Oregon Beach News, Friday 8/22 – Firefighters Still Trying Suppression Efforts on The Doerner Fir Tree Fire, Hood To Coast Run Starts Today Despite Inland Heat & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com

Friday, August 22, 2025

Oregon Beach Weather

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

Firefighters still actively engaged in suppression efforts on the Doerner Fir tree fire

Doerner Fir Tree Fire Update Aug. 21, 2025 — Firefighters remain engaged on the fire affecting the Doerner Fir tree, working with arborists on Thursday to extinguish the remaining portions of the trunk that are holding heat near the top.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM ) and Coos Forest Protective Association (CFPA) have been consulting with one Master Arborist and two Certified Arborists, one of which has previously climbed the Doerner Fir. With drone video and boots-on-the-ground assessments, the arborists determined the tree was safe to climb.

On Thursday morning, the arborists ascended the tree, gaining access to the burned area approximately 280 feet up the trunk. Using hand tools, they scraped the burned portion inside the tree and used water to wet it down. They also installed a sprinkler on the tree and ensured it covered the affected area before descending. With safety being a top priority on this incident, numerous medical assets were brought in as a precaution for this operation, including EMTs and a Rapid Extraction Module (REM).

Firefighters will remain on scene to ensure the fire doesn’t flare up again, and fire lines are in place around the tree, however no burning debris has fallen or threatened the line. Additional drone flights will be conducted to search for heat with infrared (IR) technology. A helicopter and additional resources remain available to respond if fire activity returns as the weather warms towards the weekend.

The Coos Bay District issued an emergency closure of public lands for the area surrounding active fire suppression activities. The closure includes all BLM-administered lands in T27S R9W Sections 28, 29 and 31, the Doerner Fir Trail, and BLM Road 27-9-21.0.BLM investigators have ruled out lightning as a cause of the fire based on weather data, and they continue the investigation into the cause of the fire.

The Doerner Fir Tree Fire was first reported on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025. Standing 325 feet tall with a diameter of 11.5 feet, the Doerner Fir is one of the largest coastal Douglas-fir trees in the world. The tree is estimated to be between 450 and 500 years old.

BLM investigators have ruled out lightning as a cause of the fire based on weather data, and the investigation into the cause of the fire continues.The Doerner Fir Tree Fire was first reported on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025. Standing 325 feet tall with a diameter of 11.5 feet, the Doerner Fir is one of the largest coastal Douglas-fir trees in the world.

The fire is burning in the top of the tree and extends down the trunk. Officials say the tree stands over 325 feet high and has an 11.5-foot diameter. “Formerly known as the Brummit Fir, the tree is one of the tallest non-redwood trees in the world and is estimated to be 450-500 years old,” Coos FPA says.

. Visitors should be aware that the area will be closed to public use at this time due to active fire and firefighting efforts. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Hood to Coast, the largest relay race in the world, starts Friday morning ahead of the National Weather Service’s extreme heat warning for western Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Temperatures could reach up to 103 degrees Fahrenheit, putting runners at increased risk of overheating.

But Dan Floyd, the chief operating officer of Hood to Coast, said the relay organizers are prepared. Major race exchanges — where runners pass the baton to their teammates — will be stocked with cooling vests as well as ice, cooling towels and first aid.

He said there will also be a “command center” maintaining radio communication with emergency services across the entire 200-mile route. Relay teams will split up the race from the starting line at Timberline Lodge at Mount Hood to the finish line at Seaside Beach on the Oregon Coast.

Hood to Coast also coordinated safety tips with Multnomah County ahead of the heat wave. The county confirmed its first responders are ready, should the need arise.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include intense sweating, dizziness and nausea. Confusion and falling unconscious are signs of heat stroke and demand immediate medical attention.

Team leaders agreed: Collective safety is a top priority.

Harmeet Chopra leads the “Nike SCPT Speedsters.” Now going into his ninth race with Hood to Coast, he emphasized paying attention to other runners and offering them water when they seem dehydrated.

“Look out for everybody,” he said. “If anybody else also needs help, you should be able to kind of just stop or slow down and help runners out, because you may need the help in the next 20 minutes as well, right?”

That’s especially important during stretches like the Springwater Corridor, which are almost entirely unshaded, he said.

Joe Krajewski, who leads “Team Will Power,” said directly communicating with other runners is one way to be safe.

Krajewski also has five emergency room nurses on his team. “We do have our own medical staff, so to speak,” he said laughing.

KGW reported this year could be the hottest Hood to Coast on record.

According to its 2025 handbook, Hood to Coast can delay, pause or cancel the race if heat conditions turn too dangerous. However, Floyd told OPB that Hood to Coast did not consider cancelling or changing the date of the race, citing logistical constraints.

“Rather, we strongly encourage participants to hydrate, slow their pace, and always seek help if they need it,” Floyd said in an email. “It’s going to be hot this year, but it’s going to be fun!” (SOURCE)

A man from Coos Bay entered a guilty plea on Monday regarding the drunk driving incident that resulted in the death of a cherished softball coach and a promising young student-athlete from Umpqua Community College in April.

Jonathan J. Dowdy pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree manslaughter for the fatalities of coach Jami Strinz, aged 46, and 19-year-old student Kiley Jones, as stated in court documents submitted to the Coos County Circuit Court.

Additionally, Dowdy admitted guilt to three counts of third-degree assault, five counts of fourth-degree assault, as well as charges of driving with a suspended license and driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII).

Witnesses who were driving behind Dowdy’s pickup truck observed him swerving dangerously and almost hitting a concrete barrier before he crossed into oncoming traffic on Oregon 42, colliding head-on with the team bus around 10 p.m. on April 18, according to court documents.

One witness had been tailing Dowdy for several miles and had already contacted the police, as noted in a court memo authored by Coos County prosecutor John Blanc in May. First responders discovered both empty and unopened beer cans scattered along the four-lane state highway, and Dowdy’s blood-alcohol level was subsequently recorded at .22%, as mentioned in Blanc’s memo.

