Willamette Valley News, Wednesday 4/1 – WorkSource Oregon Job Fair Marathon Through Friday, Oregon Heritage Tree Program Celebrates 30 Years & 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, April 1, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

Be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

WorkSource Oregon Job Fair – Eugene/Springfield

“Your Career, Your Week” runs from 1-5 pm each day through Friday, April 3, 2026. 

Each day focuses on a different industry, with employer partners on hand to talk about career pathways, training opportunities, and current job openings in a variety of sectors.  

• Monday, March 30: Health care and social services 

• Tuesday, March 31: Manufacturing and skilled trades 

• Wednesday, April 1: Technology and innovation 

• Thursday, April 2: Education, government and nonprofit 

• Friday, April 3: Retail, logistics and distribution 

The event is offered at no cost to the public. Advance registration is encouraged but not required. Job seekers are asked to bring their resumes. For more information about the in-demand careers across these sectors, they can visit QualityInfo.org to explore the skills and career pathways for Oregon’s growing industries and occupations. 

“This is a great opportunity for people to learn about a variety of career options in key sectors of Oregon’s economy and connect directly with hiring employers,” said Jim Pfarrer, director of Workforce Operations with the Oregon Employment Department. “Job seekers should come prepared to make a strong impression and ready to talk about their strengths and experience.”  

WorkSource staff will also be on site to offer resources for career exploration, as well as resume and interview guidance.  

“WorkSource Oregon Lane is pleased to bring this exciting multiday event to job seekers in the Eugene area,” said Supervisor Joseph Land. “We encourage the public to take advantage of this opportunity to speak directly with our employer partners and learn more about the breadth of career options in our region. This is just one example of the many services we offer at no cost to help people find a job or get the training they need to be successful.”  

The Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon are proud to partner with businesses and employers across the state in finding qualified employees. If you are interested in collaborating on a hiring event or learning more about our resources for employers, please contact Services@oregon.gov” rel=”noreferrer noopener” style=”margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; text-decoration-line: none;” target=”_blank”>EmployerServices@oregon.gov. 

Event Information 

Date: Monday, March 30, through Friday, April 3, 2026 
Time: Daily, 1-5 p.m. 
Location: WorkSource Oregon Lane, 2nd Floor Rooms 

2510 Oakmont Way, Eugene, OR 97401 

Phone: 541-686-7601 

Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/worksource-lane-job-fair-marathon-tickets-1984164683982  

About Workforce Operations and WorkSource Oregon 

The Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce Operations division is a partner in WorkSource Oregon, a consortium of state agencies and local workforce boards, and operates 37 WorkSource Oregon centers across the state. WorkSource Oregon offers a wide range of free services to job seekers, employers, and businesses, including personalized career coaching, resume writing, job search strategies, support for job postings and hiring incentives, and access to labor-market data. Visit worksourceoregon.org for more information.   

Equal Opportunity Statement 

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) is an equal opportunity agency. WSO provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1680. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to Services@oregon.gov” rel=”noreferrer noopener” style=”margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; text-decoration-line: none;” target=”_blank”>EmployerServices@oregon.gov.  

WorkSource Oregon (WSO) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. WSO proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1680. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a Services@oregon.gov” rel=”noreferrer noopener” style=”margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; text-decoration-line: none;” target=”_blank”>EmployerServices@oregon.gov.  

Tickets Available Now for Willamalane Park and Recreation Megga Hunt

Tickets are available now for Megga Hunt, taking place on Saturday, April 4!

Megga Hunt is Springfield’s largest annual egg hunt event featuring crafts, balloon animals, face painting, train rides, music, and more! Tickets are $7 to participate in an egg hunt. Anyone not participating in a hunt can attend and enjoy other fun activities for free.

There are competitive hunts by age, plus baby and toddler, inclusive, and adaptive hunts. You can also reserve a family hunt to do a smaller egg hunt with just your group. Get your tickets today at willamalane.org/egg

Oregon Heritage Tree Program Celebrates 30 Years -Eugene, Springfield

The Travel Information Council and its volunteer Oregon Heritage Tree Committee, invite communities across Oregon to shine a spotlight on their heritage trees in 2026, particularly during Arbor Month in April. 

Founded in 1996, Oregon was the first state in the country to launch a state-sponsored heritage tree program. The goal of the program is to educate Oregonians about the value of these trees and promote their appreciation. Over the past 30 years, 85 trees have been designated across the state in 26 of Oregon’s 36 counties. Seventy-nine heritage trees are still living and provide the chance to engage the senses and learn about significant people, places and events at historic sites, public gardens, and hiking trails across the state.

Oregon Heritage Tree Committee Chair Dave Hedberg encourages the public to visit a state or local heritage tree. “Visiting an Oregon Heritage Tree is a chance to engage your senses and learn about local history in the real world – not just in books and on screens. All of Oregon’s Heritage Trees are deeply connected to the people of the past. Enjoying these trees today connects us with our history.”

State-designated heritage trees in the area:

Owen Cherry, Eugene:  It is believed this tree was planted in the mid-1800s by Eugene Skinner, founder of the City of Eugene in 1853.  The tree is within the boundaries of Skinner’s 1846 land claim.  By 1850, the site of the tree was owned by George Owen, a former Eugene City Councilor, lumberman, and philanthropist.  Mr. Owen donated the site to the city for use as a rose garden.

Dorris Ranch Hazelnut Orchard, Springfield: The first commercial-sized planting of hazelnuts in Oregon occurred when George Dorris planted a five-acre orchard here in 1905.  In addition to growing trees for nut production, Dorris started a hazelnut nursery that operated for 40 years and produced an average of 70,000 trees per year.  It is estimated that more than half of the trees in Oregon’s hazelnut industry originated from Dorris Ranch nursery stock.

Ellmaker Grove, Zumwalt Park: In 1857, Enos and Elizabeth Fisher Ellmaker traded donation land claims with Levi W. and Mary Malinda Zumwalt. The Ellmakers built their house and blacksmith shop by this Oregon white oak, while nearby incense-cedar sheltered their livestock. The bigleaf maples, planted along the driveway by the Ellmakers, linked blacksmith shop customers to the ancient route sometimes known as a branch of the Applegate Trail.

These trees and more can be located using this map: https://oregontic.com/oregon-heritage-trees/oregon-heritage-tree-map/

Individuals, cities, tourism organizations, and heritage groups are invited to nominate a tree with documented historic significance to the state.

Al Tocchini, vice-chair of the Oregon Heritage Tree Committee says he and fellow members share a clear vision for the future of program- to be more inclusive. “In particular, we are seeking underrepresented stories of Oregon’s diverse populations in places that are accessible to the general public.”  

The nomination form can be found at: oregontic.com/oregon-heritage-trees.

The Oregon Heritage Tree Program is administered by the Oregon Travel Information Council and a committee of dedicated volunteers from across the state. The Travel Information Council is a semi-independent state agency created by the State of Oregon in the 1970s to operate the highway blue logo sign program following the Highway Beautification Act. The agency now also operates the Oregon Historical Marker and Heritage Tree Programs as well as 39 rest areas at 25 locations in Oregon, providing clean, safe, and inviting locations that are open and free to use 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more information regarding the Heritage Tree program visit www.oregontic.com/oregon-heritage-trees.

Lane County Housing and Community Action launches 2026 Community Needs Survey

Community members are invited to share feedback on essential services provided by Lane County Housing and Community Action (HACA) programs such as housing, shelter, basic needs, education, employment, transportation, and health.

As a Community Action Agency tasked with the goal of supporting low-income families out of poverty, Lane County is required to conduct a survey and assessment every three years to identify gaps in services and create system improvements and better programming for participants. 

The survey takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete and asks participants to identify the service areas most important to them and provide feedback on their experiences. We are especially interested in hearing from low-income community members who have accessed these services as they have firsthand knowledge in these essential services. The survey is available in English and Spanish and will be open through May 16th, 2026.

The survey can be completed by visiting: https://laneco.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cI0obhzfVaToCvY 

‘Stand By Me’ Cast Celebrates 40 Years in Brownsville

We’re coming up on the 40th anniversary of Stand By Me, and ahead of the major milestone, the now-grown-up cast has been spending a lot of time together.

