Willamette Valley News, Monday 7/27 – Amazon Contractor Starts Working on Distribution Center Despite Appeal on Wetland Permit, Symphony in the Park Tonight in Cottage Grove & 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 27, 2026

Willamette Valley Weather

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

U.S. Forest Service – Willamette National Forest – HIGH Fire Danger

The Forest remains in Industrial Forest Precaution Level (IFPL) 1 and Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, and any other open fires are prohibited outside of Forest-constructed fire rings within designated campgrounds. Portable cooking stoves, portable gas campfires, and lanterns using pressurized fuel or propane with an on/off switch are allowed. Additional information is available on the Willamette National Forest website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/willamette/fire – To report a wildfire, call 911.

Please pay close attention to the conditions across the state. The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches for a large portion of the Oregon for Wednesday.

The forecast is calling for another round of lightning. It’s already extremely dry. Our ask: prevent sparking a wildfire. Check your tow chains. Don’t mow tall dry grass in the heat of the day Don’t park on tall dry grass

We’ve got prevention tips posted to our website to share with your friends and family. LEARN MORE: https://www.oregon.gov/…/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx

Amazon Contractor Starts Working on Distribution Center Despite Appeal on Wetland Permit

An Amazon contractor has begun work on the site where the online retailer wants to place its Eugene distribution center despite a pending appeal of the company’s wetland permit. Work trucks were visible from Highway 99, raking and watering the property July 24.

Oregon Department of State Lands spokesperson Katrina Scotto di Carlo confirmed that the department received a complaint of work being performed on the site two days prior. “We’re currently looking into the legal interpretation of the regulations to determine next steps,” she said.

Three Eugene women, including an environmental consultant, appealed the permit that would give Amazon permission to pave over wetlands back in May. They argue the state government erred when it tentatively granted the approval.

On May 1, the Oregon Department of State Lands, which has jurisdiction over wetlands in Oregon, gave Amazon contractor TC Pursuit Services — a subsidiary of Trammel Crow, the contractor that began work on the site — a notice that it intended to award a “Removal-Fill Permit” for the site where the warehouse is planned.

Trammel Crow has declined to comment on the Amazon project, citing a nondisclosure agreement.

That notice was one of the factors the City of Eugene considered when it ultimately gave Amazon permits to build last month.

Liz Porter, a Eugene resident, environmental consultant and former stormwater regulator, is the lead complainant in the formal appeal of DSL’s decision. She alleged the agency did not properly vet Trammel Crow’s findings, and that Trammel Crow and Amazon didn’t meet their obligations under the permit requirements.

DSL has jurisdiction over “waters of the state” which includes rivers, lakes, wetlands and more. To award a permit that allows Amazon to reduce those waters — including paving over the wetland — state officials consider nine factors, including whether there’s a public need for the development, whether the companies considered alternatives to the project and whether they “provided all practicable mitigation” from construction and development.

State officials determined the project met the “public need” test as part of Eugene’s vision for light-industrial jobs in the Clear Lake area; that Amazon met its obligations to consider alternatives by looking at seven alternate sites and four alternate layouts and determining those options were either impractical or disturbed more wetlands; and that Amazon met its obligation to mitigate by buying wetland credits.

In her appeal, Porter wrote Amazon fails the “public need” test because the company has not provided concrete numbers around the number of jobs it will provide, their pay, or Postal Service job losses. She also contended the company hasn’t sufficiently studied the alternative sites and that Amazon hasn’t considered the impact it will have outside the property.

“It’s not in the public interest of the people of Oregon to cut out a third-party contractor from Amazon and make Amazon more profitable so they can run their own fleet,” Porter told the Register-Guard.

Porter described herself as more pro-wetland than “anti-Bezos,” and said she would have similar concerns if another business wanted to put this much pavement on the lot where Amazon plans to locate.

“The whole premise of the law is: Don’t touch what you don’t have to,” she said. “If a client came to me and said, ‘I want to build an 80-acre complex’ and mapped on that land was a huge amount of wetlands, I’d say, ‘You need to seam it together with some other parcels before you start building there or go back to square one and find a new piece of land.'”

Porter speculated that the distribution center’s estimated average of 2,600 daily trips will have a negative environmental impact on the Willamette River and harm the “public health and safety” of Eugene residents, one of the factors the state is supposed to consider in wetland permits, by clogging the Beltline Highway route to PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend.

While Porter lodged her formal complaint with the state, she also was frustrated with the City of Eugene for designating the Clear Lake area for industrial development in the first place. In her view, the wetland-heavy area isn’t suited for such development.

In 2017, Eugene expanded its Urban Growth Boundary by 969 acres around the airport. City officials concluded Eugene did not have enough economic opportunity and the solution was to add 11 large industrial parcels. Nine years later, Amazon was the first company to move onto one of those parcels.

Amazon’s permits, as well as the city’s justification for choosing the area in the first place, have labeled the wetlands around the airport “low quality” because of the lack of wildlife both on the wetlands and in Amazon Creek.

But Porter said the value of a wetland is more than that. She said the land where Amazon plans to build plays an important role in catching runoff stormwater from the existing upstream industrial businesses that could otherwise make its way to the Long Tom River, which does house fish, and the wetland mitigation credits Amazon bought don’t change that.

The appeals went to the Oregon Department of Administrative Hearings, which staffs judges who hear appeals of administrative decisions made by state agencies. The department hosted an “administrative pre-hearing” over the issue July 20.

Erika Hamilton, the attorney representing the state, argued for a smaller scope, saying many of the issues complainants raised aren’t legal requirements. For example, complainants took issue with DSL not responding to the comments given against the permit in the public comment period and Hamilton said DSL isn’t required to respond to those comments.

Porter argued for a broader scope even beyond the issues raised in the current complaints. She said those complaints are incomplete because DSL has not provided her with a complete administrative record of its decision. She filed a public records request for that information back in May, but DSL told her it would cost $2,335.

