Oregon Beach News, Friday 2/21 – Lawsuit Aims to Protect Spring-Run Chinook Salmon in Pacific Northwest, Newport Seafood & Wine Festival, Siuslaw Community Stand Down on Saturday & 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, February 21, 2025

Oregon Beach Weather

Active Weather Alerts – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 AM EARLY THIS MORNING TO 10 AM PST SATURDAY...
...GALE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM SATURDAY TO 10 AM PST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...For the Small Craft Advisory, south winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt and seas 11 to 16 ft at 15 seconds expected. For the Gale Warning, south winds 25 to 35 kt with
gusts up to 40 kt and seas 11 to 16 ft at 8 to 10 seconds expected.

* WHERE...All areas from Florence to Cape Blanco.

* WHEN...For the Small Craft Advisory, from 4 AM early this morning to 10 AM PST Saturday. For the Gale Warning, from 10 AM Saturday to 10 AM PST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Strong winds and very steep seas could capsize or damage vessels. Low visibility conditions are expected.

* View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks

Lawsuit Aims to Protect Spring-Run Chinook Salmon in Pacific Northwest

 — The Center for Biological Diversity and allies sued the National Marine Fisheries Service today for delaying Endangered Species Act protection decisions for spring-run Chinook salmon in Oregon, Washington and Northern California.

The Center, Native Fish Society and Umpqua Watersheds petitioned the Service in August 2022 to protect Oregon Coast Chinook salmon under the Endangered Species Act. In July 2023 the Center and Pacific Rivers petitioned to add Washington coast spring-run Chinook salmon to the list.

The Service was required to decide whether to protect the fish within one year after the petitions were filed. The Service found that federal protections “may be warranted” for the three salmon populations in 2023 but has made no further decisions.

“These iconic fish are at risk of disappearing from our coastal rivers forever if the Service doesn’t act quickly,” said Jeremiah Scanlan, a legal fellow at the Center for Biological Diversity. “Spring-run Chinook salmon badly need protections, but instead the agency has taken the lazy river approach and drifted past its own deadlines.”

Chinook salmon, also known as “king salmon,” are the largest of all Pacific salmon. Once abundant throughout the river basins of the Pacific Northwest, Chinook salmon populations have declined to a fraction of their historical size.

“Umpqua Watersheds has been tracking this population for decades and has never seen the wild spring Chinook population even close to its designated viability number for survival,” said Stanley Petrowski, a member of Umpqua Watersheds. “The science is clear. This unique ecologically significant species is going extinct.”

Spring-run fish are a variant of Chinook salmon, who return to rivers much earlier than the more abundant fall-run salmon. They return in the spring from the ocean to coastal freshwater rivers, staying for months in deep pools until they spawn in the fall. Spring-run Chinook have unique habitat requirements for migration, spawning and juvenile rearing. Their suitable spawning habitat is in mainstem rivers and tributaries, and these early returning fish have a special need for streams high in watersheds that stay cool enough during the summer so they can survive.

“The watersheds of Washington developed with and continue to need spring-run Chinook,” said Michael Morrison, chair of Pacific Rivers. “Protections for the imperiled spring-run Chinook will insure healthy watersheds for present and future generations.”

Threats to Chinook salmon include habitat destruction from logging and road construction, water diversions, interbreeding with hatchery-raised fish, overharvest in commercial fisheries and dams obstructing their return migrations.

Currently, both spring-run and fall-run Chinook salmon are managed by the Service and state wildlife agencies as if they were the same population. But recent scientific studies show that spring-run fish are genetically distinct from the more abundant fall-run Chinook. The evolution of early-returning fish occurred in both salmon and steelhead trout millions of years ago. This difference in spawning-run timing is highly unlikely to occur again if these distinct populations are lost.

Early returning salmon are ecologically essential to the overall health of coastal Chinook populations, since they use colder water habitats further upstream than fall-run fish, making populations more resilient to climate change, extreme environmental conditions and human threats.

Spring-run Chinook salmon are also a preferred and primary food for Southern Resident orcas, which are themselves listed as endangered, having a population of only 73 individuals. Diminishing salmon numbers and smaller body sizes of spring Chinook means that fish-eating orcas must travel further and work harder to find sufficient food. Pacific Northwest orcas have suffered in recent years from malnourishment and reproductive failures.

The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 1.7 million members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places.

The Native Fish Society is a nonprofit conservation organization that cultivates a groundswell of public support for reviving abundant wild fish, free-flowing rivers, and thriving local communities across the Pacific Northwest.

The mission of Pacific Rivers is to protect and restore the watershed ecosystems of the West to ensure river health, biodiversity and clean water for present and future generations. (SOURCE)

Siuslaw Community Stand Down – Saturday Feb. 22 at Elks Lodge in Florence

The Siuslaw Community Stand Down will take place, Feb. 22,  from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Florence Elks Lodge 1858 in Florence. For those wondering what what that means, a Stand Down is a day where many volunteers and organizations will make the effort to care for and help homeless and at risk people, with an emphasis on the US Veteran population. 

Many agencies will come together to help with five areas of health. Dentists, barbers, medical, mental health and social workers will be onsite to help relieve some of the burdens that can cause a person’s sense of well-being to break down. 

At-risk persons can come to the event, have breakfast, get a haircut, speak with counselors, find clean clothes, speak with employment counselors, get dental cleanings and checkups, and more. Guests can meet in person with local western Lane agencies, Lane County agencies, and Veterans Administration services.

The Stand Down welcomes veterans and their families, senior citizens, unhoused persons, pregnant women, disabled persons and youth and offers free on-site services for clothing, food, haircuts, housing, employment, medical, dental, mental health and more. Brunch will be served from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  The Elks Lodge is located at 1686 12th Street in Florence.

The Stand Down is sponsored by the Western Lane Veteran and Community Partnership coalition. for more information please contact Chilton at 541-305-3911.

The 48th Annual Newport Seafood and Wine Festival

February 20-23rd 2025 Follow Newport Seafood & Wine Festival For tickets & more information

Man Found Deceased in Depoe Bay Harbor Identified

On October 20th, 2024, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Depoe Fire District and the United States Coast Guard responded to a deceased person floating in the Depoe Bay Harbor. Responders located and removed the person from the harbor, however, could not immediately determine the person’s identity.

The investigation led the Sheriff’s Office to a vehicle, registered out of New Jersey, abandoned for multiple weeks at a nearby gas station, and learned the vehicle was registered to 31-year-old Duncan Grundman.  Through open-source internet searches, Deputies located a next of kin for Duncan living in Maryland.  The next of kin was able to provide details regarding Duncan’s history, including concerns about mental health issues and previous Law Enforcement contacts in Colorado.

