Willamette Valley News, Monday 7/13 – Weather and Vibes Perfect for this Year’s Oregon Country Fair, EWEB Working on Plans for Second Water Plant on Willamette River & 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

Monday, July 13, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

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

Weather and Vibes Perfect for this Year’s Oregon Country Fair

The weather was perfect and the vibes were high at this year’s Oregon Country Fair. The 57th year of the Oregon Country Fair in Veneta capped its daily general attendance at 15,000 visitors per day, with roughly 45,000 people attending the three-day event. Counting the vendors, volunteers, and support crews, the total population on-site reached approximately 35,000 each day.

EWEB Working on Plans for Second Water Plant on Willamette River in Glenwood

The Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) is developing a $392 million secondary water treatment plant on the Willamette River in Glenwood. The project is meant to ensure community resiliency and provide a reliable second water source in case of natural disasters or equipment failure at the existing Hayden Bridge plant.

Board members provided preliminary direction to pursue a 30 million gallon a day plant during a Board of Commissioners meeting Tuesday night. One mission is to allow critical maintenance on the 76-year-old Hayden Bridge Plant.

EWEB says the new plant will cost $392 million and help protect against water outages from disasters or equipment failure. Farthing pointed to the 2020 Holiday Farm Fire as an example of how these emergencies are becoming more frequent.

EWEB has begun a detailed design plan which will include a construction timeline and added costs for consumers. Detailed financial plans will be reviewed in August.

Lebanon Fire District Responds To 1.2-Acre Brush Fire Along South Santiam River

Lebanon Fire District — July 12, 2026 – At approximately 5:04 p.m. today, Lebanon Fire District firefighters were dispatched to the area of Brewster Road and E. Grant Street for a reported brush fire.

The first-arriving Battalion Chief found smoke coming from trees approximately 75 feet in from the river. A drone was immediately deployed to provide an aerial view of the fire, allowing crews to quickly assess its size and develop an effective attack plan.

As conditions indicated the fire had the potential to grow, the incident was upgraded to a First Alarm, bringing in two off-duty firefighters and six volunteer firefighters to assist with suppression efforts.

The fire ultimately burned approximately 1.2 acres. Firefighters remained on scene for more than two and a half hours extinguishing hot spots and completing extensive mop-up operations to ensure the fire would not rekindle.

Crews utilized a portable water pump to draft water directly from the river, providing a continuous water supply in the remote area. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) responded with a dozer and constructed a containment line around the fire to help prevent further spread.

One firefighter was stung by a bee. No other injuries were reported.

While crews were actively fighting the fire, both Lebanon Fire District medic units had to be reassigned to respond to three separate medical emergencies, including a cardiac arrest. During that time, the district was assisted by the Albany Fire Department, which provided engine coverage to ensure emergency response capabilities remained available throughout the community.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Lebanon Fire District would like to thank the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, and the Albany Fire Department for their assistance during today’s incident.

With the current hot, dry, and windy weather conditions, Lebanon Fire District reminds everyone to use extreme caution with any activity that could spark a fire. Even a small spark from equipment, vehicles, discarded smoking materials, or recreational activities can quickly become a fast-moving wildfire. Help protect our community by following burn restrictions, avoiding activities that create sparks in dry vegetation, and reporting any signs of smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.

Salem Detectives and ATF Seize Additional Firearms and Drugs 

On July 9, 2026, detectives from the Salem Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives executed another search warrant on a storage unit connected to Michael J. Brasi, 47, of Salem, as part of an ongoing investigation.  

The search, conducted at a storage facility in Keizer, resulted in the seizure of an additional 24 firearms, including one .50 caliber rifle, three additional suppressors, and a pill press used in drug manufacturing. Detectives also discovered a large quantity of illegal narcotics and drug manufacturing equipment inside the storage unit.  

Brasi is currently lodged at Marion County Jail on charges related to a previous incident, with additional charges pending related to the firearms and drug offenses.  

The investigation is ongoing, and further inquiries should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

Salem Police and ATF Seize Cache of Firearms and Drugs in Major Arrest  

— On July 7, 2026, detectives from the Strategic Investigations Unit, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, seized a cache of firearms and illegal narcotics as part of an ongoing investigation.  

On July 6, 2026, patrol officers arrested Michael J. Brasi, 47, of Salem, in connection with a domestic stalking incident involving multiple violations of a no-contact order. Brasi was lodged at Marion County Jail on various charges, including Domestic Felony Stalking, Unlawful Use of a GPS Device, and Burglary in the First Degree.  

Patrol officers contacted detectives and relayed investigative information, which led them to apply for and serve search warrants at multiple locations linked to Brasi.  