“The whole process was scattered and covert and didn’t give the opportunity of the public to know really what was going on,” Porter told the judge. “The way that the application went through was so piecemeal and scattered that we weren’t able to really get an idea, in an all-encompassing way, of what exactly is going on, where it’s going, and how it’s going to affect long-term, this community.”

Hamilton said the department originally treated Porter’s request as a public records request, but because of the case they were now treating it as a discovery request and will provide Porter with the documents.

Administrative Law Judge Kate Triana said she would present both sides with a draft “issue list” to be discussed at the next pre-hearing on Aug. 7.

During the pre-hearing Hamilton also clarified that because appeals were filed within 15 days of the May 1 notice, DSL has not yet issued a permit. She and the Trammel Crow representative seemed to disagree whether the company currently has permission to remove the wetlands on the property.

“There isn’t a final agency action,” Hamilton said. “DSL intends to proceed to a hearing and hear all the evidence. … And following the development of the administrative record, the agency will make a permitting decision.”

“We do have a proposed order that says the permit application is approved,” Reilley Keating, the lawyer representing Trammel Crow, said. “That has not been challenged by TC Pursuit Services, the applicant itself. And so there is a permit.”

Alan Torres covers local government for the Register-Guard. He can be reached by email at atorres@registerguard.com, on X @alanfryetorres or on Reddit at u/AlfrytRG.

This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Amazon contractor starts prep for distribution center despite appeal — https://www.newsbreak.com/the-register-guard-1590819/4792122961881-amazon-contractor-starts-prep-for-distribution-center-despite-appeal

Eugene Symphony in the Park Monday, July 27, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM Bohemia Park – Cottage Grove

Join Eugene Symphony and Music Director Alex Prior for an evening of soaring symphonic favorites, cinematic music, an Instrument Petting Zoo, and more under the open sky at the annual free summer concert, Symphony in the Park!

A June 2026 report by the Woodlands Grove Recovery Campus shows that Roseburg, Eugene-Springfield, and Medford rank among the top five U.S. cities for alcohol-induced deaths in adults aged 65 and older. Six Oregon metro areas appear in the top 15 nationwide based on data from 2020 to 2024.

Oregon communities have some of the nation’s highest rates of alcohol-related deaths among adults age 65 and older. That’s according to a new study conducted by the Woodlands Grove Recovery Campus in Ohio. It used CDC data from 2020 through 2024 to rank metro areas by both alcohol-induced death rates and total number of deaths.

City Rankings and Death Rates

• Roseburg: Ranks 2nd nationally with 342.9 deaths per 100,000 older adults.
• Eugene-Springfield: Ranks 4th nationally with 275.7 deaths per 100,000 older adults.
• Medford: Ranks 5th nationally with 248.7 deaths per 100,000 older adults.
• Salem: Ranks 9th nationally.
• Bend: Ranks 11th nationally.
• Portland metro area: Ranks 15th nationally.

Contributing Factors

• Aging Population: A growing number of older residents increases vulnerable demographics.
• Health Care Gaps: Rural areas face severe shortages in treatment options and medical care.
• Local Culture and Policy: Low state alcohol taxes and a strong local drinking culture contribute to the high rates. Overall, Oregon’s alcohol-induced death rate sits 83% higher than the U.S. average.

If you or someone you know needs support, you can reach the free and confidential Oregon Alcohol and Drug Helpline at 800-923-4357, available 24/7/365.

Lane County celebrates Deflection Week with community partners, program participants and graduates

Lane County’s Deflection Program celebrated National Deflection Week with a barbeque and celebration to thank local law enforcement agencies, service providers and other community partners for their support of the program since its launch in late 2024.

To date, 64 people have graduated from the Deflection Program, and another 110 are currently participating. Every law enforcement agency participates in deflecting eligible people with the most referrals coming from Eugene Police Department.

“It is incredible to check in with graduates after they leave the program and see the difference they have made in their lives,” said Clint Riley, Deflection Program coordinator. “Not only are they thriving, but it also means fewer people are reporting to emergency departments and straining our already limited law enforcement and hospital systems. We hope to see the Oregon Legislature continue to support and fund this program so that we can continue to see real change in communities across the state.”

In addition to graduates completing treatment for addiction, data indicates they also leave with the kind of connections and improvements that can lead to long-term stability. For example, 32 percent of graduates strengthened or re-established contact with their children during the program. At the time of graduation, the number of graduates who have gained stable income or employment has increased by 37 percent. And, the number of graduates who report having a supportive network of family and friends nearly doubles. These supports and achievements can play a significant role in graduates’ ability to maintain their progress.

National Deflection Week was created in 2023 by the Police, Treatment and Community Collaborative (PTACC) National Leadership Council in recognition of the advancement of the field of deflection.

About the Deflection Program

The Deflection Program provides a community-based alternative to jail and prosecution for drug possession and low-level quality of life crimes by deflecting individuals prior to arrest to treatment programs. In Lane County, if a person is eligible for deflection and has indicated interest, the responding law enforcement officer has the option to call on a peer navigator to connect with the person. The peer navigator will enroll them in the program, which includes case management and tracking. If the deflection program is successfully completed, the charges will not be filed. If the program is not completed, the charges may be filed, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system.

Learn more at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/deflection.

City of Eugene Gets Inquiry to Build Data Center at Former Hynix Campus

An unidentified company that has Eugene’s former Hynix campus under contract has asked the city to confirm that a data center and several other uses are permitted under the property’s zoning.

To oppose the proposed data center project at the former Hynix campus, you can contact Eugene city leadership and the planning department through several direct channels. Contact Elected Officials and LeadershipYou can voice your concerns directly to the city council, mayor, and city manager.

• Email: Send your comments to mayorcouncilandcitymanager@eugene-or.gov.
• Phone: Call the City Manager’s office at 541-682-5010.
• Mail: Address physical letters to 500 East 4th Ave, Suite 302, Eugene, OR 97401.
• Rule: Include your full name, home address, or ward number so your comments are officially recorded and distributed. Anonymous comments are not shared with the council.

Contact the Planning and Development DepartmentBecause the current inquiry is undergoing a zone verification review, you can submit inquiries or comments regarding the E-1 zoning requirements to the department handling the request.