The community college team was returning home after a victory on Friday night when the bus overturned during the crash, resulting in injuries to all passengers and the deaths of the player and coach.

Museum Update

Previously reported that the director of the Oregon Coast Military Museum had been taken into custody. Now, new details have emerged as Geoffrey Cannon faces four felony counts of second-degree sexual abuse. According to court records, the charges stem from allegations of a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old girl affiliated with the museum. Prosecutors say the abuse began on or after August 1, 2024.

Investigators executed search warrants in late July at both the museum and Cannon’s residence, seizing evidence from each location. Cannon was arrested at the museum on July 10, booked into the Florence City Jail, and later transferred to the Lane County Jail, where he was arraigned in circuit court. In a statement, the girl’s mother condemned the museum’s response, saying her child “deserved a safe, supportive place to learn and contribute, not to be exploited by someone in power.”

Following Cannon’s arrest, the museum’s board placed him on paid administrative leave. Board president Gary Cannon, who is also Geoffrey Cannon’s father, confirmed the decision but declined further comment. The board’s handling of the case has drawn criticism after a recorded meeting surfaced in which a board member reportedly said the alleged victim “knew what she was doing.” That remark has sparked further scrutiny of the museum’s leadership. Geoffrey Cannon has served as director of the museum since 2015. The case remains under investigation.

The Friends of the Siuslaw Public Library will hold their annual Labor Day Weekend Book Sale

The sale takes place Saturday, August 30, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, August 31, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Siuslaw Public Library in Florence. Items include books, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles, with proceeds supporting library programs.

Members of the Friends of the Library are allowed early entry on Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m., and memberships will be available at the door. The group says book sales are their largest source of revenue to benefit the library.

You’ll find great deals on fiction, memoir, history, cookbooks, crafts & hobbies, DVDs, kids’ books, and much more. Many items are $1 or less. Friends members get early entry at 9 a.m. on Saturday. (You can join at the door.) Fill a grocery bag for $3, Sunday 12-3 p.m. —- Cash or check only. All proceeds benefit the library. 

ONA Statement on Providence Closing the Family Birth Center at Providence Seaside Hospital

SEASIDE, Ore. – It’s heartbreaking to see Providence close Seaside’s birth center. For nearly 50 years, nurses and healthcare professionals have been here to help newborns draw their first breath and provide trusted care before and after birth for families on the Oregon Coast. This abrupt closure sets our community up for failure and abandons expectant parents at one of the most important and vulnerable times of their lives.

Minutes matter for parents and newborns. Providence is forcing families to travel more than 30 minutes to Astoria or more than 75 minutes to Tillamook just to deliver babies.

This closure is devastating for young families but it will negatively affect everyone in our community. With no other options, moms will be sent to the ER leading to longer waits for everyone. This will affect people suffering from heart attacks and broken bones to COVID and car crashes.

Providence’s pattern of cuts will harm caregivers and the health and safety of communities up and down the coast; leaving us all with fewer choices, longer waits and worse healthcare.

——-Closing birth centers has become a dangerous trend in Oregon and across the U.S. More than 500 hospitals in the U.S. have closed their labor and delivery departments since 2010; contributing to rising maternal mortality rates. Since 2019, Oregon health systems closed birth centers at hospitals in Redmond, Baker City and Gresham and threatened to close birth centers in Lebanon and Lincoln City.

Following public outcry and state intervention, Legacy was forced to reopen its birth center at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center in Gresham. Nurses, community leaders and elected officials are all actively pushing back against plans to close family birth centers at Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital and Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital in Lincoln City.

While the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) recognizes that Medicaid cuts and broader attacks on our healthcare system from the Trump administration are serious issues, Providence and other healthcare systems must confront their priorities as profit-driven businesses that dole out lavish executive salaries.

Providence is a $30 billion corporation whose top executives take home millions each year. Patients and caregivers should not be forced to pay the price for corporate greed or political decisions beyond their control.

It’s time for Providence to live up to its mission and make real investments in our communities and provide Oregonians with the care they deserve.

###The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

ODOT will begin the process of repairing the ‘bump’ on Highway 26 near the Oregon Coast

The bump at milepost 13, four miles East of Necanicum, has been blamed for several crashes and cars suffering damage as motorists have driven to and from the Oregon Coast.

The four lanes will be reduced to two lanes during the repairs. ODOT says they will install nine drainpipes with rock and filter fabric to stabilize the area.

In March, crews removed 100 feet of asphalt across all four lanes because of damage created by a slide in the area. ODOT asks all motorists to drive with caution through the work zone and allow extra time.

Get Ready for a Berry Good Time! 
Mark your calendars! The Coos Bay Blackberry Arts Festival, hosted by the Coos Bay Downtown Association, is almost here! Join us for two days of FREE, family-friendly fun in Downtown Coos Bay!

Festival Dates & Times:
Saturday, August 23rd: 9 AM – 6 PM
Sunday, August 24th: 10 AM – 4 PM

Wander through our juried arts and crafts festival featuring incredible handcrafted items, enjoy fantastic live music, and savor delicious foods. Plus, get ready for a pie recipe contest – more sweet details on that coming soon!

A huge thank you to our amazing sponsors for making this event possible: Ziply Fiber, Addcox Heating Center, and Coos Bay Manor Bed and Breakfast! — Find all the juicy details and plan your visit at www.coosbaydowntown.com

Fundraiser: Yachats Lions Labor Day Breakfast, August 31st 7:30am to 11:00am

YACHATS, OR – The Yachats Lions will host their Labor Day Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, August 31,from 7:30am – 11:00am at Yachats Lions Hall at 344 4^th Street, Yachats OR 97498. There’s a $10 suggested donation to welcome folks for an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast (pancakes, sausages, ham, scrambled eggs, milk, OJ & coffee/tea)! No one will be turned away from a hot meal. Please see attached flyer.