Detectives located and seized 54 firearms, 8 homemade suppressors, incomplete firearm frames, firearm parts, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Several of the recovered firearms were found to be stolen from nearby  jurisdictions. Detectives also seized evidence related to the manufacturing of undetectable firearms, including drill presses, 3D printers, and firearm build kits.  

Additionally, detectives seized 129 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, 88.7 grams of fentanyl, 20.1 grams of cocaine, and over 150 vials of anabolic steroids. Evidence of the manufacture of anabolic steroids was located, including unused vials, custom labels, and mixing agents.  

Brasi is being held in custody at the Marion County Jail. Charges related to firearms offenses are pending. 

The investigation is ongoing. The Salem Police Department recognizes the importance of maintaining strong relationships with federal partners such as the ATF and wishes to thank them for their assistance.  

For further inquiries, please contact the Marion County District Attorney’s Office. 

Construction underway with $200 million expansion at the Eugene Airport that will double the size of the main concourse

Local and state leaders toured the “Lift Off EUG” expansion project on Tuesday. The project broke ground at the start of summer and will add 10,000 square feet to the main concourse area.

“It is really the entry point for our five-county region in the southern Willamette Valley,” Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson said. “So, it is important to Eugene, the capacity of this airport, but it’s really important to a much broader collection of communities that are served by this critical infrastructure.”

The expansion will increase parking capacity, upgrade baggage screening and repair runways and taxiways. Eugene Airport Director Cathryn Stephens said the airport has been operating over capacity for years.

“The Concourse A expansion that’s happening right now is kind of a relief valve for that it’s going to be doubling the size of our hold room or waiting areas providing a lot more seating,” Stephens said. “It’s going to be an overall better passenger experience for everybody.”

The Concourse A expansion is about a year away from completion. Most of the construction is outside of the terminal, so passengers shouldn’t notice many disruptions in the meantime.

A feasibility study is underway to determine the best funding method. The airport is considering a mix of airport revenue, state and federal grants and public-private partnerships. The airport will look to figure out a funding plan during the 2027 Legislative Session in January.

Changes coming to Lane County’s rural waste transfer sites

Following a robust discussion, the Board of County Commissioners voted to close a $3 million budget gap in Lane County’s Waste Management Division by increasing fees and reducing some services.

“Our community values rural transfer sites, and they are an important part of our solid waste system,” said Waste Management Division Manager Jeff Orlandini. “We rely on the fees people and haulers pay when they bring us materials to fund our transfer sites and other services, but those revenues have declined sharply in recent years. These changes will allow us to balance our budget while preserving as many of our services as possible.”

The budget gap is the result of several years of waste exportation by Waste Connections, which owns Sanipac, EcoSort, and County Waste & Transfer. Historically, communities and solid waste haulers have helped fund transfer sites and other services, such as household hazardous waste collection and recycling programs, by paying a fee when they bring garbage to Lane County sites. By taking waste out of Lane County to a site owned by Waste Connections near Medford, Ore. Lane County is unable to collect enough fees to keep services at the current level and the Waste Management Division does not receive tax funding.

While haulers in unincorporated Lane County and the cities of Eugene, Florence and Oakridge are required to bring their waste to Lane County to support our local system, other cities have refused to require their haulers to do the same, including Cottage Grove, Creswell, Springfield, and Veneta.

The changes adopted by the Board of Commissioners will take effect on Monday, August 10, 2026 and include three components: a fee increase, reduced hours at multiple locations, and closure of the Walton Transfer Site. After August 10, Lane County will still operate 14 solid waste transfer sites—more than any other county in Western Oregon—and the new minimum fee remains lower than Lane County’s five comparator counties, where minimum disposal fees range between $28 and $53.63.

Summary of changes that take effect on Monday, August 10:

• Fees
  • The fees for using transfer sites will increase by 5 percent and the new minimum fee at all transfer sites will be $25 (formerly $15). There are no fee changes for municipal solid waste brought to Short Mountain Landfill by commercial haulers.
  • There will no longer be a $1 discount for bringing recyclables.
• Reduced hours
  • Creswell Transfer Site (34293 Cloverdale Road):
    • Creswell will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday. It will be open Friday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Veneta Transfer Site (24444 Bolton Hill Road):
    • Veneta will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. It will be open Wednesday–Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Other transfer sites:
    • Many other locations will have slightly reduced hours. See attachment.
• Closures
  • The Walton Transfer Site (18585 Transformer Road) will permanently close on August 10, 2026.

Catholic Community Services of Lane County, Inc. (CCS) · See Our Mission in Action: Join Us for an Insider’s Tour

Spend an hour getting a behind-the-scenes look at the programs and services that make a real difference in our community.

