Willamette Valley News, Wednesday 6/18 – Teen Dies in Tragic Fall at Soda Creek Falls, Several Fires on Monday Kept Crews Busy, New Lane County Sheriff Sworn In & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Willamette Valley Weather

Stay updated with the National Weather Service and NOAA for the latest information on evolving conditions.

Teen Dies in Tragic Fall at Soda Creek Falls Trail

According to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, a 17-year-old girl visiting from Texas died after falling from a tree near the start of the Soda Creek Falls Trail, tucked behind Cascadia State Park. Deputies were called to the area shortly after 11 a.m.

Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that on June 16, 2025, at 11:09 a.m., Linn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a 911 call requesting help for a 17-year-old female who had fallen and was not breathing while hiking on the Soda Creek Falls Trail behind Cascadia State Park east of Sweet Home.

Deputies learned from the investigation that the victim was from Texas and had been hiking with her father, who lives in the local area, on various trails during her visit.  They had just started up the trail when the victim jumped up or climbed a tree to hang from a branch approximately six inches in diameter.  The branch broke, causing her to fall onto another log with the branch falling on top of her. 

She eventually lost consciousness so her father tried to drag her out to where he could get her help.  Bystanders assisted with CPR until Sweet Home Fire Department arrived and took over.  Medics eventually pronounced her dead at the scene.

Linn County deputies were assisted by Sweet Home Fire Department and the Linn County Parks staff. Sheriff Duncan and her staff offer their sincere condolences and thoughts to the family during this difficult time.

Lebanon firefighters quickly responded to 6 acre vegetation fire on the edge of town

At 8:50 pm Tuesday, Firefighters quickly responded to and contained a small vegetation fire Tuesday evening near the old mill site, in the 800 block of Milton Street. The incident, initially reported as a small fire, was quickly upgraded to a first alarm after multiple callers reported heavy smoke visible from Oak Street.

Battalion Chief 31 and Brush 31 were first on scene, gaining access through a locked gate off Milton Street. Upon arrival, crews found approximately 1 to 2 acres burning with moderate fire behavior and no immediate threat to nearby structures or exposures.

Due to the rough terrain and limited access within the area, crews were unable to conduct a direct mobile attack. Instead, firefighters implemented a containment strategy using the existing wide roadways surrounding the fire. Favorable weather conditions allowed the fire to be safely boxed in on all four sides. Firefighters implemented a strategic backburn operation to further assist with containing the fire. 

After the fire’s forward progress was stopped, crews established a secure wetline around the entire perimeter and worked to cool internal hotspots using hand tools and backpack sprayers. No structures were threatened, and no injuries were reported.  The fire burned close to 6 acres. Crews were on scene for 2.5 hours and Albany Fire provided an ambulance and fire engine to cover the district. 

Some smoldering and light smoke may continue in the area. The Lebanon Fire District would like to remind everyone that burn season is over and to be extra cautious to protect our community from wildfire danger.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

At approx 5:44 pm on 6/16/25 Eugene Springfield Fire, Engine 1 and Battalion 1 responded to reports of an explosion near Alton Baker Park in Eugene

Crews arrived with light smoke in the area of the bike path off Leo Harris Parkway south of PK Park. Battalion 1 located an approximately half-acre fire in a forested area of East Alton Baker Park. Additional resources were requested due to the size and density of vegetation.

In total 2 Engines, 1 Type 3 Brush Engine, 1 Water Tender, 1 Battalion Chief, and 2 Deputy Fire Marshalls responded to the incident. The fire was brought under control at 6:24 pm and the cause was determined to be a fire in an unhoused encampment. There were no injuries and crews remained on scene until 7:45 pm overhauling the fire area and assuring extinguishment.

Eugene Springfield Fire responded to several fire incidents on Monday June 16th.

Just before 7:30 AM Firefighters responded to a brush fire burning near a home in the 1500 block of Vera Dr in Springfield.  Firefighters arrived to find arborvitae burning in the back yard of a home and were able to contain the fire before it spread to near boy homes.

Just after 12:00 PM Firefighters were called to the 3200 block of Gateway St in Springfield.  Callers reported smoke in the laundry room in the Gateway Village Apartments.  Firefighters found that a belt had burned up on a commercial dryer, but did not extend to the building.

Just after 3:15 PM Firefighters were called to the 4300 block of Main St in Springfield for a fast moving grass fire.  The fire was threating nearby structures and was controlled by responding fire crews.  There were no injuries and the cause is under investigation.

Just a before 4:45 PM Firefighters were called to a mobile home fire in the 500 block on N Danebo in West Eugene. Firefighters arrived to find a mobile home heavily involved in fire. Reports suggest fireworks may have caused the fire, but the cause is under investigation.

Just before 6:00 PM Firefighters were called to the 1800 block of J St in Springfield to a shed on fire. Responding fire crews contained the fire to the shed.  The cause is believed to be a mishap while refueling a lawnmower.  There were no injuries reported.

Just after 6:00 PM Firefighters were called to a possible fire at Safeway on Pioneer Parkway in Springfield.  Arriving crews found light smoke from the roof at the back of the building.  Fire had extended from a dumpster fire in to the wall and a void space in the ceiling above a business.

2025 Mid-Willamette Valley Interagency Wildland Fire School begins June 23 in Sweet Home, Oregon

—Approximately 200 wildland firefighters and instructors will convene in Sweet Home, beginning on June 23, to take part in the annual five-day Mid-Willamette Valley Interagency Wildland Fire School. Officials from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) host the yearly training to prepare new firefighters for the rigors of fighting fire, both in Oregon’s forests and in wildland-urban interface areas. 

The training culminates with a live fire exercise on Friday, June 27 just outside of Sweet Home. This presents trainees with a final challenge: applying their newly acquired skills and techniques to suppress and mop-up a real fire under controlled conditions. 

“Cascade Timber Consulting, a local forest landowner, provides a new field site each year and we are very grateful,” said Craig Pettinger, Incident Commander of the Mid-Willamette Valley Interagency Fire School. “The live fire exercise provides an invaluable training experience—working in smoke, hiking through uneven terrain, and working closely with crew members to dig fireline—these are all things they’ll experience this season as wildland firefighters.” 

Safety principles of fire training include wearing protective gear, safe use of tools and looking out for hazards.  

“Safety is paramount in every aspect of wildland firefighting, and it begins with our training exercises,” continued Pettinger. “Working together in a collaborative training setting improves communication and builds effective relationships for all agencies to draw upon during fire season.” 

