $299 million with 463 plaintiffs impacted by the blaze and another for $250 million with 10 companies with commercial timber interests, according to its website.
In other litigation, an Oregon jury in June 2023 found it liable for negligently failing to cut power to its 600,000 customers despite warnings from top fire officials and determined it should have to pay punitive and other damages — a decision that applied to a class including the owners of up to 2,500 properties. Since then, other Oregon juries have ordered the company to pay tens of millions to other wildfire victims.
The wildfires that erupted across Oregon over Labor Day weekend in 2020 were among the worst natural disasters in state history, killing nine people and destroying thousands of homes. (SOURCE)
Oregonians Need To Watch Out For ‘Smishing’ Packages
Many folks are still expecting holiday packages this week, and the United States Postal Service is warning customers not to fall for what are known as smishing scams.
Smishing, said John Hyatt – a strategic communication specialist with the USPS – is the practice of sending fake text messages to smart phones, asking users to click on a link to resolve a zip code or other issue with a pending package.
He warned that personal data is what the sender is after.
“Basically, criminals trying to obtain personally identifying information about a person,” said Hyatt, “such as accounts, user names, passwords, dates of birth, credit card numbers – things like that.”
In 2020, the Internet Crime Complaint Center reported over 240,000 victims of smishing, phishing, and other fraudulent schemes – costing over $54 million, with the average person losing about $800.
Smishing texts can be relentless this time of year, but Hyatt said you should never follow the message prompts.
“When you get a suspicious text message,” said Hyatt, “if you click on those links, it will take you to a website that could be downloading onto your phone – and once you submit that information then they use it for nefarious purposes.”
Hyatt said you will only receive text messages from the USPS if you have gone online and registered for such services.
“You can sign up to receive text messages about a tracking number,” said Hyatt, “or you can go into the tracking service and put the number in and then ask for text message updates, or even an email update on usps.com.”
He said the USPS informed delivery program is being used by millions of Americans to receive legitimate messages about what packages are on the way. Go to the USPS.com website for more information.
Guided First Day Hikes at 30 Oregon State Parks on New Year’s Day
— Whether you prefer a sunset hike along the coast or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, First Day Hikes has a hike for you on New Year’s Day, Wednesday Jan. 1.
Rangers and volunteers will lead 37 guided First Day Hikes at 30 parks around the state with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, and the $5 day-use parking fee is waived on that day at the state parks that charge for parking.
America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.
“First Day Hikes has become a fun tradition for both visitors and staff on New Year’s Day. Rangers and volunteers get a chance to share park history, geology, wildlife and plants, and visitors get to experience an adventure with friends and family to start the new year,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Champoeg, Detroit Lake, Emigrant Springs and Smith Rock.
If you have questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed for you to participate in a hike, see contact information for each of the hikes.
Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.
Share photos of First Day Hikes on Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikesor tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.
About America’s State Parks
America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With collectively more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 9 million people annually, state park systems across the country are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural resources while providing guests amazing access to the outdoors. Learn more about America’s State Parks at stateparks.org.
Scientists Predict an Undersea Volcano Eruption Near Oregon in 2025
This much advance notice is a big deal, because forecasting eruptions more than hours ahead is “pretty unique,” says geophysicist William Chadwick. But 470 kilometers off the Oregon coast and over a kilometer beneath the waves, a volcano known as Axial Seamount ticks all the boxes that hint at imminent activity, Chadwick and his colleagues reported December 10 at a meeting of the American Geophysical Union in Washington, D.C.
For the past decade, a suite of devices have been monitoring Axial’s every action — rumbling, shaking, swelling, tilting — and delivering real-time data via a seafloor cable. It’s “the most well-instrumented submarine volcano on the planet,” says Mark Zumberge, a geophysicist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif., who was not involved in the work.
But in November, a particular milestone caught Chadwick’s eye: Axial’s surface had ballooned to nearly the same height as it had before its last eruption in 2015 — fortuitously, just months after monitoring began. Ballooning is a sign that magma has accumulated underground and is building pressure.
The 2015 swelling allowed Chadwick, of Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, and colleagues to predict that year’s eruption — “our best forecasting success,” he says. The recent swelling, along with increased seismic activity that indicates moving magma, has led the researchers to narrow in on the next one.