Date: Wednesday, July 29th Time: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm Location: 1025 G Street, Springfield

No fundraising here — just a chance to see our work firsthand and ask questions. Inspired by Christ’s call to love our neighbors as ourselves, Catholic Community Services of Lane County (CCS) lives out that mission every day — offering food, rent, utility, and housing assistance, emergency shelter, and support for refugees and immigrants resettling in Lane County.

For more than 74 years, CCS has stood beside the poor and unhoused in our community. Come see the impact for yourself — reserve your spot today! Questions or want to learn more? Email development@ccslc.org or call 541-345-3628 ext. 1317

Catholic Community Services of Lane County, Inc. (CCS) is with St. Paul Catholic Church Eugene Oregon and Emerald People’s Utility District.  · Back to School Drive – July 15 to August 15!

Help CCS support over 200 kids enrolled in our programs — most of whom will start the school year without the supplies they need. Together, we can change that!From July 15 to August 15, we’re collecting NEW school supplies to give these students a strong start. Most Needed Items (New Only):

Notebooks & paper

Watercolors & markers

Water bottles

Backpacks

Corded headphones

Lunch bags… and moreYour donation can make a direct impact in a child’s life.

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

SAVE THE DATE!!! Michael Bryson 5 K Shuffle will be 8-8-26 At Alton Baker Park in Eugene Oregon at 9 am 

Sign up sheet will be up in a few days! – This will be the 5 th annual 5 K shuffle please come and show your support and love for Michael Bryson and all missing people! You can walk-Run-Shuffle! https://michaelbrysonfoundation.com/5k-shuffle-2026

Food for Lane County  Summer Food Program for Kids 

In partnership with PeaceHealth, which donated $50,000 to the program, and Yogi, a tea company that donated $5,000, the program will distribute free lunches at dozens of sites in Lane County from June 22 to Aug. 21.

Click on Lunch locations below:

Creswell Eugene Dexter Junction City Oakridge Springfield Thurston Triangle Lake Veneta

According to Carolyn Stein, the executive director of Food for Lane County, the PeaceHealth donation and Yogi donation helped minimize a funding gap of over $100,000. Even so, Food for Lane County has to pay out of pocket to fill the remaining gap.  

According to the Oregon Department of Education, about 75% of Lane County children qualify for free or reduced-cost lunch. 

Last year, Stein said the free-food program served about 50,000 meals to kids throughout the summer, and they expect that number to increase by an additional 10,000 this summer. 

“Food for Lane County’s mission is to engage our community to create access to food, and we do that with many partnerships with organizations and businesses across the community,” Stein said. “We went to PeaceHealth because they have a shared value to make sure that no child in our community goes hungry and they stepped up in a big way to help us meet the need in our community.”

The lunches will be served on a first-come basis, between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Kids, 18 years old or younger, can receive meals, regardless of income. 

Burrito Brigade Buys Building to Create Community Food Hub

Burrito Brigade has bought the old Center for Appropriate Transport building at 455 West 1st Ave. in the Whiteaker neighborhood to create a new community food hub.

The organization is asking the community to help support building renovation goals. Burrito Brigade needs $300,000 more to fully complete a commercial kitchen installation, food storage infrastructure, ADA-compliant upgrades and critical improvements needed.

Jennifer Denson says “This project has always been community driven. Since Waste To Taste’s start in 2020 we have not looked back. We just keep rescuing more food and growing more organized and it’s incredible to watch the impact and difference we make when we work together,”

Hundreds of volunteer hours weekly are dedicated to rescuing more than half a million pounds of food annually from grocery stores, small businesses, institutions, large food generators and local farms. This community-powered food rescue serves fresh local vegetables and fruit alongside diet and culturally specific products.

The no-barrier access free grocery store, known as Waste-to-Taste, provides households the ability to supplement other systems of support that often have eligibility requirements. Waste-to-Taste serves more than 10,000 households annually.

Rescued food is also redirected through other sustainable distribution channels. Food scraps and spoiled food are diverted to feed farm animals like chickens, goats and pigs, sanctuary animals at a local emu ranch and wolf rescue, and even a mealworm farm.

According to Burrito Brigade, the community connection and creativity around food in the kitchen includes partners in many mutual aid food projects facilitating hot meals, food preservation, community-led cooking classes, food micro-entrepreneurs and youth workforce training. The new community food hub will open its doors to the public in 2027. You can DONATE here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-help-us-build-a-food-hub

Skinner Butte Park summit parking lot is now closed to motorized vehicles due to fire danger. The closure will remain in effect until October.

City of Eugene’s Parks and Open Space, in cooperation with Eugene Springfield Fire, have closed the Skinner Butte parking lot and summit road. It will be closed until sometime in October.

There has been a history of illegal firework activity and brush fires, particularly during the summer season.

Closing this area to vehicles helps reduce that risk. The summit will remain accessible to pedestrians and cyclists (no e-motorcycles) by numerous trails and the paved road that leads to the summit.

