Oregon Beach News, Monday 8/19 – Another Mola Fish Washed Ashore South Of The Sunset Beach Approach & 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

Monday, August 19, 2024

Oregon Beach Weather

Wildfires continue to produce smoke in the Pacific Northwest. Breathe a little easier by keeping up to date on air quality conditions and concerns at Fire.AirNow.gov.

Please take precautions to avoid sparking a human-caused fire, be familiar with evacuation levels, and have a go-kit ready in case you need to leave your home.”

Fire Weather Tools from the National Weather Service

As we prepare for the peak of wildfire season in the U.S., the National Weather Service (NWS) reminds wildland fire managers that we have tools to help you monitor and fight wildfires. Whether it is a prescribed burn, ground fire or crown fire, fire managers can use this information to make decisions on how best to combat fires and keep the public safe. 

Fire weather forecasters – The NWS issues Fire Weather Outlooks for the next eight days. These outlooks show areas where pre-existing fuel conditions, combined with forecast weather conditions, may result in a significant threat of wildfires.

Our Fire Weather Program supports land managers and firefighters who mitigate and respond to fires. Our weather forecasts are designed to highlight times and locations where a fire may be exceptionally hard to control. For example, we offer Red Flag Warnings, which mean warm temperatures, very low humidities and stronger winds are ongoing or expected to produce an increased risk of fire danger in 12 to 24 hours for specific locations. 

Need a fire weather Spot Forecast? Land managers can request a site-specific, localized forecast for prescribed burns and wildfires to assess a potential threat. NWS recently updated this tool and will deliver additional enhancements to the application later this year. Learn more about the new Spot Forecast tool.  

For federal and select state large wildfires, onsite weather forecasting support to firefighters is critical. An NWS Incident- Meteorologist (IMET) can be deployed to your incident command post. IMETs arrive on scene within 12 to 24 hours after activation and can serve up to 14 consecutive days before being relieved by another IMET. https://www.weather.gov/news/241507-fire-weather-tools

Another Mola Mola Washed Ashore 1/2 Mile South Of The Sunset Beach Approach

Missing Oregon Man’s Vehicle Found Abandoned On California Logging Road

The vehicle of a man reported missing out of Tillamook County, Oregon was found abandoned on a logging road in northern California earlier this week.

According to the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office, 69-year-old Gregory Alan Russell was reported missing from the Tillamook County area on August 5. However police say the initial report indicates Russell drove away from his home on August 1, but wasn’t reported as missing until four days later.

Police later learned that Russell was seen at a casino in the North Bend area prior to traveling to California. He reportedly had contact with people he knew in Trinity County, however the sheriff’s office believes none of those individuals knew Russell had been reported missing.

On Tuesday, Russell’s vehicle was found parked on a logging road in the Deerlick Springs area, however Russell was not in the area. According to the sheriff’s office, “Russell has in the past had some peculiar behaviors in regards to his actions and it is believed that he wandered from the vehicle into the woods.” The following morning, search and rescue efforts began and are currently ongoing.

Russell is described as 5 foot 10 inches and 190 pounds. He has green eyes and brown hair. Anyone who has seen Russell or knows his whereabouts are asked to contact the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office at 530-623-2611.

South Beach State Park to host Sandcastle Competition Aug. 24

NEWPORT, Oregon— The annual Sandcastle Competition returns to South Beach State Park 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, August 24. 

This free family-friendly event is an opportunity to indulge your creative side. It has been a favorite at South Beach State Park since 2001. Teams will have two hours to build their sandcastles. Participants, spectators and park staff will vote for their favorite creations. 

Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place in the general vote as well as a judges’ choice award for the staff favorite. 

Some sandcastle building tools will be available to borrow, but it is recommended to bring your own if possible. Teams may begin registering at 9:45 a.m., and the sandcastle building time is from 10 a.m. to noon. Prizes will be awarded at 1 p.m. Spectators are encouraged to arrive anytime and vote for their favorites beginning at noon.

The event will be held in the day-use area at South Beach State Park in Newport. Free parking and participation. 

The Coos Bay Police Department is asking for the public’s help after a man was found dead near Eastside Park.

HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION — The Coos Bay Police Department (CBPD) is investigating a homicide that occurred in the Eastside area of Coos Bay. On August 13, 2024, at 7:22 a.m., the North Coos 9-1-1 Center received a report of a man down near Eastside Park, which is located at 5th Avenue and E St in Coos Bay.

CBPD officers arrived and discovered 36-year-old Braxton Busch of Coos Bay deceased from homicidal violence. The Coos County Major Crime Team, which includes members from multiple local law enforcement agencies, was activated to aid with the investigation.

This is still an active investigation. The CBPD is seeking information from the public, such as video surveillance footage from the area around Eastside Park. If you have not yet been contacted by police and have any information or video footage from the early morning hours of August 13th, please contact the CBPD at 541-269-8911 Ext 1.

Temporary Sheltering Program In Florence Charges Registration Fee for Private Property Owners Helping Homeless

The City of Florence wishes to offer additional opportunities to support those experiencing homelessness by creating a temporary sheltering program for private property owners to allow limited sheltering via tent or vehicle under certain conditions and within certain standards. FCC 1-9-2-2.

The overview of Florence’s TS program eligibility is as follows:

• The property must be registered with the city through a process that is renewable and revocable.
• An application fee of $75
• A registration form is submitted by the property owner, tenant, or shelter occupant.
• To obtain a registration form email the Planning Department HERE or by phone 541-997-8237 option #4.

General areas for the temporary sheltering and proposed Code and Program Registration: 

1. There can be no acceptance of any payment of monetary charge nor performance of services in exchange.
2. Handwashing, garbage, and toilet facilities must be provided or available.
3. No visible storage is permitted.
4. Shelters must be at least five feet from property lines and sanitation 10 feet from property lines, unless located within the dwelling or the RV/Trailer.
5. Private Property Sheltering – Non-residential: a property owner can register with the city to locate three vehicles or tents in any combination on their property. They must be separated 10 feet from one another.
6. Private Property Sheltering-Residential: A property owner or its tenant (with owner approval) can register with the city to locate either a vehicle or tent on their property.  The property owner and tenant(s) must both sign registration form. 
7. The code includes provisions for buffering or excluding temporary sheltering in or on city-owned public property and private rights-of way.
8. Buffers: are to be measured 300 feet from the property lines of licensed daycares, churches, and religious institutions, elementary and secondary schools, and facilities serving those experiencing homelessness.  Area within the buffers establish where temporary sheltering is not permitted within the rights-of-way.
9. Exclusion: Areas where temporary sheltering is not permitted are proposed to be established in certain park lands, city-owned facilities open to the public, protected wetland and riparian resources, and certain rights of way.