All funds raised go to support our Scholarships at Waldport High School and are also open to all home-school students within the High School’s footprint. We offer two $2500 scholarships a year, one for four-year programs and one for two-year programs.

Proceeds from Yachats Lions Club’s annual fundraisers and their Yachats Lions Thrift Store makes giving back to their local community possible. They support Lions community service projects, which include scholarships to graduating seniors, food pantries, school programs, Yachats Youth & Family Services, South Lincoln Resources, Yachats Fire Department, and eyeglasses & exams for children & adults. With the motto “WE SERVE,” Yachats Lions Club is celebrating 75 years of service to Yachats and South Lincoln County.

Together, the Lions Clubs of Oregon, the statewide nonprofit OLSHF, and partners offer access to people for critical sight-saving surgeries and treatments, secure new eyeglasses, help people who can’t afford eyeglasses and hearing aids, and manage the largest vision screening program in the US. 

To learn more about the Yachats Lions Club and their work in the local community, you can visit yachatslionsclub.org.

September Hwy 101 Closure

U.S. 101 will be closed between Bandon and Port Orford the weekend of September 19th through 21st for a culvert replacement at Bearhead Mountain Lane, about six miles south of Bandon. With no local roads around the site, drivers will face a lengthy detour via U.S. 199, I-5, and Oregon 42.

Crews will dig more than 20 feet to replace the failing pipe, with the location’s steep slope, wetlands, and stream making a bypass impractical. The full closure is expected to save over $1 million and cut months off the project. Single-lane closures will occur before and after the weekend shutdown.

The total construction window for this project will likely extend about 4-6 weeks, with about 2-3 weeks of single-lane closures before and after the weekend full closure of the highway.

Other events that may also cause delays in nearby Coos Bay that week include the Bay Area Fun Festival, the Prefontaine Memorial Run, and Cruz the Coos car show.

For more information, visit the project website (https://www.oregon.gov/…/pages/project-details.aspx…) or contact ODOT Public Information Office Dan Latham at 541-817-5200 or Dan.Latham@odot.oregon.gov.

The Clatsop County Animal Shelter is at capacity after dogs and cats seized in an animal neglect case arrived last week.

While the shelter still must respond to reports of animals at large and continues to work to connect stray animals with owners, it is not able to take pets being voluntarily surrendered by their owners — even as the shelter continues to field multiple such calls a day.

“We’re at an all stop right now,” said Justin Dersham, the Clatsop County animal control supervisor.

Typically there are 40 to 45 animals at the shelter and in foster care situations in the community, said Lily Tollefsen, executive director of Clatsop Animal Assistance, a nonprofit that works with the shelter to coordinate and fund care for animals brought to the shelter and awaiting adoption.

Now that number has more than doubled and Dersham says the shelter is running well over capacity. In some cases, dogs that are related to each other or get along well with each other are doubled up in a single kennel. Nine kennels the shelter usually reserves to strays are filled up by resident animals.

After a recent Clatsop Animal Assistance board meeting, several founding members told Tollefsen they could remember three cases of this magnitude in the last 25 years.

“So it’s significant,” Tollefsen said. “And it’s essentially the influx of intake in a very short amount of time with very little notice that’s kind of what just makes it so urgent.”

Last week, the nonprofit put out a community call asking for donations to help with the purchase of additional food and veterinary care, and for new volunteers and foster families. Tollefson said they have also reached out to other shelters to see if they are able to take on animals from Clatsop County. 

Dersham said the quickest way to free up space in the shelter now is through volunteer fosters and adoptions. The animals recently seized, however, are not up for adoption while the criminal case involving them is pending.

The animals’ owner, 35-year-old Sourav Chatterjee of Wahkiakum County, Wash., faces 17 counts of animal cruelty in the second degree. The investigation began when Chatterjee was living in Clatsop County. As of Sunday, he was no longer in custody. A court appearance is scheduled for this week.

The status of the case is one thing that makes the influx of pets extra complicated. They cannot be put up for adoption until there is a resolution. That means the Clatsop County shelter could be housing them for a while.

Dersham said that before being seized, the animals were being kept in conditions that were not acceptable under definitions of minimum care as described under the law. But, he added, if the case resolves in such a way that the animals are able to be put up for adoption, the dogs especially will be very desirable. Tollefsen described the dogs as very friendly and happy to receive attention from people.

The Lincoln County Assessor’s Office will be conducting a reappraisal of all accounts in and around Yachats.

Specific areas include (but are not limited to) the city of Yachats and surrounding area, including San Marine and Wakonda Beach. Appraisal staff will be driving county vehicles and carrying assessor’s office identification.

Physical reappraisals are routinely conducted to update the Lincoln County assessment records and maintain equitable assessments. Newly reappraised values in these areas will be reflected on the 2025-26 tax statements, which will be mailed in late October. Appraisal questions may be directed to appraisal staff by calling 541-265-4102.

Access to assessor’s office maps and property records continue to be available on the assessor’s web page at www.co.lincoln.or.us/assessor.

First Step Florence focuses on helping families in the Florence, Oregon  area  who are  in  need of safe, stable, transitional housing.  We offer the only transitional housing program in the Florence region. https://firststepflorence.org/

Supporters of Job Corps are asking the community to contact their congress members and urge them to help save the program.

While some students at the Tongue Point Job Corps Center in Astoria are rushing to finish their courses, others are scrambling to figure out what comes next.

As the U.S. Department of Labor plans to shut down nearly 100 Job Corps Centers nationwide, including the Astoria facility, many of the students feel their futures are being threatened as the situation remains in limbo.

The closure will mean the elimination of 168 jobs, including instructors, admissions counselors and advisers, according to a new filing with Oregon’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission, which is required when mass layoffs occur.

Job Corps is a free vocational training program funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for people ages 16 to 24. The Labor Department said last month it would “pause” the program.