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. 

Summer EBT is back to help feed Oregon children during summer break

The Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits (Summer EBT) program is returning in 2026 to help families buy groceries for school-aged children during summer break when they don’t have easy access to healthy meals.

Eligible families can receive a one-time payment of $120 for each child on an Oregon EBT card to buy food. Unused benefits can expire 122 days after they are issued.

Families will get benefits automatically on their Oregon EBT card if they have children between the ages of 6-18 and received one of the following at any time during the 2025-26 school year:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash assistance
• Medicaid, if household income is below 185 percent of the federal poverty level
• Foster care services

Families also may automatically receive benefits if they have children who:

• Were determined by their school to have a status as migrant, houseless or runaway.
• Took part in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
• Attended a Head Start program that was part of the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program.

Families may need to apply if:

• Their household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
• Their child attends a school that was part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Important Summer EBT dates:

• June 1, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center opens. Families can call 833-673-7328 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• June 4, 2026 – Benefits are expected to begin issuing to families who are automatically eligible.
• June 5, 2026 – The online application opens and applications begin processing.
• Sept. 1, 2026 – Application deadline.
• Sept. 25, 2026 – The Summer EBT call center closes.

The Summer EBT program is administered by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and Oregon Department of Education (ODE).

Children cannot receive 2026 Summer EBT benefits in multiple states. The program invites families to apply if they have children living in Oregon during the 2025-26 school year.

Families can learn more about Summer EBT, find application information and get updates by visiting the website at sebt.oregon.gov.

7/13/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

Oregon Department of Forestry sends Incident Management Team to a wildfire for the first time this year — East Evans Creek

– For the first time this year, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has ordered a Complex Incident Management Team to manage a wildfire. The team will coordinate additional personnel and equipment assigned to the incident. This will allow ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters to return to initial attack responsibilities across the District, which protects 1.8 million acres in Jackson and Josephine counties.

The East Evans Fire is located approximately 26 miles northeast of Medford. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has issued Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices for residents in the area, with Level 3 meaning Leave Now. The public is urged to avoid the area due to multiple road closures and heavy firefighting traffic and should continue to follow evacuation information and updates from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

The fire was reported at 2:41 p.m. Friday on private land protected by ODF and has since spread onto Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. The fire is currently estimated at approximately 1,550 acres and remains active. Hot, dry conditions, combined with multiple spot fires, have been the primary drivers of the fire’s growth. These conditions continue to present some of the greatest challenges for firefighters.

Crews were successful in catching two spot fires earlier in the incident, but a third spot fire established itself, gained momentum, and contributed to the fire’s rapid growth, prompting the District’s request for a state Incident Management Team to assist.

Cause of the fire is currently under investigation. For the latest updates on the fire Friday night or Saturday, go to the ODF Southwest Oregon District Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ODFSouthwest/

Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilizes resources to Jackson County East Evans Creek Road Fire

– The Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized four structural task forces and its Blue Incident Management Team to the fast-moving East Evans Creek Road fire in Jackson County. The fire which sparked Friday quickly grew to over 1,500 acres in just hours and is threatening nearby homes and several communities.

7/13: East Evans Creek Fire now at 3,628 total acres burned with 5% containment and nearly 1,000 personnel assigned. . — Flames are several hundred feet high at times. https://app.watchduty.org/i/107705

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has levels 1, 2, & 3 evacuation notices in place. Those looking for evacuation information should follow the local sheriff’s office.

The state fire marshal task forces from Lincoln, Linn, Marion and the south coast (Coos, Curry, Lane, and Douglas counties) will join a task force from Klamath County and strike team from Douglas County mobilized Friday evening through Immediate Response to support local structural resources.

“This fire is a reminder how quickly things can change with the dry conditions we have across the state,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Chief Deputy Travis Medema said. “We have a long way to go this fire season, and I ask every Oregonian to do their part to prevent wildfires.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Blue Incident Management Team will be in unified command with the Oregon Department of Forestry Team 1.

Friday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize additional resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the first time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

Douglas County Fire Crews Deploy to East Evans Creek Fire as Blaze Grows Beyond 3500 Acres

Firefighters from six Douglas County agencies have deployed to Jackson County to assist with the East Evans Creek Fire, which has grown to more than 3,100 acres. The local task force includes crews from Roseburg, North Douglas, Sutherlin, Riddle, Tenmile and Central Douglas Fire & Rescue.

Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilizes resources to Olive Butte Fire in Grant County

– The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing its Green Incident Management Team and four structural task forces to the Olive Butte Fire in Grant County. Saturday evening, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 3 evacuation notice for the town of Granite. The evacuation notices were issued due to rapidly changing conditions.