The broader team of Axial researchers also has a new tool for estimating the day-of magma burst that will set things off. And other researchers recently used artificial intelligence to dig into recordings of earthquakes that preceded the 2015 eruption and identified exactly what patterns they should see hours ahead of the next one . “Will this precursory earthquake detection work?” Chadwick asks.
If it does, it will be a field day for volcanologists such as Rebecca Carey (SN: 1/25/18). Detecting early warning signals offers the “exciting opportunity to deploy remotely operated vehicles to catch the eruption occurring,” says Carey, of the University of Tasmania in Sandy Bay, Australia. In addition to volcanology insights, she says, catching the eruption in the act would offer a glimpse into its effects on hydrothermal systems and biological communities nearby.
For human communities, volcanoes on land generally pose a bigger hazard than ones underwater do (SN: 9/2/22). But there are exceptions. For example, the 2022 Hunga Tonga eruption in the South Pacific Ocean triggered a tsunami that caused an estimated $90 million in damages (SN: 1/21/22). In general, Chadwick says, “forecasting is difficult.” One disincentive for experimental forecasting on land is the risk of false alarms, which could cause unnecessary evacuations, and future distrust . At Axial, he says, “we don’t have to worry about that.”
Forecasting is only possible thanks to extensive monitoring data and knowledge of how a specific volcano behaves. “There’s no crystal ball,” says Valerio Acocella, a volcanologist at Roma Tre University in Rome. Rather, predictions are based on the expectation that when a volcano’s activity reaches some threshold that it reached before, it may erupt.
Geophysicist Michael Poland of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Cascades Volcano Observatory in Vancouver, Wash., agrees. Because most of today’s efforts rely on recognizing patterns, he says, “there’s always the risk that a volcano will follow a pattern that we haven’t seen before and do something unexpected.” Both Poland and Acocella hope that forecasts will evolve to be based on the physics and chemistry of the magma systems that underlie a volcano.
Until then, scientists will learn what they can from any successes. And Axial is a good place to try, Acocella says. It has relatively frequent eruptions, and each one is an opportunity to test ideas. That regular behavior makes Axial “a very promising volcano,” he says. “We need these ideal cases to understand how volcanoes work.” (SOURCE)
Payments Going Out Quickly To Wildfire Vendors After Special Session
SALEM, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry has been delivering on the commitment to get outstanding payments to wildland fire vendors as quickly as possible. The department processed $88 million since the Legislature allocated the department $191.5 million for the historic and costly 2024 fire season during its recent special session.
“Without these vendors, we could not have provided Oregonians with the wildfire protection we did this year,” said State Forester Cal Mukumoto, ODF director. “It was critically important to take care of those who served right alongside us all summer.”
Prior to the recent special session, ODF had paid out $130 million in fire season costs. Some of that money came from the State Emergency Board—which allocated $40 million toward the state’s portion of large fire costs in September—but the other $90 million was paid from the budgets of non-fire ODF programs. Under the state’s current wildfire funding structure, ODF uses budgeted funds from its other lines of business to pay for fire season costs and then carries that debt while awaiting federal reimbursements. This approach worked when gross large fire costs were averaging $11 million a year. Over the past decade, that average jumped to around $79 million, but the funding provided for large fires hasn’t increased accordingly.
“I commend the ODF team for their swift action to ensure the state’s fire season costs are paid after having received the necessary resources from the Legislature during the recent special session. Again, my appreciation to lawmakers for their expeditious work,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “Next year, I look forward to working with legislators to ensure the state finds a pathway for sustainable funding to cover wildfire costs in the years ahead.”
Despite ODF’s effort, this year’s large fire costs far exceeded the funds ODF could muster, resulting in significant delays in payments to the companies that provide critical firefighting resources like people, aircraft and heavy equipment.
“It was a stressful time for our folks, as many had to take out credit lines to make their payrolls and pay their bills,” explained Deborah Miley, executive director, National Wildfire Suppression Association. “Our members provide a significant amount of response to assist our agency partners during fire season, and we are proud to provide quality, cost-effective resources in Oregon’s time of need and look forward to continuing to serve.”
Remaining fire costs are still under review. All charges and associated documentation are reviewed for accuracy and completeness by department payment teams prior to being approved for payment.