• Phone: Call the department directly at 541-682-5086.
• In Person: Visit the Permit Information Center at the Atrium Building, 99 W. 10th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401 (Open for walk-ins Monday–Friday, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.).

Attend a City Council Meeting

• Public Comment: You can sign up to speak during the public comment portion of regular Eugene City Council Meetings.
• Schedules: Review the upcoming schedule, agendas, and virtual attendance links via the city’s Webcasts and Meeting Materials portal.

FAQs: Understanding City review of allowed uses of the property at 1830 Willow Creek

On July 14, 2026, a request for a Zone Verification was submitted to the City of Eugene that could include “Data Center Use, Manufacturing, Research and Development, Advanced Manufacturing, Warehousing, Office Uses, and customary accessory and support uses associated with those uses” on the former Hyundai/Hynix semiconductor campus located at 1830 Willow Creek Circle in west Eugene. READ MORE: (SOURCE)

Street Crimes Unit investigates man arrested for dealing narcotics

Eugene Police Street Crimes Unit investigated 56-year-old Joseph Alonzo Lugo after developing information he was dealing narcotics from his shelter space located at 1655 West 18th Avenue, near Cesar Chavez Elementary School. Community Safe Supported Shelters Rest Stops (also known as “Safe Spots”) are low-barrier shelters for people experiencing homelessness.

SCU conducted surveillance and observed Lugo conducting hand-to-hand drug transactions. They also observed Lugo at a storage unit on Bertelsen Road. An SCU officer authored a search warrant for Lugo, his vehicle, his shelter space, and his storage unit.

Just as the warrant service planning was concluding, Lugo was observed leaving the location in his vehicle. Some officers stopped and detained him, while additional officers moved to secure the shelter space where an additional suspect was contacted.

The warrant service at the shelter space yielded a stolen handgun, and evidence of delivery of fentanyl and methamphetamine. SCU seized a short-barreled ghost AR15 from the storage unit and found Lugo was in possession of $776 in cash.

Lugos faces charges of Delivery of Controlled Substance Fentanyl, Deliver of Controlled Substance Methamphetamine. The investigation is continuing. SCU partners with other services to help solve issues, maximize services, and meet community needs.

The Community Safety Payroll Tax was passed to provide funds to support the Community Safety System. Funding will help provide faster, more efficient safety responses, deter crime, connect people to services, engage and help at-risk youth, support more investigations, and court services, and hold those who commit crimes accountable. https://www.eugene-or.gov/3946/Community-Safety-Initiative

Can you help us find a truck involved in a hit and run of a bicyclist?

Eugene Police Investigations is requesting the public’s assistance to locate a reported stolen vehicle involved in a bicycle hit and run felony. The involved vehicle, a silver 2010 Chevrolet Silverado HD pickup truck with Oregon license plate 349LKZ, has a modified lift, oversized black wheels and tires, and a silver canopy. The truck should have front passenger side damage from hitting the bicyclist.

The vehicle was reported stolen in Florence, Oregon, near the North Jetty, between approximately 2:30 and 3:00 p.m. on July 4. The theft wasn’t officially reported until July 5 at about 11:44 a.m. through Lane County Sheriff’s Office’s online reporting system.

On July 4 at about 8:41 p.m., the vehicle struck a bicyclist on River Road near Springwood Drive in north Eugene, causing serious physical injuries. The bicyclist is currently recovering with family. After the collision, the truck fled northbound on Lovelake Road. If you see this vehicle or have any information about its whereabouts, please contact the Eugene Police Department at 541-682-5111. Reference EPD case 26-10185

Lane County Government  · 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭—𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝.

Lane County residents: Sign up for Lane Alerts and get critical information about emergencies sent to you as a text message, phone call, email, or all three—you choose!

Whether it’s wildfire, severe weather, flooding or another emergency, Lane Alerts keeps you informed and ready.

Pick the locations that matter most—like home, school, or work Choose how you want to be contacted—text, call, or email Stay a step ahead 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐮𝐩 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐭 www.LaneAlerts.org — it’s free, easy, and could save lives.𝐁𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝. 𝐁𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝. 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐬.

Historic Springfield Schoolhouse Being Turned Into Rental Apartments

The historic Mill Street School at 525 Mill St. (four blocks north of downtown Springfield) is currently undergoing a massive adaptive reuse remodel into 40 market-rate rental apartments. The project, led by Springfield’s Campfire Collaborative, preserves the 1921 Art Deco-style building and its original woodwork.

The building will be turned into 40 apartments, with one ADA unit, two two-bedroom apartments, 19 one-bedroom units and 18 studios, according to the architectural plans for the remodel. The renovation will also install a common laundry space, bathroom and lounge, as well as interior bike storage. 

The project also includes making seismic improvements to the building.

The conversion involves specific details to maintain the structure’s historic character:

• Apartments: The 32,000-square-foot former high school and district administration building is being carved into 40 residential units.
• Historical Status: The three-story masonry structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2023.
• Restorations: Each of the 127 original double-hung wood windows was removed and meticulously restored and reinstalled.
• Construction: Development has been moving forward, with framing and restorations actively underway.

The Oregon Department of Human Services has barred South Hills Rehabilitation Center in Eugene from accepting new residents after the death of a patient earlier this month.

Carol Clove Petitti was a woman with dementia and Parkinson’s disease who went missing from the facility on July 5th. According to Eugene Police, she was found dead three days later in a dense brush on a nearby path.

The Oregon Department of Human Services has ordered the South Hills Rehabilitation Center to post this sign on its entrance.

According to an ODHS order dated July 15, Petitti had attempted to escape twice in the two days leading up to the incident. ODHS said the facility failed to take proper steps to keep her safe following the earlier incidents.

The facility has dozens of substantiated care violation, and abuse violations under current ownership for issues like low staffing, poor medication management, and failure to ensure residents’ safety.

On July 15th, the state placed a new licensing requirement on the facility. It won’t be able to accept new patients until it takes steps to correct its deficiencies and train its providers on dementia care.