The Boulder County (CO) Sheriff’s Office provided information on a recent incident in which Duncan’s roommates located a concerning note left by Duncan approximately one week before his vehicle was reported as abandoned at the gas station. The note indicated Duncan may intend to harm himself.

The investigation confirmed Ducan’s identity by comparing a pair of prescription glasses to social media photos and analysis of a cell phone located on his person. The cell phone contained photos of personal identification and Duncan’s vehicle insurance card. Additionally, the Lincoln County Medical Examiner’s Office was able to match tattoos found on Duncan’s body to his tattoos in photos on social media.  Duncan’s next of kin have been informed of his death.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to express our condolences to Duncan’s family and encourages anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts to contact the National Suicide Hotline at 988 or Dispatch at 541-265-0777 (non-emergency) or 911 (emergency).

Florence Police Arrest Suspect for Multiple Acts of Vandalism

A Florence man is facing multiple charges after allegedly damaging electrical and public property across the city. Florence Police responded to Rolling Dunes Park Sunday afternoon after a Public Works employee reported seeing a man cutting electrical wires.

Officers located the suspect, 31-year-old Gage Miller, near 35th Street and determined he was responsible for damage at Rolling Dunes Park, Hyak on Kingwood Street, and the Tsunami Siren. Police say Miller resisted arrest but was detained without injury.

Additional damage was later discovered at the Confederated Tribes’ property and the Fresenius Medical facility. Miller was booked at the Florence City Jail and later transported to Lane County Adult Corrections. He faces multiple charges, including Criminal Mischief, Resisting Arrest, and Disorderly Conduct. Additional charges are pending further investigation.

Exciting News from the Columbia River Maritime Museum!

On Friday, February 9, 2025, we officially broke ground on Mariners Hall, a $31.5 million expansion project here in Astoria, OR! This two-story building, adjacent to our current museum on Marine Drive, is a key milestone in our ongoing efforts to preserve and showcase the rich maritime history of our region.Mariners Hall is just the beginning of a larger transformation! As part of our multi-year Campus Transformation Plan, we’re upgrading both indoor and outdoor spaces to create a more welcoming and cohesive campus.

In addition to the expansion, we’ve already made significant improvements, including the renovation of 11,000 square feet of exhibit space and the addition of two new Indigenous exhibits, which opened in Fall 2024. We can’t wait to share these new spaces with our community and visitors. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this exciting journey!

The Columbia River Maritime Museum is looking for its newest crew member!

MUSEUM EDUCATOR — Full Time, Salary Position reporting to Director of Education

Full job description and employment application are available on our website – https://www.crmm.org/join-our-crew.html

Astoria Downtown Historic District Association (ADHDA) – Our 2nd annual We Love Downtown Astoria Photography Contest – Entry Ends 2/23

Submit your photos online at: https://www.astoriadowntown.com/welovedowntownastoria/The contest runs until February 23rd.

Get ready to sparkle and shine at the Prom of Your Dreams, an unforgettable evening benefiting Florence Habitat for Humanity!

Join us on Saturday, Feb. 22, at Three Rivers Casino for a night filled with dancing, photo ops, and so much more!

Tickets are on sale now at florencehabitat.org or at the Habitat Office. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this incredible event, supporting a great cause while having a blast. Enjoy live and silent auctions, and cheer on the crowning of the Prom King and Queen!

For more details and ticket information, visit the Habitat website. Let’s dance the night away and make a difference in our community! See you there!

PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical center has recently opened a satellite ear, nose and throat off in Florence at the Peace Harbor Campus. 

Dr. Frank Chen is one of the physicians there and he say the response has been impressive with the offices booked out more than 3 months already. “Nearly all the patients have said that they are grateful and they are happy that there is a service line there for ENT and they don’t have to travel as far.”

Last week Dr. Chen performed the first ENT surgery at the hospital on an adult male patient.  He says the services will expand moving forward. “We are right now doing procedures for adults and then we eventually will start doing the pediatric population later this year.” The ENT offices are opened only on Fridays and are by referral only.

Oregon Coast Humane Society to Acquire Vet Clinic

The sale won’t be final for a few more weeks, but the Oregon Coast Humane Society announced Friday they are in the process of buying Oceanside Veterinary Clinic at 1739 21st Street.   Elizabeth Thompson, the Executive Director of OCHS, said once the acquisition is complete the first priority is on transferring current veterinary services for shelter animals to the clinic.

“Plan is that we will not be open for public animals probably for this entire year, maybe into 2026.”

Thompson acknowledged the shortage of veterinary care in the Florence area.  Unfortunately, it will be several months before they’ll be able to open to the public.

“The goal will be that we can focus on high quality, high volume spay and neuter when we do open to the public so that we can really try to get a grip on this community cat situation and all these unexpected litters that people are not planning to have because they can’t get access to care for their animals.”

Buying and staffing the clinic means volunteers will no longer have to shuttle ailing shelter pets to other clinics out of the area.  That will save time, and ultimately money.   The Oregon Coast Humane Society is a “no-kill” shelter that has been operating in Florence for more than three decades. Follow and Support on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OregonCoastHumaneSociety

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

The City of Florence is looking to fill a vacancy on the City Council following Councilor Bill Meyer’s resignation, which takes effect February 28th. Meyer made the announcement during Monday’s City Council meeting.

“To Mayor Rob Ward, I hereby notify you of my intention to resign from my council position with the City of Florence, Oregon, effective February 28, 2025.”

Meyer said he was honored to work with the council and the city staff and wished them success in the future.  The city will now need to fill that vacancy. Applications for the position are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19. Applicants must have lived within city limits for at least a year and be registered voters. The City Council will review applications and may invite candidates for interviews on February 27. The position is voluntary, offering residents a chance to be actively involved in local government. More details and applications are available at www.ci.florence.or.us.

The city of Florence received word this week it has been awarded a 70-thousand-dollar grant as part of a statewide effort to help communities be resilient in the face of a large-scale disaster.  

Megan Messmer, Florence Assistant City Manager, says the money will pay for a large trailer mounted diesel generator.

“We have these pump stations throughout town and if there is a large-scale power outage that lasts a long time, we need to deploy generators to those to keep them operational, so they don’t get overwhelmed.”

Messmer says this isn’t the only grant Florence is receiving.   Lane County applied for a 20-million-dollar grant that will be divided between six or seven communities, including Florence.

“Lane County was awarded that grant, and it will be expanding the Senior Center so that will be a large capital project.  It will also include some resilience type coordination with non-profits and really expanding our resilience as a community.”