This year, the field site that will be used for the live fire exercise is located approximately six miles northeast of Sweet Home. Fire officials urge the public to use caution as there will be increased fire traffic in the area and the potential for visible smoke on Friday, June 27.  

Carl Wilkerson has been unanimously appointed Lane County Sheriff by the Board of County Commissioners.

Sheriff Wilkerson will serve in his appointed capacity through 2026 and, if elected by voters in 2026, would begin a full four-year term in 2027.

“I am both honored and humbled to continue to serve the Sheriff’s Office and our community in this new capacity,” said Sheriff Wilkerson. “I am very proud of the men and women who make up the Sheriff’s Office. I appreciate how hard they work and their passion to serve the Lane County community.  I want to thank the Sheriff’s Office staff, the community, and most importantly, my family in supporting me throughout my career.”  

Sheriff Wilkerson has served as Chief Deputy of the agency since 2019 but began his career with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office more than 30 years ago as a cadet in the Explorer Post, a Marine Patrol boat aid, and as a reserve deputy sheriff before being hired as a deputy with the agency in 1996. During his tenure with the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Wilkerson has worked in nearly every assignment available in the agency, including Corrections, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, the Metro SWAT Team, Traffic Safety Team, and Special Response Team.

As the Chief Deputy, Sheriff Wilkerson supervised the division commanders of the Police and Corrections divisions and was the Division Commander for the Operations Support Division.  He was responsible for personnel, labor relations, budget, training, the Office of Professional Standards, the radio network, and a variety of other tasks, including serving as incident commander of Lane County’s emergency operations center during the Holiday Farm Fire and other wildfires.

Sheriff Wilkerson is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, Class 277.  He has attended the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association Command College, the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association Sheriff’s Institute, and he holds an executive police certification through the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training.  Sheriff Wilkerson earned his bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Bushnell University. 

Sheriff Wilkerson’s appointment follows the retirement of former Sheriff Clifton Harrold who served as Sheriff from 2019 to 2025.

Salem Detectives search for suspect in two sexual assaults

— Salem Police Special Victims Unit detectives are looking for a suspect wanted in two sexual assaults that occurred in the last two days in southeast Salem.

The first incident occurred on Sunday, June 15, at about 4:30 p.m. in the area of Commercial ST and Barnes AV SE. A woman reported walking in the area when the suspect approached, and he assaulted her. The victim was able to escape, and the suspect fled.

A general description of the suspect is as follows: a Black male adult with dark hair, a thin to medium build, between 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 7 inches tall, and approximately 20 to 30 years of age.

Detectives believe the same suspect was involved in another assault in the same area the next day, June 16. On Monday, shortly after 4:00 a.m., a teenager was walking and approached and assaulted by a similarly-described man. A passerby intervened and confronted the suspect, who then ran away.

In each incident, an immediate and extensive search for the suspect was conducted, but he was not located.

Detectives are following up on all available leads. Anyone with information about the cases is asked to call the Salem Police tip line at 503-588-8477.

The Springfield Public Library launches nine weeks of multicultural music, dancing and storytelling events at its outdoor plaza this week. 

Every Wednesday morning, from June 18 to August 13, the library is hosting free, public programs with diverse artists and organizations from around Oregon. MORE INFO: https://wheremindsgrow.org/events/summer FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/springfieldpubliclibrary

Lane County Veterans Services to Host 3rd Annual Women Veterans Day Celebration

Lane County Health & Human Services’ Veterans Services Program invites women veterans, their families, and the broader community to the 3rd Annual Women Veterans Day Celebration on Saturday, June 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion, 3650 River Road in Eugene.

This free, family-friendly event honors the service and sacrifices of women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It commemorates the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of June 12, 1948, which granted women the right to serve as permanent, regular members of the U.S. military.

The event is open to all and offers an opportunity to recognize the contributions of women veterans while connecting with others in a welcoming, community-centered space.

Event Highlights:

• Live music, food, and entertainment
• Activities for all ages
• Veteran resource booths
• Information on employment, education, housing, and health services
• Parenting resources
• Local vendors and community organizations

Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or a community supporter, this is a chance to come together, celebrate, and uplift the voices of women who have served.

Event Details:

3rd Annual Women Veterans Day Celebration
Saturday, June 21, 2025
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
American Legion, 3650 River Road, Eugene, OR

Former Homes for Good employee now faces three additional counts of first-degree theft in connection with a loss alleged to be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars for Lane County’s public housing agency.

An indictment filed last Friday charges Miranda Renee Wilcox, 59, with six counts of first-degree theft, a felony — with each charge for an unspecified amount greater than $50,000 — up from three counts of theft listed in a previous court document filed by prosecutors. The indictment also charges Wilcox with 21 counts of felony identity theft.

Eugene police in May announced the arrest of Wilcox on suspicion of embezzling an estimated $560,000 while working as a payroll specialist. The agency initially reported a loss of $125,000, but police described finding additional losses as part of their investigation. Court records show Wilcox signed a release agreement May 15 in which she promised to appear for future court appearances.

Homes for Good offers help to low-income Lane County residents seeking affordable housing. The agency’s revenues mostly come from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, money paid by tenants and grant support, according to an audit report for the year ending September 2023 posted on the agency’s website. It’s the most recent audit report on the agency’s website.

Eugene city councilors awarded three affordable housing projects in Eugene $710,000 in funding from the city as part of the city’s efforts to increase its long term housing supply

The city council unanimously awarded the money to three separate projects that developers have planned. The money comes from the city’s affordable housing trust fund, which can help developers with a small portion of the overall costs. The fund, which includes revenues from a construction excise tax and the city’s general fund, received $1.2 million for fiscal year 2024. 

John Barofsky, a member of the advisory committee that evaluates applications for funding, told the council that the projects all had merit. There were nearly $2 million in requests. 

Eugene faces a long-term affordable housing shortage. Projections show the city needs nearly 15,000 more units in the next 20 years. Homelessness, underproduction of housing and rising costs all contribute to the existing challenge, which exists across Oregon. Awards approved Monday include:

Legacy Park, a planned community of three three-story buildings with 47 affordable rental units in the 600 block of River Road, will get $373,832.The project, provided through Cascade Housing Association, will provide 11 two-bedroom units for households that earn up to 50% of the area median income. That’s $44,550 annually for a household of four. 

Park Run, a community planned for the 100 block of South Garden Way in the Harlow neighborhood, will get $200,000. The planned four-story, 158-unit affordable housing community will have 29 units for households earning up to 30% of the area median income, or $26,750 for a household of four and 129 units for households earning up to 60% of the area median income. 

