Oregon Beach News, Friday 7/31 – Major Investigation Into Curry County Sheriff’s Office For Misuse Of Donations, Ocean Monitoring Equipment Being Restored Along the Coast & 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, July 31, 2026

Oregon Beach Weather

Here’s the overview of our weather outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

Major Investigation Into Curry County Sheriff’s Office For Misuse Of Donations

A major investigation out of Curry County is underway as multiple donations to the sheriff’s office went undisclosed to the county. The former and current sheriff are at the center of the investigation, as the county says they used the funds for “personal gain.”

Oregon officials have accused the Curry County Sheriff’s Office of improperly using hundreds of thousands of dollars in private foundation donations over more than a decade, alleging the money paid for personal and agency-related purchases outside the county’s normal budgeting process. County leaders say the findings have prompted referrals to state ethics officials, while a separate federal investigation is also underway.

The Curry County Board of Commissioners announced Monday that a review of financial records uncovered nearly $390,000 in expenditures made between 2009 and 2023 using donations from the John G. Atkins Foundation, a nonprofit that has long supported public agencies and schools in the financially challenged southern Oregon county. Commissioners said the sheriff’s office allegedly bypassed county rules governing donated funds and failed to properly account for some expenditures.

Between 2009 and 2023, tax documents showed the John G. Atkins Foundation made several donations amounting to around $390,000 to the sheriff’s office. It is protocol that donations are recorded and deposited into restricted accounts, ensuring appropriate use. The county says they have no records of these funds.

However, the foundation’s records show portions of the funds were used to buy vehicles titled to former Sheriff John Bishop and current Sheriff John Ward. The county said these vehicles were not insured, which would be required to be used for any sheriff’s office operations. Funds were also used for other miscellaneous items, such as a retirement party for Bishop and a warehouse built at Sheriff Ward’s personal property.

Tax documents show about $75,000 of the donations were used by Bishop, who also pleaded guilty to First Degree Theft in connection with embezzling funds from the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association in 2019.

And more than $125,000 of donations were used by Sheriff Ward, who also faced controversy of improper purchase, acquisition and sale of county owned ammunition.

County officials said they referred the matter to the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, alleging what they described as a longstanding pattern of using public resources for personal benefit. Board Chair Jay Trost said county officials had repeatedly requested inventories of sheriff’s office assets over several years but claimed those requests were not fulfilled.

According to county leaders, the review identified more than $125,000 in purchases during Sheriff John Ward’s tenure. Among the items cited were vehicles, a travel trailer, recreational equipment and a metal storage building constructed on property owned by Ward. Commissioners contend the project increased the value of his private property while being funded through foundation donations intended to support the sheriff’s office.

County records referenced by commissioners include a 2019 declaration signed by Ward stating that a metal building purchased with foundation funds was erected on his property because the sheriff’s office lacked another location for storage. The building was reportedly intended to house search-and-rescue equipment and trailers.

Officials also questioned the purchase of a travel trailer valued at nearly $30,000 that was reportedly titled to Ward, along with a jet ski, trailer and off-road vehicle that county leaders said remain in his possession. Commissioners said they also could not determine how more than $90,000 in foundation money had ultimately been spent.

The board’s review also examined spending under former Sheriff John Bishop, identifying approximately $75,000 in foundation-funded purchases that included a jet boat, an off-road vehicle and roughly $15,000 for Bishop’s retirement celebration, which county leaders said included entertainment and other expenses.

Bishop later served as executive director of the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association and was convicted in 2019 of stealing from the organization, according to public court records. County officials did not allege that conviction was connected to the current investigation involving foundation donations.

The latest findings follow an earlier county investigation into the purchase and resale of about $10,000 worth of ammunition acquired in 2020 during a nationwide shortage. County officials said much of the ammunition was later sold to sheriff’s office employees, including Ward, though the sheriff has denied wrongdoing.

The county also filed a complaint with the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, which oversees law enforcement certification. Agency officials confirmed they received the complaint and said Ward will have an opportunity to respond before any potential review by a policy committee. The agency noted it does not oversee financial operations of public safety agencies.

The full press release and statement from Commissioner Trost can be found online. This matter is under criminal investigation, and the county states it is seeking civil remedies to restore and protect the public’s interest.

Ocean Monitoring Equipment Being Restored Along the Coast

Scientists have begun to re-deploy ocean monitoring equipment yanked from Pacific Northwest waters by the Trump administration in September

On Monday, an autonomous underwater vehicle called a glider slipped gently off the stern of the Research Vessel Elakha and into the Pacific Ocean about 10 miles offshore from Newport.

Resembling a 6-foot yellow torpedo with wings, the glider is quietly motoring north to waters off Washington state while measuring conditions including rising ocean temperatures and sagging oxygen levels. Three times a day, after diving as much as 3,000 feet deep, it surfaces to transmit its oceanographic data by satellite and receive new instructions from its shore-based operators.

Another glider, launched earlier in July, is monitoring the depths off Newport, Oregon.

Oregon State University oceanographer Ed Dever said low oxygen levels are a threat to high-value species like Dungeness crabs.

“Off of both Oregon and Washington, it’s often the case that we see low oxygen waters in the summer months,” Dever said. “So that’s the initial kind of payoff that we get from putting these things back in the water now.”

The larger, stationary observatories that the Trump administration quietly removed last September will take longer to put back.

Researchers plan to redeploy two floating observatories in October and another four in spring 2027.

The ocean-watching equipment is part of the National Science Foundation’s Ocean Observatories Initiative, which monitors surface and underwater conditions 24/7 off Alaska, North Carolina, the Pacific Northwest, and Greenland.

The high-tech buoys keep the pulse of the oceans as their temperature and chemistry rapidly change. The buoys also provide real-time updates to Dungeness crabbers and other mariners heading out into possibly dangerous waves. The science foundation calls the observatories “the most technologically advanced observational networks in the oceans.”

In June, the Trump administration backed down from its push to dismantle the observatory networks, with Pacific Northwest devices already removed and others to be pulled by 2027, after pushback from the public and Congress.

“We are so happy that these are going back in, especially in the face of this El Niño,” said Quinault Indian Nation fisheries biologist Joe Schumacker.

The weather phenomenon known as El Niño can boost ocean temperatures and wreak havoc on fisheries.

Schumacker said the mooring to be re-deployed in October, 15 miles off shore off Westport, Washington, is about halfway to where Quinault tribal fishing boats are currently bottom-fishing for sablefish.

“It can tell us if low oxygen is occurring or temperatures are rising and can tell our fishermen if it’s economically viable to go fishing in those areas,” he said.Left to right, a 7,000-pound anchor, an Ocean Observatories Initiative buoy, and an autonomous, data-gathering glider sit on the deck of the R/V Sally Ride after being removed from the Pacific Ocean off Oregon on June 16, 2026. (Jack Barth/Oregon State University)

Dever, the Oregon State University oceanographer, said he doesn’t know why the National Science Foundation ordered the observatories to be removed.

“ There’s all kinds of speculation out there, but I don’t know myself personally,” Dever said. “We weren’t given a really great explanation.”

In an emailed statement in June, National Science Foundation spokesperson Mike England said that the agency remained committed to ocean science despite dismantling — or “descoping” — its ocean-observation network.

“The decision to descope aligns with NSF’s wider strategy of a nimbler approach to prioritize support for evolving scientific priorities and emerging technologies, as well as smart lifecycle management within its research infrastructure portfolio,” he said.

The removal of the equipment for a year or more leaves a permanent gap in the long-term data collected by the instruments.

”The toughest thing about this is to have that gap in the data,” Dever said. “Once it’s out, it’s out, and we’ll never know what the story was in between there.”

Dever said it takes time to get space on specialized research ships used to install the massive observatories, which are currently sitting in a warehouse in Corvallis, Oregon.

Moorings being redeployed in October got space on board the Research Vessel Roger Revelle, operated by Scripps Institution of Oceanography out of San Diego.