That expansion, which will include an emergency generator and heavy-duty HVAC equipment, could provide a “clean air” shelter if there is heavy wildfire smoke.   It would also serve as a community hub where area residents could go to receive emergency services.

February is Earthquake and Tsunami Awareness Month in Oregon

Governor Tina Kotek has proclaimed February Tsunami and Earthquake Awareness Month in Oregon. 

In the past, Oregon has suffered considerable damage from moderate earthquake events–such as the 1993 Scotts Mills and Klamath Falls earthquakes–and from a deadly tsunami that originated in Alaska in 1964. 

Scientific evidence indicates that the State of Oregon is at risk for a much larger event associated with the Cascadia Subduction Zone that is expected to generate strong ground shaking and a destructive tsunami, similar to the event that occurred in Northeastern Japan on March 11, 2011.  

Loss of life and property is minimized by natural hazard mitigation planning and grant funding at the state, Tribal, and local levels, which reduce the impact of disasters through risk assessment and mitigation actions–such as seismic strengthening of existing buildings and public education on local tsunami evacuation routes. 

As a result, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), within its role as chair of the Interagency Hazard Mitigation Team (IHMT), will be working with IHMT member agencies, federal partners, local jurisdictions, and neighboring states to highlight jurisdictional earthquake and tsunami mitigation strategies and provide education and information about individual preparedness for Oregon residents and visitors throughout the month of February and beyond. 

Watch our social media channels and website for preparedness tips and upcoming dates for the Tsunami Preparedness Roadshow that will be traveling to numerous coastal communities February 27 through 28. 

RESOURCES 

• Tips for Earthquake Preparedness 
• What to Do If You’re Driving When an Earthquake Hits 
• How to Prepare for Tsunamis and Help Your Community Become More Prepared    
• Be2Weeks Ready Toolkit 
• Learn About the Cascadia Subduction Zone Hazards and Preparedness 
• Learn About Cascadia Island Mapping 
• Oregon’s Tsunami Inundation Map (TIM) Series 

Gleneden Beach Community Club Events

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

ODOT launches roadwork projects to boost safety in Curry County on Hwy 101

In Curry County, a $4.5 million emergency repair project will address sunken road surfaces on U.S. 101, with work taking place between mileposts 303-306 and 342-351. Single-lane traffic and delays of less than 20 minutes are expected. Additionally, pavement repairs will be made in Gold Beach and Brookings with intermittent lane closures and minor delays. — Drivers are advised to follow posted signs and be prepared for delays. For more information, visit the ODOT website.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium New Tufted Puffin Oregon License Plates on Sale

One of Oregon’s most adorably iconic seabirds is coming to the front and back of a car near you. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has opened voucher sales for its new tufted puffin license plates.

The design, featuring a tufted puffin floating in the ocean and gazing down at some fish below, was created by the
aquarium’s graphic design and marketing coordinator, Cam Mullins.

Starring a tufted puffin—one of Oregon’s iconic seabirds–funds from the new license plate will benefit both the Aquarium’s animals and their wild counterparts. You can purchase a voucher now and exchange it at the DMV once the physical plates are available. We need to sell 3,000 vouchers to reach the production stage—meaning the sooner 3,000 vouchers are sold, the sooner production begins, and the sooner you’ll have your puffin plates in-hand. Read the full story at aquarium.org/puffin-plate-debut: photo by OCAq’s Jeremy Burke

Tufted puffins are native to Oregon and nest on the rocky coast. The aquarium has a Seabird Aviary that sustains a flock of these sea birds and the profits from the license plates will go to benefit these puffins and their wild counterparts.

The voucher is available for purchase on the aquarium’s website. The cost covers the $40 surcharge fee and the money left over after the deduction of the DMV’s fees will go to support the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s
rehabilitation and conservation efforts. The aquarium is building a new marine wildlife rehabilitation center with
hopes of doubling the number of animal patients it can offer care to. FOLLOW on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OregonCoastAquarium

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Follow on Facebook: Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Hospitals urge passage of HB 2010-A to protect care for 1.4 million Oregonians, prevent further financial stress on hospitals

–Oregon’s hospitals are calling on the Oregon House Revenue Committee to pass HB 2010-A, legislation essential to protecting health care access for 1.4 million Oregonians who rely on the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) and preventing further destabilization of hospitals.  

Without legislative action this session, OHP faces a $2 billion funding shortfall, threatening the benefits, services, and programs that support Oregon’s most vulnerable populations. 

Some 97% of Oregonians are now insured–the highest rate in state history. OHP has been central to this achievement, covering one in three Oregonians, including 57% of the state’s children.  

Oregon hospitals have long played a key role in helping fund OHP by supporting the hospital assessment, which–when combined with federal matching funds–accounts for nearly a quarter of OHP’s total funding.  

“As we continue to monitor potential federal policy changes that could impact Medicaid programs nationwide, our top priority must be supporting and stabilizing the health care system and the programs that we have today,” said Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon. “Passage of HB 2010-A supports continued health care access for Oregon families, children, seniors, and rural communities while also preventing further stress on our financially fragile hospitals.” 

Passing HB 2010-A is a critical step in preventing further destabilization of Oregon’s hospitals, about half of which are operating at a loss. Since early 2020, hospitals’ facility payroll costs alone have increased 43%, as they have continued to invest more in staff to meet patient needs. But without adequate payment from Medicaid and other health insurers, hospitals are struggling to keep services available, including emergency departments, labor and delivery units, behavioral health care, and specialty services like oncology. Some hospitals have already been forced to reduce or eliminate services, a trend that will only accelerate if funding is cut. 

Oregon’s hospitals urge lawmakers to pass HB 2010-A to maintain health coverage and to help Oregonians access the care they need. 

About the Hospital Association of Oregon – Founded in 1934, the Hospital Association of Oregon (HAO) is a mission-driven, nonprofit trade association representing Oregon’s 61 hospitals. Together, hospitals are the sixth largest private employer statewide, employing nearly 70,000 employees. Committed to fostering a stronger, safer, more equitable Oregon where all people have access to the high-quality care they need, the hospital association supports Oregon’s hospitals so they can support their communities; educates government officials and the public on the state’s health landscape, and works collaboratively with policymakers, community based organizations and the health care community to build consensus on and advance health care policy benefiting the state’s four million residents.

Increasing costs and impacts of regulation changes make planning for and planting 2.3M seedlings in Oregon state forests a challenge

Tillamook State Forest, Ore.–More than 6,100 acres of harvested timber areas in Oregon’s state forests are getting nearly 2.3 million seedlings planted this year.  Planting is underway or soon to be started in the Tillamook, Clatsop, and Santiam, while planting on the Sun Pass and Gilchrist State Forests will start in May.

