Oregon Beach News, Wednesday 4/29 – Welcome Center and Upgrades Coming to D River State Recreation Site Under City-State Partnership, Port of Coos Bay Awarded $11M to Advance PCIP Project & 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

Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Oregon Beach Weather

Small Craft Advisory Issued – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 AM PDT FRIDAY...

* WHAT...Seas 6 to 9 ft at 6 seconds expected.

* WHERE...All waters north of Cape Blanco.

* WHEN...Until 11 AM PDT Friday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds and/or steep seas could capsize or damage smaller vessels.

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

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

Welcome Center and Upgrades Coming to Popular D River State Recreation Site Under City-State Partnership

No-cost lease agreement is the final step before major site improvements begin.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD), the City of Lincoln City, and Explore Lincoln City today announced the transition of oversight of the D River State Recreation Site from OPRD to the City of Lincoln City. The lease from OPRD takes effect on April 27 and is provided at no cost to the city to support the common goal of vastly improving facilities and access by early 2027.

“We’re grateful to Oregon State Parks for their longstanding stewardship of the D River State Recreation Site over the past 60-plus years, and we look forward to ushering in a new era of facilities and experiences for visitors old and new,” said Lincoln City City Manager Daniel Hunter. “Through inclusivity, stewardship, education, and public access, we intend to uphold the legacy that has been established for one of the most visible and highly used recreation sites along the Oregon Coast.” 

Improvements, including the new, $6.7 million Lincoln City Welcome Center, upgraded parking and beach access, and increased accessibility amenities, are scheduled to be completed by the City of Lincoln City in early 2027. The recreation site draws1.5 million visitors each year. 

“D River State Recreation Site is one of the coast’s most loved parks,” said Preson Phillips, Central Coast District Manager. “This is a unique opportunity for local-state collaboration, and we are excited to see this vision come to life.”

Planning and design are underway and construction is scheduled to start later this month. During construction, the restrooms and much of the site will be closed, though Lincoln City plans to make beach access, parking and temporary restrooms available as much as possible. 

This project will be funded through a State of Oregon Lottery Revenue Bond Grant as a result of advocacy from local legislators, as well as the reinvestment of Lincoln City transient lodging tax revenue earmarked for tourism promotion and facilities.

“Not only is D River State Recreation Site one of the most beloved and visited attractions in Oregon, but it’s also a community gathering place that has hosted marquis Explore Lincoln City events, including the Kite Festival, for many years,” said Kim Cooper Findling, Executive Director of Explore Lincoln City. “Our partners at OPRD have generously given Lincoln City the opportunity to tell our story in our own words, and to do so in a way that educates, informs, and reinforces the importance of responsible, stewardship-based visitation.”

See the City’s web page on the Lincoln City Welcome Center for additional information and updates about the renovation status.

About D River State Recreation Site — Originally purchased in 1969 with Land and Water Conservation funds, D River State Recreation Site is among Oregon’s top five most visited recreation sites, welcoming more than 1.3 million visitors annually. Once home to an aquarium and later to a go-kart track, today it serves as a rest stop, interpretive center, and primary access point along Lincoln City’s seven miles of beachfront. In addition to serving as a scenic wayside, the site offers beach and river access, restrooms, paved parking, and easy access to Highway 101 in the heart of Lincoln City.

About Lincoln City — Home to countless treasured experiences, including the world-famous Finders Keepers glass float program, two internationally recognized kite festivals, and Oregon’s only UNESCO Biosphere Region, Lincoln City boasts seven miles of public beaches, a prolific arts scene, and a laid-back beach town vibe. Flanked by the Pacific Ocean to the west and lush forests to the east, Lincoln City is the Oregon Coast’s destination of choice for sustainability-minded travelers. From ocean-to-table cuisine and ideal stargazing conditions, to postcard-worthy summer beach getaways and moody winter storm watching, every season brings something different. And it’s all barely an hour from the Willamette Valley. Follow along @lincolncityor for inspiration, or begin planning a visit at explorelincolncity.com.

About OPRD — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department houses the State Historic Preservation Office and manages Heritage Programs, the state’s ATV Program, Recreation Grants and Community Programs, and Oregon State Parks.

Port of Coos Bay Awarded $11M to Advance PCIP Project

The Oregon International Port of Coos Bay on April 27 announced that the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) project has been awarded an $11.25 million grant through the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), “another significant milestone for a major Oregon freight initiative with national impact.”

The funding, the Port says, supports significant rail infrastructure improvements on the North Spit of Coos Bay “that prepare the future terminal area for cargo movement, strengthen connections to the Coos Bay Rail Line, and advance long-term readiness for one of Oregon’s most significant trade and economic development opportunities.”