While the $191.5 million from the special session will help ODF considerably in cashflow management over the remainder of the biennium, the cashflow issue is just a symptom of the larger problem: how wildfire response and mitigation are funded in Oregon. “The way response and mitigation are currently funded is inadequate to address the growing complexity and cost of wildfires Oregon faces today,” Mukumoto said. “The workgroup we have been heading up with the Department of the State Fire Marshal has been working hard for the past several months to identify alternative funding strategies to bring to the 2025 Legislature for consideration.”
The Governor’s Recommended Budget for the 2025-27 biennium identifies the need for at least an additional $130 million through new revenue to modernize and fully fund the state’s wildfire readiness and mitigation programs on an ongoing basis. This direction is in addition to the specific recommendation for $150 million to be redirected from going into state reserves and instead be appropriated to the agencies to pay for wildfire suppression costs as needed.
Winter Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon Coast Dec. 27-31
OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week on the Oregon Coast Friday, Dec. 27 through Tuesday, Dec. 31.
Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico.
The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
“Now is a perfect time to see the whales as their population rebounds on the Oregon Coast,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales. Since then, the estimated population has increased by roughly 30% from 14,530 last year to 19,260 this year, according to NOAA. The numbers are on the rise overall, but the calf count is still low as the population continues to rebound.
“While there are more gray whales to see now on the Oregon Coast, the calves remain a rare and important sight,” said Michael Milstein, public affairs officer with NOAA Fisheries.
Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and rangers.
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.
Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch Week on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.
Bird Flu Alert: Northwest Naturals Recalls Feline Raw & Frozen Pet Food Due to HPAI Contamination
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is alerting pet owners that samples of Northwest Naturals brand two-pound turkey recipe raw and frozen pet food tested positive for a H5N1 strain of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus.
Testing conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) and the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (ODVL) at Oregon State University confirmed a house cat in Washington County contracted H5N1 and died after consuming the raw frozen pet food. Tests confirmed a genetic match between the virus in the raw and frozen pet food and the infected cat.
“We are confident that this cat contracted H5N1 by eating the Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food,” said ODA state veterinarian Dr. Ryan Scholz. “This cat was strictly an indoor cat; it was not exposed to the virus in its environment, and results from the genome sequencing confirmed that the virus recovered from the raw pet food and infected cat were exact matches to each other.”
Northwest Naturals, a Portland, Oregon-based company, is voluntarily recalling its Northwest Naturals brand two-pound Feline Turkey Recipe raw & frozen pet food. The recalled product is packaged in two-pound plastic bags with “Best if used by” dates of 05/21/26 B10 and 06/23/2026 B1. The product was sold nationwide through distributors in AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, MD, MI, MN, PA, RI and WA in the United States, and British Columbia in Canada.
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and local public health officials are monitoring household members who had contact with the cat for flu symptoms. To date, no human cases of HPAI have been linked to this incident, and the risk of HPAI transmission to humans remains low in Oregon. Since 2022, OHA has partnered with ODA through a One Health approach to investigate human exposures to animal outbreaks of avian influenza. (SOURCE)
Commercial Dungeness crab season opening delay from Cape Falcon to Washington border continues
NEWPORT, Ore. – The Oregon ocean commercial Dungeness crab fishery is delayed until at least Jan. 15 from Cape Falcon to the Washington border. A third round of preseason testing in Long Beach, WA shows crab meat fill remains lower than required for commercial harvest.
Based on this result not meeting Tri-State meat recovery criteria, and in consultation with Washington and California Departments of Fish and Wildlife, Tri-State fishery managers agreed to delay the season from Cape Falcon to Klipsan Beach, WA until at least Jan. 15. WDFW will conduct another round of preseason meat fill testing to help inform whether this area will open Jan. 15 or Feb. 1.
Oregon’s commercial Dungeness crab fishery opened Dec. 16 from Cape Falcon to the California border. Despite rough ocean conditions this past week, over 2.5 million pounds of crab were landed into Oregon ports in that area. Price at the docks averaged $4.50 per pound, well above last season’s total season average of $3.79 per pound.
Weekly season opening updates will continue to be posted until the decision is made to open the north coast. Check ODFW’s website for more on Oregon’s commercial Dungeness crab fishery.
More Funding Needed To Stem Oregon’s Public Defense Attorney Crisis
Oregon’s constitution guarantees criminal defendants a state-funded lawyer for those who cannot afford one but a massive shortage of public defenders makes it unachievable.