“Depending on weather, soil conditions, and planting crew availability each state forest typically gets their planting done in six-to-eight weeks,” said John Walter, Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) State Forests Silviculturist.

A long planning timeframe – Although the planting window is short, the planning and coordination to get those trees in the ground by ODF’s experts is much longer.

“We are looking at our seedling needs about two to three years out,” said Walter.  “We come up with the number of seedlings needed and then contract with several nurseries to get them grown at the time we need them.”

It sounds simple enough; however, the way the timber sale contracts are set up makes coming up with an accurate number tricky.  

“Winning bidders have two to three years to harvest that sale,” said Walter.  “That means we may need to replant in that area after year one, two, or three.  So how do we come up with the number of seedlings each year?  We get with each ODF district folks and make a best guess based on past performance of the winning bidder, operator availability, and market conditions.”

One time rule changes challenging – Another issue this past year, especially for the Tillamook State Forest, was the implementation of the Private Forest Accord and the resulting changes to the Forest Practices Act (FPA).   Some private landowners decided to harvest under the old rules. This created an increase in the demand for the limited number of timber operators.

“Nearly all the operators were working on private forestland last year,” said Nick Stumpf, Unit Manager for ODF’s Tillamook District.  “In a normal year we would have 10-12 harvest operations, last year we had one.”

Private timber operators are the ones who run the harvest equipment and are typically contracted by the winning bidders of a state forest timber sale. 

“For state forests our contracts already met or exceeded the requirements of the FPA changes in many areas so there was no rush to harvest on state sales,” said Stumpf.  “The operators were focused on getting timber out of private lands before the rule changes. This one-time shift changed the prediction of how many seedlings we would need to plant in our district.”

Costs increase, revenue sharing static – Not only are they taking an educated guess at the number of seedlings needed, but they are also having to project the costs of the seedling itself but the labor and contract costs to plant them.

“Those combined costs used to be fairly consistent,” said Walter.  “However, over the past five years or so those combine costs have climbed from around 50 cents a tree to more than $1 a tree.”

These cost increases are hard for ODF to manage since revenue from state forest timber sales is split, with the host counties getting approximately two-thirds while one-third is kept by ODF to manage the forests.  However, ODF pays for all costs associated with managing state forestlands, including timber sales, post-harvest replanting, trail and campground maintenance and improvements, and improving wildlife habitat. So, when costs increase, like doubling planting costs, it takes funding away from other important work on state forestlands, as ODF must absorb those increases without being able to access more of the sales revenue.

Unique greatest permanent value management – Another cost and planning challenge when replanting is state forests are managed for a concept called greatest permanent value (GPV).  GPV means that the approximately 745,000 acres of forestlands ODF manages across the state needs to provide for economic, environmental, and social benefits to Oregonians. 

“GPV impacts how we plan and plant after a timber harvest,” said Zach Rabe, Tillamook District Operations Coordinator.  “Most large private landowners plant 100 percent Douglas-fir, because it is typically the most valuable species here in Western Oregon. However, because of our GPV management goals, we plant about 70 percent Doug-fir and 30 percent other species.  Our goal is to promote diverse and thus resilient forests to provide environmental benefits.  We mimic what was likely the natural conifer mix of the forests to provide those environmental benefits like wildlife habitat.  This mix also improves social benefits like clean water and seeing more than one species when you are on a state forest trail or road.”

 The mix of tree types means ordering seedlings from nurseries is more complex than a one species order.

“We have to consolidate all the needs for each district and then come up with a list of the species and numbers of seedlings we need,” said Walter.  “So again, we are trying to predict our seedling needs nearly three years out, so it is a best guess; however, we want to make sure we have enough seedlings, so we typically have leftover trees.”

Extra seedlings shared – Last year ODF had a lot of seedlings leftover after planting all ODF lands.

“We sold 580,000 seedlings to private and industrial landowners.  We donated 20,000 to non-profits, mostly watershed groups, and gave about 60,000 seedlings to tribal governments,” said Walter.  “We don’t want to come up short because that impacts future activities; however, we do not want these seedlings to go to waste so we try to make sure they all get used.”

Organizations that buy or receive free seedlings still must pay for the planting costs.

“We are still doing final calculations on how many trees we will plant this year, but like last year we will offer up the extras we do not use,” said Walter.

For more information on Oregon’s State Forests see: Oregon Department of Forestry : State forests : Forest resources : State of Oregon  For information on recreational opportunities see: Oregon Department of Forestry : Recreation, education & interpretation : Recreation, education & interpretation : State of Oregon  If you are a private small forestland owner and what more information on managing your forest see: Oregon Department of Forestry : Small Forestland Owner Office : Forest resources : State of Oregon

ODF proposes revised state forest implementation plans, opens 30-day comment period

SALEM, Ore.–The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) opens a 30-day comment period starting Thursday on proposed Implementation Plan revisions for the Astoria, Forest Grove, Tillamook, North Cascade, West Oregon, and Western Lane (including the Veneta and Southwest units) state forest districts. Implementation plans describe forest management activities such as timber harvest targets, road construction and maintenance, reforestation and young stand management, recreation, aquatic habitat restoration and protection strategies for species of concern.

The comment period begins Feb. 20 and ends March 21 at 5 p.m. The implementation plans are available on ODF’s website. Comments can be submitted online by using this form,  emailing ODF.SFComments@oregon.gov, or mailing comments to ODF Public Affairs, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310.

State forests by law must provide social, economic, and environmental benefits to Oregonians, and are managed under long-range forest management plans, mid-range implementation plans, and annual operations plans.

At the direction of the Board of Forestry, ODF is continuing the development of a draft Western Oregon State Forests Habitat Conservation Plan and Forest Management Plan for Western Oregon State Forests. The draft Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) is currently going through the National Environmental Policy Act process.  Finalization of this process and issuance of Incidental Take Permits is expected to occur within fiscal year 2026. Revising the current implementation plans allows the agency to continue operations during this time of transition and further align with the draft HCP while focusing resources on developing a new forest management plan and accompanying implementation plans required to implement the draft HCP.

The revisions to the current Implementation Plans include new information on the district land base and forest resources, updated Species of Concern strategies and associated Forest Land Management Classification map, clarified timber harvest target descriptions, and changes to the mapped landscape design of the desired future condition. These changes align with Division policy, current Forest Management Plans and draft HCP objectives. In order to cover the HCP approval timeline, the new Forest Management Plan and new Implementation Plan development timelines, the revised Implementation Plans have been extended through June 30, 2027.

Police and FBI Investigating Gunfire Attack on Salem Tesla Dealership

A Tesla dealership in Salem had its windows shot out early Wednesday morning, kicking off a police investigation that includes assistance from the FBI.