“I’m thrilled and it cannot come too quickly,” University of Washington oceanographer Jan Newton said by email. She called the disruption unfortunate. “I’m a glass half full person,” Newton said. “Losing the year’s data is a real bummer, but getting back the time series is fantastic.” (SOURCE)

Join us for the 7th Annual Pride in the Park on Saturday, August 1, from 11 AM–3 PM at Mingus Park in Coos Bay! This year’s celebration is our biggest yet, with the largest number of booths we’ve ever had, plus exciting new activities and spaces to enjoy!

Southern Oregon Dwarf Cars Saturday August 1 in Coos Bay

The Southern Oregon Dwarf Cars make their final appearance of the 2026 season at Coos Bay Speedway on Saturday, August 1, joining the NASCAR Local Racing Series presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts for an exciting night of racing on the NASCAR Dirt Oval.

Make plans now to join us on Saturday, August 1, for the final Southern Oregon Dwarf Car appearance of 2026 and another exciting night of NASCAR Local Racing Series action at Coos Bay Speedway.

These lightning-fast, high-horsepower machines have become a fan favorite thanks to their close, wheel-to-wheel competition and nonstop action. If you haven’t had the chance to see them this season, or want one last opportunity before they return in 2027, this is the night to be at Coos Bay Speedway.

The NASCAR Local Racing Series presented by O’Reilly Auto Parts will also be in action as drivers continue their battle for valuable championship points. With the season winding down, every position on the track becomes more important, setting the stage for an intense night of racing from green flag to checkered flag.

Gates open at 4:00 p.m., with racing beginning at 6:00 p.m. Come hungry and enjoy great food from the speedway concessions while cooling off with an ice-cold beverage from the on site 7 Devils Brew House as you take in one of the best nights of dirt track racing on the Oregon Coast.

Whale Watching Center Prepares to Close for Repairs Beginning August 1st

Depoe Bay, Ore. — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s Whale Watching Center and viewing area around the building will close for repairs this summer. There are still plenty of places along the Oregon Coast to see whales from Astoria to Brookings.

“This has been an ongoing need for the building and we’ve just recently been able to secure funding,” said Park Manager Burke Martin. “We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we work to protect and preserve this unique coastal facility.”

The postwar-era building was built in 1956 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. This temporary closure will allow the contractors to complete essential roof replacement work. Construction will repair leaks from the promenade deck, replace the original roofing membrane and drains.

Construction can begin as early as Aug. 1 depending on the contractor’s schedule and mobilization plans. Because this is a roofing project on the Oregon coast, construction during the summer months will allow work crews to take advantage of typically drier weather. This timing helps reduce the risk of weather-related delays and protects both the structure and contractor safety.

The Whale Watching Center will remain open until construction officially begins. OPRD anticipates completing repairs by the end of October – well ahead of the annual gray whale migration in the winter.

We acknowledge that this temporary closure may be inconvenient for visitors and the Depoe Bay community, and we appreciate everyone’s understanding as we complete these essential improvements.

The turn out about a block north of the Whale Watching Center will remain open. Nearby parks such as Boiler Bay, Rocky Creek and Cape Foulweather also offer fantastic views for whale watching. 

Bacon sold at numerous Lane County Grocery Outlet stores including Florence has been recalled

Over 12,000 pounds of bacon was recalled by Maple Leaf Foods because of an import violation, according to a July 24 notice from the Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The bacon was imported “without the benefit of import reinspection into the United States,” the FSIS notice said.

The recall is for not-ready-to-eat smoked bacon from Maple Leaf Foods distributed to Grocery Outlets in several states, including Oregon.

No illness or injury have been reported with these products, but those who may have them are encouraged to throw them away or return them.

Recalled bacon was distributed to the Grocery Outlet stores in Cottage Grove, Eugene, Florence, Junction City, Springfield, and Veneta, according to a distribution list published by the FSIS. The specific products include:

• 12-ounce vacuum packages of: “Royale Natural Applewood Smoked All Natural Uncured Bacon Product of Canada” with sell by dates of Sept. 1, 2026, or Sept. 7, 2026.

• 12-ounce vacuum packages of: “Top Valu Uncured Hardwood Smoked Bacon Product of Canada” with sell by dates of Sept. 1, 2026, Sept. 2, 2026, Sept. 4, 2026, Sept. 5, 2026 and Sept. 7, 2026.

The recalled products were produced in June, the FSIS said. The products will also have “EST. 1” printed on them.

Kenny McMillen is an intern at the Statesman Journal. Reach him at KMcMillen@statesmanjournal.com This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Bacon sold at numerous Lane County Grocery Outlet stores recalled

Air Academy Cancelled – Focus Turns to ’27 Event

The 2026 Florence Air Academy has been canceled after eight years of providing local youth with hands-on aviation experiences. Following the announcement, the Boys & Girls Club of Western Lane County and the City of Florence released statements explaining their perspectives on why the program will not move forward this year.

The Boys & Girls Club of Western Lane County announced the eight-year-old program will not take place this year, citing what it called “unforeseen operational restrictions” affecting the Florence Municipal Airport. The organization says those restrictions made it impossible to move forward and added that the Florence Hangar Owners Association is working with the City to bring the program back next year.

The City of Florence, however, says it did not cancel the event. Assistant City Manager Megan Messmer says the Air Academy was approved in March, that approval remained in place, and nothing in City policy prevented it from taking place.

The City also says a new Special Events fee would not have applied to the Air Academy and has not yet been implemented. The City says it learned of the cancellation through public inquiries and hopes the program can return in 2027.

Congresswoman Val Hoyle visited Florence on Wednesday to tour a low-income housing development, meet with local families, and discuss permitting and mitigation challenges with community leaders. She also addressed regulatory hurdles involving the Army Corps of Engineers and the Oregon Department of State Lands regarding environmental mitigation and local housing needs.

Identification Made in 50-Year-Old Coos County Cold Case

News Release: https://bit.ly/3TgVD8 — fAfter more than 50 years, the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office and the Coos County Sheriff’s Office have identified remains found in 1972 near Highway 101 as Armes Henry Lahti.

The breakthrough came through advanced forensic genetic genealogy and years of collaborative investigative work. Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact the Coos County Sheriff’s Office at 541‑396‑7800.

One weekend- countless great flavors to try! Don’t miss the Annual Food Truck Off at @kokwelcasinoresort Coos Bay on Oregon’s Adventure Coast August 7-9, 2026!

This three-day event will feature up to 20 food trucks from the Pacific Northwest. Bring the whole family for a weekend of fun and vote for your favorite truck for the People’s Choice Award!

Coming in from out of town? Take advantage of our $75 Fuel Freebie promotion and get a $75 Gift Card to help cover the cost of gas! Visit oregonsadventurecoast.com/events to learn more about this and other events happening this summer on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston!

Heceta Head Lighthouse Shines Again Now That Repairs Completed

After nearly five months of darkness due to mechanical repairs, the Heceta Head Lighthouse south of Yachats is again shining its light

The light in the Heceta Head lighthouse was turned on again Thursday, July 23, after repairs to gears that rotate its 10-foot-tall lens. 

Specialists from Welch’s Machine Works in Eugene finished work last week on the huge carriage wheels that allow the lighthouse’s 10-foot-tall lens to rotate, according to media reports.

The old wheels, which lasted 13 years, were replaced with bronze versions. Repairs also included resurfacing the metal base upon which the wheels traveled.

The lighthouse’s lighting mechanism—known as a first-order Fresnel lens, designed by a French physicist and ordered in 1893 from a British company—was first lit on March 30, 1894, The Lincoln Chronicle reports.

The light, housed atop the 56-foot-tall lighthouse tower, shines a beam so powerful it can be seen 21 nautical miles out to sea. Heceta Head Lighthouse sits 206 feet above the Pacific Ocean just off Highway 101.

“The iconic 56-foot tower, and stunning setting, make it one of the most photographed on the Oregon Coast. The light atop the tower was first illuminated in 1894. Its automated beacon, seen 21 miles from land, is rated as the strongest light on the Oregon Coast,” the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department states on its website.

The upper floors of the light house are closed to the public, but the public can visit the first floor of the lighthouse from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the summer (March through October) and 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the winter (November through February), weather and staff permitting.