The Lucy, a 36-unit project on Hunsaker Lane in the Santa Clara Community neighborhood. It will serve households who earn up to 60% of the area median income, with units that range from one to three bedrooms. The project received $428,273 from the fund in 2024. This year, the developer, Cornerstone Community Housing, requested another $310,094, citing rising industrywide construction and insurance costs. City officials granted a portion of that request awarding another $136,04 on Monday.

Burrito Brigade needs to expand so we may better serve the food challenged and the best option is to buy our own building.

Please help us reach our goal for a permanent home. https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse…

This new space will help us rescue and redistribute more food, operate more efficiently, and better serve our community. We’ve already raised $7,500 toward our $10,000 match challenge!Help us unlock the full $10,000 by June 10th! Every dollar you give today = DOUBLE the impact. Give here: https://www.zeffy.com/…/raise-the-roof-from-warehouse… Let’s raise the roof—literally and figuratively.

The OG Corner Market — We are launching a Go Fund Me to raise the needed funds to save The OG Corner Market.

The Lane County Fair – Tickets On Sale

  ·  Big news, Fair fans! Concert tickets AND all other Lane County Fair tickets go on sale JUNE 6 @ 9am!

HAVE A BLAST WORKING FOR THE FAIR! Multiple Positions Open: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lanecountyor/jobs/4932327/fair-worker-multiple-positions?keywords=extra%20help&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Let the countdown to fun begin! Mark your calendars! JULY 23 – 27, 2025 https://www.atthefair.com/

Eugene City Council Public Hearing and Action – 5:30 p.m Monday June 23

Eugene’s current budget proposal would close the downtown library 2 days a week, end the city’s contract with Greenhill Humane Society, and close the Amazon Pool and Sheldon Community Center in the fall. Not to mention ending CAHOOTS and there are cuts to Eugene/Springfield Fire. It’s important to be part of the process and voice your concerns.

The Budget Committee is a standing committee that reviews the proposed operating and capital budget each biennium and makes a recommendation on the budget to the City Council for final adoption. The Committee is composed of an equal number of City Council members (8) and appointed citizen members (8). In addition to the April 30 meeting, the Committee will meet in-person at City Hall in the Council Chambers on the following dates (with virtual options available): 

• 5:30 p.m., Monday, June 23: City Council Public Hearing and Action 
• https://eugene-or.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=7053

SALARY SCHEDULE of City of EUGENE: https://www.eugene-or.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2387/City-of-Eugene—Salary-Schedule?bidId=

Willamette Valley Crisis Care

Current and former CAHOOTS workers have started a new organization: Willamette Valley Crisis Care! Check ’em out on instagram (here) and facebook (here) and share the news that they’re ready to bring back CAHOOTS as CAHOOTS 2.0.

The city budget meeting was a huge success. Thanks to the community for showing up for us! Your powerful testimony and our hard work have earned us a huge nod from the city as the budget passed with a one time allocation of .5m for alternative response transition, and a recommendation for city council to direct the city manager to investigate how a cahoots-like service could be provided and allocate up to 2.2m annually which could be taken from the CSI.

What does this mean for WVCC? It means our city leadership acknowledges our value and sees this work as critical. It means we get to work with the city to measure our impact and further define our role as an essential part of public safety. And, with grit and collaboration, it means you all, our neighbors, can look forward to annual funds from the city that contribute to stability for non-forced, person-led care with funds, potentially from the Community Safety Initiative.

THIS IS COMMUNITY ACTION ACTUALIZED!!! We absolutely couldn’t have done it without you, and we are filled with gratitude, moving closer day by day to getting wheels back on the roads of our beloved Eugene!

City of Eugene’s Draft Budget Proposes The Entire Elimination of Eugene’s Animal Services Program

You may have seen that multiple news outlets have reported on the City of Eugene’s draft budget. The current draft proposes the entire elimination of Eugene’s animal services program, including their two animal welfare officers and our contract to provide animal sheltering and essential services for the residents and animals of Eugene.

This proposal is dangerous for public safety and puts vulnerable animals at risk.

We ask you to join our efforts to ensure that funding for Eugene’s animal services program and sheltering contract is restored.

Greenhill Humane Society shelters and cares for animals from all of Lane County. While the proposed budget won’t change the high-quality care that we provide for animals in our shelter or what we do for other communities, this elimination is a direct threat to public safety in Eugene.

Last year, we sheltered and cared for nearly 1,600 animals from Eugene, protecting both animals and people.By leveraging donations, volunteers, and animal welfare expertise, we have helped build this community into a compassionate, safe place for animals and people.

How you can help: encourage the City of Eugene to fund their animal services program and the sheltering contract here: http://www.eugene-or.gov/…/Send-an-Email-to-the-Budget…. Learn more here: http://www.green-hill.org/call-to-action-city-of-eugenes….

Road Closure: Old Mill Road (Office Covered Bridge)

Reason for closure: Mountain Bike Oregon event

Road name: Old Mill Road

Location: Westfir

Closure location: Office Covered Bridge

Dates and times: Thursday, June 26, at 12:00 p.m. through Sunday, June 29, at 4:00 p.m.

Alternate routes: None.

Celebrating 20 years as Oregon’s Favorite Annual Mountain Bike Camp!

Get hyped for Mountain Bike Oregon, the all-inclusive three-day mountain biking festival featuring Oakridge’s best singletrack.

Come ride in the mountain bike capital of the Pacific Northwest, one of six IMBA Gold Level trail center sites.

MBO includes 3 days of riding sweet & technical singletrack, onsite camping & bike vendors, evenings in the Hydro Flask beverage garden with free Deschutes Brewery & Oakshire beer, 2 Towns cider, wine, & Humm Kombucha & opportunities to demo the industry’s best mountain bikes also for free! MORE INFO: https://www.mtboregon.com/

 Back to School Drive – June 1 to July 31! 

Help CCS support over 200 kids enrolled in our programs — most of whom will start the school year without the supplies they need. Together, we can change that!

From June 1 to July 31, we’re collecting NEW school supplies to give these students a strong start.

 Most Needed Items (New Only):
 Pencils & pens
 Notebooks & paper
 Watercolors & markers
 Backpacks
 Scissors & erasers
… and more

Your donation can make a direct impact in a child’s life.  Find a complete list of supplies and a donation site near you and give today! www.ccslc.org/back-to-school-drive Let’s make sure every student walks into school confident, prepared, and ready to learn. 

June is National Camping Month!

It’s the perfect time to unplug, unwind, and reconnect—with nature and the people you love. Whether you’re pitching a tent at a local campground or setting up under the stars in your own backyard, get outside and make some memories this month.