The state fire marshal is sending three structural protection task forces from Clackamas, Lane, and Washington counties Saturday evening, with more resources arriving Sunday. These resources will work to protect life and property near the fire.

“While our wildland partners focus on the perimeter of the fire itself, our resources will work to protect homes and critical infrastructure,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Travis Medema said. “This partnership is vital as we face what has been a very busy weekend for firefighters across the state.”

Those looking for evacuation information can follow the Grant County Emergency Management page or the Oregon Department of Emergency Management’s RAPTOR Dashboard.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be in unified command with Northwest Team 12.

Saturday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire, allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the second time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

L. L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks will host OMSI Star Parties this summer

— L.L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks will celebrate the night sky with free stargazing parties in July, August and September.

The parks are partnering with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers to host an OMSI Star Party 2026, which includes a presentation at dusk and stargazing from 9 to 11 p.m. Telescopes will be provided by volunteers, and visitors are welcome to bring their own. Depending on the weather, stargazers will search out stars, the moon, and planets.

“We love helping people experience the park in a different way. After dark, everything feels calmer, quieter, and a little more magical,” shared Park Ranger Jeremy Williams at L. L. Stub Stewart State Park.

These events are free. Parking in the day-use areas requires a $10 parking permit per vehicle or you can use an annual parking pass if you have one.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, warm clothing, snacks and water. Bug repellent is always a good idea. Please use red flashlights to avoid interfering with the dark sky viewing. You can also cover your flashlight or smartphone with red electrical tape.

Star maps will be provided along with recommended astronomy apps that visitors can load on their phones if interested.

Visitors should arrive early to familiarize themselves with the area and park only in designated spaces. Overnight camping is not permitted in day-use areas, though campground reservations are available at stateparks.oregon.gov.

On the scheduled day for OMSI Star Parties, visitors should visit the OMSI website for possible weather-related cancellations. The long-range forecast looks promising for excellent viewing.

“Whether you come to Rooster Rock to count Perseids or simply to spend a peaceful evening under the stars, the meteor shower is a wonderful excuse to slow down, look up, and experience the Gorge in a whole new light”, said Park Ranger Elika Paki at Rooster Rock. “And if you lose track of how many shooting stars you’ve seen, don’t worry, that just means you’re doing it right.”

All events begin at dusk. We recommend arriving early to accommodate parking. Parks will close at 11:45 p.m.

Summer Night Sky | Saturday, July 18

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

Perseid Meteor Shower Watch | Wednesday, August 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park
• Rooster Rock State Park

Equinox Celebration | Saturday, September 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

You can find additional details about the event, parking logistics, whether pets are allowed, and how to request accessibility accommodations on the L.L. Stub Stewart State Park and Rooster Rock State Park event pages, and the OMSI event page.

Oregon State Parks often hosts stargazing events across the state. More opportunities can be found on Oregon State Parks’ event page.

Oregon expands Medicaid to help some members buy groceries

Some Oregon Health Plan members can now get help buying groceries under a new Medicaid benefit that state officials hope will improve people’s health and keep them out of the hospital.

Starting this month, Oregon Health Plan members who have certain serious medical conditions and struggle to afford enough food can apply to receive up to six months of nutrition benefits through one of two new programs.

One covers fruits and vegetables. The other helps pay for pantry staples such as meat, fish, dairy products, bread, cooking oils, canned foods and spices.

The grocery benefits are the latest addition to Oregon’s health-related social needs initiative, an ambitious effort that has expanded what Medicaid pays for beyond traditional medical care.

In 2022, Oregon won federal approval to use Medicaid dollars for services such as housing assistance, medically tailored meals, nutrition education and climate-related equipment, including air conditioners and air filters for people whose health is threatened by extreme heat or wildfire smoke.

Dr. Sejal Hathi, director of the Oregon Health Authority, said the latest nutrition benefits serve as another “important tool to help people stay healthy.”

“When people have reliable access to nutritious food, they can better manage their health, which reduces emergency visits, lowers hospital readmissions and helps bring down medical spending overall,” she said in a statement.

Oregon health officials did not immediately say Wednesday how many Medicaid members they expect will qualify for the new nutrition benefits.

The benefit expansion comes as fewer Oregonians are receiving help buying groceries through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

About 708,000 Oregonians received SNAP benefits in April, roughly 70,000 fewer than a year earlier. The decline has been steeper than state officials expected after President Donald Trump signed H.R. 1, which reduced federal spending on SNAP and Medicaid.

Dr. Margaret Cary, the Oregon Health Plan’s behavioral health medical director, said the new Medicaid nutrition benefits were never intended to replace SNAP.

“We know this is not going to solve hunger in Oregon. That’s not Medicaid’s role,” Cary said.