Get ready, Florence — Florence Feud is back, and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever!

Join the Florence Food Share for a fun-filled evening of friendly competition and giving back to the community at the “Florence Feud” event! This live “Survey Says” parody game will take place on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the Three Rivers Casino Resort and will feature Florence residents. Your ticket includes a delicious light meal, a cash bar, and access to a great silent auction featuring a wide variety of items. Doors open at 5:30 pm, and the game starts promptly at 6:00 pm.

This event is a fundraiser for the Florence Food Share, and we need your help to make it a success. Individual tickets are priced at $45, and tables of 8 can be purchased for $385 and are on sale. You can find more information about the event at FlorenceFoodShare.org or call 541-997-9110 to learn more. Join us for a night of fun, food, and friendly competition while supporting a great cause; we can’t do this without you!

Most of the seats on the Seaside City Council will be up for election this November. All except one.

City leaders had hoped to appoint someone to the vacant Ward 3 seat this summer in time to also get that seat on the ballot in November. Whoever was appointed would serve through the end of this year. But no one applied,

Now the city’s is taking applications for the appointment until the seat is filled. Whoever is appointed will now serve out the rest of this year and through the next two years.

The Ward 3 seat became vacant following a successful recall election of former city councilor Seamus McVey.

Any applicant for the seat must have been a full-time resident of Seaside for at least the previous 12 months. They must be a current resident of Ward 3 and a registered voter. They also need to obtain 20 signatures from registered voters in the ward and complete an online application.

Six of the seven seats on the Seaside City Council will be on the ballot in November, including the position of mayor.

As of July 22, only incumbent Mayor Steve Wright, who is pursuing a second term, had met the filing requirements to be a candidate.

Incumbents have until August 18 to file. All other candidates have until August 25.

Cape Perpetua Collaborative  ·We’ve got some fabulous events over the next couple of weeks that you won’t want to miss

!We kick things off on July 21st, with Riley Bellows Young Wavemaker Webinar presentation online, followed on July 31st in Portland for a multi documentary screening (one is about CPC!) at OMSI’s Empirical Theater!On Aug 2nd, swim by @oregoncoastaquarium for all things ROCKFISH don’t miss the Cape Perpetua Collaborative table for coveted BOFFFF stickers Aug 7-9th is the Annual Nesika Illahee Pow-Wow in Siletz! Get your dance sponsorships in before the big weekend Last but certainly not least, our friends at @foxflower.farm are hosting String and Shadow Puppet Theater on Aug 9th at the Yachats Commons Enjoy a beer in the beer garden at Pelican Brewery’s new Yachats location before the show- proceeds are donated to The Cape Perpetua Collaborative

Nearly 50 years after the bodies of two teens from Alaska were found on the Oregon coast, authorities are still seeking answers into the unsolved case.

In 1978, Teresa M. Krause and Elena Jacobs were reported missing by the Tongue Point Job Corps center in Astoria.

Later that year, their bodies were found in the area of Del Rey Beach near Gearhart. Alisha Holland and Josh McCulloug, co-hosts of the Murder in the Rain podcast, joined us on AM Extra’s True Crime Tuesday to look back at the unsolved double homicide. https://www.murderintherain.com

Newport Symposium Will Bring Researchers Together to Discuss West Coast’s Gray Whales

Range-wide Gray Whale Science Symposium Coordinated by the Marine Mammal Commission and hosted by the Marine Mammal Institute at Oregon State University — Hatfield Marine Science Center, Newport, Oregon — September 9-10, 2026

Experts from every part of the whales’ historic range, from Mexico to the Arctic, will discuss recent trends in health, feeding behavior, distribution and population dynamics. They will also try to identify priorities for future research, monitoring and coordination among both public and private groups studying gray whale health.

A public range-wide Gray Whale Science Symposium will take place on September 9–10, 2026, coordinated by the Marine Mammal Commission and hosted by the Marine Mammal Institute at Oregon State University in Newport, Oregon.

This two-day scientific meeting will focus on gray whale ecology and health across the Eastern North Pacific (ENP) and Arctic and will synthesize current research and observations to improve understanding of recent trends in health, feeding behavior, distribution, and population dynamics, and to identify priorities for future research, monitoring, and coordination.

The Symposium goals are to:

1) Review gray whale ecology and health status in the context of recent marine ecosystem variability in the ENP and Arctic;

2) Outline future priorities for gray whale ecology research and health surveillance and monitoring to help fill identified data gaps and address management objectives;

3) Enhance communication amongst scientists from Mexico, USA and Canada monitoring and conducting research on gray whale population status, health and ecology; and

4) Produce a workshop report summarizing presentations and recommendations for future directions.

Meeting Format

Day 1: Presentations and poster session 
Invited oral presentations will provide a range-wide overview of gray whale status, trends, feeding ecology and health followed by an evening poster session highlighting additional research and observations. Day 1 oral presentations will be available both in person and remotely.

Day 2: Facilitated discussions and synthesis 
Structured discussions will focus on key themes, knowledge gaps, and future priorities, with the goal of identifying areas for coordination and next steps.

Note: The Day 1 evening poster session and Day 2 discussions are in-person only. 

Registration Register here! Registration is open to all interested participants. Note: IN-PERSON REGISTRATION IS FULL but you can still register to attend virtually or join the waitlist to attend in-person. https://www.mmc.gov/events-meetings-and-workshops/other-events/gray-whale-science-symposium/

Florence Chamber to Host Ambassador Conference

The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce will host the 2026 Oregon State Chamber Ambassador Conference October 1st through 3rd at Three Rivers Casino Resort. The annual event will bring Chamber Ambassador volunteers from communities across Oregon to Florence for leadership training, professional development, and networking. Chamber President and CEO Bettina Hannigan says the conference is an opportunity to showcase Florence as a destination for meetings and conventions while generating business for local hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions. Organizers expect hundreds of attendees from throughout the state.

Reedsport Fire Department Seeks Volunteer Ham Radio Operators

The Reedsport Volunteer Fire Department is looking for volunteers interested in becoming licensed ham radio operators to support emergency communications in western Douglas County. Training is online and offered at no charge.

The Reedsport Volunteer Fire Department is looking for volunteers interested in becoming licensed ham radio operators to support emergency communications in western Douglas County.

The volunteers would work with the Western Douglas County Emergency Operations Center, located at the Reedsport Fire Station at 2680 Frontage Road.

According to the department, training is offered online at no charge. A background check is required for anyone interested in the volunteer positions.

Ham radio operators can play an important role during major emergencies, especially when normal communication systems are down. In those situations, radio operators may help keep local emergency officials connected with county, state and federal agencies.

The department said the positions are vital because ham radio could become one of the last available ways to communicate during an emergency incident.

Anyone interested in learning more can contact Melvina Adolf at 928-200-0979 or the Reedsport Fire Department at 541-271-2423.

WLCF Education Scholarships

The Western Lane Community Foundation is accepting applications for Continuing Education Scholarships for the upcoming academic year. Scholarships are available for students attending four-year colleges, community colleges, and approved trade schools, with award amounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. Students pursuing careers in health care, arts, and education are especially encouraged to apply.

Applicants are automatically considered for all scholarships they qualify for, with criteria varying by fund and including academic achievement, financial need, field of study, and school choice. Applications require information on educational background, career goals, and financial circumstances. The deadline to apply is July 22. More information is available through the Western Lane Community Foundation: https://www.wlcfonline.org

Oregon Whale Sightings

Oregon Whale Sightings is a fun place to hear about and report cetaceans along our beautiful coastline.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1176168644064352/

North Jetty Access Closed

Lane County has announced the long-term closure of North Jetty Road in Florence. The closure, which began Tuesday, May 26th, stretches from Harbor Vista Road to the entrance of North Jetty Park and is expected to continue through Friday, September 4th.

County officials say the closure is necessary as crews rebuild parking lots for North Jetty Park and the nearby dive park along North Jetty Road. There are no alternate vehicle routes available during the construction period, however access to the North Jetty beach can still be reached by the outlet near Driftwood Shores. Officials encourage visitors to plan ahead and avoid the area while work is underway.