Lane County Public Health is urging residents to take extra care when handling fresh produce as a cyclosporiasis outbreak spreads across much of the country

Lane County health officials monitor cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting 31 states

Lane County Public Health states “Due to the fact that the current cyclosporiasis outbreak is affecting the majority of the US, (31 states) Lane County Public Health is concerned about the possibility of cases here. We are working with the OHA and ready to help manage cases should they arise.”

Health officials emphasized steps people can take at home to reduce risk when preparing fruits and vegetables.

Lane County Public Health recommends washing hands with soap and water before and after handling or preparing raw fruits and vegetables. The agency also advises washing all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.

Fruits and vegetables labeled “prewashed” do not need to be washed again at home, according to the guidance. For firm produce such as melons and cucumbers, Lane County Public Health recommends scrubbing with a clean produce brush and cutting away any damaged or bruised areas before preparing and eating.

The agency also recommends refrigerating cut, peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables as soon as possible, within two hours.

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. 

7/27/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

OSP investigating report of individuals impersonating law enforcement

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, OR– The Oregon State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating a report of individuals impersonating law enforcement officers in Clackamas County and are asking for the public’s assistance. 

There is already fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities across Oregon. OSP investigators are actively pursuing leads and conducting a thorough investigation to identify those responsible.

On Friday, July 17, 2026, between approximately 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m., the victim was driving on Highway 211 near milepost 5, east of Woodburn, when they observed a vehicle displaying red and blue emergency-style lights behind them. Believing they were being stopped by law enforcement, the victim pulled over onto a gravel turnout. 

Two men exited the suspect vehicle, one of whom was armed with a rifle. The suspects identified themselves as “ICE” and told the victim they were being detained. The victim was forcibly removed from their vehicle, searched, and placed into the back seat of the suspects’ vehicle. A third individual, who remained in the vehicle and was described as acting as a “guard,” assaulted the victim while they were detained.

After approximately 15 to 20 minutes, the suspects released the victim and told them they were free to leave. 

The suspects were described as wearing boots, baseball caps, face coverings, and green long-sleeved shirts.They wore tactical vests displaying “POLICE” in white lettering and carried badges marked “Police.”  The suspect vehicle was described as a newer model smaller SUV, blue or gray in color, with no visible license plates.  

The victim later sought medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident. While at an area hospital, the victim began receiving text messages from a phone number claiming to represent a law firm offering legal representation related to the incident. The messages originated from phone number 971-502-5548. 

OSP investigators have contacted federal law enforcement agencies, who confirmed the individuals involved were not federal officers.
A report of individuals impersonating law enforcement officers while falsely claiming to represent federal immigration authorities may have broad impacts on immigrant communities throughout Oregon.

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area of Hwy. 211 near South Barlow Road on July 17, or anyone who may have encountered individuals posing as law enforcement officers, is asked to contact the Oregon State Police. Investigators are also interested in hearing from anyone who has received similar communications from the phone number 971-502-5548.

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP dispatch at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-237961.

OSP encourages all community members to remain vigilant, seek information from trusted sources, and report suspicious activity or individuals claiming to be law enforcement if something does not seem right. To report suspicious activity or individuals claiming to be law enforcement, contact your local law enforcement agency or call 911 in an emergency situation.

Guidance for Confirming Law Enforcement Identity — Federal agencies operating in Oregon have confirmed that officers conducting official operations must clearly identify themselves as law enforcement. They also reiterated that anyone who falsely represents themselves as a federal immigration officer will face criminal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. Impersonating law enforcement jeopardizes public safety, creates unnecessary fear and confusion, and undermines trust in legitimate agencies. 

If you are unsure whether a traffic stop or law enforcement contact is legitimate, consider the following safety tips:

• If the vehicle stopping you is not a marked unit, the emergency lights should be built in and are usually not a temporary light placed on the vehicle.
• Try to stop in a well-lit area or a location where there are a lot of people present.
• Turn on your emergency flashers, but don’t turn off your car.
• Lock your door.
• Look for a uniform or other official department clothing. If you are unsure, ask the officer to display their department identification and badge. Ask where they work and if you can contact their dispatch center to confirm their identity.
• In Oregon, local, state, and federal law enforcement officers may not wear face coverings except in specific circumstances and must clearly display identification showing the agency they represent.
• OSP also acknowledges that Oregon immigrant or refugee communities may not feel safe to do any of these things and also reminds individuals that they can always call 911 or other non-emergency line to ask for a marked vehicle to respond.

# # # About the Oregon State Police – Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of nearly 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

More than 30 major wildfires burning across central and eastern Oregon with a total of 70 active fires. Majority caused by two lightning events over the span of a couple weeks. Total acreage burned in the state as of today- 1.1 Million acres.

CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CREATES HIGH FIRE DANGER  

Fire Officials Seek Public Cooperation — Critical fire weather conditions, including Red Flag Watches and Warnings, are underway across the Geographic Area, creating an increased risk for rapid wildfire growth. Fire officials urge residents and visitors to help prevent wildfires by avoiding activities that could spark a fire, following local fire restrictions, and staying informed about changing conditions. The public should also monitor evacuation information and be prepared to act quickly if conditions change.

“Right now, everyone needs to be extremely careful,” said Jeff Fedrizzi, Chair of the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordinating Group. “Current fire conditions mean that just one spark, a discarded cigarette, or an unattended open flame can ignite the next wildfire. After the lightning we’ve received over the past 10 days and the number of new fires already burning across the landscape, we need the public’s help to prevent additional fires and protect our firefighters, our communities, and our natural resources.”

Fire officials across Oregon and Washington remind residents and visitors that fire restrictions and area closures are in place to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during this period of extreme fire danger. Know before you go by checking local fire restrictions and area closures before recreating outdoors. Common activities that can ignite dry vegetation include mowing dry grass, driving off designated roads, operating equipment that creates sparks, and building campfires. Many of these activities are currently prohibited or restricted because of extreme fire conditions. Stay clear of active wildfire areas and firefighting operations. Do not drive to view wildfires, as traffic can delay emergency responders, hinder firefighting efforts, and create additional safety hazards. If you encounter smoke while driving, slow down and use extra caution.