Most recently, the three surviving stars of the hit 1986 coming-of-age flick returned to the place where it all started, Castle Rock, Oregon. Actually, the real name is Brownsville, a small town less than 30 miles north of Eugene.

But much of the signage and even the buildings that transformed Brownsville into Castle Rock for Stephen King‘s surprise hit are still standing.

On Sunday, Mar. 29, Wil Wheaton showed part of that film history in an Instagram post containing a photo of himself, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell posing underneath one of Castle Rock’s exit signs that sits off Interstate 5.

In the caption, he wrote, “We had only been gone forty years, but the town seemed different, somehow. Smaller. #StandByMe”

Even four decades later, the legacy of Stand By Me isn’t just carried by the cast, it’s embedded in the town that brought Castle Rock to life. Brownsville has preserved much of the cinematic history, with several recognizable landmarks from the film standing today.

Fans can still spot the iconic railroad tracks the boys followed on their journey, along with storefronts and streets that served as the backdrop for some of the movie’s most memorable moments.

The town has embraced its connection to the film, even hosting annual events celebrating Stand By Me and its enduring cultural impact. For visitors, it’s not just a filming location, it’s a living time capsule that allows fans to step directly into the world created by Stephen King and brought to life on-screen.

While the years have brought inevitable change, including the loss of River Phoenix and most recently, the film’s director, Rob Reiner, the bond between the remaining stars and their connection to this small Oregon town remains as strong as ever. Their recent reunion is more than a nostalgic visit, it’s a testament to a story about friendship that continues to resonate across generations.

Brownsville is Gearing Up For Huge 40th Anniversary ‘Stand By Me Celebration’

While Brownsville celebrates Stand By Me every year and is a year-round destination for movie buffs, this summer is going to be a pretty big deal.

Stand By Me was released in theaters on August 22, 1986, and ahead of that big day, Brownsville is paying tribute in a big way with movie screenings running in March and April plus a special Stand By Me Day celebration that takes place annually on the fourth Saturday of July with activities that include a blueberry pie eating contest, a vintage car cruise, live music and classic 1950s style games.

Those who travel to Brownsville to celebrate can take in the sights including the Calapooia River bridge, the Blue Point Diner (which is actually the Brownsville Health Mart), and Irby’s (which is the Brownsville Saloon).

This year, the annual celebration also boasts a 1950s sock hop, breakfast, a walking tour, a movie in the park, and a treehouse replica. (SOURCE)

Colombian National Unlawfully in the United States Pleads Guilty to Interstate Burglary Conspiracy Targeting Asian American Business Owners

EUGENE, Ore.— A Colombian national unlawfully residing in the United States pleaded guilty today in federal court for his role in a multi-state burglary conspiracy that targeted Asian American business owners in Oregon and Washington.

Jhon Alexander Quintero, also known as Edwin Andres Cadena-Pineda, 45, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods.

According to court documents, in early October 2025, Quintero and six co-conspirators targeted homes for burglary in Oregon and Washington by traveling from state to state, staying in short-term rentals, identifying and surveilling potential burglary victims—who were all Asian American business owners—and then performing reconnaissance on the victims’ residences.

When they carried out the burglaries, Quintero and his co-conspirators employed signal jamming technology, perimeter countersurveillance, and seven-way group calls. They entered their victims’ homes by shattering glass doors. Once inside, they ransacked the residences, stealing United States and foreign currency, jewelry, designer handbags, purses, wallets, travel documents, and other valuables. After the burglaries, the crew returned to their short-term rental and package the proceeds for transport, transfer, or transmittal.

The investigation revealed that Quintero and the crew burglarized a home in Auburn, Washington, on October 3, 2025, then a home in Gresham, Oregon, on October 5, then a home in Eugene, Oregon, on October 6, and a home in Salem, Oregon, on October 9. All the burglary victims were Asian American business owners who were away working at their businesses. Between the Eugene and Salem burglaries, detectives with the Eugene Police Department became aware of the group’s movements and began surveillance. 

Following the burglary in Salem, detectives learned that Quintero and his co-conspirators returned to their rental in Eugene and executed a search warrant at the rental that night. Investigators recovered money and property, believed to be stolen from the various residences, more than a dozen cell phones, believed to be used by the burglary crew, evidence of money wires to Bogota, Colombia, and various Colombian travel documentation, including passports. They also located commercial-grade Wi-Fi signal jammers that were plugged in and charging following their suspected use during the burglary that day.

Upon noticing the officers executing the search warrant, Quintero and the rest of the crew fled into a nearby wooded area. Law enforcement eventually detained all seven individuals. Investigators later performed searches of the devices, which revealed additional evidence of the conspiracy, including sending and receiving coordinates for the houses they burglarized, surveillance communications, and shared messages containing messages highlighting the burglary targets from the preceding days. For instance, Quintero researched the value of jewelry the night of the Auburn burglary, received the contact information for a Colombian shipping company two days after the Eugene burglary and then called that company, and returned to the Eugene rental to package stolen property the night of the Salem burglary.

On November 20, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Quintero and the other six members of the burglary crew with conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods.

On December 3, 2025, Quintero made his initial appearance in federal court and was ordered detained.

Quintero faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on June 30, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Eugene Police Department with assistance from the Salem Police Department, the Auburn Police Department, and the Gresham Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.

Eugene Springfield Firefighters Local 851 — You’re invited to the Lane Fire Authority Town Hall!

Join us on Friday, May 1st from 6–9 PM at LaVelle Vineyards (89697 Sheffler Road, Elmira, OR) for a relaxed evening of community, food, and conversation — presented by IAFF 851 (Lane County Professional Firefighters).

Come meet Fire Chief Dale Borland and County Commissioners Ryan Cinega and Heather Buch to learn what fire levy 20-386 means for your family and our community. Plus, enjoy live music by the Yard Dogs and tacos from Calle Steelo Taqueria Food Truck!

It’s free, all ages, and open to everyone. Whether you’ve been here for decades or just want to know how we keep our community safe — this evening is for you. Please note the event is free but you must register to attend. � Reserve your free spot: https://www.eventbrite.com/…/lane-fire-authority-town…

Lane County Physicians Sue to Block PeaceHealth’s Deal with Staffing Company

PeaceHealth Oregon has announced it will not renew a long-standing contract with local Eugene Emergency Physicians to staff emergency departments in Springfield, Cottage Grove and Florence. The hospital system has opted for an Atlanta-based company instead.

A group of physicians in Lane County has filed a lawsuit trying to block the nonprofit PeaceHealth from switching to an out-of-state management company to staff its emergency departments.

It’s the first civil suit filed under a 2023 Oregon law that gave physicians the power to sue over management agreements that impinge on their power to run medical practices and direct patient care.

The lawsuit asks the court to void the deal between PeaceHealth and ApolloMD, and block the company from operating in Oregon. They’re also asking that the judge allow the contract with the current providers to stay in place as the litigation moves forward.

A PeaceHealth spokesman said the health system had not yet received the lawsuit and consequently could not comment on it. Chapman also said he’d only just learned of the suit and was not yet ready to comment.

ApolloMD did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But Patel has pushed back against some characterizations of the company and its motives. ApolloMD, he wrote in the letter, is a private company owned by physicians, clinicians and employees, and not investment funds. The company’s owners “share concerns about private equity influence in healthcare,” he wrote, and are dedicated to ensuring clinical decisions serve the best interests of patients. (SOURCE)

Governor Kotek asks PeaceHealth to delay and reconsider PeaceHealth emergency room staffing transition

“Save Our ER Docs” at PeaceHealth

Oregon Nurses Association

Local care is better care! PeaceHealth executives are trying to outsource local healthcare and the community isn’t having it! More than 200 doctors, nurses, healthcare pros, elected leaders and community members came out in force in Springfield on Thursday to support the local ER doctors at Eugene Emergency Physicians who have saved lives and cared for local patients and their families for more than 35 years. “Our health can’t be sold to the highest bidder. Our healthcare belongs to our community and it should stay in our community …

We’re all here with a simple message for PeaceHealth executives: Renew the contract with Eugene Emergency Physicians and stop trying to outsource our healthcare.” – Chris Rompala, RN, ONA bargaining unit chair and board member — Sign the petition to show you support!https://ow.ly/C4W550Yu1rL

• Sign nurses’ petition to support local ER doctors.
   