While authorities did not say if they believe it was a targeted attack, the vandalism comes as protests across the country have sprung up in response to Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s role in the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency.

Police received a report about the shooting at a dealership at 2755 Southeast Mission St. around 5 a.m., and officers arrived to find the windows damaged by bullets, Salem Police Department spokesperson Angela Hedrick said in an email.

No arrests have been made in connection with the incident, but the FBI is helping with the investigation, Hedrick said.

Hedrick added that a fire believed to be arson broke out at the same dealership on Inauguration Day; the fire damaged one car at the dealership but prompted a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI. (SOURCE)

Department of Revenue issues first income tax refunds in 2025

The Oregon Department of Revenue has begun distributing refunds for the 2024 tax year. Through February 17, the department has processed more than 400,000 tax returns. The first refunds of the year were issued Tuesday.

Each year the department employs a refund hold period as part of the agency’s fraud prevention efforts. The hold period has been completed and most taxpayers can expect to receive their refunds within two weeks of the date their return is filed. Some returns, however, require additional review and can take up to 20 weeks before a refund is issued.

Taxpayers can check the status of their refund by using the department’s Where’s My Refund? tool. The Department of Revenue recommends that taxpayers wait one week after they have electronically filed their return to use the Where’s My Refund tool.

The Where’s My Refund? tool has been updated for 2025, providing more information about the status of their return to taxpayers who are signed into their Revenue Online account. Taxpayers who don’t already have a Revenue Online account can create one by following the Revenue Online link on the department’s website. Taxpayers who don’t have a Revenue Online account can still use the Where’s My Refund? tool but won’t be able to see the updated features.

A video outlining the refund process and timelines is also available to help taxpayers understand the process.

The department also offered a list of do’s and don’ts for filing to help with efficient processing and avoid unnecessary delays.

Do file electronically and request direct deposit. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.

Don’t send a duplicate paper return. Taxpayers should file just once unless they need to make a change to their return. Sending a duplicate return will slow processing and delay your refund.

Do make sure you have all tax records before filing. Having all necessary records is essential to filing a complete and accurate tax return and avoiding errors.

Don’t get in a hurry and fail to report all your income. If income reported on a return doesn’t match the income reported by employers, the return, and any corresponding refund, will be delayed. If taxpayers receive more or corrected tax records after filing a return, they should file an amended return to report any changes.

Do make sure you have a Revenue Online account. Before beginning the filing process, taxpayers should make sure their information is current in Revenue Online, the state’s internet tax portal. Those who don’t have a Revenue Online account can sign up on the agency’s website.

To get tax forms, check the status of their refund, or make payments, visit our website or email  questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

You can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), we accept all relay calls.

Governor Kotek and Oregon Housing and Community Services Launch Program to Build More Housing, Lower Costs

Zero interest loans will support the development of housing for middle class Oregonians

Thursday, Governor Tina Kotek and Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) announced the launch of Oregon’s Moderate Income Revolving Loan (MIRL) program. The program will provide zero interest loans to cities and counties for new housing units that do not have enough financing to start construction.

The funding is a tool cities and counties can use to boost housing construction, reducing housing prices and providing homeownership opportunities for moderate-income Oregonians.

“When Oregonians making a good wage can’t afford to live where they work, our businesses and communities can’t thrive. We have to work to make sure all Oregon families can afford a home with the urgency they deserve,” Governor Kotek said. “This program is an essential piece of the affordability puzzle, lending a hand to our local partners who need a little help to make the balance sheet make sense.”

“The heart of local governments is rooted in making everyday life better for their residents. Boosting housing support reinforces the importance and unity we ought to have about getting big things done, through locally driven housing solutions,” OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell said. “The Moderate Income Revolving Loan aims to empower cities and counties by providing loans to local governments, which can support developers to ensure housing prices are within reach to individuals and families who struggle to secure enough traditional credit or financing. With its revolving structure, repaid funds are reinvested to support others who need them to create new housing. No matter where they live in Oregon, people deserve a housing system that works for them.”

“Our cities and counties across Oregon need innovative tools to help with the cost of housing projects. The Moderate Income Revolving Loan fund is now one of those tools,” Senator Dick Anderson (R-Lincoln City) said. “Thank you to Governor Kotek and Representative Marsh for partnering on this important legislation. I will continue to work across the aisle with my colleagues to solve Oregon’s most pressing issues.”

“In these days of high building costs, we’ve learned that middle income housing development often needs targeted subsidies to make projects pencil,” Representative Pam Marsh (D-Ashland) said. “The Revolving Loan Fund will provide the kind of sustained and strategic investment we need to get homes on the ground and Oregonians housed.”

Housing built under this program must rent or sell to families making lower than 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI) during the lifespan of the loan, typically ten years. The fund is repaid with a fee in-lieu of property taxes, at no additional cost to the owner, which allows the state to repeatedly lend out the funds.

The MIRL program is part of a suite of tools in the Governor’s housing package, Senate Bill 1537 (2024), which allocated $75 million to the MIRL Fund. The bill also established the Housing Infrastructure Support Fund and the Housing Accountability and Production Office.

As a result of the Governor’s and the Legislature’s efforts, by July 2025, the state will have financed 2,800 affordable housing units and provided infrastructure for over 25,000 affordable and market rate housing units. The Governor’s 2025-2027 budget continues to build on that progress to increase Oregon’s housing supply in every part of the state.

Oregon Building Codes Division launches innovative housing option for attached stacked duplexes

Salem — The Oregon Building Codes Division has adopted new residential code provisions that will allow the construction of attached stacked two-family dwellings (i.e., duplexes) under the residential specialty code, the division announced.

This innovative code change will allow stacked duplexes to take advantage of existing code provisions for townhouses. It allows for a slightly different configuration that permits the total number of dwelling units to be doubled, while maintaining reasonable safeguards and unit compartmentalization. 

“Addressing the housing affordability crisis means looking under the hood for every fix we can find,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “I appreciate the Oregon Building Codes Division’s creative work. This change will give more Oregon families access to more affordable housing options.”

Developers and builders will be able to use the residential code to stack two dwelling units vertically, while being attached to other stacked dwelling units horizontally. This will result in denser housing, as well as provide more options for smaller lots and infill. This housing type was previously allowed only under application of the structural specialty code’s multifamily path, which is generally more costly and complex than application under the residential code. 

“This provides another tool in the toolbelt for the construction industry to meet Oregon’s housing needs. It will allow for creating more units in a simpler, more streamlined way while still ensuring safeguards are afforded in design,” said Alana Cox, administrator of the Building Codes Division. “The governor has called for an all-hands-on-deck approach and we have been working with the Residential and Manufactured Structures Board, industry partners, and local governments to come up with innovative solutions.”