Before traveling or recreating outdoors, check the latest road closures, fire restrictions, fire activity, and evacuation information:

Road Conditions 
• Oregon: TripCheck – https://tripcheck.com/ 
• Washington: WSDOT Real-Time Travel – https://wsdot.com/travel/real-time/ 

Evacuations & Emergency Alerts 
• Oregon: https://oralert.gov/ 
• Washington: https://mil.wa.gov/alerts 

Current Fire Information 
• InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/ 
• Northwest Interagency Coordination Center: https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/  
• Air Quality: https://fire.airnow.gov/ 

Your decisions matter. Stay informed, follow local restrictions and evacuation orders, and help keep yourself, your community, and our firefighters safe. 

After a relatively slow start to Oregon’s fire season, prolonged dry conditions with the addition of thunderstorms and strong winds last week have caused the rapid growth of wildfires in several areas of the state.

As of Saturday, a total of roughly 690,197 acres have been burned by wildfires this season.

Govenor Tina Kotek issued a preemptive emergency declaration on June 16, which allows the Oregon fire agencies to share resources. She has since issued emergency conflagration declarations for several fires, allowing for more resources to be mobilized.

The details of all major wildfires currently burning in Oregon are listed below, and information will be continually updated. Wildfires are listed by the county in which they began, but some fires or their evacuation zones extend into neighboring counties.

Fires that reach 90% containment will be removed from the list unless evacuation orders are still in effect, and some smaller fires will be excluded. Information about fire acreage and containment percentages is approximate.

The figures below are up to date as of  8:30 a.m. on Monday, July 27, 2026, unless otherwise noted.

Wheeler County

Note: The Rowe Creek Complex includes the Crosswhite East (181,443 acres), Camel Hump (6,614 acres), Parrish (404 acres) and Deep Canyon (8,089 acres) fires, all of which have physically merged.

Rowe Creek Complex

• Location: Fossil, notably east, north and west of Twickenham, along the John Day River, across Wheeler, Wasco and Crook counties
• Acreage: 208,546acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 15
• Containment: 35%
• Closures: The Bureau of Land Management closed public lands along both sides of the John Day River, from Service Creek north to the Columbia River; the National Park Service closed the Clarno and Painted Hills sections of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place; an interactive map can be found here.
• More info: Visit Wheeler County Sheriff’s Office for more evacuation information, along with their interactive evacuation map. Residents can receive updates and view evacuation zones through Genasys Protect. Check National Park closures and BLM closures at their respective websites.

Shingle Fire 

• Location: 14 miles southeast of Mitchell (Wheeler, Grant and Crook counties)
• Acreage: 21,849 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 23 
• Containment: Unknown
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 2 and 3 evacuations are in place; visit the Wheeler County Sheriff’s Office, Grant County Emergency Management, Crook County Sheriff’s Office or the Shingle Fire Facebook pages for more information. 

Gilliam County and Sherman County

Note: The Hoag, Hopkin, McInnes, Porcupine Ridge and Wilcox Fires are now being referred to collectively as the Hay Creek Complex. The fires are burning in Gilliam, Sherman and Wasco counties. (99% contained, as of July 25) As of July 21, the McInnes and Wilcox fires merged into the Porcupine Ridge Fire. (99% contained, as of July 25) A new fire, the Cottonwood Fire, was added to the complex (0% contained) and the Little Buck Fire (0% contained) on July 23.

Hay Creek Complex

• Location: Gilliam, Sherman and Wasco counties
• Acreage: 186,730 acres
• Cause: Multiple
• Began: July 15
• Containment: 60%
• Closures: BLM land is closed near the junction of Interstate 84 and Highway 97, south along Highway 26 and near the junction of highways 27 and 20.
• Evacuations: Some evacuations were made along Scott Canyon Lane, but most of this fire’s growth has not been made toward populated areas. A temporary shelter is in place at the South Gilliam Emergency Services building in Condon.
• More info: Visit the Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office for more details.

Grant County

Salmon Fire

• Location: Southwest of Granite in the North Fork John Day Wilderness
• Acreage: 1,425 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 8
• Containment: 60%
• Closures: The Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests have put temporary forest closures in place around the Salmon, Olive Butte and Anthony fires. A map of closure areas can be seen here.
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place for areas surrounding the Salmon and Olive Butte fires.
• More info: Visit the Salmon Fire OR 2026 or Baker County Sheriff’s Office Facebook pages for more information. An in-person community meeting will be held at Prairie City High School at 6 p.m. on Thursday. It will also be streamed on the Salmon Fire OR 2026 Facebook page.

Olive Butte Fire

• Location: Southwest of Granite in the North Fork John Day Wilderness
• Acreage: 3,029 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 8
• Containment: 60%
• Closures: The Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests have put temporary forest closures in place around the Salmon, Olive Butte and Anthony fires. A map of closure areas can be seen here.
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place for areas surrounding the Salmon and Olive Butte fires.
• More info: Visit the Salmon Fire OR 2026 or Baker County Sheriff’s Office Facebook pages for more information.

Anthony Fire

• Location: 34 miles north of Baker City
• Acreage: 2,561 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 8
• Containment: 89%
• Closures: The Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests have put temporary forest closures in place around the Salmon, Olive Butte and Anthony fires. A map of closure areas can be seen here.
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place for areas surrounding the fire.
• More info: Visit theWallowa-Whitman National Forest or Baker County Sheriff’s Office Facebook pages for more information.

Bologna Fire

• Location: 7 miles northeast of Kimberly
• Acreage: 2,338  acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 15%
• Closures: The Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests have put temporary forest closures in place around the fire. A map of closure areas can be seen here.
• Evacuations: None

Harney County

Egypt Fire

• Location: 12 miles north of Riley
• Acreage: 4,595 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 68%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: None

Baker County

Powder River Fire

• Location: 5 miles west of Richland
• Acreage: 21,026 acres
• Cause: Undetermined
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 52%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 3 and Level 2 evacuations are in place for areas surrounding the fire. Visit the state RAPTOR map for more information.
• More info: Visit the Baker County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for more information.