• Learn more about PeaceHealth executive’s history of poor decisions.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 25,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon including more than 1,600 frontline nurses at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center RiverBend in Springfield. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

Eugene Family YMCA Community Survey on New Projects

The Eugene YMCA is seeking feedback from the community about building out its Patterson Street property in South Eugene, where the old YMCA had been, and adding a new location in North Eugene.

CEO Brian Steffen said there are two potential sites off River Road in Santa Clara. He said the Y put an agreement on hold to purchase the LTD property at Hunsaker Lane, but he said LTD is working with the city to possibly change its limitation on building size.

Steffen said as it stands, the site is restricted to an 18,000 square foot building, which is far smaller than they’d hoped. For comparison, the 24th Street YMCA is 75,000 square feet.

The Y is also in discussions with the City of Eugene regarding a site near Madison Middle School.

Steffen said part of the survey is to determine which location the community prefers.

Meanwhile, the new YMCA in South Eugene is incredibly popular, with more than 19,000 members. Steffen said demand is helping shape the plans for the site of the old YMCA on Patterson Street, which was demolished in 2024.

“We know that some of the most acute needs that the Y is uniquely positioned to address in our community are associated with childcare,” he said. “So, a big part of what we’re looking at with the Patterson project is the opportunity to build four large multi-purpose rooms that could serve as licensed childcare spots.”

Steffen said the rooms would also accommodate group fitness classes, which have exceeded capacity on 24th Street. Other options, such as community gathering and classroom spaces, are also on the table. He said in order to minimize costs, there are no plans to change the existing tennis and pickleball center.

The community survey is open until March 26.

Steffen said when the input is finalized, the YMCA will conduct a donor feasibility study. He anticipates the board of directors will review the options this summer, and begin the fundraising campaigns in the fall.

In Mount Pisgah euthanasia effort, shot coyote vanished into thicket

Follow Up Article from Lookout Eugene-Springfield and Coyote Situation at Mt. Pisgah

Concerning Visitor and Animal Behavior Requires Lane County Parks to Remove Some Coyotes from Mt. Pisgah

Coyote sightings have surged at Mt. Pisgah park, with animals becoming increasingly bold around people, pets, and cars. Lane County and ODFW say they made the difficult decision to euthanize 1 coyote, frequently spotted in the main parking lot.

Officials say feeding wildlife is driving the behavior — and if it doesn’t stop, more coyotes may have to be euthanized.

Howard Buford Recreation Area (Mt. Pisgah) welcomes more than 600,000 visitors each year and is home to a wide variety of wildlife.  The safety of park visitors and wildlife is a top priority for Lane County Parks.

Lane County Parks is seeing a concerning change in coyote behavior at Howard Buford Recreation Area (Mount Pisgah).

Over the past few months, reports of coyotes in the park have increased sharply. More than 30 sightings were reported in January alone. Visitors are also reporting unusual behavior. Coyotes have been seen following people and dogs, approaching vehicles, and showing little fear of humans.

Data shows a clear shift. In past years, coyotes were usually seen in quieter parts of the park. Now, most sightings are happening near parking lots and busy trailheads.Wildlife experts with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife found evidence that coyotes are eating pet food and human food. This strongly suggests that people are feeding them or leaving food behind. Feeding coyotes is illegal and puts both people and animals at risk.Because of these safety concerns, Lane County Parks—working with wildlife professionals—has made the difficult decision to euthanize coyotes that have become too comfortable around people. One coyote has already been euthanized.

Additional action may be necessary if this behavior continues.Non-lethal options were considered. However, once coyotes become used to people, those methods are no longer effective. Relocating coyotes is not allowed in Oregon and often leads to the animal’s death.

This situation is preventable. Please do not feed wildlife. Secure your food and dispose of trash properly. If you see someone feeding wildlife, report it to Lane County Parks or to Oregon State Police. If you want to protect the coyotes, join us in being responsible park visitors and let the wildlife be wild. Learn more about living with coyotes https://myodfw.com/articles/living-coyotes

‘Project Sanitation Justice’ Gets Underway in Eugene

Have you ever asked yourself, “Where’s the nearest public restroom?” In Eugene, a citywide venture aims to map each and every one.

The goal of “Project Sanitation Justice” is to plot handwashing stations, water fountains and restrooms. It’s not only to provide people with information on where to find them, but to help guide city officials on making sure they’re accessible, safe and clean.

Near the Eugene Riverfront, Lane Transit District community liaison and project lead Sarah Koski examined a “Portland Loo” restroom, named for the city where its specialized design originated.

“We have toilet paper here, the seat is sturdy,” observed Koski, checking the fixtures and overall condition of the facility. “There’s no trash anywhere around here.”

A few minutes later, Koski declared the public restroom a safe location. There was a disposal bin for sharps, a handwashing station was installed near the commode, and it was wide enough for people using walkers and wheelchairs. Koski also noted that there was a trashcan right outside for further sanitation needs.

“One of the biggest projects and causes that I am so passionate about is period poverty,” she told KLCC. “And what does it mean to be female or female-identifying and have your cycle, right?”

Koski joked that she’s come to be known as “The Bathroom Gal” because she’s continuously taking down data and working with volunteers on data sets. The mapping effort has people working in pairs, using tablets and smartphones to document locations and conditions of public hygienic stations. Over time, this will be shared on an open source platform.

Koski said it’s tempting for people to take these services for granted.

“I can easily go to my kitchen and turn on the water and wash my dishes,” Koski explained. “If I just need some time by myself, put on a heater or a heat lamp, go into my bathroom and just run the hot water for as long as I want. That type of accessibility isn’t for everyone. It’s a very significant privilege.”

Koski said besides the unhoused, other people who rely on public restrooms for a safe and accessible potty break include tourists, seniors and workers on lunch breaks. She eventually hopes to partner with city planners and community advocates to make sure everyone in the Eugene area has reliable access to hygienic services, and is already working with the City of Eugene, the University of Oregon and Lane County’s Homelessness and Poverty Board.

The Project Sanitation Justice model is based on one developed by San Diego State University researcher Megan Welsh Carroll. Efforts began with her team in 2020 with the stated mission: “We believe that safe and consistent access to drinking water, toilets, menstrual hygiene products, and other basic sanitation resources are fundamental human rights, cornerstones of public health, and essential public services.”

Eugene is the first city to carry on the project beyond San Diego, according to Koski. She’s excited to bring higher awareness to what the city provides its local residents in terms of sanitation, clean drinking water, and basic dignity.

“We’re not being critical of the City of Eugene by doing this project,” said Koski. “What we’re saying is, ‘City of Eugene, you are doing so much. You’re building transportation plans, you’re bringing in tourism, you’re bringing in new business. How can we as citizens –who care about the city– bring in this data to supplement the data that’s already in existence?”

The project will use Open Street Map and open data sets, so that it can be frequently updated. For example, a restroom that is normally open and accessible might not be for a few days due to a construction project. That can be noted and reflected immediately in such an open platform.

Beyond mapping, the project will also include community forums and a community storytelling project.

“What does it mean to be on the street or unhoused and have that lack of sanitation justice?” said Koski. “To be able to amplify the plight of the street and the fact that this is a health equity issue?”

Koski is openly recruiting for volunteers, and said any interested parties can reach out to her at Sarah.Koski@ltd.org. She plans on taking “Project Sanitation Justice” to Springfield and Veneta next.

Brian Bull is a reporter with KLCC. This story comes to you from the Northwest News Network, a collaboration between public media organizations in Oregon and Washington.

It is part of OPB’s broader effort to ensure that everyone in our region has access to quality journalism that informs, entertains and enriches their lives. To learn more, visit our journalism partnerships page.

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2026/03/22/project-sanitation-justice-underway-eugene-oregon/ — https://communityplus.app/news-project-sanitation-justice-gets-underway-in-eugene-220213.html

Eugene Springfield Fire – Young Women’s Fire Camp Now Accepting Applications

Interested individuals may apply for Eugene Springfield Fire’s 15th Annual Young Women’s Fire Camp, taking place June 22-26, 2026. Applications can be submitted online from March 1 – May 1 and 16 applicants will be selected.