Still, she said, some Oregonians who have lost SNAP benefits or are receiving less food assistance could qualify for the new Medicaid program if they also meet its medical and eligibility requirements.

The latest nutrition benefits are available only to a narrow group of Oregon Health Plan members who have low or very low food security, meet certain medical requirements and are in qualifying situations, such as homelessness, recent incarceration or treatment, or involvement with Oregon’s foster care system.

The new pantry-stocking program is even more limited, with eligibility restricted to pregnant people, young children, young adults with special health care needs and certain older children and young adults with complex health needs.

Oregon Health Plan members can receive only one of the two benefits at a time, although they may apply for the other after the first benefit ends if they are still eligible.

Depending on where they live and which health plan they belong to, members will receive either grocery boxes delivered to their homes or prepaid cards they can use to buy approved foods at participating stores. The benefits last up to six months.

State officials did not immediately provide the average dollar value of the benefits. But Cary said they’re meant to supplement, not replace, a household’s grocery budget.

Members enrolled in coordinated care organizations can apply through their health plan. Those in Oregon’s fee‑for‑service Medicaid program, known as Open Card, can request benefits through the state’s contractor, Acentra, by calling 1-888-834-4304.

This story originally appeared in The Oregonian/OregonLive: Oregon expands Medicaid to help some members buy groceries – https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2026/07/07/oregon-expands-medicaid-to-help-some-members-buy-groceries/

Webinar series to honor 36 years of disability civil rights

— The public is invited to a series of free webinars featuring conversations with disabilities advocates and experts who will share the latest information on disability supports, emergency management systems and digital accessibility.

Topics by date are:

• July 7: Exploring Cross-Disability Experiences and Support Needs 
• July 14: Building Inclusive and Accessible Emergency Management Systems
• July 21: ADA: How Far We’ve Come and What Comes Next
• July 28: Understanding the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Ruling on Digital Accessibility

The free weekly webinar series is being hosted by Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC), Oregon Department of Human Services, Northwest ADA Center and Disability Rights Oregon in recognition and celebration of the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“As we reflect on the legacy of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we’re also looking closely at the work ahead such as understanding diverse experiences and support needs, strengthening inclusive and accessible systems, and advancing digital accessibility,” said Mark King, Chair of ODC. “We’re grateful to our co-hosts for joining us in presenting this series, which helps us continue educating and advocating for equity, independence and full participation for people with disabilities.”

The series will take place on Tuesdays throughout July, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time, beginning July 7. The sessions are open to the public, and registration is now available through the event webpage on Zoom.

The series will be accessible to people with disabilities and will be translated into Spanish. Captioning and American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided. For questions about accessibility for the webinar series, or to request an accommodation, contact OregonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

More information about the series, including presenter biographies, will be shared on the Oregon Department of Human Services ADA event webpage.

About the Oregon Disabilities Commission: The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.

Oregon farmers reliant on irrigation have faced a challenging start to the season, with little improvement in conditions as the months progress.

Many are experiencing reduced water availability, with certain fields in Central Oregon facing unprecedented water restrictions. In Southern Oregon, growers are being incentivized to leave their fields unplanted, and there is a growing concern that water regulators may need to impose further restrictions before the end of the growing season.

Stream flows in rivers throughout most of Oregon’s basins are significantly below average for this time of year. The state’s snowpack, which typically serves as a natural reservoir, was disappointingly low this past winter, coinciding with some of the warmest winter months on record. In various areas of the Cascades, the limited snow that did accumulate is melting weeks earlier than expected.

Public invited to comment on plan to possibly triple logging in eastern Oregon national forests

The U.S. Forest Service’s proposed revisions to the Blue Mountain Forest Plan would allow more logging and taking older trees in the name of wildfire prevention

Officials at the U.S. Forest Service are proposing new management plans for eastern Oregon’s Blue Mountains that include potentially tripling the amount of logging across 5.5 million acres in the next decade.

The Forest Service published a draft of proposed changes to the 35-year-old Blue Mountain Forest Plan last week. It would allow more logging, mining and grazing across four national forests spread across eastern Oregon, as well as parts of southeast Washington: the Malheur, Ochoco, Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

The public has until Sept. 30 to submit comments on the 350-page draft proposal.Submit comments on the revised Blue Mountain Forest Plan here.

The draft plan describes increases in logging and animal grazing as important to local economies and to preventing wildfire.

It predicts everything from habitat conservation to forest carbon storage would improve over the long term if more logging is allowed because strategically logging and grazing parts of the forest would prevent wildfire, which officials characterize as the biggest threat to habitat and forest loss.

Environmental advocates disagree with the framing.

The Blue Mountains encompass Oregon’s largest protected wilderness areas. Conservation groups have expressed concern and outrage over the draft management plan, which they say could exacerbate area drought and water quality issues, wildfire risks and impact habitat for elk, wolverine, wolves, moose, owls and salmon.