The award follows previous federal investments through the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) and Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant programs, as well as the State of Oregon’s recent $100 million commitment to the project, “reflecting continued bipartisan support and sustained partnership across federal and state levels,” the Port noted.

“This award sends a clear message that serious infrastructure in rural Oregon matters and that the South Coast has a real role to play in the state’s economic future,” said Kyle Stevens, President of the Port Commission. “It reflects ongoing public support for practical investments that create jobs, expand opportunities for producers, and strengthen infrastructure with growing national significance.”

The PCIP is a proposed ship-to-rail container terminal “designed to create a new freight gateway on the U.S. West Coast, add capacity to an increasingly constrained port system, and provide shippers with an additional reliable trade option connected directly to inland markets by rail.”

By creating a new flow of imported containers through Coos Bay, the project is also expected to increase access to empty containers that can be used by agriculture producers, manufacturers, and small businesses seeking efficient pathways to global markets, according to the Port.

“Large infrastructure projects move forward one step at a time, and this funding advances an important next phase,” said Melissa Cribbins, Executive Director of the PCIP. “We remain focused on responsible planning, durable partnerships, and delivering measurable progress, and we are incredibly grateful to Oregon’s federal delegation for their steadfast support of this effort.”

“We continue to see strong long-term market potential in Coos Bay and confidence in the logistics advantages this location offers,” said Chad Meyer, President of NorthPoint Development, the project’s private-sector partner. “As global trade patterns continue to evolve, resilient transportation infrastructure becomes increasingly important. PCIP helps create the additional capacity, flexibility, and routing options needed for an ever-changing world.”

More information on the project is available here. (SOURCE)

Columbia River Maritime Museum  — JOIN US FOR SENSORY SUNDAY! Sunday, May 3, 2026, 9:30AM – 11:00AM

Celebrate Washington’s birthday while learning about the state marine mammal, the Orca! Build your own orca paper bag puppet and get some killer fun facts. During Sensory Sunday audio in the exhibits are lowered or turned completely off and the Ford Room is turned into a self-regulation station with soft seating, dimmed lights, plus fidgets and activities.

Sensory Sunday runs the first Sunday of the month expect January, July, and December. Scholarships are available to cover the cost of admission! Please text/call 503-741-7056 or email education(at)crmm(dot)org to request a scholarship.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Invites Public Comment on Future of the State’s Commercial Dungeness Crab Fishery

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is hosting three public meetings along the coast to discuss the state’s commercial Dungeness crab fishery. Commercial fishermen, industry representatives and anyone interested in the fishery are encouraged to attend.

ODFW staff will give updates related to marine life entanglement including the draft conservation plan. Staff will ask for input on the following planned agenda items for the August 14 Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting: five-year risk reduction measures evaluation, electronic logbooks, and rulemaking for vessel monitoring and experimental fishing gear permits.

All meetings will have a virtual option using Microsoft Teams.

May 7, North Bend, (1-4 p.m.)
North Bend Public Library
1800 Sherman Ave.
Virtual option: click this link
Dial in using phone: +1 503-446-4951, Phone Conference ID: 267 664 042#

May 12, Newport, (1-4 p.m.)
Oregon Coast Community College
400 SE College Way
Virtual option: click this link
Dial in using phone: +1 503-446-4951, Phone Conference ID: 494 399 150#

May 14, Astoria, (1-4 p.m.)
Astoria Public Library,
450 10th St. 
Virtual option: click this link
Dial in using phone: +1 503-446-4951, Phone Conference ID: 587 262 054#

ODFW provides reasonable accommodation upon request, including assistive listening devices, sign language interpreters, and materials in large print or audiotape. To request accommodation, please contact the Marine Resources Program office at 541-867-4741 or fax 541-867-0311 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

Reedsport EV Charging Station ~ Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting!

Reedsport EV Charging Station made possible through generous grants —

Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations may seem like a small infrastructure addition, but for a coastal, rural community like Reedsport, they can play a surprisingly large role in economic vitality, tourism, and long-term sustainability.

“Given the significant time required even when using fast charging infrastructure, EV drivers may also be inclined to combine their refueling stops with other activities, including visits to local stores, restaurants, parks, and attractions in the vicinity. Providing EV charging stations can thus enable rural communities to draw regional travelers driving EVs and to stay connected to the broader EV charging network, benefiting both residents and outside visitors, as well as bringing in revenue for local businesses,” (U.S. Department of Transportation)

Here’s why these four new EV Charging Stations matter specifically for our area:

They support tourism and highway travel. Reedsport sits along U.S. 101 and Highway 38 ~ major coastal travel routes. EV drivers plan trips around where they can charge.