The Building Codes Division adopted temporary rules on Jan. 31 to enact the code provisions and will be permanently adopting the new code provisions on April 1. More information, including the code change, is available at https://www.oregon.gov/bcd/codes-stand/Documents/23orsc-stacked-amend.pdf.

### About Oregon BCD: The Building Codes Division administers the statewide building code, which provides uniform standards that ensure newly constructed residential and commercial buildings are safe for people to occupy. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit oregon.gov/bcd and dcbs.oregon.gov. 

Oregon is home to 4 of the top 5 smokiest cities nationwide

Northwest researchers find Medford, Grants Pass and Bend had the most wildfire smoke from 2019-2023.

Over the past five years, more than 36 million acres of land have burned in wildfires across the United States. But the impacts of those wildfires reached far beyond the areas actually touched by fire: wildfire smoke carried hundreds and sometimes thousands of miles, affecting millions of people downwind.

Just ask residents of Medford, Grants Pass and Bend, the top three smokiest cities in the country from 2019 to 2023.

Researchers including Dan Jaffe and Haebum Lee at the University of Washington Bothell have developed a new way to quickly determine the number of days communities across the country experienced higher than normal levels of smoke. They combined particulate readings from air quality stations on the ground with satellite imagery.

In addition to Medford, Grants Pass and Bend, several other Oregon cities made their top 10 list: Klamath Falls (#5), Roseburg (#6) and Eugene/Springfield (#10). The smokiest city in Washington was Yakima (#15).

Particulate pollution comes from numerous sources: car and truck exhaust, power plants and other industry, wood stoves, and agriculture. In all of these Oregon and Washington cities, the particulate from wildfire smoke (PM 2.5) comprised at least 30% of the total particulate pollutants residents were exposed to each year.

The tiny particulates found in wildfire smoke are so small that they can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. They can cause minor and serious respiratory issues and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

To try to determine the health impacts of wildfire smoke on communities, the researchers also looked at the number of emergency room visits caused by asthma in different communities. From 2019-23, they linked an estimated 42,500 ER visits to smoke exposure. The analysis showed that high-population metro areas in the Eastern U.S. ranked highest (in the number of individual cases) for these kinds of smoke-related health impacts.

In both Portland and Seattle metro areas, about 15% of all asthma-related ER visits could be attributed to wildfire smoke.

The new research was presented at the American Geophysical Union annual meeting in Washington, D.C. (SOURCE)

Trump Layoffs Put Power Grid at Risk

200 employees at the Bonneville Power Administration took the Trump Administration’s buyout offer, 90 new job offers have been rescinded and 400 probationary employees could be laid off.

Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley say cutting 20 percent of the agency’s staff puts the power grid at risk. The BPA is a power marketing agency that operates on revenue it generates, and not tax dollars. They say the greatest impact will be on rural areas that buy power from the BPA.

Cuts to federal wildfire crews could have ‘scary’ consequences

President Donald Trump’s moves to slash the federal workforce have gutted the ranks of wildland firefighters and support personnel, fire professionals warn, leaving communities to face deadly consequences when big blazes arrive this summer.

“There’s going to be firefighters that die because of this, there will be communities that burn,” said Steve Gutierrez, a union official who served 15 years as a firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service.

Gutierrez now serves as a labor relations representative with the National Federation of Federal Employees, which represents government workers. He said thousands of wildland firefighters have had their jobs thrown into limbo by Trump’s government-wide hiring freeze.

Brian Fennessy, chief of the Orange County Fire Authority and president of the California Fire Chiefs Association, echoed that concern. “The public needs to know they’re at risk,” Fennessy said. “If the public knew all of this, they would lose their minds.”

Federal agencies depend on an army of seasonal firefighters to fill their ranks during the months when wildfires are most active. Scott, a Forest Service firefighter with six years of experience in the Western United States, who asked to be identified by a pseudonym to avoid retaliation, is among those whose role has been thrown into uncertainty.

“It’s just going to be a disaster for the wildfire response this season,” he said. (READ MORE)

Providence, Oregon Nurses Association to return to bargaining table as nurses strike enters sixth week

Providence and the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) will return to the bargaining table this week as the historic nurses strike stretches into the sixth week. Mediation is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.

Nearly 5,000 unionized nurses from eight Providence hospitals around the state have been on strike since Jan. 10. They’re asking for competitive wages, and better working conditions and staffing levels at hospitals.

Mediation is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 18 and Wednesday, Feb. 19, ONA announced in a news release Monday morning.

“As nurses from all eight Providence hospitals across Oregon, we remain united and steadfast in our commitment to this strike. We will not stop until we have a contract that prioritizes frontline nurses and the patients we serve,” said Virginia Smith, a registered nurse from Providence Willamette Falls and leader of the bargaining team. 

“As ONA has shared publicly, the parties are returning to the bargaining table with the assistance of the federal mediators tomorrow and Wednesday,” Providence said in a statement.

The update comes as more elected officials have weighed in. On Monday, 11 Portland city councilors signed a letter expressing support for the health care workers and urging Providence leadership to quickly resolve the strike.

“The well-being of our entire community is at stake. This is both a public health and public safety concern,” the letter said, in part. It went on to say, “The status quo is not working. We urge you to return to the bargaining table and engage in good-faith negotiations that lead to real, lasting solutions.”

On Monday afternoon, KGW spoke with two city councilors who signed the letter: Council Vice President Tiffany Koyama Lane and Councilor Mitch Green. 

“Heading into the 6th week of this strike, it it really felt like it was time for us, as Portland City Councilors to weigh in. We all have been hearing from our constituents, and at this point it’s not just about affecting the jobs of community members, but really this is also about the safety and the care of our community members,” said Vice President Tiffany Koyama Lane, from District 3.

“We’re not really looking to be passive on the sidelines when a major employer in the region that’s responsible for public health and safety is in a dispute with their employees,” said Councilor Mitch Green, from District 4. “Remember, in 2020, when we were banging pots and pans and thanking our essential workers. They’ve been there the whole time and you thank them by showing up in a contract and giving them the resources they need so we can recruit, retain and fairly pay nurses.”

Gov. Tina Kotek issued a statement on Jan. 10 urging both sides to immediately resolve their disagreements. Ahead of the strike, multiple Oregon lawmakers signed a letter pushing for Providence and ONA to reach a deal and avoid a walkout.

Last week, Providence sent a message to striking health care workers, informing them that they must return to work by Feb. 28 to keep their health benefits. The suspension of benefits applies to anyone who doesn’t return to work, meaning St. Vincent hospitalists, who voted to ratify their contract on Feb. 8 but are striking in solidarity with St. Vincent nurses, would also lose their coverage.