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer — who for one term represented Oregon’s 5th Congressional District — said the program “is no longer achieving the intended outcomes that students deserve.”

The contract for the Astoria center was “terminated” as of June 30, according to the state filing. A new operator is not expected to be named.

“The U.S. Department of Labor ordered Tongue Point to send all students home by June 6th,” Oregon U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley said in a May statement to The Oregonian/OregonLive.

“This sudden shutdown of programs at the three Job Corps sites in Oregon is a devastating blow to the hundreds of youth striving to learn a craft and stand on their own feet,” Merkley added. “I’ll do what I can to reverse this brutal decision.” ——— Tongue Point Job Corp Center: https://tonguepoint.jobcorps.gov/

Southern Oregon Coast Pride   ·  We’re Hiring!

Southern Oregon Coast Pride is looking for a passionate, organized, and community-rooted leader to join our team as a Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator! Semi-Remote | Based in Coos, Curry, or Del Norte Counties Full-Time | $55K–$58K + benefits Flexible schedule with evenings/weekends as needed Travel required within Coos & Curry Counties (mileage reimbursed)

You’ll lead event planning for Pride in the Park, support our Gender Affirmation Closet, organize volunteers, and help foster joy and resilience in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Center equity. Build relationships. Uplift community. Review the job description: http://bit.ly/40gCrI2 and send your resume + cover letter to Laura Erceg at pride@unitedwayswo.org.

Friends of Haystack Rock  · We have puffins!

Check out our website, Friendsofhaystackrock.org to see them live! We have our webcam zoomed in on a couple active burrows. Your best chance to see them is in the morning between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Respect Nesting Areas to Protect Threatened Snowy Plover on the Oregon Coast Through Sept. 15

 – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Siuslaw National Forest remind visitors to the Oregon coast that it is plover nesting season ­— beachgoers can help recovery efforts for the threatened western snowy plover March 15 to Sept. 15.

Sensitive plover nesting areas are identified on maps for the northern Oregon Coast and southern Oregon Coast. Signs may be present at trailheads with additional rules and limits, such as staying on the wet sand and no dogs even on a leash, to help protect the small shorebirds and their exposed nests during this crucial period. Visitors may also see rope fencing in dry sand areas; this fencing delineates some, but not all, of the critical plover habitat that should be avoided.

Reminders for recreation on designated plover beaches March 15-Sept. 15:

• The following are not permitted: dogs (even on a leash), driving a vehicle, riding a bicycle, operating electric-assisted bicycles, camping, burning wood, flying kites or operating drones.
• Foot and equestrian traffic are permitted below the high-tide line on hard packed sand.
• Respect signs and barriers to protect nesting habitat.

“With the support of the public and improvements to plover habitat, we’re making great strides in reversing the decline of this species,” said Cindy Burns, Siuslaw National Forest wildlife biologist. “Keep doing your part to understand nesting season rules and to share the beach this spring and summer.”

More information on the snowy plover, including detailed maps of nesting sites, can be found on the Oregon State Parks website (oregon.gov/plovers) and on the Siuslaw National Forest website (https://t.ly/AKPAN). Visitors to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Sand Lake Recreation Area can review Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) maps to identify unrestricted recreation areas and information on riding motor vehicles on the sand.

Volunteers are being sought to help prepare and serve lunch three times a week at the Florence Senior and Activity Center.  

They serve lunch Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week. Both programs, the in-house dining known as Cafe 60, and Meals on Wheels, are very important in helping promote socialization and nutrition for older adults in Lane County.  Volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels use their own vehicles, but they can be reimbursed for their mileage.  The Lane Council of Governments operates the Senior and Disabled Services in Lane County.  Alisa Andrion encourages potential volunteers to give her a call at L-COG, 541-682-1366.

Coos Bay Police Department –  WE’RE HIRING 9-1-1 DISPATCHERS

$4684 – $5972/Month DOQ — We offer:•A dynamic team environment •Alternative schedule benefiting work/life balance •Up to 5 weeks paid time off per year after the first year •The opportunity to serve your community

Our team members have come from a variety of work fields- no experience necessary! For additional information from the North Coos 9-1-1 Recruitment Team or to schedule a ride-along please email: join911@coosbayor.govhttps://www.coosbayor.gov/…/Compon…/JobPosts/Job/126/107

Gleneden Beach Community Club Events

Look what’s coming up soon at the Club… (sign up at glenedenbeach.org)

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Follow on Facebook: Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

OHA 2025 Oregon Beach Monitoring Season

Agency lists monitored beaches for May-September

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

The OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, monitors some of the most frequently visited beaches in the state.

The list includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution.

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach — https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/recreation/beachwaterquality/pages/status.aspx

The Oregon State Fair starts today, August 22nd. This year, there will be a total of 11 concerts. Featured artists include the All American Rejects, Wynonna Judd, Cheap Trick, and the Beach Boys.

Attendance to the concerts is complimentary with general admission to the fair; however, reserved seating and VIP Plus Suite Seats can be purchased. Tickets are available for purchase on the Oregon State Fair’s official website. The fair will take place from August 22nd until September 1st.

Buy tickets and learn more at: https://oregonstatefair.org/

Oregon taxpayers encouraged to participate in survey that could determine future of direct e-filing option

Salem, OR—The Oregon Department of Revenue is encouraging Oregon taxpayers to participate in an anonymous IRS feedback survey on tax preparation and filing options, which will run through September 2, 2025.

Oregon is one of 25 states that partnered with the IRS to provide a free option for taxpayers to file tax year 2024 returns electronically directly with the IRS and the state. More than 13,000 taxpayers filed their 2024 Oregon state income tax returns with Direct File Oregon, including almost 4,700 who first filed their federal returns with IRS Direct File.

“It’s important for Oregon taxpayers to take this opportunity to provide their valuable feedback to the IRS on free tax filing options,” said Oregon Department of Revenue director David Gerstenfeld. “Oregon counts on us to create a clear and easy experience for our customers and free tax filing options help us meet that mission.”