MORE INFO: https://www.ci.florence.or.us/planning/temporary-sheltering-program

Get Ready for the Coast Radio Auction

Friday August 23 there will be $26,000 worth of items to be auctioned off at the Coast Radio Summer Auction.  General Manager Jon Thompson says the list of items will be upwards of 100 and vary from a Powered recliner, hot water heater, computer, and attraction tickets and dining packages.  There will also be staycation type items from the Carriage House inn, River House Inn, Old Town Inn and Best Western Pier point inn and 7 feathers casino. 

The Auction will begin at 9:15 that morning and go until the last item is auctioned off.  Thompson is quick to point out that this is not a charity auction, but a chance to support your local radio station while getting discounts of 50% or more on most items.  The process is smoothest when bidders call beforehand to receive a no obligation bid number at 541-997-9136.  Items for auction are listed on the Coast Radio Website at https://kcfmradio.com/2024/08/09/hot-100-radio-auction-items/

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Receives State of the Art Drug Testing Device

On 08/02/2024, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office acquired and is now utilizing a new state of the art tool giving law enforcement a safer and smarter edge to combat drug problems in our communities. This device also aids in detecting explosives and chemical agents.

The device is the TacticID Mobile handheld Raman analyzer produced by Metrohm. The Raman analyzer has already proven to be effective by confirming the identity of suspected illegal drugs, and in identifying suspected drugs as other substances in actual Sheriff’s Office cases. Your Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was able to obtain the Raman analyzer through Lincoln County Health and Human Services with funding from Lincoln County Opioid Settlement Funds. The Raman analyzer will also be available to other law enforcement agencies in Lincoln County.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputies and detectives are currently completing training conducted by Metrohm to ensure proper use of the device. Detective Chris Marks said, “The Raman analyzer is simple to use and much safer than previous methods of drug testing. Previous methods had a higher level of potential exposure to chemicals and accidental contact with the samples being tested due to unpackaging or repackaging samples for testing.” Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Evidence Control Specialist Sara Tabb, who plays a critical role in packaging, preparing, and assisting in substance testing commented, “The Raman scanner is definitely a step forward in safe and reliable substance analysis. The device is safer and more efficient. While the Raman analyzer does not replace the requirement for crime lab testing and confirmation for prosecution, it does give us effective presumptive testing for the identification of the substances.” 

The Raman analyzer utilizes a laser to penetrate most forms of packaging including tough street samples, colored samples, and impure samples. It can rapidly scan directly through transparent containers. It then identifies substances by the returned spectrum and compares the data to the over 24,000 known substances in its database. The device requires calibration verification before each analysis so the operator can confirm its working correctly.

Sheriff Curtis Landers stated, “We are always looking for better technology to empower our mission of enhancing public safety. One of the benefits of this device is that is also improves deputy safety and provides a tool for law enforcement agencies across Lincoln County.”  

Beverly Beach State Park has reopened after workers removed about 200 dying and hazardous trees

For years, the towering spruce trees at Beverly Beach State Park have been getting sick and dying, threatening to drop limbs on any of the 278 campsites below.

“Best case scenario, it would damage a vehicle or somebody’s camper tent,” said Oregon state forester Nick Morris. “And worst case scenario, somebody could get injured.”

The trend at first confounded Morris, since the trees didn’t show signs of disease or pest infestations, and drought is unusual among Oregon’s wet coastal forests. He roped in additional specialists from the Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon State University.

The trees usually started browning at their tops and branch ends — a sign that they weren’t getting enough water. It appeared trees were mostly dying in the park’s low-lying areas, not in the wetter, higher elevations. Looking at those signs, and comparing historic weather patterns, the team concluded that this park was victim to a trend happening across much of the state: a shrinking water table.

When it rains, water soaks into the soil and enters an area’s aquifer — basically a big underground collection of water. The top of the aquifer is called the water table.

While Oregon’s summers are getting drier, its winter and spring months are also changing, Morris said. Those months are seeing more intense bursts of rain that don’t allow enough time for water to soak into the soil and enter the aquifer.

“A lot of it is going directly into the streams and straight out to the ocean,” Morris said. That means there’s less underground water for trees to tap into.

Beverly Beach State Park was already in store for some construction work, as managers planned to do some electrical and plumbing improvements, so Morris’s team set out to cut the dead and dying trees that could threaten visitors. They also removed many of the park’s shore pines — tall, skinny trees that have a tendency to fall during windstorms.

All in all, workers removed about 200 trees, costing the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department about $50,000. Morris said most weren’t valuable enough to sell as timber. The state gained about $10,000 from trees that could be milled.

Morris’s team left some snags, which are tall, dead tree trunks that birds and other wildlife can nest in. They also left logs on the forest floor to decompose and donated logs to a nonprofit group that placed them in streams to provide habitats for fish.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department plans to plant more drought-tolerant native trees and shrubs at the park, including western hemlock and Douglas fir. That work should begin in 2026.

Beverly Beach State Park reopened on Aug. 1, after being closed for 11 months. Although some areas of the park look a bit different, with less tree canopy and more sky exposure, parks manager Burke Martin said so far, visitors seem happy to be back there. He has spotted more birds, like woodpeckers, making use of the snags and logs that were left behind.

“It’s been incredible to see the diversity of nature,” Martin said.

In addition to the tree work, the Beverly Beach State Park staff repaved some roads, installed new plumbing for water spigots, improved accessibility in some campsites and buried electrical wires.

Florence Police Enforcement Campaigns

The city of Florence Police Department will be conducting a DUII Enforcement campaign.  Beginning this Friday and lasting through the 4^th of September local law enforcement along with partnering agencies will be on the lookout for impaired drivers.  Additionally they will also be conducting another campaign on Monday August 19^th through September 1^st on the use of child restraints and safety belts in motor vehicles. 

The Oregon Department of Transportation has released data that show 37% of traffic fatalities were from the lack of seatbelt use or child restraint use. In 2021 data shows that the leading cause of death in children ages one through 12 were motor vehicle accidents.  1475 children in 2021 were injured in Oregon traffic crashes according to the data. These two campaigns are part of a national push that is funded federally.

Florence Pedestrian Enforcement

Another campaign from the Florence Police will be taking place on August 28^th.  this is to remind people of the pedestrian laws regarding crossing in cross walks.  Under Oregon law a crosswalk exists at any public street intersection, whether marked with paint or unmarked. Crosswalks also exist between intersections (mid-block) where indicated with white paint.  Failure to stop for a pedestrian is a violation of law.