Puffin Season on the Oregon Coast

The beautiful, beloved tufted puffins are expected back at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, where the 2026 Welcome the Puffins Celebration will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. April 18.

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.

Organized by the Haystack Rock Awareness Program and Friends of Haystack Rock, the free event will not only celebrate the return of the puffins to their Oregon nesting grounds but also give the public the chance to spy on the birds as well. Interpretive rangers will be on hand with binoculars and spotting scopes to help people safely observe the tufted puffins.

Respect Nesting Areas to Protect Threatened Snowy Plover Mar. 15 through Sept. 15

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Siuslaw National Forest remind visitors to the Oregon Coast that western snowy plover nesting season begins March 15 and runs through Sept. 15.

Beachgoers can help recovery efforts for the threatened shorebird by observing recreation restrictions at designated plover beaches.

Sensitive plover nesting areas are identified on maps for the northern Oregon Coast and southern Oregon Coast. Western snowy plovers nest in dry sand above the high tide line and are often difficult to see because they camouflage well.

To help protect these tiny shorebirds, please stay on wet sand and leave your dogs at home or at your campsite, even if they are leashed. Visitors may notice signs at trailheads with additional rules and limitations. There may be rope fencing in dry sand areas; this fencing delineates some, but not all, of the critical plover habitat that should be avoided.

Background on plover protections — Several land managers oversee beach activity for plover protection, primarily the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). For more information on how plovers are managed in Oregon, see the Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP): https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PCB/Documents/WSP-HCP_08182010-web.pdf.

Donor Offers $50K Reward in 40-Year-Old Case of Missing Oregon Coast Teen

Lincoln County authorities hope the recent offer from an anonymous donor of a $50,000 reward will lead to the remains of a 17-year-old Siletz girl who was last seen walking on U.S. 20 more than four decades ago.

An anonymous donor put up money hoping it will spur information that leads not only to Kelly Disney’s remains but also to the conviction of her killer, according to the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

The DA’s Office has confirmed that an anonymous donor offered the reward for any information leading to Disney’s remains and/or the conviction of her killer.

Information can be submitted anonymously at 541-265-0669 or online at FindKellyDisney@co.lincoln.or.us

READ MORE on CASE: https://lincolnchronicle.org/15597-2/

Wildlife Center of the North Coast · We need your help! 

Make a difference in wildlife rescue! Join our Wild at Heart Membership Program starting at just $5/month. Help us save lives! https://coastwildlife.org/wild-at-heart/

It’s been a busy summer here at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast, and our rehab clinic has gone through lots of supplies caring for patients!!

->> To help us restock and stay prepared for the next wave of wildlife in need, we’ve updated our Amazon Wishlist with the items we need most. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/LU97SQA0VPZA

Every donation—big or small—goes directly to helping orphaned, injured, and sick wildlife get a second chance at life. Check out our wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/LU97SQA0VPZA Thank you for being part of our wildlife rescue family! 

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.

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

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

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

Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?

Here are resources that can help:

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

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

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

7/31/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

Oregon state agencies remind everyone to be informed and prepared 

Photo taken of the East Evans Creek Road Fire by OEM Public Safety Communications Specialist, Jeff Perkins.

— With the National Weather Service issuing a fire weather watch for Saturday across large portions of north‑central, northeast and southeast Oregon, the state’s public safety services, natural resource agencies, and tourism office want to remind residents and visitors to practice wildfire prevention, prepare their home and a go-bag for evacuation, and know where to go for real-time alerts and information. 

According to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center’s predictive services, each year the Pacific Northwest is at elevated risk of significant fires from now until October. With fire crews responding to new fire starts every day, Oregonians and our visitors need to be prepared for wildfires, help prevent future ones, and be aware of up-to-date conditions as they travel across the state.

How can people help prevent wildfires?

The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging the public to actively practice wildfire prevention as the state continues to put out new fires every day. Additional human-caused fires on the landscape will draw the firefighting efforts away from the lightning-caused fires and put extra strain on ground and aviation resources, which are already spread thin. YOU can help prevent wildfires by:

• Checking and following your local fire regulations. The majority of the state is either in high or extreme fire danger right now, meaning even the smallest of sparks could start the next large wildfire.
• Debris burning may be prohibited where you live.
  • Check local restrictions or contact your local ODF office.
  • Return to check on your burn site if you burned earlier in the year.
• Make sure your car has been recently serviced to avoid faulty parts throwing sparks.
• Don’t drag tow chains.
• Avoid parking vehicles on tall, dry grass.
• Recreate responsibly. Where campfires are allowed, make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel and repeating that process until it is cold to the touch. If there is heat coming off it, there are still embers that could reignite.

Take Simple Steps to Protect Your Home from Wildfire

The Oregon State Fire Marshal reminds Oregonians that summer is not the safest time to tackle large landscaping or defensible space projects. Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of starting a fire from using tools or equipment. There are small, safe steps you can take now to reduce wildfire risk around your home. The Oregon State Fire Marshal encourages everyone to plan ahead and do light cleanup tasks that protect your property without increasing fire danger.

Easy tasks to reduce risk in the first five feet around your home:

• Clear leaves, pine needles, and other debris from your roof, gutters, and under decks.
• Trim plants and bushes that are touching your home or growing under roof eaves. Give trees and shrubs space from each other and from structures.
• Remove dead plants and wood mulch. Use nonflammable materials like rocks or gravel near your home. Avoid bark mulch or dry grasses right next to buildings.
• Move firewood, propane tanks, and other flammable items at least five feet away from your home.
• Cover attic vents, soffit vents, and spaces under decks with 1/8-inch metal mesh to block embers.

Avoid using power tools or equipment that could spark a fire, especially during the heat of the day. Summer is a good time to plan defensible space projects, so you’re ready to work safely once wildfire season ends.

For more tips or help with defensible space, visit www.oregondefensiblespace.org or https://preventwildfires.oregon.gov.

How can I prepare myself in case I need to evacuate?

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies by knowing evacuation levels, staying informed, having a plan, and having a go-kit ready.

Evacuation Levels

• Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system, each structured around safety threat level.
• Oregonians should become familiar with “Be Ready, Be Set, Go!” evacuation levels to make informed decisions when receiving evacuation notices.
• OEM urges people to evacuate whenever they feel unsafe, conditions can change rapidly; individuals should always make the best decision for their safety.
• Following evacuation, people should not return to the area until public safety officials state it is safe.

Stay Informed

• Stay informed, sign up to receive evacuation at, ORAlert.gov remember to update information if need be.
• Find the websites for your county emergency management, sheriff’s office, or tribal police and follow them on social media.
• Check your phone settings to ensure wireless emergency alerts are turned on.
• Build redundancy into how you can access alerts. Have a personal C.E plan for what you will do if your cell phone stops working. A good place to start is a hand-cranked NOAA radio.
• If you use a third-party app for alerts and situational awareness and notice discrepancy information, default to the information provided by your local emergency management office.

Have a Plan

• Do you know what to do during an evacuation? This evacuation checklist explains what to do before, during and after an evacuation.
• Establish a communication plan with a list of important contacts and a safe place for loved ones to meet if they are separated during an emergency.
• Identify multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school and plan for transportation needs.
• People with disabilities should consider individual circumstances and specific needs when planning for evacuation, such as special equipment, transportation, and service animals. Then plan extra time, when possible, this may mean treating a level 2 notice like a level 3 notice.
• Have an evacuation plan for pets, make a pet evacuation kit in a tote bag or pet crate, and plan for transportation and sheltering of large animals such as horses and other livestock.

Make a Go-Kit

• Assemble an emergency kit of essential supplies that can be grabbed quickly.
• Pack an easy-to-carry backpack or bag for each household member with health and safety items such as food, water, medication, flashlights, phone chargers, clothing, and important documents. Visit American Red Cross to learn more.
• Find more information and resources at Wildfire.Oregon.gov.

Recreate Responsibly

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions. OPRD coordinates with local fire officials throughout the summer and bans open flames in high-risk areas around the state until conditions improve. Please check park webpages or the current fire restrictions list before your next visit. Thank you for helping to reduce the risk of wildfires.