“This plan seeks to open up and pillage one of the wildest places left in the U.S.,” Lauren Anderson, a climate forests manager at the nonprofit Oregon Wild, said in a statement. “The Trump administration is already taking a hatchet to protections for water, wildlife and the public’s voice. This plan is that philosophy in action, putting at risk the very values that make the Blue Mountains special.”

Bev Law, a forest scientist and professor emerita at Oregon State University who has studied extensively the potential forest carbon storage in Oregon forests, found that protected wilderness areas in the Blue Mountains contain the second highest proportion of above-ground carbon stocks in all of Oregon’s protected wilderness areas.

Nick Smith, a spokesperson for the American Forest Resource Council, a trade association representing the timber industry, said in a statement that the group is still reviewing the proposed updates but that change is overdue.

“These national forests face some of the highest wildfire, insect and disease risks in the West. At the same time, the region is steadily losing the sawmills, logging contractors and the skilled workforce needed to carry out active forest management and provide markets for the material that needs to come out of the woods,” he said.

The draft Blue Mountain Management Plan proposal also includes rescinding a 32-year-old rule called the Eastside Screens that prohibits logging trees that are 21 inches in diameter or larger on six eastern Oregon and Washington national forests. Forest Service officials attempted to rescind the rule during the first Trump administration, but conservation groups sued and it was blocked by a federal judge.

Forest Service officials have argued that some younger trees that grow fast should be able to be removed even if they are more than 21 inches in diameter, because they are crowding out other tree species that take longer to grow but are important to the forest ecosystems.

The proposal also assumes Congress will soon rescind the 25-year-old Roadless Rule, which prohibits road construction, logging and mining on roughly 60 million acres of public land, including about 2 million acres of forests in Oregon. That alone would increase the amount of land classified as open for logging in the Blue Mountains by 17%, according to the draft.

Most of the increased logging would take place in the Malheur National Forest, followed by the Wallowa-Whitman and then Umatilla national forests. (SOURCE)

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation has issued a warning regarding a newly identified fraud ring that enrolls individuals in life insurance policies without their awareness or consent.

This fraudulent activity primarily targets older adults and has been reported across several states, including Oregon. The scheme involves licensed insurance agents who initiate contact with victims through multiple telemarketing calls, during which personal information is solicited. This information is subsequently passed on to the participating insurance agents, who then reach out to the victims to gather any additional details necessary to finalize an application for a life insurance policy.

These applications are submitted without the victims’ knowledge, resulting in the issuance of one or more policies for which the agents receive commissions, despite the fact that the premiums have not yet been paid. The fraud typically comes to light when the insurance company seeks the initial premium payment.

The Division of Financial Regulation’s consumer advocates are available to assist with inquiries or to facilitate the filing of complaints. They can be contacted at 1-888-877-4894 or via email at DFR.InsuranceHelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance-related assistance, and dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for help with financial services.

Enjoy outdoors, avoid bites: OHA shares summer mosquito prevention reminder

 Simple steps can reduce risk of serious mosquito-borne illnesses

—As mosquito activity increases during the summer months, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding residents and visitors to take precautions against mosquito bites and reduce exposure to West Nile virus, the most common mosquito-borne disease in the state.

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are detected in Oregon every year, primarily in eastern and southern parts of the state, though infected mosquitoes have been found throughout the Pacific Northwest. Public health works closely with local vector control districts to identify areas where the virus is circulating in the mosquito population.

West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus can infect humans, birds, horses and other animals. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then spread the virus through subsequent bites.

“Summer is a great time to enjoy Oregon’s outdoors, but it’s also the time of year when mosquito activity is at its highest,” said Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., public health veterinarian at OHA’s Public Health Division. “Most people infected with West Nile virus may not develop symptoms, but some can become seriously ill, especially those over 50. Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk.”

About one in five people infected with West Nile virus develop a fever and flu-like illness that can include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Adults 50 and older, people with weakened immune systems, and those with certain underlying health conditions are at greater risk for severe illness. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological disease affecting the brain or nervous system.

People experiencing a high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, muscle weakness, tremors or paralysis should contact a health care provider right away.

Here are tips to reduce breeding sites at home:

• Eliminate standing water around potted plants.
• Empty water from buckets, birdbaths, pet dishes and other containers at least once or twice each week.
• Clean clogged gutters and drainage areas.
• Remove old tires, unused containers and outdoor debris that can collect water.
• Regularly inspect areas under decks and shrubs, and around outbuildings where water may accumulate.

Tips to protect yourself outdoors:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent and follow label instructions.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when mosquito activity is high.
• Consider limiting outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use mosquito netting over infant carriers and strollers.
• Repair or install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes and buildings.