On Wednesday, august 28^th the Florence police will be conducting a pedestrian enforcement operation at the intersection of 9^th street and Kingwood from noon until 3pm.  according to Oregon law a vehicle must stop for a pedestrian until they have cleared the lane a driver is in and the adjacent lane.  On a two lane street this means the pedestrian must complete the entire intersection before a driver can pull forward. A vehicle turning must give a pedestrian an additional 6 feet into another lane before advancing.  The law is similar for marked and unmarked intersections.  Vehicles are also prohibited from passing a stopped vehicle as it may be a clue that a pedestrian is crossing.

Enhanced DUII Enforcement Planned For Labor Day Weekend – Lincoln City Police 

The Lincoln City Police Department will again be utilizing grant funds to step up their enforcement efforts against drunk driving over the Labor Day weekend. This additional enforcement effort is being conducted in conjunction with national crackdown efforts that are designed to curb drunken driving, decrease crashes, reduce injuries, and save lives. During the upcoming Labor Day weekend, law enforcement agencies nationwide will be out in force looking to remove drunk and impaired drivers from the roadways.  Lincoln City Police officers will be putting extra focus on seeking out drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs. Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) continues to be a leading cause of motor vehicle crash injuries and deaths throughout the nation.

The Lincoln City Police Department last used these grant funds over the Christmas / New Year’s Holiday time period. During those enforcement operations, multiple traffic stops were conducted resulting in several citations and warnings for various traffic violations, and two drivers were arrested for DUII.  

The members of the Lincoln City Police Department are committed to the safety of our citizens and visitors. The DUII Enforcement grant funds are a valuable resource that assist us in improving the traffic safety in our community. Our goal is simple: to save lives and prevent injuries caused by DUII crashes. These grant funds were made possible through the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon Impact.

The Lincoln City Police Department plans to conduct a Pedestrian Safety Operation on Monday, August 26th, 2024, on Hwy 101 in the area between south 48^th Street and south 51^st Street.

The primary focus of this operation is to raise awareness of pedestrian safety in drivers. The use of a decoy pedestrian will allow the Lincoln City Police Department to educate and enforce pedestrian right-of-way laws. The operation will be conducted between the hours of 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Warning signs will be posted prior to entering the pedestrian safety operation zone. 

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association 3,373 pedestrians were struck and killed in the first half of 2023 along US roadways. The Lincoln City Police Department wants to keep doing its parts to reduce those tragedies.

LCPD last conducted a Pedestrian Safety Operation on July 9th, 2024. During that operation, ten citations were issued for violations of crosswalk laws (Failing to stop for pedestrian in crosswalk or Passing vehicle stopped at a crosswalk). 

Drivers need to be aware of pedestrians when approaching crosswalks while traveling through Lincoln City and ODOT has installed several safe pedestrian crossings, with lights and pedestrian refuges in the center of the roadway.  The members of the Lincoln City Police Department are dedicated to enhancing the safety of our roadways for all users.

Funding for the pedestrian safety operations are made possible through traffic safety grants provided by the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon Impact.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Florence Food Share Empty Bowls 2024 Call for Artists for Poster Art

We are currently making plans for Florence Food Share’s annual Empty Bowls event, which has been a successful fundraiser for 29 years. Local artists contribute handmade ceramic, wood, and fused glass bowls along with other art for sale during the first weekend of December.

For over a decade, we have featured the work of a local artist on the poster advertising the event. The art created for the event serves as the focal point for the poster and is later raffled off at the event to generate extra revenue for the Florence Food Share. In return, the artist receives recognition in local and regional publications and a tax deduction, of course.

We are searching for artwork that conveys the message of the event and the mission of Florence Food Share, which is to provide nutritious food to those in need because “no one should go hungry.” We welcome any medium, as long as it can be photographed, and the original artwork can be donated to the event. We will handle the framing, with input from the artist.

To be considered for creating the poster art for 2024, please send us your concept, including the medium and a description of the proposed image. Additionally, attach a photo of one of your previous works to give us an idea of your style. Please email your submissions to Desiree Clifton at dclifton@windemere.com by August 25, 2024. The
completed, unframed artwork should be submitted no later than September 30, 2024.

We are grateful to all the artists who have participated in Empty Bowls over the years and eagerly anticipate the participation of new artists in this year’s event. For any questions regarding submitting artwork, please reach out via email to dclifton@windemere.com. Florence Food Share Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/florencefood.share/?locale=ro_RO

Lincoln County Accepting Grant Funding Applications for Share Of $398,000 in ARPA Funds for Local Water and Sewer Projects

$398,000 in funds from the American Rescue Plan Ac (ARPA) are set to be distributed to eligible districts in Lincoln County to invest in local water, sewer and drainage projects.

The American Rescue Plan Act was signed into law in March of 2021 and provided states, cities, and counties with federal money to support pandemic recovery efforts and economic stimulus. One allowed use for ARPA dollars is to support public water, sewer and drainage projects.

Lincoln County is accepting grant funding applications from local water, sewer and drainage districts in unincorporated Lincoln County for water and sewer projects. Eligible projects must meet the ARPA State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) eligible funding requirements.

Districts must be in good standing with State of Oregon financial reporting requirements and show proof of complying with public meeting law requirements. The county has a total of $398,000 to provide for eligible projects from districts. Applications will be reviewed by a committee selected by Lincoln County to look at the financial stability of the organization, the engineering feasibility of the project, and if the project meets ARPA requirements.

The county is planning to use an open grant process to award the funds. Starting June 10 applications will open, they will be awarded on a first come, first served basis to qualifying districts and projects; applications will close once all funds have been allocated.

The county says each eligible district can ask up to $50-thousand total. Projects can be stand-alone projects or a discrete portion of a larger project. Applications will be reviewed by county administrative, legal, and engineering staff to ensure projects meet American Rescue Plan Act, legal and technical requirements. All projects must adhere to federal procurement rules and Davis-Bacon Act requirements.

County officials say they will execute contracts with awarded districts before December 31, 2024. All work on the awarded projects must be completed by subrecipients before December 2026. To apply for the Local Water, Sewer and Drainage Districts’ Grant click here.

OHA 2024 Oregon Beach Monitoring Season

Agency shares list of monitored beaches for May-September

—The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) is kicking off the 2024 beach monitoring season by announcing the list of coastal recreation areas it will be keeping an eye on for bacteria during summer and early fall.

The 24 beaches on the list that the OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Public Health Division, is publishing includes some of the most frequently visited beaches in Oregon. It also includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution concerns.

The following are Oregon beaches being monitored during 2024, including beach name, and the city and county in which they are located:

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

Beach monitoring season runs from mid-May to mid-September. Beach advisories are only issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within this sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in the next beach monitoring season.

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

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

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach, or contact OBMP at each.Health@odhsoha.oregon.gov“>Beach.Health@odhsoha.oregon.gov or 971-673-0400.