Additionally, many waterways in eastern Oregon are currently being used by firefighting aircraft. Stay clear of the center of major waterways. Recreational boats can block aircraft from accessing the water, which means they will not be able to retrieve water to help put out nearby wildfires.

Occasionally, OPRD will need to evacuate a state park. Evacuations occur at level 2 or earlier depending on fire conditions and the time required to get in and out of the park. Please follow park ranger instructions to pack gear and evacuate. Any park closure information will be posted on the park web page and OPRD social media.

How do I know if I should change my vacation plans? 

Oregon is a large state, and while wildfires can disrupt travel in some regions, those impacts are often localized and can change rapidly as conditions improve or deteriorate. Because of this, it’s important to check current alerts at the resources below to see whether your destination is affected. If you’re looking for general guidance about traveling during wildfire season, read Travel Oregon’s Wildfire Travel FAQ.

Before You Go:

• Check road conditions at TripCheck.com or by calling 511. 
• Review and follow all local fire restrictions and closures. 
• Be aware of air quality conditions that could impact health and visibility. 
• View real-time hazard updates, maps, and fire information through OEM’s Wildfire Dashboard. 
• Sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov and ensure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled on your mobile device. 

Statewide hotline available for Oregonians affected by wildfires and smoke

People anywhere in Oregon who have been affected by wildfires or wildfire-related air quality can call 1-833-699-0554 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The statewide hotline is available to people experiencing any wildfire-related impact, including those who:

• Lost a home or property
• Evacuated and have ongoing needs
• Are sheltering in place and have wildfire-related needs
• Are affected by wildfire smoke or poor air quality
• Have another need or concern caused by a wildfire

“During this difficult wildfire season, Oregonians impacted by fires deserve immediate and reliable access to the help they need,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “That’s why we’ve established a dedicated, 24/7 hotline – so that no Oregonian has to navigate this wildfire season alone or wonder where to turn to for help.”

The hotline is staffed by 211info. If a call is not answered, callers can leave a message and will receive a return call within one business day.

This hotline does not provide emergency evacuation assistance or help people locate immediate shelter. People who are in immediate danger, have a medical emergency, or need emergency help evacuating should call 911. People looking for information about shelters or other immediate resources can call 2-1-1. For current 211info operating hours, visit 211info.org.

People can also enter their contact information and describe their wildfire-related needs using the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form. An ODHS staff member will review the information and follow up with them.

“This wildfire season is already affecting a growing number of Oregon Tribes and communities,” said Ed Flick, Director, ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management. “Wildfires can affect people in many ways, even when their homes have not burned. We want people to know there is one place they can call to share what they are experiencing and learn what resources may be available.”

In previous years the hotline has been used to connect people who lost homes in disasters with recovery support. This year, the Oregon Department of Human Services is expanding it to people experiencing a broader range of wildfire impacts.

ODHS has informally coordinated individual assistance following Oregon disasters since 2020. This year, Governor Tina Kotek directed ODHS to be ready to formally activate individual assistance when needed as the state prepares to establish a formal program in 2027 under House Bill 4121.

211info and ODHS will work with local communities to connect people with existing programs and local resources. If those resources are not enough to meet the level of need, ODHS will work with state leaders to identify additional support and funding options.

The hotline does not guarantee financial assistance or eligibility for a particular program. Staff will listen to each caller’s experience, document their needs and help identify available resources and next steps.

Hotline information

• Call: 1-833-699-0554
• Available: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Missed calls: Leave a message and your call will be returned within one business day
• Shelter and other immediate resource questions: call 211
• Emergencies or emergency evacuation help: call 911

PLAN AHEAD: The National Weather Service has fire weather watches in place for much of Oregon east of the Cascades. We are anticipating a challenging few days ahead with hot, dry conditions and gusty winds expected on Saturday. Please be #WildfireAware.

Know the evacuation levels, make sure you are signed up for emergency alerts, and have a plan in place if you have to evacuate. The weather for Saturday is very concerning for several fires across Oregon. Our teams and wildland partners are working 24/7 to make sure they are prepared for the weekend ahead.

You can find the latest fire weather forecast on www.weather.gov/fireWe are posting updates for fires we have resources assigned to on https://osfminfo.orgSign up for emergency alerts at https://oralert.gov

“The current wildfire situation in Oregon is the worst in the nation—but FEMA denied federal resources for the East Evans Creek Fire and the Rowe Creek Fire Complex. Oregonians deserve answers—and Senator Ron Wyden and I are pressing to get them.”

As Wildfires Burn 1+ Million Acres Across Oregon, Merkley, Wyden Press FEMA on Denial of Emergency Federal Assistance

– Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden demanded urgent answers from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in response to the agency’s denial of Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) for two wildfires in Oregon: the East Evans Creek Fire and Rowe Creek Fire Complex.

Both fires were under Level 3 “Go Now” Evacuation at the time of application, and the Rowe Creek Fire Complex was the largest in the nation. The current fire situation in Oregon remains the worst in the nation.

“FEMA’s decision to deny these FMAGs is a significant departure from FEMA’s historical criteria and agency guidance,” wrote the Senators. “According to State officials, FEMA’s criteria for an FMAG has been, in part, that 150 primary residences must be in immediate threat of wildfire, gauged often as Level 3 ‘Go Now’ Evacuation status. In recent years, State officials have seen an increase to over 200 primary residences as a threshold—which the East Evans Creek Fire and the Rowe Creek Fire Complex had still surpassed.”

The State of Oregon requested financial assistance from FEMA through FMAGs, which help cover costs relating to emergencies and firefighting activities for fires that have the potential to become major disasters. FEMA’s decision to deny these specific FMAGs comes as Oregon faces an increasingly dangerous fire season—with at least 86 active fires burning over 1 million acres and over 33,000 Oregonians under evacuation orders as of July 27, 2026.

“FEMA has also indicated that the East Evans Creek Fire and the Rowe Creek Fire Complex were denied an FMAG because they did not meet the criteria for a major disaster declaration,” the Senators continued. “This is a major shift in administrative policy and contrary to Federal regulation and FEMA’s own policy manual, which states that an FMAG designation is warranted when a fire ‘threatens such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.’ This program is meant to provide resources to fires that have the potential to become major disasters if left unchecked. Resources should not—and are not supposed to be—withheld until a fire becomes so destructive as to receive a major disaster declaration.”

Merkley and Wyden highlighted how FEMA’s inconsistent approval of FMAGs threatens to cause disruptions for first responders and at-risk communities. The Senators pressed FEMA for clear answers on its decision-making and criteria for FMAGs and stand ready to assist in ensuring Oregon has the necessary federal resources to respond to wildfires and keep communities across the state safe.

“We want to stress that this is not the time for creating new or different criteria for accessing this critical funding to support initial attack. As you know, Oregon is strained for resources, and the State is still at the beginning of its wildfire season. We urge the agency to provide clarity and maintain consistency with prior years’ approval process,” the Senators directed.

Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below:

Dear Mr. Fenton and Mr. Maykovich,

We write to express deep concern over the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s handling of the Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program in light of recent events. The State of Oregon is currently in a dire wildfire situation—the worst in the nation—with 86 active fires, as of July 27th, burning over 1 million acres with over 33,000 Oregonians under some level of evacuation and widespread impacts to critical infrastructure, including water and power, affecting alert and warning and 911 capabilities.

While we appreciate FEMA’s approval of FMAGs for select recent fires, including the Lower Dry Creek Fire, Akawa Butte Fire, and Grasshopper Fire, we are deeply concerned by the agency’s denial of FMAGs for the East Evans Creek Fire and Rowe Creek Fire Complex, which at the time of application was the largest fire in the country.

In the case of the East Evans Creek Fire, the State reported that the fire had reached nearly 16,000 acres with over 230 homes at a Level 3 “Go Now” Evacuation and was denied by FEMA on July 22, 2026. The fire was also threatening county, state, and federal roads and bridges, radio and cell towers, gas and private electric utilities, campgrounds, trails, retail businesses, irrigation infrastructure, and agricultural operations.