• Drivers actively choose stops based on charging availability.

• While charging (often 20–45 minutes), visitors are likely to:

        o Eat at restaurants

        o Shop locally

        o Explore attractions such as the Umpqua Discovery Center

           and participate in community events.

This creates direct spending in downtown and local businesses.

For a place like Reedsport, EV chargers essentially act like modern “fuel stops” that keep travelers in town longer.

We would like to express our gratitude to our partners for making these charging stations possible through generous grants:

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) ~ Community Charging Rebates, Travel Southern Oregon Coast (TSOC), The Oregon Coast (OCVA) . Local funding thanks to the City of Reedsport Urban Renewal Agency. The installation was made possible through our community partnerships with Central Lincoln PUD and Elkhorn Electric, who supported the work of the City of Reedsport’s Community Development and Public Works Departments.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us on Friday, April 24th for the Reedsport EV Charging Station ~ Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting. Especially to all the partners who made this project possible and traveled a considerable distance to join us!

Investigation into Elk Found Shot Dead in Cannon Beach

An elk was found shot and killed in a residential neighborhood of Cannon Beach this week—just days after city leaders made it clear there was little public support for killing the animals.

The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help in identifying the person responsible for killing a cow elk early Monday morning near the intersection of South Spruce Street and East Adams.

According to Oregon State Police, the cow elk was discovered early Monday about a block from the town’s main business district. Investigators say the killing appears intentional and illegal, with a witness reporting a vehicle speeding away from the area around the time the animal was found.

Officials confirmed the elk was not struck by a vehicle. A local resident who photographed the scene said the animal appeared to have been shot in the head, raising concerns about gunfire in a populated area.

Authorities are now urging nearby residents to check surveillance footage for any suspicious activity as the investigation continues.

Tensions Rise Over Growing Elk Population — The incident comes less than two weeks after the City Council held a lengthy and emotionally charged discussion about how to manage the area’s growing elk population. Residents voiced strong opposition to culling, despite increasing reports of close and sometimes dangerous encounters between people and elk.

Local herds, particularly Roosevelt elk, have become a common sight along the coast, drawing attention from both residents and tourists. However, officials warn that frequent human interaction has made the animals more comfortable in urban spaces—sometimes leading to risky situations.

City leaders had explored several alternatives to reduce conflicts, including stricter enforcement of wildlife rules, fencing, and habitat adjustments. While culling was discussed, it was widely seen as unpopular.

Calls for Accountability — The illegal killing has sparked outrage among some community members and officials. One council member described the act as “vigilantism” and stressed the need for accountability.

At the same time, leaders continue to urge the public to respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from elk to prevent further incidents. Investigators say the elk was found dead along the roadway after a witness reported seeing a vehicle speeding away from the area between 4 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. Police are urging nearby residents to check security or doorbell camera footage for anything suspicious caught during that time frame.

Owner of West Coast Game Park Safari has pleaded guilty to numerous charges related to animal neglect and drug possession.

Brian Tenney, who owned the West Coast Game Park Safari, was apprehended in May after law enforcement officials confiscated over 300 animals from the facility.

In addition to the animals, authorities discovered methamphetamine, cocaine, more than a million dollars in cash, and numerous firearms.

The investigation, initiated in October 2024 following a complaint from PETA and a USDA inspection, revealed serious issues at the park, including inadequately secured animal enclosures and the presence of deceased and severely malnourished animals. Tenney is set to appear in court again on July 20 for sentencing.

A Portion of Clatsop Loop Trail Has Been Closed at Ecola State Park Due To Landslide

New drone footage shows the dramatic landslide that closed one of the Oregon coast’s most beloved hiking trails last week.

Video released by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department shows a birds-eye view of the slide that tore a chunk out of the side of the Clatsop Loop Trail, sending mud and rock tumbling down into the ocean.

The west section of the Clatsop Loop Trail at Ecola State Park is closed due to an active landslide that has caused significant erosion, with parts of the trail crumbling into the ocean. This hazardous, unstable area is closed for public safety, as reported by AOL.com and Yahoo. 

• Closed Area: The west section of the Clatsop Loop, including the route to the Lighthouse viewpoint.
• Cause: An active landslide and severe cliff erosion.
• Safety Notice: Visitors are urged to respect all posted closures and avoid the area, as the terrain is unstable.
• Condition: The trail has eroded to the point of disappearing into the ocean, according to reports.

Visitors should check the Oregon State Parks website for updates before visiting Ecola State Park.