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

As we move through 2024, wildfires continue to shape the landscape of the PNW—the impacts have been widespread.

A combination of dry conditions, high temperatures, and strong winds have fueled these wildfires. The ongoing drought has left many forests and grasslands extremely dry, creating ideal conditions for fire spread.

How You Can Help:• Be Firewise: Take steps to protect your home and property from wildfires.• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest fire information and follow local authorities’ instructions.• Support Relief Efforts: Consider donating time to organizations assisting those affected by these fires. https://www.facebook.com/NWCCInfo

Although rain, cooler temperatures, and higher humidity are expected in some parts of the region, conditions are still dry enough for active fire behavior. Significant lightning with little precipitation is forecast for eastern Oregon today with Red Flag Warnings in effect. PLEASE: Do your part to prevent human-caused starts and follow all fire restrictions.

Multiple wildfires across the Northwest will likely burn until fall weather arrives. In the meantime, more lightning and new fires are expected.

“Our planners are taking a realistic look at current wildfires, expected new fires, and the resources we have to help us safeguard human lives and property while enhancing our ability to respond to wildfires in high-risk areas,” said Jacque Buchanan, Regional Forester for the Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service.

Fire managers are developing strategies to maximize success, while minimizing the risk of injury or death to emergency responders. Among other tactics, crews on long-duration wildfires will develop a network of primary and contingency containment lines to stop flames approaching communities, power lines, water systems and other resources. You can support firefighters by following fire restrictions and emergency closures.

Most fires are human-caused and accidental. The most common fire causes we respond to are everyday activities that ODF regulates in the summer in an effort to cut down on these types of fire starts. Help prevent wildfires and Keep Oregon Green by following the current regulations: https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions/

Crater Lake National Park closes north entrance due to Middle Fork Fire

The north entrance to Crater Lake National Park is closed beginning Tuesday to allow firefighters on the Middle Fork Fire to prepare control lines along the road.

The move will likely slow entrance into the park, officials said, and will add extra time to the drive from the Willamette Valley. Crater Lake National Park remains open and is accessible from Highway 62 on the western and southern routes.

Large wildfires have burned tens of thousands of acres across the PNW, with human activity and lightning being a significant contributing factor. The uptick in human-caused fires, which include those started by campfires and debris burns strains firefighting resources significantly​. Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyone—help mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.

Monitor Fires in Oregon – Updated Daily

Incident	Type	State	Incident Size	UpdatedSort ascending
Warner Peak Fire – ORSHR	Wildfire	Oregon	65866 Acres	2 minutes 30 seconds ago
Crazy Creek – OROCF	Wildfire	Oregon	86955 Acres	14 minutes 16 seconds ago
Willamette Complex Fires – South – ORWIF	Wildfire	Oregon	13005 Acres	17 minutes 13 seconds ago
North Willamette Complex – ORWIF	Wildfire	Oregon	4452 Acres	23 minutes 52 seconds ago
Falls Fire – ORMAF	Wildfire	Oregon	151680 Acres	32 minutes 20 seconds ago
Telephone Fire – ORMAF	Wildfire	Oregon	54034 Acres	32 minutes 31 seconds ago
Homestead Complex – ORUPF	Wildfire	Oregon	5832 Acres	1 hour 9 minutes ago
Whisky Creek Fire – ORMHF	Wildfire	Oregon	1973 Acres	10 hours 34 minutes ago
Sandstone Fire – ORMHF	Wildfire	Oregon	702 Acres	10 hours 55 minutes ago
Cottage Grove – Lane 1 – OR77S	Wildfire	Oregon	25250 Acres	11 hours 3 minutes ago
Middle Fork Fire – ORCLP	Wildfire	Oregon	5222 Acres	11 hours 34 minutes ago
Diamond Complex – ORUPF	Wildfire	Oregon	10984 Acres	11 hours 47 minutes ago
Dixon Fire – ORUPF	Wildfire	Oregon	1970 Acres	11 hours 50 minutes ago
Battle Mountain Complex – OR97S	Wildfire	Oregon	183026 Acres	13 hours 6 minutes ago
Red Fire – ORDEF	Wildfire	Oregon	730 Acres	13 hours 43 minutes ago
Courtrock Fire – OR95S	Wildfire	Oregon	20019 Acres	1 day 17 hours ago
Town Gulch – ORWWF	Wildfire	Oregon	18220 Acres	2 days 15 hours ago
Winding Waters Complex – OR97S	Wildfire	Oregon	752 Acres	2 days 18 hours ago
Cliff Mountain – ORWWF	Wildfire	Oregon	1108 Acres	3 days ago
Porcupine Fire – ORBUD	Wildfire	Oregon	6491 Acres	6 days 20 hours ago
Lone Rock Fire – ORPRD	Wildfire	Oregon	137222 Acres	6 days 22 hours ago
Badland Complex 2024 – ORVAD	Wildfire	Oregon	54563 Acres	1 week 1 day ago
Microwave Tower Fire – OR95S	Wildfire	Oregon	1313 Acres	1 week 2 days ago
Durkee Fire – ORVAD	Wildfire	Oregon	294265 Acres	1 week 4 days ago

Large Fires in Oregon 8/19/24 9:00am per INCIWEB

Please Help Prevent Wildfires!

In these dry conditions, a single spark can cause a lot of damage. Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention page. 

Oregon National Guard Soldiers Participate in Mobilization Ceremony Ahead of Deployment to the Balkans

Salem, Ore. – The mobilization ceremony for Soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard’s 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) was held today, Aug. 16, at the Salem Armory Auditorium. This event marked the start of their upcoming deployment with the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) for a year-long mission.

During the ceremony, members of the 41st IBCT were honored as they prepared for their deployment, which is part of KFOR’s 34th rotation. Established to end the Kosovo War, KFOR was authorized to deploy an international peacekeeping force to Kosovo, a mission crucial for maintaining regional security and stability.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of their mission. 

“It is these times that show us how important our freedom and safety are, whether you serve overseas or here at home,” Kotek said.

KFOR’s mission continues to focus on maintaining security, supporting civil authorities, and ensuring freedom of movement across the region, which is vital for fostering peace in Kosovo amidst ongoing political negotiations between Kosovo and Serbia.

Col. Peter Helzer, Commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, spoke about the deployment’s significance before the ceremony. 

“The 41st IBCT brings a robust set of capabilities to support the people of Kosovo. From security to medical and logistical support, Oregonians will contribute to the stability and security of the region as part of the NATO effort,” he said.

To prepare for their deployment, the 41st IBCT will first undergo pre-mobilization training at Fort Cavazos, Texas, followed by additional training in Germany. 

Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General of Oregon, expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families. 

“I want to thank you for the sacrifices you and your families have made to serve the state and nation,” he said.