The Rowe Creek Fire Complex was denied an FMAG under similarly severe circumstances with over 401 people at a Level 3 “Go Now” Evacuation on July 24, 2026. The fire was also threatening private electrical cooperatives, public safety radio, private commercial radio, and transmission lines. Since that denial, the fire has surpassed 200,000 acres and the State is preparing for the Complex to merge with the nearby Brewer Fire.

FEMA’s decision to deny these FMAGs is a significant departure from FEMA’s historical criteria and agency guidance. According to State officials, FEMA’s criteria for an FMAG has been, in part, that 150 primary residences must be in immediate threat of wildfire, gauged often as Level 3 “Go Now” Evacuation status. In recent years, State officials have seen an increase to over 200 primary residences as a threshold—which the East Evans Creek Fire and the Rowe Creek Fire Complex had still surpassed.

FEMA has also indicated that the East Evans Creek Fire and the Rowe Creek Fire Complex were denied an FMAG because they did not meet the criteria for a major disaster declaration. This is a major shift in administrative policy and contrary to Federal regulation and FEMA’s own policy manual, which states that an FMAG designation is warranted when a fire “threatens such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.” This program is meant to provide resources to fires that have the potential to become major disasters if left unchecked. Resources should not—and are not supposed to be—withheld until a fire becomes so destructive as to receive a major disaster declaration.

Inconsistent criteria for the approval of FMAGs is creating unnecessary confusion for emergency responders. For this reason, we request further information on FEMA’s decision-making and criteria for FMAG approvals and denials. Please provide a response to the following no later than August 10, 2026:

1. Pursuant to 44 CFR 204.21, what criteria is being used to determine a fire’s eligibility for an FMAG? Please include all quantitative metrics.
   • Explain how the East Evans Creek Fire and Rowe Creek Complex Fire did not meet each of these criteria.
2. Who at the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA is involved in determining an FMAG designation, and what guidance has been issued to the officials involved in determining an FMAG designation? Please provide copies of all relevant guidance, including informal communications and official documents.
3. Which FMAG eligibility criteria changed from 2025 to 2026? How were these changes developed and who was consulted prior to implementing them?
4. What data, in addition to the state-provided data, is FEMA relying on to make their determination?
5. Broken down by state, how many FMAGs have been approved and denied per year in the past 10 years?

We want to stress that this is not the time for creating new or different criteria for accessing this critical funding to support initial attack. As you know, Oregon is strained for resources, and the State is still at the beginning of its wildfire season. We urge the agency to provide clarity and maintain consistency with prior years’ approval process.

 PACIFIC NORTHWEST WILDFIRE UPDATE 

Oregon is currently home to the four largest active wildfires in the United States, with the fifth largest burning in Washington, as fire activity remains elevated across the Northwest and much of the West.

Washington and Oregon continue to battle an extraordinary wildfire season, with more than 1.72 million acres burning across dozens of large active fires.

 Washington: 205,055 acres are burning across 12 major incidents, led by the Kaiser Canyon Fire (126,402 acres).

 Oregon: 1,516,034 acres are burning across 22 large fires, with the Rowe Creek Complex (294,000 acres) and Big Grass Fire (292,087 acres) among the largest in the nation.

Firefighters continue working around the clock in steep terrain, extreme heat, low humidity, and challenging wind conditions to protect lives, homes, and critical infrastructure. Many communities remain under evacuation notices or heightened fire weather concerns, and conditions can change rapidly.

Please continue to respect closures, follow evacuation orders immediately if issued, and give emergency responders the space they need to do their jobs safely.

 To all firefighters, dispatchers, aviation crews, law enforcement, EMS, and support personnel—thank you for your dedication and sacrifice.Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay safe.

CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CREATES HIGH FIRE DANGER  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon has already seen more acres burn in 2026 than in all of 2025, and fire officials warn there’s still a lot of wildfire season to get through.

As wildfires impact communities across Oregon, we can all do our part to support our neighbors and the people working on the front lines. Donate or volunteer through trusted organizations, stay informed, and follow local guidance. Together, we can help communities respond, recover, and stay safe. For more info on how you can help, visit: https://orvid.oregon.gov/

Northwest Fire Crisis: PL5 Declared as Global Aid Arrives

The Northwest Area, primarily covering Oregon and Washington, has officially escalated to National Preparedness Level 5 (PL5), the highest tier in the federal fire management system, signaling that the current fire season has exceeded the region’s organic capacity to suppress the blazes.

This escalation triggers a massive, country-wide mobilization of resources and has prompted the arrival of specialized international firefighting personnel to bolster containment efforts. As the Klamath Falls Airtanker Base operates at peak capacity, the deployment of C-130 airtankers represents a critical reinforcement in a battle against increasingly erratic and volatile wildfire behavior.

Key Highlights

• PL5 Escalation: The Northwest Interagency Coordination Center (NWCC) has moved to Preparedness Level 5, indicating all available suppression resources are committed and new fire starts are critically straining local capabilities.
• Global Reinforcements: 15 highly specialized fireline management personnel from Australia and New Zealand have been deployed to the U.S. to assist with command and control, leveraging international experience with large-scale wildfire events.
• Air Support Surge: C-130 airtankers have been stationed at the Klamath Falls Airtanker Base, serving as heavy-duty assets to provide rapid retardant drops in high-risk zones.
• Operational Strain: The shift to PL5 implies a need for National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) oversight, ensuring that the most critical fires receive priority allocation for national resource sharing.

The Strategic Mobilization of PL5: Understanding the Crisis

The declaration of Preparedness Level 5 is rarely taken lightly by the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). It serves as a stark metric of systemic exhaustion within the firefighting community. When the Northwest Area—a region traditionally resilient to fire volatility—reaches PL5, it signifies that the operational complexity, fuel moisture levels, and weather conditions have aligned to create a scenario where local resources are no longer sufficient to maintain an aggressive initial attack strategy.

At this level, the focus shifts from localized containment to a national priority system. Decisions on where to allocate heavy equipment, hand crews, and air support are no longer made by individual districts but are brokered through interagency coordination committees. This shift effectively places the Northwest’s wildfire response under a centralized federal lens, ensuring that when assets—like the C-130 airtankers—become available, they are directed to the most life-threatening and property-endangering blazes, rather than being tied to jurisdictional boundaries.

International Expertise: Why Australia and New Zealand?

The arrival of 15 fireline management personnel from Australia and New Zealand is a testament to the long-standing, reciprocal wildfire agreements between these nations and the United States. While the public often focuses on the physical labor of fire suppression, these specialists are brought in specifically for their expertise in management, logistics, and planning. These professionals, many of whom have managed catastrophic bushfire seasons in their home countries, provide a “force multiplier” effect.

They are embedded into existing incident command teams, offering fresh strategic perspectives on fire behavior modeling and resource management. By integrating these international experts into the command structure, U.S. agencies can optimize the deployment of limited personnel, preventing burnout and ensuring that fatigue management protocols are strictly followed—a critical factor when the fire season stretches into record-breaking durations.

The Klamath Falls Hub: The Role of Heavy Air Power

Klamath Falls, Oregon, has become a pivotal staging ground for the current response. The base acts as a critical node in the aerial firefighting network, specifically housing heavy-lift assets such as the C-130 Hercules airtankers. These aircraft are not merely support vehicles; they are surgical tools in the suppression effort. Capable of dropping thousands of gallons of fire retardant in a single pass, they are essential for creating “control lines” in rugged, inaccessible terrain where ground crews cannot safely operate.

For the pilots and support crews at the Klamath Falls Airtanker Base, the transition to PL5 means operating under intensified tempo. The logistics of reloading retardant, refueling, and performing pre-flight checks must be streamlined to ensure that aircraft spend the minimum amount of time on the ground. This heavy air support is the “break-glass-in-case-of-emergency” asset; its presence in Klamath Falls underscores the severity of the threat to Oregon’s wildland-urban interface.