Lane County Parks manages 5 campgrounds: Harbor Vista in Florence Archie Knowles near Mapleton Richardson on Fern Ridge Reservoir Armitage near Coburg Baker Bay on Dorena Reservoir —- Reserve a spot at: LaneCountyOR.gov/parks

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/565852770 Sign 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 in an emergency.

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)

Whole Community News Report on CAHOOTS:

Since December of 2023, Eugene lost the University District hospital and the Hourglass Crisis Center, and as of last week, CAHOOTS. These were no-barrier treatment access points for our most vulnerable neighbors to receive care when experiencing a mental health crisis. READ MORE: https://wholecommunity.news/2025/04/20/public-comments-ask-city-not-to-lose-cahoots-too/

Contact for Services — Phone: CAHOOTS is dispatched within the Springfield urban growth boundary through the non-emergency number, 541-726-3714.

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

Youth Empowerment Programs, City of Eugene

 Registration open 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

Families: Need help with groceries this summer?

The Oregon Summer EBT (electronic benefit transfer) program helps families buy food for their school-aged children when school is out. Each summer, eligible families will get one yearly payment of $120 to buy groceries.

Learn who is automatically eligible and who needs to apply at sebt.oregon.gov. Questions? Please contact the Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 or summerebtinfo@odhs.oregon.gov.

Fallen Oregon firefighters honored during annual remembrance ceremony in Salem

A ceremony held Tuesday, June 17 commemorated Oregon fire service who have died in the line of duty. The Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial Ceremony honored the brave individuals who gave their lives to protect communities and natural resources around the state.

The annual event is held at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, site of the Oregon Fire Fighters Memorial. The memorial commemorates 182 fire service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice since 1881, including career, volunteer, wildland and structural fire fighters. 

Tuesday’s ceremony remembered three fallen fire service members whose names were recently added to the memorial: Benjamin Sapper of the U.S. Forest Service, Nicholas Berg of Mist-Birkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District, and Larry Dean of Salem Fire Department.

In his keynote address, Chief Benjamin Stange of Polk County Fire District #1 spoke of the enduring legacies of the firefighters whose names are engraved on the wall, ensuring their survivors that they will never be forgotten, and their memories will be synonymous with service and sacrifice.

“Their names will be used to send greater messages, to communicate commitment, to set expectations, and to inspire,” he said. “I promise you this: their service, their impact, their inspiration to the fire service will continue.”

Firefighter Benjamin Charles Sapper was killed in an on-duty vehicle accident near Powers on Aug. 4, 2023. Firefighter Sapper was a first-year firefighter working on the Gold Beach Ranger District hand crew for the Forest Service. Originally from Boulder, Colorado, 21-year-old Firefighter Sapper had recently obtained his bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics and was looking forward to starting graduate school at the University of British Columbia.

Mist-Birkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District Division Chief Nicholas “Nick” Berg passed away in his home on June 6, 2024 after assisting in setting up a draft site on his private farm for a drill night training session the night before. Division Chief Berg was a loyal Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD volunteer for 47 years and leaves behind his wife, Ann, four children, four grandchildren, as well as his sister and many nieces and nephews.

Retired Salem Fire Department Captain Larry Dean died on Sept. 13, 2024, after battling occupational esophageal cancer. Captain Dean served with the Salem Fire Department from 1987 to 2018, during which time he worked on several specialty teams and held various leadership roles. He is survived by his wife, Kaare, his three children, two grandchildren, mother, sister, and two brothers.

The ceremony was attended by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and public safety professionals from throughout the state. Governor Kotek spoke in tribute to the fallen, heralding their service and sacrifice and acknowledging the grief felt by those they left behind.

“Let us hold their surviving family members, friends, and colleagues in our hearts and thoughts and prayers,” she said. “We should share their stories every opportunity that we have, because to do so allows their spirits and stories to live on and serve as inspiration to all of us.”

The ceremony is a significant event that the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) hosts annually in partnership with the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard. For more information on the Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial, including the names of the fallen, history of the memorial, and the Oregon Fire Service Honor Guard’s involvement, please visit DPSST’s Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial website at https://www.oregon.gov/dpsst/Memorials/Firefighters/Pages/default.aspx.

### About DPSST – The mission of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is to pursue excellence in training and accountability for public safety professionals.

DPSST certifies and licenses police, corrections, and parole and probation officers, as well as regulatory specialists, emergency telecommunicators and medical dispatchers, criminal justice instructors, private security providers, private investigators, fire service professionals, and polygraph examiners in the state of Oregon.  DPSST works with public and private safety agencies around the state to provide basic, leadership and specialized training at the 237-acre Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem and regionally throughout the state.

Oregon State Fire Marshal marks completion of statewide engine program deliveries

The Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has made the final deliveries of new fire engines under its Engine Program, marking a major milestone in the agency’s commitment to modernize equipment and enhancing wildfire response capabilities within the Oregon structural fire service. 

The delivery of the last type 3 engines on Monday completes the agency’s distribution of 76 new firefighting vehicles to local fire agencies.

The program, part of Response Ready Oregon, was funded through Senate Bill 762, Oregon’s wildfire omnibus bill signed into law in 2021. 

“This is a landmark achievement for our agency, the Oregon fire service, and the communities we serve,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Through this program, we’re making a lasting investment in Oregon’s firefighting capacity and preparedness at a time when the threat of wildfire continues to grow.” 

The OSFM Engine Program provided: 

• 26 type 3 engines 

• 20 type 6 engines 

• 30 water tenders 

The apparatus were awarded to 76 local structural fire agencies across Oregon following a thorough review process in partnership with fire service associations and an advisory committee. All units are fully equipped to meet the state’s fire service mobilization standards and tailored for response in wildland-urban interface environments. 

“From the first engine delivered to Central Cascades Fire & EMS to the final engines of Klamath County Fire District 1 and Keno Fire Department, each apparatus brings stronger protection for our communities,” OSFM Chief Deputy Travis Medema said. “We are incredibly proud of the collaboration and commitment that made this program a success.” 

The OSFM’s Response Ready Oregon program’s goal is to keep wildfires small and prevent them from reaching communities, ultimately reducing the frequency and cost of large-scale fires. For a list of awarded agencies, photos of apparatus deliveries, and more information, visit the OSFM Engine Program webpage. 

At least 56 homes destroyed by Rowena Fire; more than 3,600 acres burned, 24% contained

The Rowena Fire near The Dalles remains burning at over 3,600 acres and 24% containment after igniting Wednesday afternoon.