This week-long day camp, open to all female-identifying youth between the ages of 16-19 years old, is free to selected applicants and provides an exciting opportunity for personal growth and exploration of the firefighting field.

The Young Women’s Fire Camp instills self-confidence, teamwork and leadership by utilizing fire service activities as a catalyst for growth. Participants will be issued firefighting gear and participate in activities related to fire service, emergency medical services and related fields. The dynamic curriculum is physically challenging and exceptionally rewarding for participants.

Young Women’s Fire Camp was honored to receive the 2021 Community Equity & Inclusion Award from the International City/County Management Association. To apply, go to the Eugene Springfield webpage, click on the Training dropdown and select Young Women’s Fire Camp. https://www.eugene-or.gov/2983/Young-Womens-Fire-Camp

Lane County will participate by setting up donation barrels for staff to donate at Lane County owned properties.

“Food for Lane County is already seeing high numbers of pantry visitors at a time when our food supply has been limited due to federal program cuts. We want all Lane County residents to have the food and resources they need to thrive, and we’re very concerned about the welfare of our community if SNAP benefits aren’t available.” said Food for Lane County Director of Development and Communications, Rebecca Sprinson.

For individuals and families in need of food, please visit the FFLC food finder, at:

Food Finder

Those interested in donating can do so by visiting: https://www.foodforlanecounty.org/ways-to=give/donate or by calling 541-343-2822.

$18.95 can help feed 120 people.

Every weekend, the volunteer crew at Burrito Brigade rolls hundreds of delicious vegan burritos to help close the hunger gap here in Eugene. Each box of tortillas — just $18.95 — helps feed 120 neighbors.

Could you spare $18.95 to help? Even better — could you make it a monthly donation to keep those burritos rolling all year long?

Every dollar makes a difference in these times of need. Thank you for being part of the Brigade. Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/donation…/we-rise-by-lifting-others Support our Mission: BurritoBrigade.org

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)

White Bird Clinic

This year marks 60 years of community health centers transforming care across the U.S. At White Bird Clinic, we’re proud to be part of this legacy – bringing whole-person care to our community’s most vulnerable neighbors for more than 50 years! From medical and dental services to harm reduction and crisis response, we’re here to meet people where they are.Learn more about community health at the link below: https://www.nachc.org/about-nachc/history-of-chc/

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

EWEB Emergency Water Stations

The final emergency water station has been officially installed in Eugene as part of the Eugene Water & Electric Board’s disaster preparedness plan.

This is where people can access water in case of earthquakes, wildfires, or other events that could disrupt or limit access to the city’s water system.

Other locations are the Eugene Science Center, Howard Elementary School, Prairie Mountain School, Amazon Park-YMCA, the Sheldon Fire Station, and the Lane Events Center and Fairgrounds.

All seven locations across the city of Eugene draw their water from underground wells. The intent is to provide individuals up to two gallons of water a day during an emergency. MORE INFO at EWEB: https://www.eweb.org/projects/emergency-water-stations

Oregon Food Bank · Find free food sites near you using OregonFoodFinder.org.

If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.

Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?

Here are resources that can help:

211Info:  Dial 2-1-1 or visit the211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon.

Oregon Food Bank:  Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Mapto find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. 

Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit theADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area. 

4/1/2026 — Gas Prices Keep Rising

Pacific Power Rate adjustments for Oregon residential customers begin April 1

Pacific Power residential customers in Oregon will see a rate increase, approved by the Oregon Public Utility Commission. These rate increases are taking effect on April 1, 2026, in compliance with HB 3179, which requires that rate increases not take effect during winter months when bills are highest.

The adjustment reflects multiple items, including the 2024 Power Cost Adjustment Mechanism (PCAM), the Renewable Adjustment Clause (RAC) and a legislatively mandated update to the Low Income Bill Payment Assistance Fund. The PCAM is an annual update that aligns 2024 actual power costs which include fuel and power purchased on the wholesale market and other expenses, with the costs previously included in rates, so customers either receive a credit or pay the difference. The RAC allows the company to recover costs associated with building or acquiring renewable energy facilities consistent with state clean energy goals. The combined rate also includes increased support for the Energy Trust of Oregon’s energy-efficiency programs.

With the combined filings, the impact for the residential customer is an approximately 2.9% increase, or $4.29 per month for the typical residential customer. Customers in Albany, Oregon, can expect an average increase of about 4.1%, or $5.64, per month. The additional increase is related is to a street remodeling project approved by the city of Albany, which asked the company to bury power lines underground.

Key drivers for the changes include:

• Continued investments in low-cost renewable energy resources.
• Increased power costs related to higher fuel and energy prices, coal supply issues, conversion to natural gas at the Jim Bridger plant, the removal of Klamath River hydro facilities and increased power demand during the January 2024 ice storm event.

Pacific Power works hard to mitigate the impacts of cost increases on our customers. The company offers the Oregon Low Income Discount Program, which is helping over 70,000 of our most vulnerable customers across the state lower their power bills from 20% to 80%, depending on their income. More information is available at PacificPower.net/LID. Customers can also access a variety of bill support programs through local community action agencies, including the Oregon Energy Fund, Oregon Energy Assistance Program and Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.    

Pacific Power also offers a variety of ways to budget for energy expenses, including time of use and equal pay billing options, and energy use tracking offered online and through the company’s mobile app. In partnership with Energy Trust of Oregon, Pacific Power customers can access information and rebates to help improve their energy efficiency and lower their bills. Customers can call 1-888-221-7070 to discuss options.    

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is partnering with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries and the National Weather Service to bring its Tsunami 101 Community Roadshow back to coastal communities.

The roadshow includes presentations from state and local emergency officials and the National Weather Service.

The free workshops will cover how tsunamis form and their potential effect on coastal communities.

“Attendees will learn how tsunamis impact the Oregon coast and how to recognize some of those natural tsunami warning signs,” said OEM’s Shirley Blake. “There are evacuation zones along the coast and information will be shared about where those evacuation zones are located within that specific community.”

The sessions also include guidance on developing family communication plans and assembling emergency kits that allow households to be self‑sufficient in the event of a disaster. Blake notes that preparedness helps in many different types of emergencies and disasters.

“We encourage all Oregonians to be two‑weeks ready, meaning people should be prepared to be self‑sufficient for at least 14 days following a disaster,” Blake said. This includes having food, water, medications and a plan to stay connected with family members.

Events will take place in communities along Highway 101 from Manzanita to Gold Beach between March 31 and April 9. One of the two sessions in Coos Bay is focused specifically on business preparedness.

Upcoming Tsunami 101 Community Roadshow Events

Manzanita: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Pine Grove: 225 Laneda Ave.

Tillamook: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Tillamook Library: 1716 3rd St.

Newport: Thursday, April 2, 2026 | 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Newport Library Community Room: 35 NW Nye St.

Lincoln City: Thursday, April 2, 2026 | 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Lincoln City Community Center: 2150 NE Oar Place

Gold Beach: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Curry County Fairgrounds: 29393 Ellensburg Ave.

Coos Bay (Business Preparedness Session): Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., Southwestern Oregon Community College: 1988 Newmark Ave.

Coos Bay: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Southwestern Oregon Community College: 1988 Newmark Ave.

Reedsport: Thursday, April 9, 2026 | 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Lower Umpqua Senior Center: 460 Winchester Ave.

Cherry blossoms illuminated at State Capitol State Park March 21 through April 4

SALEM— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will host “Yozakura,” night viewing of the Akebono cherry blossoms, March 21 through April 4 in the North Mall at State Capitol State Park.

The cherry blossoms will be illuminated with Japanese lanterns and lights nightly from 6-10 p.m. Visitors may bring blankets, camping chairs, or an evening picnic to enjoy under the canopy of the illuminated trees.

The lanterns and lights create a striking and beautiful scene inside the park at night.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will livestream the cherry blossoms on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OregonParks beginning March 21 during the day and evening through April 4.

Park staff ask that tree limbs and blossoms are left as is so everyone can view them throughout the bloom. Alcohol is not allowed in State Capitol State Park (without permits) and the park closes at 10 p.m.

For more information on events at the Capitol, call Visitor Services at 503-986-1388 or visit the events page.