According to the Oregon Justice Research Center, more than 90% of people charged with crimes in Oregon depend on a public defender. However, Oregon has less than a third of the public defense attorneys needed to handle all the cases.
Currently, more than 3,400 Oregonians charged with crimes have no lawyer.
Shannon Wilson, executive director of Public Defenders of Marion County, said public defenders are so overwhelmed with cases they can get burned out after a few years.
“There’s not enough attorneys to address that work unless you want to adopt the belief that 300 clients per one attorney is enough to get legal representation,” Wilson pointed out.
The Oregon Public Defense Commission estimates the state needs 500 more public defenders to meet its obligations. In 2023, lawmakers approved $96 million for attorney retention, recruitment and pay equity with prosecutors. But the commission said it is not enough.
The Oregon Criminal Justice Commission said recriminalizing low-level drug possession, enacted this year, will lead to nearly 2,300 additional convictions annually, disproportionately affecting people of color. Wilson noted if you can’t afford a lawyer, you will likely get put on a waiting list and the wait can be 5 months or more.
Without a lawyer, some people end up spending needless time in jail and are less likely to have a fair trial. Most of Wilson’s public defense clients face poverty, medical, or substance-abuse challenges and Wilson added stigma remains a significant barrier to fully funding Oregon’s public defense system.
“This is our community, and I feel like we all have a responsibility to take care of everyone,” Wilson stressed. “Especially the most vulnerable people that can’t advocate for themselves. “
Despite the barriers, Wilson is optimistic Oregon legislators are heading in the right direction. The Oregon Public Defense Commission recommends doubling the state’s two-year public defense budget from nearly $600 million to $1.3 billion by 2030. (SOURCE)
Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Response to Concerning Letters Circulating
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office recently learned about a letter being circulated throughout Lincoln County which encourages community members to track and report information regarding people of color, specifically community members that are believed to be undocumented. We want to be unequivocal in our stance: this type of behavior is harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values we uphold as public servants and community members. Targeting individuals in this manner erodes trust and undermines the sense of safety and inclusion that we strive to maintain in Lincoln County.
One of the things we tell each person when they join our team is to “do the right thing”. We are encouraging our community members to do the right thing and use compassion as we encounter these types of messages. We strongly advise against engaging in activities such as those outlined in this letter, including collecting or sharing information about individuals based on their demographic or perceived immigration status.
In addition to valuing diversity and equity, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is committed to upholding Oregon law with regard to immigration enforcement. Oregon law generally prohibits the inquiry or collection of an individual’s immigration or citizenship status, or country of birth, with few specific exceptions as outlined in Oregon Revised Statute 181A.823. Consistent with this, the Sheriff’s Office does not inquire about, document, or share such information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These provisions are embedded in our policy manual and are essential to ensuring that our practices respect the rights and dignity of all individuals.
The mission of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is to enhance public safety, reduce the fear and impact of crime, and improve the quality of life for all. We are committed to continuous learning and growth to better serve every member of our community. Diversity strengthens our communities, and we take pride in growing and thriving alongside the people we serve.
New facial illustration released in Clatsop County cold case – Public assistance sought to identify remains
With the assistance of a new facial re-approximation from Parabon NanoLabs, a 25-year-old Oregon State Police (OSP) cold case is receiving new attention. Working closely with Oregon State Police Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Nici Vance, Parabon used the individual’s genetic phenotype to create the latest illustration.
On Nov. 3, 1999, mushroom pickers reported the discovery of human skeletal remains in rural Clatsop County. The unidentified partial remains were located in a wooded area off Hwy. 26 near milepost 29. At the time, searchers located remains over a wide area, including a skull and lower jaw with all the teeth present.
A forensic examination of the skeletal remains indicated the deceased is female, 16-30 years of age, about 5 ft. 2 in. tall, and weighing between 108-117 pounds. Forensic anthropologists believe the individual had given birth some time prior.
Investigators also found white athletic socks, Levi’s blue jeans size 33×34, a medium-sized black leather jacket, and a silver-colored “peace symbol” belt buckle in the same wooded area.
Investigators hope the new illustration will help renew interest in the case to determine the young woman’s identity. “This new illustration created by Parabon NanoLabs may be the key to unlocking her identity; we hope someone may recognize her now. We also know her ancestry includes relatives from Western Europe, West Africa, and Central America, which are huge clues to her origins and family. Everyone deserves the dignity of a name; through our partnership with Parabon NanoLabs, we will continue to search for her family and ultimately identify her.”