The Oregon Department of Revenue, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS encourage taxpayers to share their perspectives and help inform this important congressional report.

To participate, visit the Free Online Tax Preparation Feedback Survey or the IRS.gov landing page. Participation is anonymous.

Support Oregon Wildfire Relief with BottleDrop

Donate through BottleDrop to support nonprofits providing wildfire relief for those impacted by recent, ongoing, and future wildfires in Oregon. We’ll match all donations made via BottleDrop through Oct. 7 (up to $20k!) and then split the total donations between the Red Cross Cascades Region, United Way of the Columbia Gorge, and the Oregon Chapter of the WFF.

You can donate in-person by bringing your redeemable beverage containers into any full-service BottleDrop Redemption Center or donate online with funds from your Green Bag account: https://bottledrop.com/…/obrc-emergency-fund-online…/ Learn more: BottleDrop.com/Wildfire

8/22 – #OregonFires

Fires and Evacuations could change very quickly, so please stay alert  and safe. WILDFIRE MAP: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/instant/portfolio/index.html…

WILDFIRE MAP: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/instant/portfolio/index.html…

Nearly 80% of all fires this season have been attributed to human or undetermined causes; the rest were determined to be started by lightning. A large fire is considered any wildfire that burns more than 100 acres in timber or 300 acres of grassland and brush. As always, for the latest fire information visit the NWCC fire website.

If you see a fire call 911.  Also if you are a witness to the start of a fire and can provide information, eye-witness statements, video, photos or any other data, you can assist investigators by emailing them to etips@odf.oregon.gov“>odf.firetips@odf.oregon.gov. This information helps our investigators in creating a full picture of what happened and identify a responsible party if there is one.

 Sign up for emergency alerts  Follow evacuation orders immediately  Don’t park on dry grass

 Keep 30 feet of defensible space around your home  No outdoor burning or fireworks

Fire Season INFO to Know

All Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts are in fire season. This means that to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires, fire restrictions may be in place where you live or at a destination you plan to visit or recreate. 

Here are some links regarding fire info for mainly Oregon.These links are very important and are updated daily.

* Northwest Coordination Centerhttps://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/fire_info.php…

* Central Oregon Fire Info Bloghttps://centraloregonfire.org/

* Lane County/Oregon Fire Updates – FB Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/650665385833845

* Oregon Fires 2025 FB pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1481912815460351

* South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership – SCOFMPhttps://www.facebook.com/SCOFMPFIREINFO

* US Forest Service – Deschuteshttps://www.facebook.com/deschutesnationalforest

* Rouge Weather – THE DAILY WILDLAND FIRE BRIEFINGhttps://www.facebook.com/RogueWeatherNow…

* Wildfire Trackerhttps://projects.oregonlive.com/wildfires/map

* Watch Duty websitehttps://www.watchduty.org/

* Watch Duty FB Page –https://www.facebook.com/watchdutyapp

* Pacific Aerial Firefighting Aircrafthttps://www.facebook.com/groups/344050713692737/

Now is the time to brush up on your wildfire prevention knowledge. Tips include:

• Know before you go. Campfires may be banned or only allowed in approved campgrounds.
• Make sure your campfire is cool to the touch before going to sleep or leaving your site. Don’t forget to Drown, Stir, Repeat. 
• Backyard debris burning either requires a burn permit during fire season or is prohibited altogether. If you burned earlier this spring, go back and check on your debris burn site to make sure nothing reignites due to the heat.
• Don’t flick a cigarette onto the ground. It may be just enough to start a fire.
• Don’t park or idle over dried grass.
• Don’t drag tow chains.
• Check local restrictions and fire danger levels.

ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state, and federal land in Oregon from wildfire. For more information on how you can help prevent wildfires, visit keeporegongreen.org. 

Legislators are scheduled to reconvene in Salem on August 29 to deliberate on initiative aimed at increasing the gas tax and payroll tax to finance Oregon’s infrastructure and avert layoffs at ODOT.

The proposal seeks to raise the state gas tax by six cents, bringing it to a total of 46 cents per gallon, in addition to increasing title and registration fees. Furthermore, it plans to gradually implement a road usage charge for electric and hybrid vehicles beginning in 2027. There will also be a slight increase in the payroll tax designated for transit.

Notably, the plan intends to abolish mandatory tolling on significant state highways, with a public hearing scheduled for August 25 at the Capitol.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield is collaborating with 21 other states to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding the withholding of federal funds designated for crime victim services.

This legal action contests the newly imposed conditions that link Victims of Crime Act grants to state compliance with federal immigration enforcement, a stipulation that is prohibited by Oregon’s sanctuary law. Advocates caution that the potential loss of 15 million dollars in funding for the upcoming year could lead to the closure of shelters and resource centers throughout the state.

State officials contend that the administration is exceeding its authority by imposing political conditions on funds that were never authorized by Congress.

Or, maybe it’s just Trump Derangement Syndrome over and over from Oregon officials.

House Bill 3522 Helps To Remove House Squatters More Quickly

A new state law designed to address the growing issue of squatting in Oregon has been introduced. House Bill 3522, which was signed into law earlier this year, aims to provide law enforcement and property owners with essential clarity and authority in managing illegal occupants.

This legislation will come into effect in January 2026. The new law grants police the ability to take more immediate action in evicting individuals who are unlawfully occupying a property, eliminating the need for the protracted legal procedures that were previously required to differentiate between a squatter and a tenant.

This legislation represents a notable change in Oregon’s approach to illegal occupancy—striking a balance between the rights of property owners and due process, while also addressing loopholes that have permitted squatters to exploit legal ambiguities. As the law is set to be implemented in 2026, homeowners throughout the state are optimistic about achieving quicker resolutions and experiencing fewer legal complications in the future.