Spring Celebration Rolls into Portland with Easter Bunny Express at Oregon Rail Heritage Center

Portland, OR — On April 4 and 5, families and train enthusiasts are invited to hop aboard the Easter Bunny Express at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for a festive 45-minute steam train ride pulled by the legendary Polson No. 2 steam locomotive. The round-trip journey departs from and returns to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, offering a scenic ride along the Willamette River. 

Guests can look forward to a memorable seasonal adventure combining fun and a touch of railway history. The Easter Bunny will be hopping onboard each ride to spread joy and cheer, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and selfies. Along the way, passengers can enjoy kid-friendly activities, a festive scavenger hunt, and the beauty of spring along the river.

Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase on board, with options for both kids and adults, making this the perfect outing for families celebrating the season together.

Admission to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center is included with every train ticket, allowing guests to explore exhibits and view additional historic locomotives before or after their ride to explore exhibits and view additional historic locomotives before or after their ride.

Event Details:

• When: Saturday, April 4 & Sunday, April 5
• Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave., Portland, OR 97214
• Train Departure Times: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm
• Tickets Prices:
  • Adults (14+) – $24
  • Seniors (65+) – $21.50
  • Military (with ID) – $21.50
  • Children (3-13) – $17
  • Infants (Under 3) – Free
  • Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children) – $74
• Tickets & Registration: https://orhf.org/

Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this popular springtime tradition. Don’t miss out on this egg-cellent adventure—reserve your seats today and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.

About Oregon Rail Heritage Center: The Oregon Rail Heritage Center (ORHC) provides for the preservation, operation and public enjoyment of Portland’s historic locomotives, railroad equipment, and artifacts, and educates the public about Oregon’s rich and diverse railroad history. ORHC is open to the public on Thursdays-Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Seasonal train excursions are offered most weekends. For additional information, visit https://orhf.org/. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden will conduct 11 public town halls beginning March 28 with a plan to see all of Oregon’s 36 counties. The upcoming town halls are scheduled through April 3.

On Thursday, April 2, Senator Wyden will appear in Lake County at 12:30 p.m. at the Lakeview Elks Lodge, located at 323 North F Street in Lakeview, followed by Klamath County at 5 p.m. in the Oregon Institute of Technology’s College Union Building Auditorium, 3201 Campus Drive in Klamath Falls.

On Friday, April 3, he will host a session in Jackson County at 10:30 a.m. at the Holly Theater, 226 West 6th Street in Medford.

For security purposes, backpacks and large bags are prohibited at these events. Only clear bags up to 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, one-gallon clear plastic bags, or small clutches not exceeding 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches are permitted, in addition to essential items such as medical or infant care bags. No storage will be provided for restricted items. Attendees may enter beginning one hour prior to each event.

In a related story, Senator Jeff Merkely will host a town hall Friday, April 3^rd, 2026 at the Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls.

All Klamath County community members are welcome to come and discuss ideas to strengthen our state and our nation. The Town Hall will be at 2:30 in the College Union Building in the Crater Lake Complex. 3201 Campus Drive. Please park in Lot B, and follow the signage to College Union.

US Marshals Led Task Force Arrests Child Sex Abuse Suspect in White City

JCSO Cases 24-3388, 25-5074

WHITE CITY, Ore. – The United States Marshals Service led Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force (PNVOTF) located and arrested a man wanted for nine local felony child sex abuse charges in White City on Monday, March 30. The suspect, Jose Francisco Gonzalez-Castaneda, 40, of Medford, had a felony warrant for five counts of first-degree sexual abuse, two counts of first-degree sodomy, as well as one count each of second-degree sexual penetration, and second-degree sodomy. He is lodged in the Jackson County Jail. Federal authorities added additional charges after Gonzalez-Castaneda was lodged.

The arrest came when U.S. Marshals, along with Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) and Central Point Police Department (CPPD) detectives located Gonzalez-Castaneda at a White City shopping center in the 7500 block of Highway 62. The task force arrested him without incident. The charges stemmed from a years-long investigation by JCSO Special Victims Unit (SVU) detectives.

PNVOTF includes personnel from the U.S. Marshals, JCSO, and CPPD. The task force specializes in locating and arresting fugitives wanted for offenses including, but not limited to, murder, assault, sex crimes, failure to register as a sex offender, firearm violations, and probation violations. There is no further information available for release.

Updated essential salmonid habitat map available now
Oregon Dept. of State Lands 

The map identifies streams where removal-fill permits are often required to help protect critical habitat for salmon species

The State of Oregon has published the 2026 essential salmonid habitat map, which shows streams where activities like building docks or adding riprap usually require a removal-fill permit. 

The map identifies streams that are critical habitat for Chinook salmon, steelhead trout, and other sensitive, threatened or endangered fish species. Oregon law protects these streams by requiring a removal-fill permit for most projects that remove or add materials. View the adopted 2026 map and learn more.

The map is reviewed annually to reflect current Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) data.

“As Oregon’s waterways face increasing pressures, keeping our map current with habitat data is more important than ever,” said Oregon Department of State Lands Director Kaitlin Lovell. “This map helps guide smart decisions today so salmon, steelhead, and other native fish can continue to thrive for generations.”

If you live near a stream, this map is one of the most useful tools you can check before starting a project on your property. It helps answer a simple but important question: what do I need to do to protect fish habitat here?

The 2026 update added approximately 45 stream miles of essential habitat in multiple areas of Oregon. Approximately 4 stream miles are no longer essential habitat due to changes in habitat barriers or improved accuracy and detail in GIS data. This change from 2025 to 2026 represents less than a 1% change to the overall 22,000+ stream miles of essential habitat. See the draft map to view the changes for 2026.

This year’s update is unusual due to the historic removal of the four lower Klamath River dams in 2023-2024 and the rapid, ongoing changes to fish distribution that followed. This unprecedented action reopened more than 400 miles of historic fish habitat and spawning grounds.

Anadromous fish were first observed late in the 2025 season and have begun to re-populate newly accessible areas. Given both the timing and limited data on whether observed habitat use reflects long-term, repeatable patterns, it was determined that these observations did not support designation in time for the 2026 essential salmonid map update. Additional monitoring and coordination will be needed, consistent with the State of Oregon’s commitments under the Klamath Power and Facilities Agreement.

The annual map update process includes Tribal engagement and a public review and comment period. Stay informed about future map updates by joining DSL’s email list for essential salmonid habitat map information. Sign up to receive emails.

NBA approves $4.25B sale of Trail Blazers to group led by Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon

The NBA announced on Monday that it’s approved the sale of the Portland Trail Blazers to a group led by Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon.  Per the league, the sale is expected to close this week. Dundon will serve as the team’s governor.

Dundon reached an agreement to purchase the team from the estate of late owner Paul Allen in August. Per multiple reports, the team is being sold at a $4.25 billion valuation.

Allen, who co-founded Microsoft, previously owned the Trail Blazers from 1988 until his death in 2018. He purchased the team for $70 million in 1988. The team has since been run by his his estate, which is managed by his sister, Jody Allen.

Allen’s will dictated that the team be sold after his death and for the proceeds to go toward philanthropic ventures. Now that sale is final and approved by the NBA. It’s not clear what philanthropic efforts the proceeds will support.

Dundon, 54, purchased a majority stake in the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes in 2018, and the franchise has experienced success under his leadership.

The Hurricanes have made the playoffs in each year from 2019-25, making the conference finals three times. Prior to the 2018-19 season, the Hurricanes missed the playoffs for nine consecutive years.

Per the Oregonian, Dundon built his fortune in the supbrime auto lending industry as the co-founder and eventual CEO of Drive Financial, which later became Santander Consumer USA.  He left the company in 2015 with more than $700 million and now runs the Dallas-based investment firm Dundon Capital Partners in addition to his sports ownership ventures.  Dundon is also majority owner of Major League Pickleball and the PPA Tour.

Redmond, Ore., March 31, 2026—Hayden Homes is proud to be Certified™ by Great Place To Work® for the 3rd year in a row.

The prestigious award is based entirely on what current team members say about their experience working at Hayden Homes. This year, 96% of team members said it’s a great place to work–39 points higher than the average U.S. company.

Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.

“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” said Sarah Lewis-Kulin, Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasized that Certification is earned solely by real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Hayden Homes stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.”