“The punishing nature of being denied a fair contract, being driven to a strike and then compounded with the punishment of this threat of cutting off health insurance is really unsafe and unacceptable,” said Koyama Lane.

Striking nurses from all eight hospitals previously rejected Providence’s latest offer. Both ONA and Providence said they will not provide public comment during mediation. (SOURCE)

OSP leading homicide investigation- Lake County

Lake County, Ore 20 February 2025- Oregon State Police, as part of the Lake County Major Crimes team, leads investigation into Lakeview homicide.

On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 3:44 p.m., the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police assisted the Department of Human Services Child Welfare with the service of a court ordered protection order. The protection order was for a 17-year-old juvenile reported to be living at 300 Block of South G Street in Lakeview.

The mother of the juvenile, Amanda Edwards (38), and mother’s boyfriend, Nathaniel Cullins (31) were detained after law enforcement made entry into the residence. Law enforcement conducted a search and located the juvenile deceased on the property.

The Lake County Major Crime Team was activated to investigate the juvenile’s death. The Lake County Major Crime Team consists of the Lake County District Attorney’s Office, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon State Police. Oregon State Police is leading the investigation.

Law enforcement believes there is no active threat to the community.

Edwards was lodged at the Lake County Jail for the following crimes:

• Criminally Negligent Homicide
• Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree
• Abuse of a Corpse in the Second Degree
• Tampering with Physical Evidence

Cullins was lodged at the Lake County jail for the following crimes:

• Criminally Negligent Homicide
• Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree
• Abuse of a Corpse in the Second Degree
• Tampering with Physical Evidence
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon

Anyone who has information regarding this investigation and has not been contacted by police is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Southern Command Center at 541-883-5711 and reference Case # SP25-054507. No additional information will be released at this time. 

A couple in Central Oregon was found dead after being caught in an avalanche while skiing the day after another person was killed in a separate avalanche in California.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of the couple who lost their lives in the avalanche while enjoying the Central Oregon backcountry,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp in a statement . “Their long history in our community and the lives they touched are a testament to the spirit and resilience that make Central Oregon such a special place to live. “

On Tuesday, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported avalanche burial near Broken Top, Oregon, around 185 miles southeast of Portland, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. Two bodies were recovered at the scene.

Authorities believe the couple was skiing when the avalanche occurred, according to the Central Oregon Avalanche Center.

“We extend our deepest condolences to all who loved the couple who tragically lost their lives while doing what they loved,” the center wrote in a statement . “As longtime residents of Central Oregon, they have touched many lives, and their legacy will continue to live on in our community.” The victim’s identities will not be released at this time, police said.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Unit recovered the couple from Trail 8 on snow-covered Forest Service Road 370, between the Bend Watershed and Broken Top area in an area known as Happy Valley.

“The avalanche occurred at 6,700 ft. on a South facing slope,” according to the Avalanche Center. The avalanche was rated as a D2, according to the center.

D2 avalanches are typically the length of a football field and are capable of burying, injuring or killing a person, according to Avalanche.org.

Police asked people to stay away from the area and to know that avalanche danger in the Central Cascades area “is moderate to considerable.”

“Please use extreme caution when recreating in the areas and check coavalanche.org for more information, including forecasts and observations,” police said.

Bed Bugs a Growing Problem in Oregon

Bed bugs are invading homes across Oregon. Many cities are facing a serious bed bug crisis. These tiny pests are causing trouble for families, businesses, and travelers. Let’s explore the five cities battling this problem.

Bed bugs spread easily through clothes, furniture, and luggage. Warmer temperatures help them multiply quickly. Many people don’t notice them until the infestation becomes severe.

1. Portland: The Worst-Hit City in Oregon

• Portland ranks high in bed bug reports.
• Hotels, apartments, and public places are infested.
• Travel and tourism increase the spread of bed bugs.

2. Eugene: Rising Cases of Bed Bug Infestations

• Many rental homes report bed bug issues.
• College dorms and public spaces are common infestation areas.
• Improper pest control methods lead to repeat problems.

3. Salem: Families Struggling with Bed Bugs

• Households report growing bed bug cases.
• Used furniture sales spread infestations.
• Residents spend thousands on pest control.

4. Gresham: High-Risk Area for Bed Bugs

• Bed bugs are found in hotels and motels.
• Public transport helps spread these pests.
• Many residents face difficulty in complete removal.

5. Hillsboro: Increasing Reports of Infestations

• Rising apartment infestations cause major concerns.
• Lack of awareness worsens the problem.
• Local authorities struggle with control measures.

How to Prevent Bed Bugs in Your Home

• Check hotel rooms before unpacking your luggage.
• Wash and dry clothes at high temperatures after travel.
• Avoid buying second-hand furniture without proper inspection.
• Regularly clean and vacuum mattresses, carpets, and furniture.

Effective Ways to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

• Use heat treatment to kill bed bugs at all stages.
• Hire professional exterminators for severe infestations.
• Seal cracks and crevices to prevent further spread.
• Use mattress encasements to stop bed bug hiding spots.

Bed bugs remain a major issue in many Oregon cities. People must stay alert and take action quickly. Proper prevention and professional help can keep homes and businesses safe from infestations.

New Edition of the Oregon Blue Book Highlights John Day Fossil Beds and the Great Comet of 2024

Every odd-numbered year since 1911, the Oregon Secretary of State’s office has published the Oregon Blue Book, our state’s official almanac and fact book. Each edition of the book features beautiful, new cover images of Oregon captured by the winners of the Oregon Blue Book Cover Photo Contest.

The 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book front cover features a stunning capture from the Painted Cove in the Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, near Mitchell. Photographer Matt Straite of Keizer made the image which he titled, “The Many Sides of Oregon.” The back cover includes an amazing astrophotography shot titled “Comet/C2023 A” by Nathan Rohde of Shady Cove.

“The Oregon Blue Book is an invitation to learn more about Oregon, engage with your neighbors, our government and our state’s history. It helps us understand what it means to be an Oregonian. The artists who’ve created these cover images captured some of that spirit, and I’m thrilled they’re a part of my first Oregon Blue Book as Secretary of State,” said Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read.

“So many people look right past the desert areas of the state, but there is so much beauty there,” said Straite. “I have always been drawn to images that show the work of mankind in nature, particularly when that work has been added to help others see the nature, like the work of the Civilian Conservation Corp. The way this trail bends at the end is such a strong draw to want to explore more.” Straite also said that he shot this image from the boardwalk, which is there to take people through the sensitive clay hills without harming them.