Legacy Mount Hood Nurses Vote Overwhelmingly to Authorize Strike After 21 Months of Failed Contract Talks. Frontline nurses at Legacy Mount Hood are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association

More than two years after forming their union and after 21 months of bargaining, 400 registered nurses (RNs) at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, citing Legacy Health’s refusal to make meaningful investments in recruiting and retaining frontline caregivers, patient care, and fair wages and benefits.

“Mount Hood nurses have been more than patient. After nearly two years at the bargaining table, Legacy executives still refuse to address critical issues like fair pay and caps on insurance premiums—changes we need to recruit and retain the skilled nurses our patients rely on,” said Lille Charron, a nurse at Legacy Mount Hood and ONA vice-chair of the bargaining team. “We don’t want to strike, but if management continues to slow-roll negotiations, we are united and ready to act.”

Nurses at Legacy Mount Hood are demanding: 

• A voice in decision-making about patient care and workplace conditions
• Fair compensation that is competitive with other health systems to recruit and retain more nurses
• Quality, affordable healthcare
• Protections against shifts being unilaterally shortened by management
• Appropriate compensation for RNs who work during times of crisis including inclement weather.

“We’re the ones at the bedside every day — we know our patients best,” Charron said. “We formed our union to speak up for the people we care for. A fair contract will help recruit and retain the nurses our community depends on, so every patient gets the safe, quality care they deserve.”

The vote does not set a strike date. Nurses are hoping upcoming mediation sessions on August 22 and 28 will result in a fair agreement and avert a strike. If a deal is not reached, nurses say they are prepared to act—and they have the support of RNs and frontline caregivers across the Legacy system.

Public comment sought on updates to two Medicaid-funded aging and disability services

The Oregon Department of Human Services’ (ODHS) seeks public comment on proposed changes to two Medicaid-funded services.

These amendments will allow ODHS to implement an Agency with Choice service option for in-home consumers and will update the Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) rate methodology for Adult Foster Homes and Residential Care Facilities. These amendments are proposed with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2026.

More information, including the public notice, amendment summary and available drafts of the proposed amendments, are posted on the APD website.

How to comment:

To submit feedback and comments, the public may take one of the following actions:

1. Send an email to Beth.Jackson3@odhs.oregon.gov
2. Send written comments addressed to Oregon Department of Human Services, Attn: Beth Jackson, 500 Summer Street NE, Salem, OR 97301.
3. Send a fax to 503-947-4245, Attn: Beth Jackson

Deadline: To be considered, feedback must be received by Sept. 1, 2025.

About the amendments

• APD was directed by House Bill 4129 (2024) to create an Agency with Choice (AwC) service model for in-home service options. This model will be added to APD’s in-home service options in Jan. 2026. The detailed requirements for AwC will be in Oregon Administrative Rules. The 1915(k) language will be amended to reference those rules. The 1915(k) will also include a description of how the AwC rates will be developed. Because HB 4129 limits the number of AwC providers to two, APD will specify that limit in the 1915(k). APD will also add AwC to APD’s 1915(b)(4) for case management services.
• APD is also proposing a new way to calculate rates for APD Adult Foster Homes and Residential Care Facilities. The rate methodology for these providers was created in the 1980s and no longer captures the complexity of individuals served in these settings. The new rate methodology will more accurately account for individuals’ needs. The 1915(k) will define the methodology and provider requirements.

BLM seeks input on proposed Grassy Mountain gold mine

VALE, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on a proposed gold mine and processing facility in Malheur County. This is the first draft analysis to adhere to the newly streamlined Department of the Interior National Environmental Policy Act procedures. While publications of a draft or final environmental analysis in the Federal Register are no longer required, information for these projects will be available on project websites.

“This Administration is committed to leveraging every available authority to expedite domestic mineral development,” said Acting BLM Director Bill Groffy. “Our agency is instrumental in driving national economic growth and fostering local employment opportunities.”

The Grassy Mountain gold mine project would be sited on public and private lands approximately 22 miles south of Vale. Construction and processing would occur over 10 years followed by four years of reclamation and 20 years of monitoring.

If approved, Paramount Gold Nevada could develop an underground mine, dedicated mill, and associated storage on approximately 469 acres of BLM-administered land. Additionally, some existing roads would be upgraded to access the operation.

The BLM will hold a public meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. MT Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the Vale District Office, 100 Oregon St., Vale. A virtual attendance option is available. Please contact Larisa Bogardus at ogardus@blm.gov“>lbogardus@blm.gov for details.

Additional information, including the draft environmental impact statement, is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments may be submitted through the ‘Participate Now’ option (preferred). Comments may also be delivered to Attn: Grassy Mountain Gold Mine Project c/o Malheur Field Office, 100 Oregon St., Vale, OR 97918, or submitted to lm_or_vl_grassymtn@blm.gov“>blm_or_vl_grassymtn@blm.gov. The 30-day comment period will close Sept. 8, 2025.

For more information, please call the Vale District Office at 541-473-3144 or email lm_or_vl_grassymtn@blm.gov“>blm_or_vl_grassymtn@blm.gov.

Oregon awards $1.8 million in grants to help people enroll in private insurance

Nearly $1.8 million in grants are coming to 37 community-based organizations and licensed insurance agents across Oregon to offer free, expert help to people enrolling in health coverage through OregonHealthCare.gov.

The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, the state agency responsible for helping Oregonians understand their private health coverage, is awarding these grants throughout 2025-27 to organizations and insurance agents who focus on reaching diverse populations, including many who offer support in multiple languages. The grantees will help Oregonians understand their health insurance and financial assistance options, transition from the Oregon Health Plan to private coverage and enroll during the next enrollment period beginning Nov. 1 to Jan. 15.

The grants are especially meant to help people who don’t qualify for job-based coverage, the Oregon Health Plan or Medicare.