With an 89% participation rate, up 2% from the previous year, Hayden Homes saw strong engagement from team members in this year’s survey. Of those who participated, 96% of respondents agreed with the statement, “Taking everything into account, I would say this is a great place to work,” exceeding the company’s internal satisfaction goal of 95% and reinforcing its commitment to fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture centered around giving and community.

In addition to being Great Place To Work® certified for the past three years, in 2025, Hayden Homes was also recognized as the 11th Best Workplace for Women in the nation and 13th Best Workplace for Parents in the nation by Fortune and was placed 3rd on the 2025 Fortune Best Workplaces in Construction™ List and 21st on the 2025 Fortune Best Medium Workplaces™ List. With over 1 million employees surveyed nationally, these rankings reflect Hayden Homes’ dedication to providing opportunities for employees at all levels to grow and pursue meaningful careers.

“We are incredibly honored to receive this feedback from our team members,” said Patti Murphy, Vice President of Employee Experience at Hayden Homes. “Each of us brings a unique story and perspective, and it’s through coming together that we create something far greater than any one of us could on our own. We are committed to building a strong, connected community where our team members feel supported and fulfilled. Keeping that purpose at the center of our work is what continues to shape and strengthen our culture.”

Joining the Hayden Homes team means embracing a shared commitment to Give As You Go™, which helps shape and strengthen company culture. Team members are encouraged to use 16 hours of paid volunteer time each year to support causes that matter most to them, whether that’s assisting at local food banks, building bikes for foster children, or collecting school supplies donations for local families. This commitment reflects a broader focus on recognizing community needs and taking meaningful proactive steps that create lasting change and meaningful connections.

According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

Learn more about Hayden Homes’ Great Place to Work certification.

Oregonians in their peak earning years–when they can contribute most to the state’s economy—are moving out of the state faster than their 30-to-50-year-old peers are moving in.

Read the story from Khushboo Rathore / Oregon Journalism Project: https://lookouteugene-springfield.com/story/latest-news/2026/03/26/new-census-data-shows-oregon-losing-residents-in-prime-earning-years/

This finding is based on an OJP analysis of the most recently available U.S. Census data, released in January.

Oregon relies more heavily on income taxes than most states, so it suffers more from this outflow, says ECOnorthwest researcher Aditya Gadkari. The exodus of workers in their prime earning years means less revenue for the state. “We’re losing the ability of our jurisdictions to provide high levels of services,” Gadkari says.

The largest influx of new Oregon residents is young adults, either college-age or relatively early in their careers, typically earning far less than those leaving. Lane County, home to the University of Oregon, and Benton County, home to Oregon State University, both saw growth in the number of adult teens.

Oregon’s aging population is well documented — OJP previously reported that deaths outnumbered births over the past five years. A further decline in new Oregon residents is expected as net international migration to the U.S. in 2026 is estimated at 321,000 — only 12% of its 2024 total, according to the census.

ODF program invests more than $3.2 million to accelerate forest resilience work in Oregon

The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Federal Forest Restoration Program (FFR Program) is awarding $3 million in planning assistance funding and separate grants of nearly $264,000 to forest collaboratives.

“These new investments reflect a simple strategy: invest in the people, science, and planning needed to deliver more forest restoration work on the ground,” said Kyle Sullivan-Astor, ODF’s Federal Forest Restoration Program Lead.

The program also recently released a new report highlighting on-the-ground accomplishments, recent investments, and key program developments.

$3 million awarded to accelerate “A to Z” planning for large federal projects

The $3 million in “A to Z” Planning Assistance funding for the 2025–27 biennium is to help the U.S. Forest Service accelerate National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) planning for high-priority, landscape-scale projects.   

“All landscape resiliency work on federal lands must comply with mandatory environmental laws,” said Sullivan-Astor. “That process is thorough, helps avoid and mitigate environmental harm, and often requires significant time and resources. This funding allows ODF to see projects through from A to Z, adding expertise and capacity to our federal partners and getting work done more quickly than it otherwise would.”

Awards include:

• Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest (Grayback) — $500,000
• Mt. Hood National Forest (The Dalles Watershed) — $500,000
• Malheur National Forest (Bogue Gulch) — $600,000
• Umpqua National Forest (Thunder Cat) — $650,000
• Wallowa–Whitman National Forest (Unity Point) — $750,000

One example of this funding at work is in the Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest. The Grayback project proposes thinning and fuels reduction on approximately 4,000 acres to improve forest resiliency, reduce fuel loading, and improve public and firefighter access in a high-risk wildfire landscape. Treatments will include plantation thinning and fuels reduction along strategic fuel management zones, and opportunities for maintenance.

For an overview of all the funded projects and details on the associated work go here.

Planning assistance grants are a combination of state General Funds and federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds provided to ODF.

First-round Forest Collaborative Grant awards announced — ODF, working in partnership with the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB), awarded $138,899 under the Forest Collaborative Grant program.

A forest collaborative is a local group of people and organizations with different perspectives on public forest management who work together to find common ground and support active management projects.

“The overarching goal of this program is to increase the number, acreage, and complexity of collaboratively planned restoration projects on federal lands in Oregon by strengthening governance, supporting zones of agreement, and supporting collective action where coordination help is needed,” said Sullivan-Astor.  

Those receiving the grants include:

• Southern Oregon Forest Restoration Collaborative—$76,709 for Rogue Forests in Transition: Building Collaborative Solutions.
• Wasco Soil and Water Conservation District—$62,190 for Mt. Hood East Zone Forest Collaborative Project supporting collaborative engagement around the South Wasco Ecosystem Restoration effort.

For an overview of the projects go here.

“These grants support the ‘people infrastructure’ that helps federal agencies and communities surface disagreements early, build shared understanding, and develop more durable restoration priorities over time,” said Sullivan-Astor.

$125,000 in Technical Assistance and Science Support awards for collaboratives — ODF also awarded $125,000 in Technical Assistance and Science Support grants to support project partnerships between forest collaboratives and external technical/science providers.

“TASS projects are designed to provide collaboratives with specialized expertise, such as scientific analysis, communications support, monitoring design, tools, and training, with a clearly defined public deliverable at project completion,” said Sullivan-Astor.

For an overview of the projects go here.

About the Federal Forest Restoration Program — The Oregon Legislature created the Federal Forest Restoration Program in 2013 to improve the resilience of Oregon’s federal forests. The FFR Program plays a role in the state’s ability to work across ownership boundaries to reduce the risk of stand-replacing wildfire, improve forest and watershed health, and create jobs in rural, forest dependent communities. For more on the Federal Forest Restoration Program go here.

The Oregon Department of Forestry is adding a new Multi-Mission Aircraft to boost its wildfire detection and emergency response across the state.

The $13.23 million investment includes $12 million in legislatively approved bonds from 2023 and $1.23 million from other funding sources. The new Twin Otter airframe replaces the agency’s Partenavia P.68 Observer aircraft, which served for more than 30 years.

The $7.8 million aircraft brings better endurance, range and payload capacity, letting it stay in the air longer and cover more ground. But the biggest upgrade is $5.4 million in advanced sensing technology and mission systems that turn the aircraft into an aerial intelligence platform. The aircraft is equipped with AI-enabled wide-area mapping, high-definition thermal imaging, augmented reality mapping software and night operations capability.

These tools help ODF spot and communicate emerging incidents faster, track fire behavior more precisely and maintain awareness during day and night operations.

Prescribed fire season has commenced in south-central Oregon, with fire managers from the Fremont-Winema National Forest, Wildland Fire Service, and Oregon Department of Forestry set to implement controlled burns across the region.

This practice is essential for enhancing forest health, improving wildlife habitats, and reducing hazardous fuel loads, thereby mitigating the risk of wildfires. As part of our ongoing dedication to safeguarding communities and natural resources, residents and visitors may observe smoke or flames in various public land areas over the coming weeks. The appearance of prescribed fires can vary based on forest type, vegetation density, specific objectives, and the duration since the last fire event.

All active prescribed fire sites will be clearly marked, and individuals may encounter increased fire personnel, equipment, and traffic in these zones. For the safety of both the public and firefighters, it is advised to avoid these areas when possible.