Since 2019, Parabon and the Oregon State Police have partnered to identify more than 30 previously unidentified individuals in Oregon using Parabon’s groundbreaking technology and investigative genetic genealogy research.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Derek Rose through OSP’s Northern Command Center at 800-442-0776 or *OSP (*677) on a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP99433623.
Grants available for main street building projects statewide
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is offering grants for up to $400,000 in matching funds for downtown revitalization efforts in communities participating in the Oregon Main Street Network. The Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant funds may be used to acquire, rehabilitate, and construct buildings on properties in designated downtown areas statewide.
Funded projects must facilitate community revitalization that will lead to private investment, job creation or retention, establishing or expanding viable businesses, or creating a stronger tax base. Projects may include façade improvement, accessibility enhancement, basic utilities, second floor renovations, and more. Only organizations participating in the Oregon Main Street Network are eligible to apply. Projects must be within approved Main Street areas. Eligible organizations may collaborate with the local governments and private property owners to apply for projects that will have the biggest benefit to the downtown. The grant application deadline is March 13, 2025.
In 2015, Oregon legislation established a permanent fund for the grant and provided an initial $2.5 million of funding as part of a larger lottery bond package. The $10,000,000 lottery bond funding for this grant cycle was approved in the 2023 legislative session.
Preservation office staff is happy to talk with applicants about potential grant projects and review applications prior to submitting. A free online workshop specific to the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant will be January 9, 2025 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Registration is required.
Other resources available include:
- Prepping for the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant – with tips for organizational preparation and project planning and selection.
- Heritage Bulletin: Board Involvement with Grants – with tips on organizational success for grant management.
- Secretary of Interior Standards for Historic Rehabilitation – A webinar to share with the team and property owners.
To learn more about the grant and workshop, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov“>Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-6085. To learn more about the Oregon Main Street Network contact Sheri Stuart at i.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov“>Sheri.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0679.
Travelers planning to navigate the Oregon coast will need to adjust their routes as Highway 131 has been closed for emergency repair work.
The closure, which affects the stretch between Oceanside and Netarts, comes after severe erosion has compromised the integrity of the road.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORDOT/bulletins/3c857a0
The emergency repairs were initiated last Friday morning, with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) signaling that the road will be inaccessible until at least the first week of January 2025.
ODOT disclosed in a notification hat the specific area of concern is at milepost 1.6 where erosion has taken a significant toll. The closure is expected to remain until ODOT can safely open a single lane to flag traffic through, projected to take place the week of January 6, 2025.
Until then, should motorists need to detour to quickly reach their destinations, ODOT suggests utilizing the Cape Mears Loop Road as an alternate route.
The comprehensive repairs are projected to last up to 60 days, with the initial phase culminating in the reopening of a single traffic lane. Meanwhile, signals are expected to regulate the flow of vehicles through the area.
Those heading toward Netarts will have to follow Highway 131, as per ODOT’s instructions, while voyagers to Oceanside are advised to adhere to the signed detour via Cape Mears Loop Road. For further information regarding the repair work and updates on the road’s status, travelers should monitor ODOT’s communications and plan accordingly during this period of reconstruction. http://tripcheck.com
AmeriCorps NCCC Partnership Boosts Oregon’s Emergency Response
Join us in strengthening Oregon’s resilience by hosting an AmeriCorps NCCC team to support your community’s disaster response and recovery efforts!
Oregon is taking a significant step forward in enhancing its emergency response capabilities through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between OregonServes and the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). This strategic partnership represents a collaborative effort to bolster statewide disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
For more information on this partnership contact: Jennifer Denning Disaster Services Coordinator, OregonServes Jennifer.l.denning@hecc.oregon.gov.
What is AmeriCorps NCCC?
AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, team-based program for young adults aged 18-26. Members commit to a term of national service, which can include critical disaster response and recovery services. Through this partnership, NCCC teams will be integrated into Oregon’s disaster preparedness framework, offering vital support before, during, and after disasters.
Key Benefits of the Partnership:
This partnership brings several critical advantages to Oregon communities, including:
- NCCC teams work on a variety of projects filling critical gaps in local resources.