“This support is critical to ensuring all Oregonians — regardless of income, location, or language — have access to the coverage and care they need,” marketplace director Chiqui Flowers said in a news release. To connect with a local Marketplace partner or insurance agent, visit OregonHealthCare.gov/gethelp.  (SOURCE)

Grants Pass Man Indicted for Months-long Burglary Series

Grants Pass, OR. – Between September 2024 and January 2025, the Grants Pass Police Department began investigating several commercial burglaries occurring within the city.

Not only were the businesses burglarized, but items valued between $100 and $1000 were taken, and property was intentionally damaged, in some cases adding up to more than $1000. The following businesses were victims of the burglary series:

• Bi Mart (Victimized twice)
• Cash Connection (Victimized twice)
• Highland Market
• Rogue Fly Shop
• Batteries Plus Bulb
• M Street Market
• Lucky Duck on Redwood Ave.
• Farmers Building Supply
• Don’s Bike Center
• Fields Home Improvement (in Josephine County)

During the months-long investigation, Anthony Boyd Mooney, a 33-year-old male of Grants Pass, was identified as the suspect. Last week, a Grand Jury panel heard testimony and indicted Mooney on the following charges:

• 12 counts of Burglary in the Second Degree
• 5 counts of Theft in the First Degree
• 11 counts of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree
• 7 counts of Theft in the Second Degree

The whereabouts of Anthony Mooney are currently unknown, but he has several warrants for his arrest. Anyone with information on Mooney’s location should contact their local law enforcement agency to facilitate his arrest.

The Grants Pass Downs is poised to commence its fall racing season with a 12-day meet beginning on Sunday, September 7.

As stated by the Horseman’s Racing Association, this event will present a combination of competitive racing, community activities, and family-oriented entertainment extending through mid-October. The Opening Day will highlight the Daily Courier Stakes and the Southern Belle Stakes, generating excitement at the track. Additionally, the season will feature Monday evening races accompanied by a “Twice the Fun for the Price of One” promotion, starting on September 8.

On September 14, the track will host the Rex on the Rogue Dino-Races, a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting children who are battling cancer in Josephine County. A week later, on September 21, Ladies Hat Day will take place, allowing women wearing hats to gain free admission and compete for prizes across various categories. Community involvement will continue on September 28, with free entry available to patrons who donate canned goods to the Josephine County Food Bank.

Oktoberfest, scheduled for October 5, will introduce Bavarian elements with commemorative pint glasses and tastings.

Keep Oregon Green Association – Statewide Billboard Poster Contest

Keep Oregon Green is turning 85 next year. To celebrate, the Association is asking Oregonians of all ages to create and submit artwork for a statewide billboard poster contest. Learn more about it here: https://keeporegongreen.org/kog-billboard-contest/

SOME PARKS TO SEE UPDATES TO PARKING FEES AND SEASONAL CAMPING RATES

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is updating some visitor fees at select parks as part of a broader, proactive effort to build a more resilient financial future for Oregon State Parks.

Starting Oct. 1, 2025, Oregon State Parks will no longer waive the parking fee at 21 additional day-use parks. The parking fee is currently $10 for in-state visitors and $12 out-of-state visitors.  

The parking fee does not apply to visitors who walk, bike, use public transportation, have a valid hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a 12 or 24-month parking permit. Currently, OPRD charges for parking at 25 parks and waives parking fees at over 225 parks across the state.

The 21 additional parks include some of the busiest parks in the system such as Harris Beach State Park, which experienced an estimated 2 million day-use visits last year. Visitor fees help pay for maintenance and operation.

Some overnight camping rates will also see updates for visits beginning May 1, 2026:

• Overnight rates at our 29 busiest parks will increase to the top of the current rate range from May 1 through September 30. This increase will apply year round on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights (Top rate is $29 for tents and $52 for full hook-up RV)

• At all parks:  
• Cabin and yurt prices will increase to the top of the rate range year round. (Top rates vary from $72 for rustic yurts to $129 for deluxe cabins/yurts)
• Boat moorage fees will increase from $15 to $20.
• Overnight parking, overflow camping and primitive camping fees will increase from about $10 to at least $15 per night.

The park system faces a projected 14% budget shortfall due to increasing costs, impacts from record visitation and a reduction in lottery funds for operations. These targeted fee adjustments, along with internal efforts to reduce costs, modernize procurement and explore new revenue, will help maintain current service levels and ensure the system remains strong and accessible now and in the future.

“State parks are some of the most beloved spaces in Oregon, but we have struggled as a state to sustainably fund them. We’re working to reimagine the future of Oregon State Parks as financially resilient system that will serve generations to come,” said Director Lisa Sumption.

State parks has three main sources of funding: a little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. It is not funded by general fund taxes.

For visitors looking to save on parking, there are annual and 24-month parking permits available for Oregon State Parks. The 12-month parking permit costs $30 and the 24-month permit costs $50. You can buy them online.  

Oregon State Parks is also collecting feedback to help guide its effort to reimagine a stronger resilient park system. The survey includes priorities for new and existing experiences, services and amenities as well as views on public-private partnerships, sponsorships and other funding options.

New survey gathers feedback to help build a more sustainable future for parks

— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) wants to better understand the public’s values and priorities for the future of state parks through a new survey as it launches a strategic initiative to reimagine how parks are funded, operated and supported.

OPRD faces a potential 14% budget shortfall for park operations by 2027 even with recent fee increases. The gap is due to increasing costs, the impact of higher visitation and changes in lottery funds. The strategic initiative will work to address that shortfall before 2027.

“For more than a century, Oregon’s parks have been a source of pride, joy, and connection for communities across the state,” said Lisa Sumption, OPRD Director. “But the way we fund the system has not kept up with how Oregonians use and value it today. We’re not waiting for the crisis—we’re planning ahead to build a more resilient and relevant park system.”

OPRD launched an online survey this month to collect feedback from visitors and potential visitors about their priorities for new and existing experiences, services and amenities as well as views on public-private partnerships, sponsorships and other funding options.

The survey is open to everyone and will help inform decisions about the future of state parks. Those who complete the survey have the option of entering a drawing for a free Oregon State Parks annual parking permit.