A schedule of potential burning locations for the spring season is available, with operations planned from March to June, contingent on weather and conditions. OHCS lending products helped almost 1,000 Oregon households buy a home in 2025

 Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) announced its Flex Lending program helped 954 households buy a home in 2025 by offering down payment assistance (DPA) and lower interest rates through partnerships with approved lenders.

This first-of-its-kind mortgage loan program, called Flex Lending, consists of two loan products — FirstHome and NextStep. FirstHome is intended for first-time homebuyers with low to moderate incomes, while NextStep is open to any income-eligible buyers, even if they previously owned a home.

Borrowers can receive 4% or 5% of the first mortgage loan amount as down payment assistance that can be used for up to 100% of the borrower’s cash requirement to close, including down payment, closing costs, pre-paid items, upfront borrower-paid mortgage insurance, and other related loan fees and expenses.

The Flex Lending program worked with 33 lending partners to provide almost $300 million, including $7.5 million in down payment assistance, to 1,378 individuals in 2025. Additionally, 31% of the homebuyers identified as people of color, 32 were veteran households, and 43% lived in rural areas throughout the state.

Phoenix Paintin was renting and navigating the uncertainty that comes with rising housing costs and limited long-term stability. She was connected to the Flex Lending program through the Portland Housing Center, which helped her understand her options and connected her with an approved Flex Lender, Guild Mortgage. Now, she’s a proud homeowner who can invest in her own future in a way that once felt unimaginable

“Phoenix’s story is a reminder of what is possible,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “Oregonians in all zip codes know firsthand how expensive it is to afford a home. It affects families, workers, and local economies. Addressing housing affordability requires removing barriers in ways that concretely translate into more housing opportunities, stronger communities, and real paths to homeownership.”

“The Flex Lending program made homeownership feel attainable and supportive rather than overwhelming,” Paintin said. “I appreciated the flexibility, the clear guidance, and the way the program works to remove barriers that often make buying a home feel out of reach.”

To learn more about Flex Lending and other OHCS down payment assistance programs, visit the OHCS website.

Free help can ensure teenagers don’t miss tax refunds Oregon Department of Human Services’ partners offer tax help in-person or online 

Free tax help is available to meet the needs of young people, some of whom may be earning income for the first time. This help is available through a network of community partners funded by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Tax Infrastructure Grant Program. 

Downloadable file: FINALFINALFINALYouthTaxNewsRelease.pdf
Downloadable file: YouthTAXNewsreleaseSPMarch2026.pdf

What young people need to know 

• Young people in their first jobs or working part-time may be owed a refund of some  ̵  or even all  ̵  of the taxes withheld from their paychecks. 
• Even if a young person is claimed as a dependent on their parents’ or guardian’s return, they still file their own tax return to report their income. 
• A correctly filed tax return by a child who is a dependent would not interfere with exemptions claimed by their parents or guardians on their returns.  

The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program funds IRS-certified community organizations and Tribal governments that provide free tax filing help for youth and all people with low incomes.  

The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program also funds projects through educators.  

Where and how to get free help

The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program partners with Get Your Refund, a free online tax filing service through which individuals can have their return prepared or file it themselves using free tax software. Help is available in English and Spanish. To get started, go toGetYourRefund/OR. 

In-person help is available through community organizations at ODHS-sponsored sites that  

offer free tax return preparation through October 15. All give assistance in English and Spanish at a minimum. Those sites by location are: 

• Beaverton, Gresham, Portland: CASH Oregon, 503-243-7765, info@cashoregon.org. CASH Oregon offers virtual help for people who live outside these areas.  
• Bend, Redmond: Latino Community Association, 541-382-4366, info@latinocommunityassociation.org
• Corvallis, Eugene, Bend: Oregon State University, 541-737-3371, vita@oregonstate.edu
• Coos Bay, Roseburg: Moneywise Oregon, 541-670-5054, dan@moneywiseoregon.org
• Medford: United Way Jackson County, 541-864-5092, https://unitedwayofjacksoncounty.org/volunteer-income-tax-assistance/

For more information about the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/tax-help.aspx.

Haven’t filed your taxes yet? Here’s what you should know

Whether it’s where to find free tax help, how to track the status of your refund, or what refundable tax credits you’re eligible to claim, the Oregon Department of Revenue wants to make sure you have the information you need to file tax year 2025 tax returns before the April 15 deadline.

Through March 15, DOR has processed 937,000 electronically filed returns with more than half of the expected 2.2 million Oregon personal income tax returns yet to be filed. The department urges taxpayers not to wait until the last minute to file. If you have questions about filing you can find the information you need on the department’s website with guidance addressing the most common issues included below.

File electronically – “The best advice we can give taxpayers is to be certain their return is complete and accurate, and to file their return electronically,” said Megan Denison, administrator of DOR’s Personal Tax and Compliance Division. “If they need help, free assistance is available at sites across the state, along with a variety of options to e-file for free.”

On average, taxpayers who file electronically and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Distribution of refunds for e-filed returns began in mid-February. Due to the late receipt of tax form information from the IRS in late 2025, processing of paper-filed returns has been delayed until late March and refunds for paper filed returns will not start being issued until early April.

Taxpayers looking for the status of their refund for e-filed returns can use DOR’s Where’s My Refund? tool.

Mailing your return? Mail it early – Taxpayers who choose to file a paper return, should mail it early. The federal and state tax deadline is April 15, but due to changes at the U.S. Postal Service, returns mailed in after April 9 may not receive a postmark on time. Taxpayers who still want to mail their paper returns can take them to a local USPS office and request a postmark no later than April 15, 2026. 

Paper returns can also be physically deposited in drop boxes available on both the east and west sides of the Department of Revenue Building in Salem, or outside the DOR offices in Portland, Eugene, Medford, and Bend. A drop box at DOR’s Gresham office is available during business hours.

Claim your “kicker” – The Oregon surplus revenue kicker is a refundable credit that will either increase a taxpayer’s Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe. It is not sent to taxpayers separately as a check.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year.

Taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online.

Free electronic filing options are available – Direct File Oregon: Taxpayers can use Free Fillable Forms to file their federal return and then use Direct File Oregon to file their Oregon personal income tax return directly with the state.

Now in its third year, Direct File Oregon is a free interview-based program and allows taxpayers the convenience and security of filing their Oregon Personal Income Tax return directly with the state of Oregon through Revenue Online. Nearly 4,700 taxpayers have already used Direct File Oregon this year.

Other free electronic filing options: Free guided tax preparation is available for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free. These free services work much like the popular pay to file programs.

Find free tax filing assistance – From IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites to Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) or AARP Foundation TaxAide locations, Oregon taxpayers needing free assistance have over 107 different places across the state where they can get free in-person help filing their taxes.

Free tax help is also available online through the United Way’s MyFreeTaxes program.

Make an appointment at a free tax help site by using the links for each organization on the Department of Revenue’s webpage, or consult the department’s interactive map.

Check your eligibility and claim your refundable tax credits – Taxpayers should check their eligibility for a series of refundable tax credits for low-income workers and families. A refundable credit not only reduces the amount of tax a taxpayer owes, any leftover credit results in a cash refund that can be deposited directly into their bank account.

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The EITC is a fully refundable federal tax credit for people making up to $68,675 in 2025. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $8,046 on their federal tax return.
• Oregon Earned Income Credit: This refundable state tax credit is a percentage of an eligible taxpayer’s federal EITC. The maximum benefit for tax year 2025 is $966. The Oregon EIC is also available to taxpayers who have Individual Tax Identification Numbers (ITIN) rather than Social Security numbers.
• Oregon Kids Credit: This is a refundable state credit for low-income people with young dependent children. For those with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $26,550 or less, the full credit is $1,050 per child for up to five dependent children under the age of six at the end of the tax year. A partial credit is available for individuals and families with an MAGI up to $31,550.
• Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC): Families who are eligible for the Oregon Kids Credit are also likely eligible for the refundable WFHDC, which helps low- to moderate-income families pay for the care of their dependents while they’re working, looking for work, or attending school.

Recent federal changes are expanding work requirements for some Oregonians who receive SNAP food benefits. State agencies are encouraging recipients to get free job search and training help through WorkSource Oregon.

The Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Employment Department say more SNAP recipients must now show they are working, looking for work, or in training to keep their benefits.