Secondary Angles: Resilience, Economics, and the Future

1. The Evolution of the Wildfire Season
Historically, the fire season had distinct start and end points. The current, unprecedented length and intensity of the season suggest a shift in the region’s climate baseline. The escalation to PL5 early in the cycle suggests that agencies are effectively fighting against the calendar, forced to maintain high-level readiness for longer durations than current infrastructure was originally designed to handle.

2. Economic Impact of Resource Allocation
The cost of suppression at PL5 is exponential. Beyond the direct cost of fuel and aircraft maintenance, the economic displacement involves the shutdown of forestry and tourism industries across the Northwest. The “opportunity cost” is also significant: by tying up limited resources in one area, other regions are left vulnerable, creating a cascading effect where a fire in one state impacts the safety and insurance premiums of another.

3. The Reciprocal Agreement as a Future Necessity
The success of the current deployment of personnel from Australia and New Zealand highlights that cross-border cooperation is no longer an optional courtesy—it is a functional requirement. Future fire management strategy will likely involve formalized, year-round exchanges of personnel, treating the global “fire season” as a single, rotating operational threat that requires a permanent, internationally integrated workforce. (SOURCE)

Protect Yourself from Fraud Amid Wildfire Recovery

 Photo taken by Sophi Beym, OEM Tribal Liaison, of smoke over the Warm Springs Reservation

As Oregon communities respond to widespread damage from the 2026 wildfires the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to stay cautious and informed to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes, particularly those involving online fundraising platforms.

When disasters strike, Oregonians come together to support neighbors and communities. Unfortunately, scammers may try to exploit that generosity by creating fake fundraising campaigns or misrepresenting their intentions. Fraud attempts may come via phone calls, mail, email, text messages, or even in‑person visits. To help protect yourself and your donations, OEM offers the following guidance:

Double Check Your Charitable Donations

• Verify the campaign’s authenticity: Only donate to fundraisers created by people or organizations you know and trust. Look for detailed, transparent information about how funds will be used. You can verify charitable organizations on the Oregon Department of Justice Charitable Activities page.
• Check for secure websites: Ensure the fundraising platform uses a secure connection (“https://” and a padlock icon). Avoid clicking suspicious links shared by email or social media.
• Be cautious with personal information: Never share sensitive details like Social Security numbers or financial data with unverified individuals or groups. 
• Monitor for identity theft: Check your credit report regularly for unfamiliar accounts or changes. If you suspect identity theft, file a complaint at IdentityTheft.gov and consider freezing your credit accounts.
• Report suspected fraud: If you believe a fundraising campaign or donation request is fraudulent, contact the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection Hotline at 1‑877‑877‑9392 or visit OregonConsumer.gov.
• Protect your donations: Avoid cash. Use checks or credit cards to maintain a secure, trackable record. Sign up for DOJ Scam Alerts through the Oregon Department of Justice Scam Alert Network.

Avoid Contractor Scams During Wildfire Cleanup and Repairs

As residents begin debris removal, structural assessments, and home repairs, fraudulent contractors may target those seeking quick assistance. Keep these tips in mind:

• Research contractors thoroughly: Ensure the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured. Check reviews and references through trusted sources such as the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.
• Get written estimates: Obtain multiple detailed, written estimates. Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments or offer unusually low prices.
• Avoid high‑pressure sales tactics: Take time to review contracts and make informed decisions.
• Never pay in cash: Use checks or credit cards to maintain a paper trail and added security.
• Beware of door‑to‑door solicitations: Scammers may approach residents with unsolicited “fire recovery” offers. Always verify credentials and legitimacy.

Key Fraud Prevention Reminders

• Public aid is free: There are no costs to apply for disaster assistance or participate in inspections.
• Verify government workers: Inspectors and officials will always carry identification and will never request or accept money.
• Trust your instincts: If something seems off, contact law enforcement or your local emergency management office to confirm the validity of claims.
• Follow trusted information sources: Monitor local media outlets and official state and county emergency management channels for accurate updates.

Nonprofit Organizations Collecting Monetary Donations to Support Oregon Disaster Response

Financial gifts remain the most effective way to assist people affected by wildfires. They just take a bit more diligence. Monetary donations allow disaster response organizations to purchase exactly what is needed, when and where it is needed. People seeking trusted organizations currently involved in wildfire response can dial 211 or visit 211info.org.

• Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster
• Oregon Community Foundation
• Wildland Firefighter Foundation
• United Way Pacific Northwest Disaster Recovery Fund
• American Red Cross Cascades Region
• Confederated Tribe of Warm Springs 

All trusted state partners and agencies remain committed to supporting wildfire survivors and preventing the fraudulent activity that slows recovery. Together, we can protect our communities, ensure donations reach those who need them most, and safeguard survivors from fraud and identity theft. 

For more information on wildfire recovery resources in your area, contact your local or Tribal Office of Emergency Management. If you have questions or concerns about donation requests you’ve received, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Lane County Sheriff’s Deputy Charged with Child Exploitation Offenses

A Lane County Sheriff’s Deputy was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with actual and attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, enticement of a minor, and receipt of child sexual abuse material.

Dylan Ford, 29, made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

According to court documents, Ford allegedly exchanged sexually explicit chats, images, and videos with multiple children under the age of 16. He used Telegram, an encrypted chat platform, and disappearing photo apps to begin conversations that would develop into sexual exchanges with the children. As part of their investigation, state and federal investigators obtained a search warrant and searched Ford’s cell phone. Ford’s phone contained numerous conversations with self-described minors in which he enticed the children into sending him custom child sexual abuse material, including instructing specific sexual acts involving the use of household items. Investigators also located a video depicting a distressed, crying minor carrying out various sexual acts. In some of the chats, Ford sent minors a colleague’s social media profile photo in an apparent effort to shield his identity.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office requested the assistance of the Linn County Sheriff’s Office immediately upon becoming aware of the possibility that Ford was engaging in this activity. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office then contacted the FBI to collaborate on the investigation.

Ford was arrested on July 28, 2026, by the FBI. This case was investigated by the FBI in coordination with the Linn County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will McLaren.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

New report: Patient care at risk as Oregon hospitals’ financial crisis deepens

A new report from the Hospital Association of Oregon finds that hospitals across the state experienced staggering losses in 2025, forcing them to make painful decisions: Service lines and inpatient beds have closed, while more than 1,000 health care workers have lost their jobs. The impacts of H.R.1 will deepen this crisis, underscoring the urgent need for policy solutions to support and stabilize Oregon hospitals.  

The report, A fraying safety net: Oregon hospitals in crisis, reveals that in 2025 hospitals lost $450 million caring for patients due to rising labor costs, Medicaid and Medicare payments that don’t cover the cost of care, bad insurer behavior, and costly state regulations.

“There isn’t a silver lining in these numbers,” said Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon. “Oregon hospitals are slipping deeper into crisis. After five years of losses at many of our hospitals, the consequences are impossible to ignore. Communities are losing services, patients have fewer options for care, and more than 1,000 Oregonians have lost their jobs.”

The challenges are statewide and widespread. In 2025, more than half of all hospitals in Oregon operated at a loss. This includes most of the state’s larger hospitals and more than 40% of the state’s smaller, often rural hospitals. As a result, more than 80% of the hospital beds in Oregon were at hospitals with unsustainable margins. 

A convergence of factors is contributing to this crisis:

• Hospitals are being squeezed on both sides. Government payers (Medicare and Medicaid) use two-thirds of hospital services and don’t come close to covering the cost of care, while at the same time commercial health insurers delay and deny payment for services. 
• The cost of operating a hospital in Oregon has increased 57.5% since 2020—driven by tariffs, supply shortages, pharmaceutical costs, labor costs, and regulatory changes.
• Oregon has layered on an increasingly complex and costly regulatory framework over the last decade, diverting resources from patient care and creating one of the most difficult operating environments in the country for hospitals.

Oregon hospitals are bracing themselves for further financial shocks as the impacts of H.R. 1 take hold. The state estimates that Oregon will receive $12 billion less in federal Medicaid funding and that 200,000 Oregonians could lose health coverage. 