- NCCC members collaborate with local communities to strengthen response efforts, thereby accelerating recovery and repopulation of residents.
- NCCC teams focus on ensuring that underserved and vulnerable populations receive critical resources and assistance during emergencies, bridging equity gaps in disaster response and recovery.
- By integrating local resources with national service members, this partnership enhances Oregon’s capacity to build resilient communities.
Key Dates:
Nationally, NCCC Disaster Service Applications are received throughout the year. For purposes of the NCCC-OregonServes MOU, Pacific Region teams or Summer of Service can serve during these timelines (precise dates will vary year-to-year):
- November 1 – December 16
- January 8- April 16
- April 24 – July 23 (Traditional program applications due, February 7, 2025)
- Summer of Service June 20 – August 1
How to Apply to Be a Disaster Response AmeriCorps Volunteer:
First, download the application instructions below. Then, complete the Service Project Application for Disaster Response. No Project Concept Form is required.
Please note: Download the following document directly to your computer. Open and complete the document using Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat.
Applications and questions should be submitted to: NCCCPRTerritory2@americorps.gov.
Want to Make Your Organization a Project Sponsor?
Nonprofit and faith-based organizations, government entities, public schools, and universities, as well as tribal and native nations are eligible to apply. Organizations complete an application detailing the need and project design and NCCC will review submissions and make a final determination. To learn more about AmeriCorps NCCC and how to apply, please visit the AmeriCorps NCCC webpage.
Holiday Express Steams Up – Rides run every Friday – Sunday through Jan. 4.
The countdown is on! The first day of the highly anticipated Holiday Express is almost here, and it’s your chance to ride a train pulled by a historic steam locomotive—an unforgettable experience like no other.
Santa’s nearly ready—list checked, elves prepped, lights sparkling, and candy canes in hand. The only thing missing is YOU!
Get your tickets now for this beloved annual tradition. Create lasting memories with friends and family aboard the Holiday Express. Rides begin Nov. 29 and run every Friday – Sunday through Jan. 4.
Special Offer: Get 10% off select rides from Nov. 29 to Dec. 8! But don’t wait, tickets are selling fast.
Be part of the magic this holiday season. Reserve your seat today! Oregon Rail Heritage Center
Media contest invites Oregon high school students to promote young worker safety; entries due Feb. 21, 2025
Salem – High school students across Oregon are encouraged to put their video or graphic design skills on display by competing for cash prizes as part of a larger cause: increasing awareness about workplace safety and health for young workers.
The 2025 media contest, organized by the Oregon Young Employee Safety (O[yes]) Coalition, calls on participants to create an ad – through a compelling graphic design or video – that grabs their peers’ attention and convinces them to take the Young Employee Safety Awareness online training.
Participants get to choose the key message, theme, or tagline they believe will go furthest in capturing their audience and moving it to act. The target audience? Teen workers or teens who are preparing to work for the first time. The contest is now open for submissions. To compete, participants may submit either a graphic design or a video that is no more than 90 seconds in length.
Participants are expected to choose their key message, theme, or tagline in a wise and positive manner, including constructive and effective messages and language.
The top three entries in each of the two media categories will take home cash prizes ranging from $300 to $500. In each category, the first-place winner’s school, club, or organization will receive a matching award. Moreover, O[yes] will use the best of the submissions as ads in its ongoing efforts to improve on-the-job safety and health protections for teens.
While they carry out their projects, participants must ensure the health and safety of their team. No one should be endangered while creating their video or graphic design project.
The deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025.
Participants are encouraged to submit entries online. Submissions may also be mailed on a USB thumb drive or delivered in person.
For more information about the entry form and rules, contest expectations, and resources – including previous contest winners – visit the O[yes] online contest page.
The contest sponsors are local Oregon chapters of the American Society of Safety Professionals, Construction Safety Summit, Central Oregon Safety & Health Association, Hoffman Construction Company, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Oregon OSHA, SafeBuild Alliance, SAIF Corporation, and the Oregon Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Alliance.
### About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
About the Oregon Young Employee Safety Coalition (O[yes]): (O[yes]) is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing young worker injuries and fatalities. O[yes] members include safety and health professionals, educators, employers, labor and trade associations, and regulators. Visit youngemployeesafety.org.
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
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline.
It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com