We have been made aware that FEMA has diverted funds to the Rowena Fire. We want to be clear that this is specifically for firefighting efforts, not for individual and family needs.

We are not aware of any FEMA funds available for individuals or families at this time, but will update if things change. In the meantime, we have the Multi-Agency Resource Center (flyer in the comments) to help start the recovery process.

There is also a Disaster Case Management (DCM) hotline that can connect you with a dedicated case manager. They’ll help you navigate immediate needs like food, water, and shelter, while also guiding you through long-term recovery and connecting you with vital resources. Call the DCM hotline at 1-833-669-0554 for personalized support and advocacy

Oregon Emergency Coordination Center Activates to Level 3 for Wildfire Response

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 – Regional Response as of 8:00 a.m. on June 17, 2025, in response to increasing wildfire activity across the state.

Several active wildfires—including the Rowena Fire in Wasco County, the Alder Springs Fire in Jefferson County, and the Ferry Fire in Grant County—have prompted coordinated response efforts to support impacted communities and local emergency management agencies.

“Wildfire season is here, and these fires are a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can change,” said Curtis Peetz, ECC Manager. “By activating to Level 3, we are proactively engaged with our tribal, local, state, and federal partners to coordinate resources and information to help protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.”

The ECC is activated between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and is staffed with representatives from key state agencies to ensure streamlined communication and resource support.

OEM encourages all Oregonians to prepare for wildfires:

• Sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov and make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts are activated on their phones.
• Make a wildfire evacuation plan and review evacuation levels.
• Stay informed via trusted sources such as local emergency managers, county sheriff’s offices, and public land agencies.
• Check road conditions on TripCheck.com and air quality at Oregon DEQ.

For more information about how OEM supports wildfire preparedness and response, visit wildfire.oregon.gov

Sign up to receive the latest news directly from OEM. To find more preparedness tips, like how to Be2Weeks Ready for disasters, visit Oregon.gov/OEM.

Oregon Department of Forestry staff again take to skies to survey forest health

If you look up this month and see a slow-flying plane crisscrossing the skies over Oregon it’s likely just researchers looking for signs of damage in Oregon forests from insect pests and other threats. The Pacific Northwest Aerial Detection Survey of Oregon’s forests has been conducted by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the USDA Forest Service since the 1940s, except during the 2020 pandemic. It is the longest continuous annual survey of its kind in the United States.

To complete the survey, airborne researchers take off in fixed-wing aircraft with one on each side of the plane. They use laptops to record where trees appear to be in trouble. Survey flights typically fly between 1,500 to 2,500 feet above ground level, following a systematic grid four miles apart and traveling at 90 to 140 miles an hour.

“Oregon has about 30 million acres of forest so flying in a grid pattern over it allows us to find problems even in remote areas hard to reach by vehicle or on foot,” said ODF Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl.

“For several years this survey has identified a trend in increasing tree deaths as a result of drought stress and subsequent opportunistic beetle attack, which finishes off these stressed trees,” said Buhl. “Trees that are most stressed are those that are less drought-tolerant or have spread into fringe habitat and don’t have time to adapt to the rapidly changing conditions. Beetles might be the immediate cause of a tree’s death but the underlying cause is often drought.”

Other causes of trees being injured or killed can also be viewed from the air, such as damage from storms and wildfires.

Last year’s report showed drought, insect pests, and tree diseases continue to be the biggest threats to the state’s trees. That report is available at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/forestbenefits/documents/forest-health-highlights.pdf.

“Best management practices are to plant the right tree species and seed zone in the right place for projected climate and keep stocking density to a level that can be supported during drought,” said Buhl.

Due to persistent dry conditions, she said she expects the 2025 survey to see more of the same trends in higher tree deaths in Oregon’s driest areas, such as in southwest Oregon and east of the Cascades.

Buhl emphasized the importance of on-the-ground collaborators to help round out the full picture of forest health in Oregon. “In addition to information ODF and the USDA Forest Service gather, we rely on Oregon State University Forestry Extension staff from across the state, and collaborate with other natural resource agencies, universities, public and private forest landowners, and members of the public to gather information on the ground,” she said.

Oregon Department of Forestry will check coastal forests for signs of spruce aphid damage after outbreak found near Yachats

SALEM, Ore. – Earlier this year a spruce aphid outbreak was detected around Yachats on the central Oregon coast. ODF will be assessing the spread of this damage to determine where else it might be occurring along the coast.

Spruce aphid is a long-established exotic and invasive insect that experiences periodic outbreaks that injure Sitka spruce along the West Coast, including Oregon. Spruce aphid (Elatobium abietinum) sucks moisture and nutrients from older needles on Sitka spruce trees, causing them to turn yellow, red, and then drop. The aphids don’t feed on new needles. This insect actively feeds in February and March. By early summer when   needle drop begins to be seen it is too late to do anything about outbreaks, as populations of this insect have already declined. 

Although trees are injured, they don’t often die from this damage because this insect is only periodic, does not feed on current year needles, and does not kill buds. However, trees that have other underlying stress issues will be more heavily impacted. Sitka spruce is often stressed by flooding and brackish water if growing too close to the coastline, therefore those trees might be more at risk from the additional impact of spruce aphid.

“We don’t typically see back-to-back outbreaks in the same areas, but because outbreaks often occur after a particularly warmer than usual winter or when we don’t get a late cold snap – and these are becoming more common with climate change – it is possible that we will eventually see more outbreaks one after the other,” said ODF Forest Entomologist Christine Buhl.

Able to tolerate salt spray, Sitka spruce grows in moist coastal forests seldom more than a few miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. Typically growing between 125 and 180 feet tall, they are long-lived trees capable of living several centuries. Many of the largest old-growth Sitka spruce were cut down to build airplanes in the early 20^th Century or to make violins, guitars, and pianos. — More info: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/documents/forestbenefits/Spruce_aphid_2017.pdf

Rangers prepare Oregon State Parks for busy summer camping season

SALEM, Oregon— SALEM, Oregon— This weekend kicks off the official summer camping season, but the work to prepare Oregon’s more than 250 state parks and campgrounds has been going all year long.

Behind the scenes, park rangers have moved mountains of sand, cleared thousands of downed trees and repaired roofs, bridges and trails around the state to keep

parks well maintained and ready for visitors.

Visitors might think that parks stay pristine because they look just like they did last year, but maintaining beautiful landscapes in some of Oregon’s harshest climates takes some work:

• Cape Lookout State Park cleared more than 1.5 million pounds of sand after winter winds buried one camp loop in six-inch drifts. The park is not alone. Many coastal parks must dig out campsites, sidewalks and parking lots after the winter season.
   
• Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area removed a dump truck load of slime, algae, branches, leaves and trash, which coated the campground when lake water receded. The lake floods every year, and rangers clean up the muck left behind.
   
• In the Mountain Region and other areas where it freezes, rangers reinstall plumbing components and restart the plumbing to the campgrounds, buildings and picnic shelters, which includes restarting water to thousands of campsite spigots.
   
• At Fall Creek State Recreation Area east of Eugene, rangers cleared eight dump truck loads of fir needles, cones, branches and debris to make the roads passable at Winberry Park when it reopened this spring.
   
• Nehalem Bay State Park cleared nearly 180 downed trees in one winter storm alone. Parks across the state repaired winter storm damage, including clearing downed trees, repairing roads, fixing roofs and mending bridges. 
   
• In the Columbia River Gorge, parks cleared thousands of pounds of woody debris from paved trails. They created chips from the debris and spread it around trees and shrubs.

Overall, Oregon State Parks rangers spend nearly 800,000 hours a year cleaning bathrooms, building and repairing trails and bridges, fixing old and new pipes and wiring, keeping parks safe, preserving Oregon’s history and natural resources and sharing knowledge on everything from mushrooms to the night sky.

“Rangers work tirelessly to keep these landscapes beautiful and accessible for the approximately 56 million visits each year at Oregon State Parks. We’re thankful for the work they do every day,” said Oregon Governor Tina Kotek.

Oregon State Parks welcome as many as 17,000 guests on the busiest nights, which means moving a city roughly the size of Canby in and out of campgrounds on almost a daily basis statewide.

“Oregon State Parks are like small cities. They run sewer, water and electrical systems; maintain roads and structures, all while managing campgrounds. When one system goes down, our staff manage the necessary emergency repairs to keep parks open. I’m proud of the work they do to keep parks safe, welcoming and ready for everyone to enjoy,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Director Lisa Sumption.

Help rangers this season by following all safety signs and barriers; staying on trail and checking campfire restrictions in advance at stateparks.oregon.gov. Interested in what rangers do? Check out the Oregon State Parks episode of “Odd Jobs” by SAIF Corporation at https://youtu.be/NUqCmEe38Uw?feature=shared or the Join Us page on the website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=get-involved.jobs

Press Release: SOLVE Launches Summer with SOLVE Campaign to Take Action and Preserve Outdoor Spaces

– Summer is here, and with it comes more opportunities to enjoy the PNW’s beaches, parks, and rivers. However, the increased outdoor activity also leads to more litter and strain on the environment. To combat this, SOLVE is launching its Summer with SOLVE campaign, designed to take action, connect communities, and celebrate the beauty of our region through environmental action.

“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a time to ensure these spaces remain clean and sustainable for future generations,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “Together, we can create cleaner, more inviting spaces that reflect our pride in our region and our commitment to caring for the environment. By working together, we can make a significant impact and inspire others to join in the effort to protect our natural spaces that we love to enjoy, especially during summer.”

SOLVE kicked off summer with Pick It Up, Portland!, a citywide celebration on World Environment Day, June 5. The event focused on four different locations across Portland: Market Street Downtown, Holladay Park, Sellwood Riverfront Park, and Eastbank Esplanade. This was the first of many volunteer opportunities offered by SOLVE this summer, with more projects planned throughout the season, including the ongoing Waterway Cleanup Series, protecting the health of local rivers, streams and creeks.

What You’ll See This Summer

As outdoor recreation increases, SOLVE volunteers will:

• Remove litter from parks, neighborhoods, beaches, and riverbanks
• Maintain recreation sites and public green spaces
• Mulch around native trees and shrubs
• Remove invasive plant species that thrive in summer months like Japanese knotweed, Himalayan blackberry, and Scotch broom

Key Summer Events:

• Afterglow: Post-4th Cleanups (July 5-6): Volunteers will tackle the debris left behind from holiday celebrations to help restore outdoor spaces and shorelines.
• Willamette River Cleanup (August 9): A focused cleanup of the Willamette River, combating litter both on the water and along the riverbanks.
• Waterway Cleanup Series (ongoing through September): A series of cleanup efforts dedicated to preserving Oregon’s rivers and streams during the peak outdoor season.
• Monthly Detrash Portland Events: Community cleanups in Portland’s business districts, focusing on revitalizing key areas in the city.

Looking ahead, SOLVE is also preparing for its annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup, September 20-28, part of the global International Coastal Cleanup, World Rivers Day and National Public Lands Day initiatives.

Join Summer with SOLVE

This summer, SOLVE invites you to take part in protecting and preserving the natural spaces that make our region special. Whether you’re volunteering at a cleanup event, leading your own group, or taking on a DIY project, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.

Try the Trash Bag Challenge—pick up a bag of litter, then challenge friends or coworkers to do the same. Pass the bag, spread the impact, and inspire others to take action.

Every effort counts. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods, parks, and waterways clean and beautiful for generations to come.

For more information about Summer with SOLVE and how to get involved, visit solveoregon.org/seasons or follow us on social media.

About SOLVE 

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information. 

Oregon Lottery Unveils State Parks Adventures Themed Scratch-its

– For the fourth year in a row, Oregon Lottery is highlighting the natural beauty of Oregon State Parks with new “Adventures” themed Scratch-its. The $5 tickets feature three designs of Oregon State Park landscapes with a top prize of $50,000. The tickets are available at Oregon Lottery retailers statewide.  

Lottery game play helps ensure that our state parks are continuously maintained and improved, with Oregon State Parks receiving more than $1 billion in Lottery funds since 1999.

The tickets were designed by Oregon Lottery staff and highlight the diversity of the region through scenes featuring the coast, high desert, and the forest and mountain ranges. On the back of each ticket, players will find facts and tidbits about parks and natural areas that correspond to each scene.

“Oregon’s state parks offer everyone the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors – whether that’s exploring a challenging trail or a relaxing picnic with a scenic view,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to support Oregon’s park system, which showcases Oregon’s natural beauty.”

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org.

PUC Approves Customer Protections to Avoid Disconnection of Utility Service When Extreme Heat Warning in Effect

– The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) recently approved temporary rules to protect residential customers—especially vulnerable households—from disconnection of electric utility services during extreme high temperatures.