Nathan Rohde’s image of Comet/C2023 A3, also known as the “Great Comet of 2024” was made near his home. He said he’s always been fascinated by astrophotography and loved trying to capture the Milky Way and the Aurora, but after seeing posts online of other peoples’ images of the comet, he thought he could capture it too: “Living in Southern Oregon affords access to some relatively dark areas. On a tall clearing not far from Lost Creek Lake, I got set up about an hour before sunset and began scanning the sky with my lens fully extended. About 45 minutes after sunset, conditions were perfect and the pictures started coming through!” Rohde said the rolling hills in the foreground were an excellent way to provide scale and accentuate the sky.

The 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book is available for presale purchase now at bluebook.oregon.gov/shop. These limited-edition books are $30 for the hardcover and $18 for the paperback, plus shipping and handling. A downloadable copy of the full cover for use by the media can be found in Oregon Blue Book Assets and Information here.

Registration Is Now Open For The Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K Run for the Trees

Oregon Parks Forever  —    Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  Registration is now open for the 2025 Run for the Trees at www.orparksforever.org.

Participants can run, walk, hike, skate, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 19 and 27 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15.

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

Gather your friends, family and/or colleagues and create your own walk or run. Make it fun!

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

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its fifth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include ten other states. Together, Michigan, Oregon, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Maryland and Virginia will “lock arms” as they help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to partner with Bob Ross, Inc. and these other ten states on the Happy Little 5K concept as a way to honor the late Bob Ross and create a legacy event to plant trees,” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.”

Oregon Parks Forever joined this event as an expansion of our efforts to fund the replanting of trees killed by wildfires, heat domes and invasive insects.  Over the past three years, Oregon Parks Forever has been able to fund the replanting of more than 800,000 trees across Oregon.

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

Department Of Revenue Volunteers Will Help Taxpayers Use Direct File Oregon To E-file Their Taxes For Free At Libraries Across The State

Salem, OR—Oregonians looking for assistance in electronically filing their taxes for free, could find help as close as their local library this tax season.

Volunteers from the Oregon Department of Revenue will be traveling to libraries in 17 different communities across the state in February, March, and April to assist taxpayers in using the free combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon to complete their returns.

The one-day tax help clinics are planned at libraries in:

Bandon	North Bend
Burns	Prineville
Coquille	Pendleton
Cornelius	Roseburg
The Dalles	Salem
Klamath Falls	Seaside
Lebanon	Sweet Home
McMinnville	Toledo
	Tualatin

Dates, times, and addresses for each clinic can be found on the Free Direct File assistance at local libraries webpage.

Last year, more than 140,000 taxpayers in 12 other states filed their federal tax returns using a limited IRS Direct File pilot program while nearly 7,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns using the free, state-only Direct File Oregon option.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced in May that it would make IRS Direct File a permanent option for taxpayers and invited all 50 states to participate. Oregon was the first of 13 new states to accept the invitation from the IRS in June creating a seamless free e-filing system for both federal and state taxes.

With the two direct file systems connected, the IRS estimates that 640,000 Oregon taxpayers will be able to e-file both their federal and state returns for free in 2025.

The department believes that offering free assistance will help maximize the number of Oregonians who choose to use the new free option and make it possible for many who don’t have a filing requirement to file and claim significant federal and state tax credits for low-income families.

For example, the IRS estimates that one in five Oregon taxpayers eligible to claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit are not doing so. One Oregon organization estimates that the unclaimed credits have totaled nearly $100 million in recent years.

Taxpayers should use the IRS eligibility checker to see if they’ll be able to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon. Eligible taxpayers should set up an IRS online account and an account with Oregon’s Revenue Online before they come to an event. Taxpayers attending an event should bring the following information with them.

Identification documents

• Social security card or ITIN for everyone on your tax return
• Government picture ID for taxpayer and spouse if filing jointly (such as driver’s license or passport)

Common income and tax documents

• Forms W2 (wages from a job)

• Forms 1099 (other kinds of income)
• Form SSA-1099 (Social Security Benefits)

Optional documents to download

• Canceled check or bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
• Last year’s tax return

Taxpayers can signup for the new “Oregon Tax Tips” direct email newsletter to keep up with information about tax return filing and how to claim helpful tax credits.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Sites Open in Oregon: Program Provides Free Tax Prep to Thousands of Older Adults

 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is providing free preparation now through April 15 throughout Oregon. Started in 1968, Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program and has served more than 80 million people. For the 2024 tax season, nearly 28,000 volunteers helped almost 1.7 million taxpayers, 965,000 of whom were adults over 50 with low income. Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS, and AARP membership is not required.

“During the 2024 tax season, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers completed over 19,400 federal returns and 18,500 state returns in Oregon with refunds of nearly $39 million,” said AARP Oregon State Director Bandana Shrestha. “Even modest refunds can make an impact on financial resilience, especially for vulnerable older adults. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide helps put money back in the pockets of Oregonians every year by making sure they don’t miss out on the credits and deductions they have earned.”

Tax-Aide volunteers provide free tax preparation and filing services to all with a focus on adults with low to moderate income. Volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year to ensure they understand the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers a variety of options to better meet the needs of taxpayers. Access to the different types of assistance varies by location.

• In-Person Service: Tax preparation is completed by an IRS-certified Tax-Aide volunteer on-site in one visit.
• One-Visit Scan: Tax documents are scanned at the Tax-Aide site and then Tax-Aide volunteers prepare the return remotely.
• Two-Visit Scan: Tax documents are scanned at the Tax-Aide site and then volunteers prepare the return remotely. During a second visit, taxpayers work with a volunteer to finalize their return and obtain a printed copy for their records.

• Drop-Off Service: Tax documents are left at the Tax-Aide site with a volunteer and the return is prepared remotely. During a second visit, taxpayers work with a volunteer to file their return and obtain a printed copy and their original documents.
• No Site Visit Required (Internet Access Required): Taxpayers upload tax documents to the IRS-provided software. Tax-Aide volunteers prepare the return remotely and work with the taxpayer to file the return electronically.
• Online Coaching: Taxpayers prepare their own return and receive online support from a volunteer to help them along the way.

• Facilitated Self-Assistance: Taxpayers schedule an appointment at a Tax-Aide site to work with a volunteer to complete and file their own return.
• Self-Preparation: Taxpayers prepare their own return using a software product that has been made available through the Tax-Aide website.

Users can find their nearest Tax-Aide location and assistance options through the Tax-Aide site locator. The site locator features a Tax-Aide chat bot that can help book an appointment, answer questions about the program, and transfer the conversation to a live agent if needed or requested. For more information, including which documents to bring to the tax site, visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669) 

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