Gen. Daniel Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau and member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also attended the ceremony. As the former 41st IBCT Commander during the Brigade’s 2009-10 deployment to Iraq and former Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, Hokanson praised the soldiers for their service and highlighted that they are among the less than 1% of Americans who serve in this capacity.

To view the ceremony visit the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1028184892013397/.

Search Underway for Man Presumed Drowned at Diamond Lake

DIAMOND LAKE, Ore. – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is continuing a search for a man who drowned at Diamond Lake Saturday evening. 

On Saturday, August 17, 2024, at approximately 5:38 pm, 9-1-1 dispatchers received a report of a man who had been on a pontoon boat with friends at Diamond Lake when he jumped into the water to swim. Shortly after entering the water the victim went under and never resurfaced. 

Marine Deputies, along with a rescue crew from Central Douglas Fire & Rescue and an ambulance from Umpqua Valley responded to the scene. Along with volunteers from the Diamond Lake Resort, crews searched unsuccessfully until dark. The 37-year-old, whose name is being withheld pending next of kin notification, is presumed drowned.

Today, searchers have returned to Diamond Lake to resume recovery efforts. Resources from Douglas County Marine Patrol, Douglas County Dive Team, Douglas County Search and Rescue, Klamath County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, and Oregon State Police are on scene. 

Facebook scam leaves humane society in The Dalles ‘paralyzed’ as Meta does nothing

Of all the worries she has about her shelter’s dogs and cats, Columbia Gorge Humane Society president Suny Simon never imagined they’d be threatened by computer hackers.

But over the past six weeks, unknown social-media scammers have “paralyzed” The Dalles nonprofit, she said.

They took over its Facebook page in early July, posting photos of dogs for adoption that aren’t actually up for adoption, and scamming at least one person out of $150. Unable to kick them out, the Columbia Gorge Humane Society — which relies on donations and fundraisers promoted through Facebook — is unsure how it will feed the 55 dogs and cats in its care, Simon said.

“They’re ultimately the ones that are suffering here,” she said of the animals.

It all started when scammers impersonating Petfinder, a national adoption database, emailed Columbia Gorge Humane Society’s official email, requesting its Facebook username and password, said board vice president Seth Bradley. They claimed they wanted to link the Facebook page to Petfinder’s website, where the humane society already had a profile set up.

When a team member sent them the information, scammers took control of the Facebook account, he said.

The nonprofit, which has four employees and around 35 volunteers, reached out to Meta, Facebook’s owner, for help. Meta customer service helped the humane society get access back, but it never kicked off the scammers, who were still entrenched as administrators of the overarching Facebook Business Manager account. A few days later, the scammers locked the humane-society team out of the account again, Bradley said.

The humane society told Meta the scammers were still the account administrators, but the tech company closed the support-request ticket on July 18 and said it couldn’t do anything more.

“We still don’t have access to our followers, and they’re still posting fake dogs,” Bradley said.

The most recent post from Wednesday morning advertises a German shepherd puppy for adoption and includes a video of it running around. A Google form included in the post’s caption says a $150 deposit must be paid through Apple Pay or Zelle before someone interested in adopting the animal can visit it at the shelter.

At least one person has fallen victim to the scam, Simon said.

Americans lost more than $52 million to phishing scams in 2022, according to data from the FBI. And though the scams often contain warning signs, like grammatical errors or suspicious money requests, emotional appeals can make them convincing in the moment.

That’s particularly true of scams about animals, which rely on people falling in love with a prospective pet, said animal-law attorney Geordie Duckler.

“They all of a sudden have a huge emotional connection with the animal because of its picture,” he said.

That leads them to let their guard down, he explained.

Duckler, who is representing the Columbia Gorge Humane Society in its fight to regain its Facebook page, said he’s been talking to a Meta attorney about the hacked account. Though they responded to his initial letter on July 26 almost immediately, he hasn’t heard from them since Aug. 7, he said.

“They seem either uninterested, distracted or just non-responsive,” Duckler said of the company.

A few years ago, Meta laid off much of its customer-service workforce. As a result, many businesses that have been hacked or scammed on Facebook haven’t been able to get a satisfactory response from the huge company, CNBC reported in 2023.

Better Business Bureau, a nonprofit that accredits businesses and aims to promote marketplace trust, has logged similar complaints recently against the company, said bureau spokesperson Cameron Nakashima. The grievances allege Meta did nothing to help people whose Facebook pages were hacked or who were impersonated by a fake account.

When the bureau reviewed the company’s history of complaints in February, they found account security repeatedly cropped up as an issue, Nakashima said.

Neither Facebook nor the Meta attorney involved in the humane-society case responded to a request for comment.

With scammers still in charge of the Facebook account, the humane society’s income and credibility have taken a hit, Simon said. At a recent fundraiser, the organization made around $5,000 less than expected, in part because the organization couldn’t advertise it on its main Facebook page, she believes.

Now, the shelter is relying on a GoFundMe page and a new Facebook page — which has grown slowly to 400 followers — to stay afloat. Before the scam, the nonprofit had more than 8,000 followers on Facebook, Simon said.

Scammers have taken advantage of both the humane society and the people who want to give its animals a home, she lamented.

“This is a really big deal,” Simon said. “Not only from the shelter’s perspective, but from the perspective of the community.” (SOURCE)

Union Pacific train derailed after Klamath Falls man tampered with track switch

A Klamath Falls man is accused of trespassing at a local Union Pacific Railroad yard and changing track settings that caused four railroad cars to derail and more than $1 million in damage Monday, according to federal court documents. No injuries were reported.

Craig David Saddler, 50, was set to appear in federal court in Medford on Friday afternoon on a federal complaint charging him with wrecking or derailing railroad equipment. He also faces criminal mischief, trespass and recklessly endangering allegations in Klamath County Circuit Court.

A Union Pacific railroad engineer was driving another locomotive when he saw Saddler on the tracks and honked a horn to get his attention, according to an affidavit.

He saw Saddler pull a lever that redirected another moving train onto a different track, causing four of its cars to derail that were carrying consumer goods, including lumber, according to court records. The derailment caused damage to the railcars, the railway and surrounding property.

Saddler, described as wearing a red or pink sweatshirt with buzz cut-hair and a long beard, was caught later that night about a half-mile from the rail yard, the affidavit said.

The Union Pacific employee who had noticed Saddler on the tracks identified Saddler as the man who caused the damage, though Saddler denied he was responsible, according to the affidavit. On Thursday, Saddler was released from Klamath County Jail on the pending state charges and given an Oct. 2 trial date. (SOURCE)

Large Illegal Marijuana Bust In Klamath County

On Thursday, August 15, 2024 the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office served a search warrant at the property belonging to Ramiro Vasquez onHarpold Road, north of Malin, Oregon . Surveillance of the property revealed a large illegal marijuana grow site composed of an indoor and outdoor illegal marijuana operation.