Jackson County

East Evans Creek Fire

• Location: 14 miles northeast of Rogue River
• Acreage: 15,705 acres
• Cause: Vehicle into power pole
• Began: July 10
• Containment: 46%
• Closures: Traffic is closed to the public on East Evans Creek Road at Meadows Road. The BLM has issued a road closure for West Fork Evans Creek Road and Rock Creek Road. Public entry to BLM-administered lands near the fire is also temporarily prohibited.
• Evacuations: Level 1 evacuations are in place in Jackson County. An interactive map of evacuation zones can be found here.
• More info: Visit the East Evans Creek Fire entry on InciWeb for more information.

Jefferson County

Akawa Butte Fire

• Location: Southwest of Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson and Deschutes counties
• Acreage: 26,435 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 5%
• Closures: Road closures in place, including Indian Ford Road between Highway 20 and Meadow View Lane, as well as Wilt Road north of Buffalo Drive
• Evacuations: Level 3, 2 and 1 evacuations, including for U.S. Forest Service land, are in place. Interactive map can be seen here.
• More info: Visit the fire’s Facebook page for more details, along with Jefferson County and Deschutes County sheriff’s office Facebook pages. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office also has an interactive map of the evacuation zones here. Residents can receive evacuation notices via Everbridge. 

Bench Fire 

• Location: Four miles southwest ofWarm Springs Reservation
• Acreage: 20,180 acres 
• Cause: Unknown 
• Began: July 23
• Containment: 0%
• Closures: U.S. 26 is closed near Warm Springs, milepost 108 to 110.
• Evacuations: Level 3, 2 and 1 evacuations are in place; visit the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office or the CTWS Fire Management Facebook pages for more information. Evacuation zones can be seen on this interactive map. 
• More info: Shelters at The Old School Cafeteria at 1150 Warm Springs Street or St. Patrick’s Church at 341 SW J Street in Madras; livestock can be taken to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds at 430 Southwest Fairgrounds Road. 

Beachcomb Fire 

• Location: Four miles southwest ofWarm Springs Reservation
• Acreage: 13,648 acres
• Cause: Unknown 
• Began: July 23
• Containment: 0%
• Closures: U.S. 26 is closed near Warm Springs, milepost 108 to 110.
• Evacuations: Level 3, 2 and 1 evacuations are in place; visit the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office or the CTWS Fire Management Facebook pages for more information. Evacuation zones can be seen on this interactive map. 
• Fire activity: The Beachcomb and Bench fires have merged after burning through dry fuels between the two fires. The increase in acreage reflects extreme fire behavior and recent mapping operations. Fire activity was moderate until winds increased late in the afternoon, leading to more active fire behavior. Heavy aircraft was used throughout the fire area as conditions intensified.
• Operations: Crews continue working on structure protection and strengthening dozer lines as the fire moves farther northeast.
• More info: Shelters at The Old School Cafeteria at 1150 Warm Springs Street or St. Patrick’s Church at 341 SW J
•  Street in Madras; livestock can be taken to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds at 430 Southwest Fairgrounds Road. 

Brewer Fire

• Location: 1 mile east of Brewer Reservoir in both Crook and Jefferson counties
• Acreage: 51,308 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 15
• Containment: 5%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place for the Brewer and Box Springs fires; visit the Crook County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for updated information.
• More info: Visit the Crook County and Jefferson County sheriff’s offices’ Facebook pages.

Crook County

Coyote Fire

• Location: 25 miles southeast of Prineville
• Acreage: 17,447 acres
• Cause: Undetermined
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 57%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 3 and Level 1 evacuations are in place; visit the Crook County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for updated information or view the county’s interactive evacuations map.
• More info: Visit the Crook County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Henry Fire

• Location: 2 miles south of Paulina
• Acreage: 28,827 acres
• Cause: Undetermined
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 35%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 3 evacuations are in place; visit the Crook County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for updated information or view the county’s interactive evacuations map.
• More info: Visit the Crook County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Umatilla County

Hagen Fire 

• Location: South of Bingham Road
• Acreage: 26,879 acres
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 0%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place in Umatilla County. Visit the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office Facebook for current evacuation information, as well as an interactive map here.
• More info: Visit the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office Facebook.

Wallowa County

Burnt Creek Fire

• Location: 23 miles north of Enterprise
• Acreage: 3,074 
• Cause: Lightning
• Began: July 17
• Containment: 0%
• Closures: Chico Trailhead in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
• Evacuations: None

Wasco County 

Grasshopper Fire

• Location: 4 miles northwest of Sportsmans Park and 3.5 miles west of Rock Creek Reservoir
• Acreage: 10,742 Acres 
• Cause: Unknown, but lightning suspected 
• Began: July 23
• Containment: 0%
• Closures: Several closures are in place for Mount Hood National Forest. 
• Evacuations: Level 3 evacuation orders are in place for Sportsman Park, Pine Hollow and Wamic. Shelter will be at Maupin High School, as well as some Level 2 and 1 notices. See the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office Facebook or the U.S. Forest Service for Mount Hood National Forest Facebook for updates, as well as an interactive evacuation map for the county.
• More info: The Sherman County Fairgrounds, located at 66147 Lone Rock Road in Moro, will be available to shelter large animals for evacuees. 

Here’s what evacuation levels mean

Level 1 Notice – Be Ready: Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area and monitor local media outlets for information. Residents with special needs should take note and begin making arrangements to evacuate. Evacuations at this time are voluntary.

Level 2 Notice – Be Set: This level indicates there is significant danger to your area, and residents should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or outside of the affected area, or if choosing to remain, to be ready at a moment’s notice. Emergency services cannot guarantee that they will be able to notify you if conditions rapidly deteriorate.

Level 3 Notice – Go Now: Danger to your area is current or imminent, and you should leave immediately. Listen to local media and watch for emergency personnel who may be coming by to give further instructions regarding the evacuation.