“As the crisis at Oregon’s hospitals grows, Oregonians will be increasingly challenged to access the health care services they need,” Hultberg said. “The time to act is now. Policymakers must understand the seriousness of this moment and take the necessary steps to safeguard the care that Oregonians depend on.” – The full report is available here.

Pro-data center industry group behind ad campaign in Oregon, six other states

Oregon Connects is one of several new nonprofits registered by the Data Center Coalition, an industry group backed by major tech companies

Just days before the Oregon Legislature in March passed a one-year pause on a popular tax incentive program for data centers, a group called Oregon Connects registered as a nonprofit business in the state. Then the ads started appearing.

“From homes to hospitals to businesses, Oregon’s data centers are unlocking a smarter power grid for our communities,” a female voice reads over a montage that includes a few aerial shots of downtown Portland and the Oregon Coast. “They’re investing billions in clean energy, creating good-paying jobs, driving innovation and building a better energy future.”

The 30-second ads, which feature B-roll of a family cooking together, a nurse and a business owner, are a near-carbon copy of ads playing across TV and social media in at least six other states. They all attempt to counter common critiques of data centers, including their enormous demand for water, energy, land and relatively low levels of job creation compared to the tax breaks they receive to spur economic development. And they end with a similar line: “Oregon’s data centers: committed to paying their costs, so Oregon families don’t.”

Oregon Connects paid for the Oregon ads, while similar promotional campaigns in other states are sponsored by Indiana Connects, Connected Ohio, North Carolina Connects, Pennsylvania Connects, Texas Connects and Virginia Connects.

They’re all part of a network of groups created by the nonprofit Data Center Coalition, an industry group hoping to improve public opinion of data centers as pushback grows. In each of these states, a growing number of local governments and legislatures are considering and passing policies meant to slow data center growth.“We are not looking at a spontaneous, homegrown community campaign,” he said. “We are looking at a highly sophisticated, out-of-state public affairs blitz designed to build public consent before Oregonians can fully deliberate the real impacts on our power grid, water resources and tax structure.” (SOURCE)

Avoid contact with bats to reduce rabies exposure risk

OHA, ODFW officials say people can support important wildlife and stay safe by not touching dead or dying animals, keeping pets away

What you should know

• Bats are the natural carrier for rabies in Oregon.
• Twenty-two bats have tested positive for rabies so far in 2026.
• Don’t touch or handle dead or dying wildlife.

—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) are urging people to prevent exposure to rabies while highlighting the importance of bats and other wildlife to the state’s ecosystems. So far, 22 bats have tested positive for rabies in 2026, according to OHA data. That means the state has matched – and is poised to surpass – its record for the number of bats that test positive for rabies in a single year. Bats have carried the rabies virus in their populations for thousands of years and are well known to carry rabies today, but generally at a very low level. Nevertheless, they account for the most human exposures to the virus more than any other species in the U.S. The highest number of animals testing positive for rabies since 2000 was in 2006, when 22 bats and two foxes were found to be carrying the disease. In 2023, 20 bats tested positive for the virus. Emilio DeBess, DVM, public health veterinarian at OHA’s Public Health Division, said the more contact someone has with bats, the higher the risk of exposure to rabies. “Unfortunately, when people find a dead or dying bat, they may pick it up with their hands because they want to help it, or maybe they’re just curious,” DeBess said. “When a bat or other wild animal is sick or dying with rabies, there’s an increased chance they will bite or transmit the virus in other ways.” Colin Gillin, DVM, ODFW state wildlife veterinarian, agrees that bats and other wildlife rarely bite people but may do so if they are sick or feel threatened. Oregon bats, in particular, eat only insects—about 1,000 insects every hour—and avoid people. “Bats provide important ecosystem services in Oregon, but also globally with insect control, seed dispersal, and pollination of specific plants, supporting agriculture and forest systems,” Gillin said. “And like many animals that can carry disease, bats can also prevent or suppress disease by reducing mosquitoes and other vectors that carry human and animal pathogens.” What to do if you find a bat — Bats are protected wildlife, which makes it illegal to harm or keep them. If you see a bat that appears to be sick:Stay calm, do not touch it, and keep people and pets away. When the sick or dead bat is indoors, do not release the bat. It may have exposed someone or a pet to rabies. If it is safe to do so, place a container or box over the bat. When the sick or dead bat is outdoors and may have exposed someone to rabies, cover it with a box or bucket to keep it in place, if safe to do so. Finding a dead bat does not require any action unless someone was bitten or scratched before the bat died. Contact your local health authority or veterinarian for your area right away to discuss potential exposures to humans or pets. If there are multiple sick or dead bats observed in an area, report it to ODFW. When a person or pet has been bitten or scratched by an animal that may have rabies, report this exposure immediately to your local animal regulation services or local public health authority. Seek medical care immediately from a medical provider or veterinarian.Teach children to avoid all contact with bats and other wildlife. Avoid bats seen in the wild, such as while hiking. Make sure your dog or cats’ vaccinations are up to date, whether they are indoor or outdoor pets. Unvaccinated pets that come into contact with a bat may be quarantined for up to four months, or euthanized. Protect your home from bats by covering vents, chimneys, and other entry points with screens. If you have roosting (nesting) bats living in your attic or other areas of your house, call a wildlife control operator (WCO). ODFW is unable to respond to homeowner requests for bat removal. Find additional information about rabies and bats at: OHA’s bats and rabies website ODFW’s  bats website “Help Oregon’s bats with a bat-friendly home” article (ODFW)Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s rabies website

Rogue Valley Named America’s Top Wine Region by USA Today

The Rogue Valley has earned national recognition after being named the Best Wine Region in the United States in USA Today’s annual “10 Best” rankings. https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/rogue-valley-oregon/

USA Today praised the region for its diverse landscape, noting that its varying elevations and unique microclimates allow growers to produce a wide variety of grapes. That diversity creates distinctive wines and has helped establish the Rogue Valley as one of North America’s premier wine destinations.

Wine enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. Jackson County alone is home to approximately 45 wineries, according to the American Winery Guide, offering everything from intimate tasting rooms to scenic vineyard experiences.

Beyond the vineyards, visitors can enjoy some of Southern Oregon’s most beautiful outdoor attractions. Popular destinations include Mount Ashland, Roxy Ann Peak, and the Upper and Lower Table Rocks. Crater Lake National Park and California’s Redwood National Park are also just a short drive away.

USA Today also highlighted the region’s outdoor recreation, saying the combination of world-class wines and easy access to hiking, sightseeing, and other adventures makes the Rogue Valley a favorite destination for travelers.

The highly anticipated trial of Dani Marie Schofield in Jackson County will be presided over by retired Senior Judge Lorenzo Mejia, who has been out of the judiciary for three and a half years.

The case involving Schofield, a former nurse at Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center, faces 44 counts of second-degree assault.

Allegations against her include diverting prescribed fentanyl from patients and substituting it with tap water, which reportedly led to infections among those patients.

The trial, originally scheduled for September, was postponed at the request of Schofield’s defense team, and a new date has yet to be established. Additionally, District Attorney Patrick Green expressed his discontent with Presiding Judge David Hoppe’s decision to appoint Mejia in a letter sent last week.

Mt. Ashland Ski Area is set to revive its drive-in movie series this summer, following a successful inaugural season last year. The lineup features a selection of classic films, commencing on August 1 with the beloved 1982 film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.

This will be succeeded by the original Mary Poppins and the iconic horror film Night of the Living Dead, presented in its original black-and-white format. The series will conclude with the cherished Pacific Northwest favorite, The Goonies.

Screenings will take place in the Mt. Ashland parking lot, where attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, or utilize the back of their trucks for a comfortable viewing experience under the stars. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase, with tickets priced at $30 per vehicle, which can be acquired through mtashland.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perseid Meteor Shower Watch | Wednesday, August 12

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

Equinox Celebration | Saturday, September 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Environmental advocates disagree with the framing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state. The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability. In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs. If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

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

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

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

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

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

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

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

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

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

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

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

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

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

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

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

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

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

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

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

 Be Your Own Info Network

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

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

Reconnect When Service Returns

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

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

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

 Final Tip:

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

Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com

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