Ramiro Vasquez (age 36) of Chico, California was arrested and charged with:

• Unlawful Possession of Marijuana (ORS 475B.337)

• Unlawful Manufacture of Marijuana (ORS 475B.349)

• Unlawful Use or Appropriation of Ground Water (ORS 537.535)

The on-scene investigation confirmed a large illegal grow operation containing 7,122 marijuana plants in various stages of growth. Suspected marijuana butane hash oil (BHO), cash, and three firearms were seized during the search. Also discovered was the illegal use of water used to irrigate the marijuana plants and infrastructure for drying processed marijuana and storing potentially harmful fertilizers. It is estimated that more than 755,000 gallons of water was illegally appropriated to grow this amount of marijuana.

Investigators observed a considerable amount of trash and debris consisting of thousands of feet of plastic drip tubing, plastic greenhouse coverings and more scattered throughout the property. 

The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the, Klamath Falls Police Department, Oregon State Police, Malin Police Department, Basin Inter-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team, Klamath County Solid Waste, Bureau of Land Management, Klamath County Code Enforcement,Oregon Medical Marijuana Program, Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission, Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon State Water Master.

Oregon Residents Will Vote In November On A $1,600 Annual Universal Basic Income

A ballot measure to give Oregon residents a $1,600 tax rebate faces bipartisan opposition.

Oregon Rebate, or Measure 118, proposes taxing corporations more to redistribute money to residents.

Democrats and Republicans alike say it would hurt the state economy.

Democrats and Republicans alike are fighting a ballot measure in Oregon that would increase corporate taxes to give residents an annual rebate.

The proposal, known as Ballot Measure 118 or the Oregon Rebate, would add a 3% tax on corporations in the state once they make $25 million a year. The plan was originally known as Initiative 17 . The money would be distributed among state residents, including children, as a $1,600 annual rebate.

Despite the opposition from lawmakers, it’s not up to them. Ballot measures give residents a chance to vote directly on an issue. Oregonians themselves will be able to vote in favor or against the measure in November’s general election.

Antonio Gisbert, the chief organizer behind the effort, told Business Insider he remains optimistic that a majority of voters will support the measure in the general election.

“It kind of does seem a little bit like some of these elected [officials] are more beholden to corporations and corporate interests than they are to the interests of everyday Oregonians,” Gisbert said. “We are super committed in instituting some degree of corporate tax justice.”

Cash payments with no strings attached are gaining popularity in the United States as a way to support vulnerable populations. Guaranteed basic income programs piloted across the nation have found that recipients, who are typically low-income, spend the money on rent , groceries, and transportation.

While guaranteed basic income programs are aimed at specific groups, like low-income residents or new mothers , the Oregon Rebate would benefit all residents, making it more similar to a universal basic income.

While Democrats are typically the primary supporters of basic income programs in city and state governments, many Oregon Democrats joined Republicans in opposition to Measure 118. In a joint statement from state House and Senate Democrats, the legislators said they have concerns about the rebate coming from corporate taxes.

“In these tough times, we all want working families to get every break they can, but Measure 118 is not the answer. We have grave concerns it will slow job growth and cause cuts to critical services like road maintenance, fire fighting, and addiction recovery,” the Democrats wrote in a joint statement shared with Business Insider.

An analysis from the state’s legislative revenue office found that Measure 118, which would increase corporation taxes while reducing personal income taxes, would “significantly” alter how the state draws on tax money to pay for public services.

Citing the revenue report, the coalition of Democrats said the rebates would “increase prices for consumer goods and slow Oregon’s job growth.”

“Meanwhile, the ‘rebates’ would go to every Oregonian — including the ultra-wealthy. As a matter of public policy, we believe this is a bad deal for Oregonians,” they said in the statement.

In a statement on Thursday from the organizers behind Oregon Rebate, Gisbert said the initiative doesn’t need legislators’ support.

“Our opponents can keep paying lip service to their donors and we’ll keep working to turn out voters in November,” Gisbert said in the statement. Read the original article on Business Insider

Southern Oregon Restaurant Sentenced in Federal Court for Stealing Covid Relief Program Funds

PORTLAND, Ore.—A southern Oregon restaurant was sentenced in federal court today for stealing more than $759,000 in federal funds intended to help small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Amigos Mexican Cuisine & Cantina LLC, formerly located outside of Medford, Oregon, was sentenced to pay a criminal fine of $200,000 and $759,100 in restitution to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). 

In a separate civil proceeding, Amigos was ordered to pay $1.6 million to settle a related False Claims Act allegation.

According to court documents, in a 13-month period beginning in April 2020, Amigos submitted five fraudulent loan applications to steal more than $759,000 from three Covid-19 pandemic relief programs: the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. Amigos made numerous false statements on these applications, including claiming its owners did not own other businesses, providing inaccurate company financials, and falsely attesting that the company was not engaged in any illegal activity. The company further falsely claimed on a loan forgiveness application that it had used the funds received for payroll. In reality, each time the company received a disbursement of federal funds, its owners would transfer the money to their personal bank accounts for use on various personal expenses.

On April 29, 2024, Amigos pleaded guilty to a one-count criminal information charging the company with stealing public money.

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Meredith Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis Lien represented the United States in Amigos’ False Claims Act proceeding.

Oregon Housing and Community Services to receive $8 million in federal funding for the creation of 153 affordable homes for people with disabilities

 — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is awarded $8 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to create 153 affordable homes for people with low incomes living with disabilities. 

“The Biden-Harris Administration is hard at work delivering results to make everyday life better for people. These investments are a continued testament to this,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “Under the leadership of Governor Kotek, OHCS remains relentless, through the lens of humanity, to advance housing progress that creates a better future for the people and the communities we serve.”

OHCS is one of 18 state housing agencies awarded more than $138 million in HUD funding through the Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA) for Persons with Disabilities program. The Northwest Region received a total of $16 million, with neighboring Washington state awarded $8 million to create 158 units of housing.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) – OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low [KH1] [HH2] [HH3] and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

New program awards $5M to small forestland owners for fish habitat improvement

Salem, Ore.–The Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program (SFISH) funded its first-ever round of projects, awarding more than $5 million in grants to 20 projects throughout Oregon.

The program, administered by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), collaborated with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and key stakeholders to prioritize forest road improvement projects that improve fish habitat on forestlands owned by small forestland owners. 

“The projects will restore passage to more than 74 miles of habitat for native salmon and trout and improve water quality by replacing or removing 37 culverts across 19 watersheds,” said Josh Hanson, SFISH Coordinator for ODF’s Small Forestland Owner Office.