The new rules apply to more people than before, including some adults up to age 64 and some households with older children. Some recipients will also need to meet these requirements for longer than three months.

SNAP Director Amya Hoffman says many people may already qualify through jobs, volunteering, or other activities. Free help is available through WorkSource Oregon, which has 37 centers across the state. For more info, go to WorkSourceOregon.org.

Oregon to Honor Fallen Law Enforcement Officers May 5, 2026

Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 5 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.

The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations. 

BLM seeks seasonal volunteer camp hosts across Oregon, Washington

The Bureau of Land Management is seeking seasonal volunteer hosts for several recreation sites in Oregon and Washington. Hosts will help connect visitors to public lands during a milestone year as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, and the BLM celebrates its 80th anniversary.  

Campground hosts play an important role in the visitor experience. They offer information about recreation opportunities, answer questions about the area, and help ensure campgrounds remain clean and safe. Light maintenance tasks—such as tidying restrooms, collecting trash, and keeping signs and information boards up to date—are part of the daily routine.  

This is a live-in volunteer position, and hosts must provide their own self-contained RV. Volunteers may be eligible to receive a daily per diem reimbursementwhile serving on site. 

Season lengths and schedules vary by location, with most positions running from late spring through early fall. Some locations can accommodate couples who want to host together and share responsibilities. All volunteer campground hosts must complete a federal background check. 

Those interested in learning more or applying can visit Volunteer.gov and search for “BLM Oregon” or “BLM Washington” to view current openings. 

-BLM-  The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. 

Oregon State Parks to hire seasonal Park Rangers, Park Ranger Assistants

Oregon State Parks is hiring seasonal Park Rangers and Park Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2026 season.

Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through June with new positions listed on a rolling basis on the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December.

Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.

Salaries start at $20.28 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.79 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, who are enrolled in high school start at $20.27 or more per hour, depending on experience.

Several of Oregon State Parks’ top leaders started their careers as seasonal employees, including all three Region Directors.

“We are focused on developing an engaged workforce by partnering with staff on career development, investing in skill building and fostering a culture of belonging. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you make a difference in protecting and promoting Oregon’s special places,” said interim Director Stefanie Coons.

Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Park Rangers at parks around the state. Positions are available in Oregon’s coastal areas, scenic valleys, and mountain regions, offering opportunities to work in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.

For more information about current openings, visit https://bit.ly/oregonparkjobs. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Recruiting D.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.

Beginning on March 30, 2026, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will discontinue the waiver of parking fees at an additional 22 day-use parks.

Currently, a day-use parking permit costs $10 for residents of Oregon and $12 for out-of-state visitors, and it is valid for the entire day of purchase at any state park in Oregon. Access to the parks remains complimentary for those who walk, bike, or utilize public transportation.

Visitors arriving by car can present valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a valid 12 or 24-month parking permit. Additionally, visitors who acquire parking permits online or through parking QR codes can link their license plates to the valid payment.

At present, OPRD mandates a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks throughout the state. The selection of the 22 additional parks was based on the amenities and features that necessitate maintenance and operation, including restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps, and more.

The revenue from parking fees contributes to the maintenance and operation costs, ensuring that these facilities remain available for all visitors.

Raise Funds to Plant Trees in Oregon

Registration is open for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K

Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  You must register by April 1^st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.

Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 18 and 26 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. Last year, we had to close registration early due to higher than anticipated participation, so register as soon as possible.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15, or earlier if more participants sign up than we have available swag.

For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks.  Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.  This year’s tree plantings will be placed in the Santiam Canyon.

Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its sixth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include fifteen other states. Together, all sixteen states will help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to honor Bob Ross and continue our efforts to plant at least One Million Trees in Oregon.” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.  “To date, we have funded the planting of 850,000 trees.”

“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”

Participants can register at www.orparksforever.org. — For more information, contact Seth Miller at 503/966-1053 or seth@orparksforever.org

UNDER PRESSURE: A VOLCANIC EXPLORATION, AN EXHIBITION FROM OREGON’S HIGH DESERT MUSEUM, SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON THE RUMBLING GIANTS AMONG US

(BEND, Ore.) — For millions of years, volcanoes have been the most powerful force in nature. And for many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the May 18, 1980, eruption of Washington’s Mount Saint Helens. The science, spectacle, and significance behind these massive peaks will soon be at the center of an immersive new exhibition, “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration,” which will run from Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipient High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore.

On the heels of the Museum’s recent “Sensing Sasquatch” exhibition – which won the Western History Association’s prestigious 2025 Autry Public History Prize and earned national praise for exploring the Indigenous perspectives of what many call Bigfoot – comes the latest groundbreaking exhibition from the High Desert Museum. Under Pressure will take visitors on an educational, insightful, and thought-provoking journey into the forces that make volcanoes among the most majestic and often misunderstood natural wonders of the world, while exploring their individual stories and temperaments.

“From cultural and historical significance to the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens, the Pacific Northwest and High Desert have a particularly long, complex, and symbiotic relationship with volcanoes,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., High Desert Museum executive director. “We live in their shadows, recreate on their slopes, and admire their beauty, but it’s the volcanoes’ ability to simultaneously cause destruction and creation that evokes feelings of awe. Under Pressure will provide an immersive and deep exploration.”

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration, a groundbreaking new exhibition from Oregon’s High Desert Museum.

WHEN:            Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027

WHERE:          High Desert Museum (Spirit of the West Gallery)

                         59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702 (map HERE)

COST:              Free with Museum admission or membership

   Active U.S. military and their families, as well as Tribal members, are FREE with ID

Among the highlights that visitors to Under Pressure can expect to encounter include:

• Engage the senses through interactive displays and exhibits, including volcanic rocks and a volcanic hazard map, to learn about cutting-edge volcano research.
• Hear stories and learn the significance of volcanoes to the people of the High Desert region.
• Get to know 4-6 individual volcanoes through biographies that explain the similarities and differences between them.
• Learn about present-day volcano hazards and how lava flows.
• Understand the technologies that scientists use to detect volcanic activity, which allow us to live among volcanoes while also enjoying their many benefits.

“These geologic giants exist all around us, come in all shapes and sizes, and tell a story of our past, present, and future,” says Whitelaw. “With 350 million people living near an active volcano worldwide, the more we understand about volcanoes, the better we can exist alongside them.”

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration opens to the public on Feb. 7, 2026, and runs through Jan. 3, 2027, in the High Desert Museum’s Spirit of the West Gallery. For additional information on exhibitions or to start planning your experience, visit highdesertmuseum.org.

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.

Staying Informed During a Communications Outage: Best Practices for the Public

Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:

  Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio

• Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
• Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

• Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
• WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

• Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
• Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
• If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

• Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
• Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
• When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
• Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

• Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
• Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
• Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
• Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.

If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings

If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.

• Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
• Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

• Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
• Follow your local emergency management officials’ and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

• Know the three levels of evacuation:
  • Level 1 – Be Ready
  • Level 2 – Be Set
  • Level 3 – GO NOW
• If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.

 Be Your Own Info Network

• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
• Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.

In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points.

Support and Restoration in Progress
To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.

Reconnect When Service Returns

• Once communications are restored, check official websites:
  • Oregon.gov/oem
  • Your county emergency management page
  • TripCheck.com for road conditions
• Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

• Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
• Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.

 Final Tip:

In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.

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

Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey

Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends.

But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle

We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate.

Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162

We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home.

Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. 

Tipline- 541-359-5638

Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com

FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132

The Junction City Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance locating a missing and possibly endangered person.

62-year-old Wade Felton Lloyd, of Junction City, was reported missing on November 20, 2025.  Mr. Lloyd was last seen on November 16^th in the area of Birch Street and 2^nd Avenue in Junction City. 

Mr. Lloyd normally stays close to the Junction City area, has close ties to his family, and his only transportation is an older motorized bicycle, which is also missing.

Mr. Lloyd is a slender white male, standing 6 feet tall with brown hair and hazel eyes.  Mr. Lloyd is without his cell phone, wallet, and his medications.  

The Junction City Police have exhausted all leads as to his whereabouts and is hoping that the community might recognize him or recall where they last saw Mr. Lloyd.   If you have information regarding Mr. Lloyd or have seen him on or after November 16^th, 2025, please call the Junction City Police Department at 541-998-1245.

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