Oregon State Parks continues to experience record visitation with more than 56.6 million estimated visits in 2024. It is one of the most visited park systems in the country.

This level of use significantly increases wear and tear on aging park infrastructure, driving up maintenance needs and long-term operational costs.

Parks’ funding comes from three main sources. A little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from the agency’s share of recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. Oregon State Park operations is not funded by general fund taxes.

“We already operate leanly, but we’re also taking a hard look at costs and spending decisions as we plan the future. We’re building new partnerships with Oregon businesses and growing opportunities for visitors to experience state parks in new and innovative ways,” Sumption said.

In addition to operating more than 250 state parks and maintaining hundreds of historic structures, the agency also manages the ocean shore, the State Historic Preservation Office, ATV safety programs and permits as well as multiple grant programs for trails, ATVs, historic structures and local government projects.

For more information about the survey or to learn about ways to support parks, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/ or take the survey at bit.ly/stateparksurvey.

Registration Now Open for 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference

Registration is now open for the 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference, the state’s largest gathering dedicated to honoring and supporting women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The biennial event, hosted by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, will bring together women veterans from across Oregon for a weekend of connection, resources and recognition.

The event is free and open to all women veterans, but registration is required. The 2025 Oregon Women Veterans Conference is being held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Riverhouse Lodge in Bend, which was the planned location of the 2020 event that was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This year’s theme, ‘Stronger Together: Community and Connection,’ reflects the heart of what this conference is all about,” said Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs. “Women veterans have long served with distinction, strength and resilience — often in the face of tremendous challenges and barriers.

“This conference is an opportunity to honor our service, share our stories, and ensure every woman who has worn the uniform feels seen, valued and supported. We are stronger when we stand together, and united, we will continue to drive the ODVA mission forward.”

The Oregon Women Veterans Conference began nearly 30 years ago as a grassroots effort by a small group of women veterans seeking connection, support, and resources. Since the first event in 1998, the conference has grown into a unique statewide gathering that brings together women veterans from across Oregon to access benefits, build meaningful connections, and amplify their voices.

The 2025 conference will continue that legacy with inspiring keynote speakers, engaging workshops, fantastic networking opportunities and assistance for women veterans connecting to the full range of benefits and resources they have earned. It is a supportive space where women who have served can connect, grow, and thrive beyond their military service.

This year’s keynote speaker is Erin McMahon, director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and a retired U.S. Army brigadier general, attorney and combat veteran. During her 24-year career in the U.S. Army, McMahon served as the principal deputy general counsel for the National Guard Bureau, advising senior leaders through a wide variety of domestic disaster responses and serving as the first female Army National Guard general officer in the Office of the General Counsel.

Registration is free and may be completed online at www.eventbrite.com/e/odva-women-veterans-conference-tickets-1407725487829. Community sponsors and donors are the primary sources of funding for this event and help ensure all women veterans can attend the conference free of charge.

Registration for the Women Veterans Conference covers the event only; attendees are expected to make their own lodging and travel arrangements. More information about the Women Veterans Conference, including local lodging, donations and sponsorship opportunities, can be found online at wvc.oregondva.com.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.

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.

August is National Emergency Management Awareness Month in Oregon

SALEM, Ore. – Governor Tina Kotek has officially proclaimed August 2025 as National Emergency Management Awareness Month in Oregon, recognizing the vital work of emergency managers and the role they play in helping communities prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters.

The proclamation supports a national campaign spearheaded by the International Association of Emergency Managers to increase public awareness and appreciation for the emergency management profession.

In Oregon, the campaign is being led by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), in partnership with local, Tribal, regional, and state emergency management agencies.
“Emergency management is often invisible until something goes wrong—then it becomes essential,” said OEM Director Erin McMahon. “We’re proud to spotlight the field of emergency management and the dedicated professionals who work every day to protect lives, strengthen community resilience, and coordinate help when it’s needed most.”

OEM’s Role in Supporting Emergency Management Statewide

OEM plays a key leadership role in supporting and strengthening emergency management across the state. Through its Regional Emergency Management Coordinators Program, OEM employs specialized field staff to support all 36 counties and Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes. These coordinators provide on-the-ground guidance and technical assistance across all phases of emergency management—from preparedness to long-term recovery.
Additionally, OEM’s Tribal Liaison works closely with Tribal Nations to coordinate emergency management initiatives and ensure Tribal needs are represented in state planning and response efforts. The OEM Public Private Partnership Program Manager coordinates and collaborates with business and industry stakeholders across emergency preparedness, response, and recovery operations, serving as a liaison between the private sector and local and state agencies. This collaboration is further reinforced by the Private Sector Security and Resilience Seminar Series; a recurring program of educational sessions designed to inform and engage private sector participants and better equip them to navigate crises effectively and recover swiftly.

OEM also manages the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC), which is activated during large-scale or multi-jurisdictional emergencies. The ECC serves as a central hub for coordination and communication among state agencies and emergency support partners, ensuring that local needs are met efficiently and effectively.

With responsibility for coordinating Oregon’s 18 Emergency Support Functions and supporting more than 50 local and Tribal emergency management offices, OEM is dedicated to building a resilient and well-coordinated emergency services system.

How to Celebrate Emergency Management Awareness Month

There are many simple ways Oregonians can show support for emergency managers and become more prepared:

• Find out who your local emergency manager is—reach out to learn how your community prepares for disasters.
• Say thank you to your emergency management staff, volunteers, or CERT team members.
• Get prepared: Make or update your emergency kit, sign up for local alerts at ORAlert.gov, review your household emergency plan, and take the next step by becoming Be 2 Weeks Ready.
• Share your story: Use social media to highlight how you or your community prepares and tag #EMAwarenessMonth.

Follow OEM throughout August for resources to help celebrate and share the value of emergency management.
### It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to lead collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters regardless of cause. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711. 

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.

Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com