The SFISH Program was established by the Legislature in 2022 to provide grants to small forestland owners to implement road improvement projects that result in environmental benefits to fish species addressed in the Private Forest Accord Report.  The fund can also be used to mitigate risks to natural resources arising from forest roads.

“Project planning is underway, and most projects will start next summer,” said Hanson. “Some projects may require extended planning, with implementation occurring in the summer of 2026.”  Several fish species will benefit from the funded work, including steelhead trout, cutthroat trout, Chinook, Coho, and Chum salmon.  Two projects funded east of the Cascades will benefit Columbia River Redband Trout.

To be eligible for the program, a landowner must own less than 5,000 acres of forestland in Oregon and harvest no more than an average yearly volume of 2 million board feet of merchantable forest products.  A landowner can apply for an SFISH grant at any time, and length of time waiting for funding is considered when awarding grants.

“The program anticipates awarding more money for projects in July 2025,” said Hanson.  “So be sure to check the SFISH webpage for program updates.”

For more information and an application for an SFISH grant contact your local ODF office or visit the SFISH webpage.

Child Care Infrastructure Fund Program Accepting Applications 

State Opens First Competitive Grant Application for Infrastructure Investments in Child Care Facility Establishment, Expansion and Improvements.

SALEM, ORE. – Today the portal for the Child Care Infrastructure Program opened and began accepting applications. While Oregon has been a leader in investing in early learning, previous investments have been limited to services. These grants will finance the development of new and existing early learning and child care facilities. The competitive application and Fund is administered by Business Oregon and is the first statewide capital investment to provide financial assistance for a variety of child care infrastructure development opportunities. The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is providing technical assistance through First Children’s Finance and Northwest Native Chamber. 

“We know that Oregon is a child care desert and many families struggle to find affordable, quality child care that meets their needs. At the same time, we also hear from early learning providers facing major barriers in locating or developing adequate physical spaces to set up child care facilities or to expand programs,” said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee. “We’re grateful to Oregon legislators and Governor Tina Kotek for having the foresight to launch the Child Care Infrastructure Fund which will help to expand access to child care and preschool facilities across the state.” 

In 2023, Oregon legislators passed HB 3005 which allotted $50 million in lottery bonds to Business Oregon to administer the Child Care Infrastructure Fund. Investments in infrastructure are critical to expanding early learning and care opportunities and to providing the care Oregon workers need to grow the economy. Without access to care, parents and caregivers, particularly women, leave the workforce, which has implications for Oregon’s economy.

There are many longstanding challenges to finding suitable early learning facility space including complex zoning and permitting processes. It can be equally challenging to secure capital to make improvements or maintain facilities. Early learning providers are often small business owners, many of whom are eager to expand to meet the growing need for child care in communities across the state.

With this new funding opportunity, providers will be supported in the grant application process. DELC has contracted with Northwest Native Chamber and First Children’s Finance to assist with technical assistance including supports for culturally specific providers and Tribes. This first round of funding will award a total of $10 million in grants to selected applicants. Award decisions will be announced in November of 2024. There will be a second opportunity to apply for funding later in the winter and will award $15 million followed by an additional $25 million available in 2025. 

The application portal for the Child Care Infrastructure Program opens on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. and closes on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 4:59 p.m. Access to the portal can be found on the Business Oregon Child Care Infrastructure webpage at www.oregon.gov/biz. To view the information webinar please visit the CCIF landing page of the DELC website. If you have questions when preparing the grant or completing the Child Care Infrastructure Program application, please contact one of the Technical Assistance providers below: 

First Children’s Finance Point of contact: Heidi Hagel-Braid Email: egon@firstchildrensfinance.org“>infoOregon@firstchildrensfinance.org Northwest Native Chamber Point of contact: Amber Faist  Email: t@nwnc.org“>CCIFSupport@nwnc.org

About the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care – The Department of Early Learning and Care’s mission is to foster coordinated, culturally appropriate, and family-centered services that recognize and respect the strengths and needs of all children, families, and early learning and care professionals. More information about DELC is available at Oregon.gov/DELC.You can also connect with DELC on Facebookor sign up for news alerts and updates

Seeking proposals to run Smith Creek Village, other concessions at Silver Falls

SILVERTON, Oregon—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking proposals to operate Smith Creek Village retreat center, South Falls Café and two historic ranches at Silver Falls State Park.

Smith Creek Village is a retreat center on the south side of Silver Falls that includes lodging (13 cabins and 4 lodges) and a restaurant with a commercial kitchen, dining room and seating area with lots of natural light

“Silver Falls is one of the crown jewels of the park system, and this is an incredible opportunity to be a part of this breath-taking destination,” said Willamette Valley District Manager Sarah Steele.

The park is one of the most popular in the state with an estimated 1.5 million day-use visits per year and features the nationally recognized Trail of Ten Falls. 

In 2021, OPRD signed an agreement with Silver Falls Hospitality to run two services— Smith Creek Village and the historic ranches—and a separate agreement with Oregon Commission for the Blind to run South Falls Café. Both contracts will expire at the end of October, prompting a new request for proposals. The new 10-year contract will include all three business opportunities.

The opportunity includes:

• Smith Creek Village, a retreat at the south end of the park with a restaurant, dining area, and lodging including 13 individual cabins and four group overnight lodges as well as outdoor event space, historic buildings, meeting areas and a commercial kitchen. 
• South Falls Café, a popular café near the trailhead for the Trail of Ten Falls with a full kitchen and indoor and patio space at the South Falls Lodge. Concession services at the South Falls Café currently include casual dining, food to go, and snacks for picnicking and hiking. 
• The Davidson Ranch and the Foothills Ranch, two large overnight facilities with commercial kitchens for private retreats and group lodging for weddings and other gatherings. 

OPRD is looking for a business or individual to run all three opportunities. The deadline to apply is Aug. 30. OPRD will host an open house 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 16, and 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 17 for prospective concessionaires. Registration is required. Email utler@oprd.oregon.gov“>Winona Butler by 2 p.m. Aug. 14 to register.

Silver Falls is expected to see continued growth with work now underway to develop the North Gateway: a new campground, visitor center and park improvements slated to open in 2026. 

The park offers everything from camping, hiking and biking to picnicking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. Several of the park’s structures date back to the Civilian Conservation Corps established in 1933. The architecture features the now-iconic look of stone facades and timber beams seen at Silver Falls Lodge. 

Those who are interested in learning more can contact Contract Specialist Winona Butler at utler@oprd.oregon.gov“>winona.butler@oprd.oregon.gov or go OPRD’s website and click on the Silver Falls Concession Opportunity. The deadline to apply is Aug. 30, 2024.

Photos of the properties are available for download. 