Shelters

The Red Cross has opened multiple shelters, including: 

• Burns High School at 1100 Oregon Avenue, Burns, OR 97720
• Crook County Fairgrounds (Carey Foster Hall) at 1280 South Main Street, Prineville, OR 97754
• St Patrick Catholic Church at 341 Southwest J Street, Madras, OR
• Sunridge Middle School at 700 Southwest Runnion Avenue, Pendleton, OR 97801
• Sisters High School at 1700 West Mckinney Butte Road, Sisters, OR 97759

Fire Complexes

The following fires have been grouped together as part of larger complexes, and will no longer be individually updated:

Hoag Fire (merged with Starvation Point and Lower Rock Creek fires)

• Location: South of Arlington, near the Rock Creek area
• Acreage: 50,224 acres
• Cause: Unknown
• Began: July 16
• Containment: 99%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place around and between the various fires in the Hay Creek Complex, encompassing an overall area that covers much of the western half of Gilliam County and a large portion of southeast Gilliam County, also extending into Wasco County. See the RAPTOR evacuation map for details on areas under evacuation.
• More info: Visit the Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office or Hay Creek Complex 2026 pages on Facebook for more details.

Hopkin Fire

• Location: North of Condon
• Acreage: 11,366 acres
• Cause: Unknown
• Began: July 15
• Containment: 99%
• Closures: Travel restrictions may be in place along Highway 19 near Gwendolen.
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place around and between the various fires in the Hay Creek Complex, encompassing an overall area that covers much of the western half of Gilliam County and a large portion of southeast Gilliam County, also extending into Wasco County. See the RAPTOR evacuation map for details on areas under evacuation.
• More info: Visit the Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office or Hay Creek Complex 2026 pages on Facebook for more details.

Porcupine Ridge Fire (merged with the McInnes, 456 and Wilcox fires)

• Location: 7 miles southwest of Condon
• Acreage: 80,081 acres
• Cause: Unknown, but likely lightning
• Began: July 15
• Containment: 99%
• Closures: None
• Evacuations: Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1 evacuations are in place around and between the various fires in the Hay Creek Complex, encompassing an overall area that covers much of the western half of Gilliam County and a large portion of southeast Gilliam County, also extending into Wasco County. See the RAPTOR evacuation map for details on areas under evacuation.
• More info: A temporary shelter for those affected is at the South Gilliam Emergency Services Building, located at 220 Northeast Main Street in Condon. Visit the Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office or Hay Creek Complex 2026 pages on Facebook for more details.

East Evans Creek Fire – Jackson County

The East Evans Creek Fire is now 66% contained following another day of mop-up operations across the incident. Acreage remains 15,580.

Mop-Up Progress: Crews completed 300 feet of deep mop-up work adjacent to the primary fire line. This effort systematically cools hot spots and prevents interior embers from crossing containment boundaries.

]Resource Optimization: Operational command transitioned to a Florida Complex Incident Management Team as of July 27, 2026. Crews have begun demobilizing and packing up equipment that is no longer needed on the line.

Active Evacuations: All emergency evacuation levels remain downgraded to a Level 1 “Be Ready” notice for zones JAC-016, JAC-017, JAC-026, JAC-109, JAC-124, JAC-126, JAC-147, JAC-148, JAC-149, JAC-158, and JAC-203-B.

Safety Closures: Roadblocks remain active for public safety. Traffic remains closed to the general public on East Evans Creek Road at Meadows Road, along with Bureau of Land Management restrictions on West Fork Evans Creek Road and Rock Creek Road.

Incident History: The blaze originally ignited on July 10, 2026, following a vehicle crash into a roadside utility pole. [1]

Oregon PUC invites Pacific Power customers to comment on proposed rate increase – Monday, July 27, 2026, at 6 p.m

The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is inviting Pacific Power (PacifiCorp) customers and community members to share their input on the company’s request to increase customer rates. Comments may be submitted in several ways, including during an upcoming virtual public meeting.

Comment at virtual public meeting
Held Monday, July 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. via Zoom or by phone, this meeting allows community members to learn about the proposed increase and provide spoken comments directly to the Commissioners and Administrative Law Judge overseeing this case.

If members of the public are still waiting to comment at 7 p.m., the meeting may continue to allow as many members of the public to comment as time permits.

Information on how to join the meeting can be found at: https://bit.ly/PacificPower-meeting-notice

Other ways to submit comments 
Comments may be submitted through any of the following methods:

• Online Public Comment Form: https://bit.ly/UE470-public-comment-form
• Email: licComments@puc.oregon.gov” target=”_blank”>PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov
• Phone: 503‑378‑6600 or 800‑522‑2404 (all relay calls accepted)
• Mail:
  Oregon Public Utility Commission
  Attn: AHD – UE 470 
  PO Box 1088 
  Salem OR 973081088 

About the Pacific Power rate change proposal
Pacific Power has proposed increasing the amount of money it collects from Oregon customers by $170.7 million, or about 8.6 percent overall. Actual bill impacts will vary depending on customer type (residential, commercial, or industrial) and energy usage. The company reports this increase is needed to continue investing in the electric system so it can provide safe and reliable service to its 667,000 Oregon customers. This proposed change does not include rate adjustments addressed in other proceedings before the Commission that could result in other increases or decreases to customer rates.

These investments include upgrades to transmission, distribution, and generation facilities, along with projects that improve system resiliency and customer service. In its filing, Pacific Power explains that current rates are not sufficient to cover rising operating costs or to support the company’s ability to attract investment for future system upgrades. 

Pacific Power’s general rate case filing is undergoing a nearly year-long review and will be fully investigated on behalf of customers by the PUC, the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, and others. This public meeting is part of that review. The Commission will issue a final decision in March of next year and any approved rate changes would take effect on April 4, 2027.

OHA urges people to limit smoke exposure as wildfire season intensifies

Health officials concerned about poor air quality, effects on sensitive populations as blazes rage across Oregon

What you should know:Wildfire season is creating hazardous air quality conditions across Oregon. Wildfire smoke contains particles that can irritate eyes, lungs, and other organs and have a severe impact on people with chronic conditions. People can stay safe by keeping windows and doors closed, using HEPA filters if available, and avoiding outdoor activity.