Additional information about West Nile virus, mosquito prevention and surveillance activities in Oregon is availableon OHA’s West Nile virus webpage.

Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card

Borrow an Oregon State Parks parking permit for free at 82 libraries statewide.

– Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) and the State Library of Oregon are partnering to offer free state parks parking permits to Oregon public libraries. There are currently 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state.

“Oregon’s state parks are for everyone,” said OPRD deputy director JR Collier. “As we assess ways to manage our budget responsibly, we also want to uplift equitable access to our parks.”

Each participating library received up to four parking permits. These are the physical hang tags you check out from the library and put in your car. The permit covers parking in all Oregon State Parks day-use areas for one vehicle. Go to the Oregon State Parks website to find participating libraries. All you need to participate is your library card.

“Libraries help make life more affordable for Oregonians. This program leverages the existing borrowing system to help connects folks of all income levels with the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s State Parks,” said Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian.

Both OPRD and the State Library contributed 100 parking permits to the program to distribute to libraries. The agencies determined how many passes each library would receive based on interest from the library, its proximity to a park charging a day use fee, and the size of the population it serves. The State Library purchased permits with Library Services and Technology Act funds from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

OPRD first distributed parking permits to 28 libraries as part of a year-long pilot program starting in August 2024. Those passes were checked out more than 2,100 times. At the pilot’s conclusion, OPRD evaluated how to best move the program forward in the context of its changing fees. In 2027, OPRD and the State Library will continue to explore options for an expanded long-term program that will serve even more libraries and people in Oregon. Learn more about the OPRD Library Pass Program.

Need to meet SNAP work rules? Free Oregon program helps people build skills and find jobs

More than half of participants who complete Oregon’s SNAP Employment and Training program are employed shortly afterward.

Salem, Ore. — More than half of SNAP participants who complete Oregon’s SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program are employed shortly afterward, according to data reported to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Administration.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is highlighting the success of these services as more Oregonians seek support navigating federal changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work or activity rules.

“Employment and training services can help people achieve more than compliance with a requirement,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon SNAP Director. “They help people build skills, connect with employers and create opportunities that can support them long after they leave SNAP.”

Before connecting with WorkSource Oregon, Isla was facing uncertainty after becoming unemployed while caring for a family member. She had long dreamed of continuing her education but wasn’t sure how she would make it happen. Through the SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program, she received support, guidance and resources that helped her move forward. Today, she is continuing her education and working toward her goal of starting her own business.

“It has always been a dream of mine to better myself and show my kids you can always go to school and educate yourself no matter the age,” said Isla. “My plans for the future are to have my own company and a great job of my choosing.”

Stories like Isla’s are common among participants in Oregon’s STEP program. According to USDA Food and Nutrition Administration data, 57% of Oregon STEP participants are employed shortly after completing the program, one of the highest rates in the nation.

The STEP program connects SNAP participants with free employment and training services through partnerships between ODHS, STEP providers, the Oregon Employment Department, local workforce development boards and other community organizations throughout Oregon.

Services may include:

• Career coaching and employment planning
• Resume development and interview preparation
• Education and training opportunities
• Job search assistance
• Connections to local employers
• Help addressing barriers that can make it hard to find work or complete training

Many participants use these services to gain new skills, complete training programs, increase earnings or enter a new field.

Federal changes to SNAP work rules have increased the number of Oregonians who may need to meet work or activity rules to maintain food benefits. Employment and training services can help participants meet those requirements while building skills that support long-term employment success.

ODHS is also encouraging people to contact the ODHS ABAWD team (1-833-947-1694 or SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov) if they have questions about SNAP work or activity rules. Some people may qualify for an exemption and not realize it. Others may benefit from employment and training services that can help them maintain benefits while working toward their career goals. ODHS provides the referral for people to access these supports.

Since January 2026, more than 25,600 people have lost benefits because they didn’t meet work or activity rules.

“If you think SNAP work or activity rules may apply to you, your best next step is to contact ODHS,” said Hoffman. “We can help you understand your options and connect you with services that support your goals.”

For more information about SNAP work rules and exemptions:

• English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
• Spanish: Oregon.gov/snapnormastrabajo

ODHS ABAWD Team:

• Call: 1-833-947-1694
• Email: ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov

For more information about SNAP benefits:

• Online: oregon.gov
• Call the ONE Customer Service Center: 1-800-699-9075
• In person or by phone: at any ODHS office

Weekend Train Rides Return to the Oregon Rail Heritage Center for the 2026 Season

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is excited to announce the return of its popular weekend train rides. Running every Saturday and Sunday through October 11, 2026, these family-friendly excursions offer passengers a memorable rail adventure through the heart of Portland aboard historic diesel locomotive BNSF 3613.

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.

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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