Under the new rules, which will remain in effect through October 24, 2025, all regulated investor-owned utilities including Portland General Electric, PacifiCorp, and Idaho Power, are required to:

• Not disconnect service during peak heat – Utilities are prohibited from disconnecting electric service for 48-hours following a qualifying heat event, such as a heat advisory from the National Weather Service, ensuring households can safely cope with and recover from extreme temperatures.
• Reconnect service required during heat event – Customers whose utility services were disconnected up to 7 days before a heat event can request to be reconnected without delay once the heat event begins to help prevent risk to health and safety of residents.
• Waive reconnection fees – Although previous rules approved by the Commission waive select reconnection fees for any low-income customer, these temporary rules expand to waive all reconnection fees for medical certificate account holders or discount program participants earning less than 10 percent of state median income.
• Improve outreach and communication – The new rules require utilities to improve customer notifications to help ensure eligible customers are informed of their rights and can quickly access reconnection when needed.

“The Commission approved these rules to help ensure customers of the utilities we regulate will not lose power during dangerous heat events,” said Letha Tawney, PUC Chair. “These are critical steps to protect our most vulnerable neighbors and are timely as Oregon is already experiencing the first heat events of the summer.”

# # # The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural, and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.       

OHCS seeks public input on Substantial Action Plan Amendment for disaster recovery infrastructure funding

Public hearings scheduled for June 23 and 25

– Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) published a draft Action Plan Amendment for a $422 million disaster recovery grant and is seeking public input on the changes. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) is administered through a suite of programs, also known as “ReOregon.” These programs support individuals, households, and communities as they continue to recover from the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds.

The draft Action Plan Amendment would reallocate program funds to support the Gates Wastewater Collection System project in Marion County so it can meet the grant’s timelines and streamline construction. This project is critical for wildfire recovery and increasing housing supply. A short summary of the key elements of the plan and the entire draft Action Plan Amendment is available for review on OHCS’ website at https://re.oregon.gov.

Public comment on the draft Action Plan Amendment will be taken for 30 days through public hearings, online form, email, mail, or telephone. The hearings will include a short presentation by Marion County representatives and OHCS officials, followed by public feedback. Printed copies of the plan will be available by request.

Public hearing details:

When: Monday, June 23

Doors open: 5:30 p.m.

Public hearing: 6 p.m.

Where: Marion County Board of Commissioners Board Room, 555 Court St. NE, Suite 5232, Salem

For those who cannot attend in person, a virtual hearing on Zoom will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25. Please register to attend.

Information presented at the public hearings will be available on the ReOregon website at re.oregon.gov. Spanish translation services will be available at all the public hearings. Please email hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov if you need special accommodations.

In addition to providing comment at the hearings, the public will be able to do so by:

• E-mail: hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov
• Online form:
  • English: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01973bb258ac77e3a4fdb47a0bc601f2
  • Spanish: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01973cd96f8a7b50b47661f3d5c4d016
• Phone: 877-510-6800
• Mail: OHCS, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite B, Salem, OR 97301-1266

All comments must be submitted to OHCS no later than 11:59 p.m. July 9, 2025.

After the 30-day public comment period, feedback will be incorporated into the plan before OHCS submits it to HUD for review and approval, which can take up to 45 days. As required by HUD, OHCS will address all comments received.

To learn more about ReOregon programs, visit re.oregon.gov or sign up to receive e-mail notifications.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services 
OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

More Oregon Workers Are Part Time as Labor Market Cools

• Oregon’s labor market weakened in the latest quarter as total jobs fell by 0.2 percent, shedding 25,000 positions across the state.
• This decline followed several years of slower job growth, with the health sector losing 11,000 jobs despite adding over 109,000 in the past year.
• Part-Time employment reached its highest point in a decade, comprising nearly 23 percent of workers, while job openings dropped by more than half since 2022 to about 50,000.
• Fields noted Oregon’s labor market shows less hiring demand and more slack than the national average due to demographics and higher part-time work among older workers.
• These trends indicate a cooling labor market with structural shifts that could challenge private sector growth and require economic adjustments moving forward.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is issuing a reminder to the public that if you encounter a fawn alone, it is not abandoned, and you should refrain from removing the animal.

The agency’s Central Point office has already documented six cases of individuals bringing in fawns or has received calls from people inquiring about fawns they have picked up. It emphasizes that this is the season when deer give birth, and it is crucial to understand that they do not abandon their fawns. Instead, they conceal their fawns while they forage to prevent attracting predators, allowing them to subsequently feed their young.

Experts indicate that removing a fawn can significantly reduce its chances of survival, as stated by Chris Shelton from ODFW’s Rogue District. If you happen upon a fawn alone, it is best to leave it in its location and maintain a safe distance. Does are highly protective of their offspring and have been known to injure humans and even kill small pets.

Additionally, it is important to note that removing wildlife is illegal; it is classified as a class-A misdemeanor, which can lead to a potential year in jail and fines exceeding $6,200.

Victims of child sexual abuse or sexual assault will have an unlimited timeframe to file lawsuits against their abusers, as well as against institutions that facilitated the abuse, according to a bill that received overwhelming and often emotional support in the Oregon House on Thursday.

House Bill 3582 aims to align Oregon with a growing number of states that are either expanding or abolishing statutes of limitations for civil actions related to sexual assault or child sexual abuse.  Currently, under existing law, individuals who experienced sexual abuse during childhood must file claims by the age of 40, or within five years of when they establish a link between the abuse and the harms they have endured, whichever period is longer.

Adult victims of sexual assault have a five-year window from the time they recognize a connection between the assault and the harms they have faced.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking a volunteer to serve a three-year term as the Equestrian Representative on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee starting in 2026.

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.

Ideal candidates representing the interest of equestrian trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Recreation related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs, other broad recreational issues and the importance of providing equitable, inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities.

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2025. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.

Kyron Horman disappearance investigation continues 15 years later as police digitize case files

Law enforcement is scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized, 15 years after Kyron’s disappearance.

As the 15th anniversary of Kyron Horman’s disappearance approaches, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) says its investigation into his disappearance remains ongoing, announcing that case files will be digitized. 

The MCSO and Gresham Police detectives are scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized. When the case is digitized, the file will be reexamined by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, laying out the foundation “for a fresh and comprehensive review of the entire investigation,” according to MCSO. 

MCSO detectives in the coming months will meet with Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez and his team to further evaluate.

Kyron was last seen on the morning of June 4, 2010, at a science fair at Skyline Elementary School in Portland. 