With nearly 80 wildfires burning across Oregon, air quality is poor in many areas of the state. But there are steps people can take to protect themselves and their loved ones from wildfire smoke exposure. 

“Smoke from wildfires can travel hundreds or thousands of miles, and some people—especially those with chronic conditions like lung disease or heart disease—can have a pretty severe reaction to even small amounts of smoke,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, manager of the Environmental Public Health Section at Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division. 

Wildfire smoke exposure risks – Wildfire smoke, like other sources of air pollution, can irritate eyes and lungs and cause everyone to experience symptoms such as coughing and watery eyes, which often clear up once the smoke passes. 

Smoke is made up of very small particles that can travel into the bloodstream to people’s lungs, heart, and other organs.   

Scientists are concerned about particulate matter that is 2.5 microns in size and smaller, known as “PM 2.5.” Thirty PM 2.5 strung together are the width of a human hair.  

“That’s how small we’re talking here. It is very well-documented that PM 2.5 exposure can decrease lung function, aggravate asthma, cause irregular heartbeat and heart attacks, and cause premature death in people with heart or lung disease,” Goldfarb said. 

People most impacted – In addition to those with chronic conditions, groups sensitive to wildfire smoke include older adults, infants and children, people who are pregnant and those who regularly smoke. Outdoor workers and athletes are also at higher risk.  

Low-income families who struggle with access to health care and protective housing may also experience worse effects of wildfire smoke, Goldfarb said.  

Children are a particularly sensitive population, because they inhale more smoke per pound of body weight than adults, and their lungs and other organs are still developing. 

How to stay safe – Smoke levels can change rapidly depending on weather. OHA reminds people to check conditions on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog, view Oregon DEQ Air Quality Index or download the free OregonAIR app on the Apple App Store or Google Play store and search for alerts in their communities.  

If reports show high smoke levels, take the following steps: 

• Stay indoors whenever possible.
• Create cleaner air spaces.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
• Use high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifiers, if available, or create a DIY Box fan filter.
• When driving, set your car’s ventilation to “recirculate.”
• If you live with chronic lung or heart conditions, follow your management and treatment plan. Call your health care provider if your condition worsens due to smoke exposure. Relocate to an area with cleaner air if you can.
• Keep track of medication, refill prescriptions if needed, and keep an eye on personal health. 

Many communities open cleaner air spaces during severe smoke events to help people unable to create a cleaner air space at home. In partnership with local officials and organizations, 211Info maintains a list of public cleaner air spaces. For more information: 

• Dial 2-1-1 or 1-866-698-6155 – both lines are available 24 hours a day. 
• Text the area zip code to 898211 (TXT211) – available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Visit https://www.211info.org/  

Remember that cloth, dust, and surgical masks do not protect against harmful particles in smoke. NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 respirators may offer protection, but they must be properly fitted and worn. They won’t work for everyone, especially children. 

For more information on reducing exposure to wildfire smoke, including fact sheets and FAQs in multiple languages, visit OHA’s Wildfires and Smoke page.  

Oregon emergency alert system more popular in rural areas than metro area, study says

Participation in Oregon’s voluntary statewide emergency alert system designed for natural disasters and public safety threats has been far higher in rural counties than in the Portland metro area, according to a new study.

Researchers from the Ohio-based Miami University published their findings on Monday in Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal. They found that the OR-Alert system has “surprisingly” high enrollment rates above 100% from counties such as Clatsop, Curry, Douglas, and Lincoln, while the Multnomah County area had an enrollment rate of 13% that mostly included “internal Portland employees.” The rates above 100% are likely due to people signing up for the alerts more than once.

“Enrollment also varied geographically, with some rural counties reporting surprisingly high participation rates, while urban areas like Multnomah County showed low participation, leaving large populations more vulnerable,” the study reads.

That’s a reflection of the fact that natural disasters such as landslides and floods are more common in rural Oregon in comparison to the Portland metropolitan area.

The OR-Alert system kicked off in Oregon in 2021 and allows people to visit a statewide portal to connect with local emergency alert systems in all 36 counties and tribal governments across the state who rely upon a universal mass notification service. The system allows for local emergency notification managers to coordinate with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, which can send alerts to all cell phones in a given area.

While more than 50% of the alerts the system sent out use text messaging, push notifications were “underutilized” at 2%, posing “substantial barriers for time-sensitive earthquake warnings,” according to researchers. They said the geographic and notification-type disparities represent barriers to risk reduction.

“Institutional coordination between emergency management, public health, and community organizations can build the engagement and trust necessary for effective warning response,” the study reads.

The U.S. Geological Survey offers another tool that delivers automatic notifications to people on their cellphones ahead of damaging earthquakes at their locations. That is not an opt-in tool, but recipients must allow their cell phones to receive emergency alerts in their settings.  (SOURCE)

Investigators Serve Ashland Search Warrant After Unidentified Suspect Sent Thousands of Child Sexual Abuse Material Images to Undercover Agent

ODOJ Case CJD0550-26 ASHLAND, Ore. – The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) along with the Oregon Department of Justice’s (ODOJ) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and Ashland Police Department (APD) served a search warrant Wednesday morning in Ashland. The task force served the search warrant after SOCET investigators received over 2000 images of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) images directly from an unidentified suspect.

On scene, investigators interviewed potential witnesses and involved parties. SOCET investigators are working to identify the suspect. Once identified, investigators will refer criminal charges to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.

SOCET served the search warrant Wednesday, July 22 at an apartment in the 400 block of Russell Street in Ashland. Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Medford Police Department (MPD), APD, Central Point Police Department, Talent Police Department, ODOJ ICAC, and the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) assisted with the warrant service. During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by SOHTCTF for further evidence of child exploitation.

SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, MPD, ODOJ ICAC, and HSI, as well as prosecutors from our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD.

Investigators continue to examine seized devices and interview witnesses as the investigation moves forward. No further details will be released at this time.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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