Act now to secure Summer EBT benefits – Deadline is 9/2/2024

(Salem) – As summer begins to wind down, families have a limited window to secure essential food assistance through the new Summer EBT program. The program offers $120 per child to help cover grocery costs when school food programs are not as easy to access. With the application deadline quickly approaching on Sept. 2, 2024, it’s crucial for eligible families to act now.

Thousands of families may be unaware that they qualify for this essential benefit. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) are urging families to check their eligibility and apply before the deadline. Remember, once benefits are received, you have 122 days to use them.

Most eligible children received their benefits automatically on June 28, 2024, if their households:

• Participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Participate in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• Are Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) members in households with incomes under 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level 

Children in foster care also automatically received Summer EBT. 

However, families who did not receive benefits automatically, particularly those with children in Head Start programs that participate in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs, should still apply to determine their eligibility.

Families are encouraged to visit sebt.oregon.gov or contact the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-ORE-SEBT (833-673-7328) to verify their eligibility and apply. ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht said, “Making sure children have access to nutritious food throughout the summer is critical. This small action could provide significant support to families in Oregon.” 

Interview with ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht

Since June 28, 2024, more than 329,000 eligible school-aged children have been issued $39.5 million in Summer EBT food benefits. More than 60 percent of families receiving benefits in the initial issuance were able to immediately use benefits on existing Oregon EBT cards; the rest received new cards in July.

“The results of the Summer EBT launch so far have far exceeded our expectations, but we know that there are many more families out there who have children who may be eligible for the $120 Summer EBT benefit,” ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams said. “We encourage our schools and Summer Meals providers to have flyers on site to raise awareness and get our families the benefits they qualify for.”

Interview with ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams

Act now and don’t let this opportunity pass by. Make sure your family receives the assistance it deserves by applying for Summer EBT before Sept. 2, 2024.

To learn more:

• Call 833-ORE-SEBT (833-673-7328). The call center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
• Visit sebt.oregon.gov.

SNAP Double Up Food Bucks Benefits for Oregon Residents

You can use  Double Up  dollars when purchasing eligible items at participating farmers markets across the state. Just bring your SNAP EBT card with you to a participating farmers market and visit the information booth before you begin to shop.

Adapted from the Fair Food Network’s national model, Oregon Double Up Food Bucks makes it easy for low-income Oregonians to eat more fruits and vegetables while supporting family farmers and local economies. Double Up is Oregon’s first statewide incentive program, designed to be convenient for shoppers.

The program doubles the value of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (sometimes called “SNAP” or “food stamps”) benefits at participating farmers markets, grocery stores, and CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farms so shoppers can bring home more fresh produce.

Double Up is currently offered at over 85 farmers market locations, 35 grocery stores and more than 40 CSA farms across the state — with new locations joining the program each year.

For every $1 in SNAP you spend, you will get $1 of Double Up Food Bucks to spend on more fresh fruits and vegetables, up to $20 per transaction. For example: if you spend $20 in SNAP benefits, you’ll get an extra $20 free that you can use to buy more produce. Learn more at OregonFoodBank.org/DoubleUp.

Oregon Wildlife Agencies Want Your Help Tracking Roadkill

This summer, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Oregon Zoo started asking Oregonians to do their own tracking and upload pictures of roadkill.

“The state wants to get a better idea about where different animals, different species are getting struck and killed by cars,” said Rachel Wheat, the ODFW wildlife connectivity coordinator.

If Oregon’s naturalists can identify roadkill hotspots, then maybe the state can reduce the number of animals killed in interactions with people each year by removing vegetation that attracts wildlife to a specific area or by building a wildlife crossing.

Roadways and vehicular traffic are a significant contributor to fragmentation of habitat and impacts to wildlife, including injury and mortality. The purpose of this project is to improve our understanding of the impacts of roads on Oregon’s wildlife, and to identify roadkill hot spots and vulnerabilities among a diversity of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. This information can help reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and make roadways safer.

To sign up and for more information visit: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/roadkills-of-oregon

Campfires temporarily banned at most Oregon State Parks due to dry conditions, nearby wildfires

— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) temporarily banned campfires at most Oregon State Parks due to dry conditions and the strain on firefighting resources from wildfires burning across the state. 

Campfires and open flames are banned at all parks east of the Cascades due to the low humidity and risk of wildfires. They’re also restricted at parks in high-risk areas across the state until conditions improve. Most bans impact parks east of the Cascades and in the valley with some restrictions at select coastal parks.

“We understand that campfires are an important part of the experience at Oregon State Parks. We don’t make the decision lightly to restrict the use of fire, but unfortunately conditions require that response. The decision is made in consultation with our local fire agencies. Thank you for helping us do our part to reduce the risk of any new wildfires,” said JR Collier, OPRD’s deputy of statewide operations.

Campfire restrictions generally ban all “open flame,” but often make exceptions for propane cooking as the flame is contained. Check individual park webpages for details on any restrictions before visiting. Restrictions are listed in alphabetical order in a feature story at stateparks.oregon.gov/ or on the individual park pages. 

OPRD also encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to the impact of wildfires across the state:

• Several parks have been closed due to wildfires including Battle Mountain Forest State Scenic Corridor, Farewell Bend State Recreation Area, East and West Hatfield Trailheads on the Columbia River Highway State Trail and Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor. Check park webpages at stateparks.oregon.gov/ and search by park.
• Some parks have reduced air quality due to wildfire smoke. Check DEQ’s website for air quality information at www.oregonsmoke.org/
• Several roads and highways have been closed due to wildfires. Please use TripCheck to learn about closures and alternative routes. Relying on GPS might lead drivers into unsafe conditions

For more information about current wildfires around the state, go to the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx. 

For more information about wildfire prevention, please visit the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx.

Campfires prohibited across BLM’s Northwest Oregon District

– Starting July 23, campfires will be prohibited on all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout the Northwest Oregon District. BLM leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of active restrictions and closures as hotter, drier weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest.

In addition to fires and campfires, the stronger restrictions also prohibit smoking in vegetated areas; using vehicles in unmanaged vegetated areas; operating a chainsaw; welding, cutting or grinding; or using an internal combustion engine without a spark arrestor. These prohibitions will stay in effect until rescinded.

These level II fire restrictions help reduce the risk of human-caused fires. They build on the BLM’s statewide fire restrictions prohibiting fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns, which went effect May 24.

Those who violate the prohibition may be fined up to $100,000 and/or imprisoned for up to 12 months. In addition, those found responsible for starting wildland fires on federal lands can be billed for the cost of fire suppression.

For the complete order and more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.

To learn more about fire careers with BLM Oregon-Washington, please see https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire/state-info/oregon-washington/careers.

Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com