A $50,000 reward remains available for information leading to the resolution of Kyron’s disappearance. Anyone with information is asked to call MCSO’s tipline at 503-988-0560, email tips@mcso.us or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) via 1-800-THE-LOST or online at the NCMEC CyberTipLine. (SOURCE)

Summer EBT for school-aged children returns for second year

Need to know:

• Oregon Summer EBT is a federal benefits program to help families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer.
• Oregon expects to provide up to 370,000 school-aged children with around $40 million in Summer EBT food benefits this year.
• Each eligible child receives a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits.
• About 341,500 eligible children received Summer EBT automatically on May 22, 2025 but some families need to apply.

(Salem, OR) – Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) is a food benefits program that helps shrink the hunger gap when children are on summer break and don’t have easy access to healthy meals at school. Summer EBT provides $120 per eligible child to buy food. 

This is the second year of Oregon’s Summer EBT program. On May 22, 2025, about 336,000 children got the benefit on an Oregon EBT card. Families should check their EBT card balance at www.ebtedge.com to confirm receipt.

Families who didn’t automatically get Summer EBT on May 22, 2025 should check program requirements before applying. Families can check requirements at sebt.oregon.gov or by contacting the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328. The Call Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PDT. Apply online in English and Spanish or with a paper application in multiple languages at sebt.oregon.gov. 

“When school doors close for the summer, the need for regular, healthy meals doesn’t disappear. Last year, the summer EBT program bridged a critical gap for thousands of Oregon families, helping to replace those essential 10 meals per child, per week, that they receive when school is in session,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). “We are proud to continue this partnership with ODHS to not only feed children, but to nurture their potential during crucial developmental months. Our continued commitment ensures that summer can be a season of growth and opportunity for all children, regardless of their economic circumstances.”

In 2024, about 362,000 children participated and received $43 million in Summer EBT food benefits their families spent in their local grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places.

“Summer EBT is one more way we can prevent kids from going hungry when school is out. Summer EBT is an evidence-based program proven to reduce child hunger and support healthier diets,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director. “Child hunger can have lasting impacts on health and academic achievement. Getting every eligible child connected to Summer EBT will help Oregon’s children thrive year-round and as they grow up.”

Who is eligible for Summer EBT food benefits? Families can find details about Summer EBT at sebt.oregon.gov. 

Your school-age child may be automatically eligible if:

• Your family received Summer EBT benefits through an approved application in 2024.
• Your family gets SNAP, TANF or Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) and meets income rules.
• Your child gets free or reduced-price school meals and meets income rules.
• Your child is in foster care, in migrant education, in a qualified Head Start, experiencing homelessness, or part of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).

Children who are automatically eligible received Summer EBT on May 22, 2025.

Your school-age child may be eligible by application if:

• Your family meets the federal income requirements for free or reduced-price meals at school, and
• Your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Families must apply by Sept. 3, 2025.

Receiving Summer EBT does not impact participation in other summer meal programs.

Summer EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test and are available to children regardless of immigration status. 

How will families receive Summer EBT food benefits?

The benefits will be placed on an Oregon EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and more.

Families that need a new card should call 855-328-6715, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT).

Families that think their children may be eligible and didn’t get benefits on May 22 must apply by September 3. If approved, they will receive an Oregon EBT card by mail.

Stolen Summer EBT benefits can’t be replaced.

You can protect your Oregon EBT card and benefits from electronic theft by following a few simple tips.

Where can families get more information? To learn more, or to apply, visit sebt.oregon.gov.

Call the Oregon Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT) on weekdays. All relay calls accepted.

More about Summer EBT – Summer EBT became a permanent program for states and certain Indian Tribal Organizations through the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. Most states began providing Summer EBT in June 2024. Oregon’s participation was made possible through an investment from the Oregon State Legislature of $12 million. That investment will draw $83 million in federal funding to Oregon, mostly in the form of food benefits families will spend in their communities. 

Additional resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Find summer meal sites:  https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or https://www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: https://www.caporegon.org/find-help

OHA to issue algae warnings when dog deaths reported  

As summer approaches, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reminds people heading outdoors to enjoy the state’s lakes, rivers and reservoirs to be on the look-out for potentially toxic cyanobacteria blooms.  

To help, OHA is adding a tool reporting the possible presence of cyanobacteria in freshwater lakes and rivers statewide. Starting immediately, OHA will issue pre-emptive public warnings following reports of dog illnesses or deaths possibly resulting from cyanotoxin exposure.  

OHA advises recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms in the water and in mats attached to the ground or rocks. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.  

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab. 

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state.

The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability.

In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs.

If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

OHA 2025 Oregon Beach Monitoring Season

Agency lists monitored beaches for May-September

—The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) is kicking off the 2025 season by announcing the coastal recreation areas it will be keeping an eye on for bacteria during summer and early fall.

The OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, monitors some of the most frequently visited beaches in the state. The list includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution.

• To see a video about Oregon’s beach monitoring effort, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82GVixgeGsM

The following beaches are being monitored this season, including name, and the city and county in which they are located:

• Seaside Beach – Seaside, Clatsop County
• Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Tolovana Beach State Park– Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Short Sand Beach (Oswald West State Park) – Arch Cape, Tillamook County
• Manzanita Beach – Manzanita, Tillamook County
• Rockaway Beach – Rockaway, Tillamook County
• Twin Rocks Beach – Twin Rocks, Tillamook County
• Oceanside Beach – Oceanside, Tillamook County
• Cape Kiwanda Beach – Pacific City, Tillamook County
• Neskowin Beach – Neskowin, Tillamook County
• D River Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Siletz Bay Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Beverly Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Agate Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Nye Beach – Newport, Lincoln City
• Ona Beach (Brian Booth-Beaver Creek State Park) – Seal Rock, Lincoln City
• Seal Rock Beach – Seal Rock, Lincoln County
• Heceta Beach – Florence, Lane County
• Bastendorff Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Sunset Bay State Park Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Hubbard Creek Beach – Port Orford, Curry County
• Harris Beach State Park – Brookings, Curry County
• Mill Beach – Brookings, Curry County
• Crissey Fields State Recreation Site – Brookings, Curry County

The OBMP season runs from mid-May to mid-September.  Advisories are issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within this sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in upcoming seasons.

The OBMP works with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to determine beaches that need monitoring based on several criteria. These criteria include pollution hazards present; previous monitoring data that identify water quality concerns; type and amount of beach use; and public input.

As part of an adaptive sampling plan, beaches and sampling locations are routinely re-evaluated to ensure available resources best protect public health. A copy of DEQ’s beach evaluation is available upon request.

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach, or contact OBMP at each.Health@oha.oregon.gov” rel=”noopener” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;” target=”_blank”>Beach.Health@oha.oregon.gov or 1-877-290-6767. 

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