The west section of the trail is “actively failing and, in some areas, has completely eroded into the ocean,” according to the Cannon Beach Police Department, which cited Oregon State Parks.

The woman accused of deliberately setting a fatal house fire in Reedsport is now facing multiple murder charges after investigators uncovered disturbing details about the incident.

According to court records, Pamela Westfall was charged in Douglas County Circuit Court with two counts each of first- and second-degree murder, along with arson and attempted murder, in connection with a blaze that killed two men.

Authorities allege Westfall took calculated steps before igniting the fire. A probable cause affidavit claims she removed fire extinguishers from the home, disconnected the Wi-Fi, and barricaded doors—effectively trapping the occupants inside—before setting papers ablaze in a bedroom closet.

When emergency crews arrived, Westfall was found sitting on the back porch, smoking a cigarette. Investigators noted her coat sleeves were burned, and she was in possession of a butane torch.

One victim, identified as Westfall’s mother, managed to escape and call 911 from a neighbor’s home after discovering the internet connection had been cut.

Two other occupants initially made it out safely but re-entered the house with garden hoses in an attempt to control the flames. Investigators say Westfall then shut off the water supply, preventing their efforts.

Both men — 65-year-old Bodie Bren Dye and 67-year-old Gregory Scott Henning, both of Reedsport — died from smoke inhalation, according to officials.

The case remains under investigation as Westfall faces a series of serious felony charges tied to the deadly fire.

Two Dead in Reedsport House Fire; Suspect Arrested for Murder

– A Reedsport woman is in custody on murder charges following a residential house fire Thursday night.

On Thursday, April 16, 2026, shortly before 11:00 p.m., Douglas County 911 received a report of a structure fire in the 27000‑block of Lower Smith River Road. Callers reported individuals were unaccounted for and possibly still inside the residence.

Deputies and firefighters responded to the scene. Upon arrival, deputies attempted rescue and located one individual who was pulled from the house. Despite lifesaving efforts, the 65‑year‑old victim was pronounced deceased. A second victim, aged 67, was also located inside and declared deceased. A third individual was able to escape the residence and was uninjured. Identification of the victims is being withheld pending next‑of‑kin notification.

Deputies contacted a female at the scene, identified as 41‑year‑old Pamela Anne Westfall of Reedsport, who was detained. Westfall admitted to intentionally starting the fire inside the residence. Early indications suggest the fire began following a disturbance.

Westfall was arrested and lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges:

• Murder in the First Degree (2 counts)
• Attempted Murder
• Arson in the First Degree
• Warrant Arrest

The Douglas County Major Crimes Team is continuing to investigate the incident. The Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigative agency. The Major Crimes Team consists of investigators from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Roseburg Police Department, and Oregon State Police, working in consultation with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office.

Additional assistance was provided by the Winchester Bay Fire Department, Reedsport Fire Department, Gardiner Fire Department, Oregon State Police Arson Investigation, Oregon State Police Crime Laboratory, Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office, and Reedsport Police Department.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that may assist the case is asked to contact investigators at 541‑440‑4471, referencing Case #26‑1212.

OHA and DEQ Finalize 2026-2027 Oregon Beach Monitoring List

Agency shares list of state beaches to be sampled for bacteria

The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) has released its list of coastal recreation areas it will be monitoring for the presence of bacteria during 2026 and 2027.

The OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, monitors some of the most frequently visited beaches in the state. The list of monitored beaches includes those where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution.

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

Every two years, as part of an adaptive sampling plan, OHA and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) re-evaluate beaches and sampling locations to ensure available resources best protect public health. Based on OBMP’s evaluation criteria, the following list contains Oregon beaches that DEQ and OHA will monitor in the 2026 and 2027 seasons, from late May through late September of each year. A copy of the beach evaluation is available upon request by sending an e-mail to: each.Health@oha.oregon.gov“>Beach.Health@oha.oregon.gov.

Clatsop County

• SEASIDE BEACH – Seaside
• CANNON BEACH  – Cannon Beach
• TOLOVANA SP BEACH  – Cannon Beach

Coos County

• BASTENDORFF BEACH   –  Coos Bay
• SUNSET BAY SP BEACH   –  Coos Bay

Curry County

• HUBBARD CREEK BEACH  – Port Orford
• HARRIS BEACH SP – Brookings
• MILL BEACH – Brookings
• CRISSEY FIELD RECREATION SITE – Brookings

Lane County

• HECETA BEACH  – Florence

Lincoln County

• D RIVER SP BEACH – Lincoln City
• BEVERLY BEACH – Newport
• AGATE SP BEACH  – Newport
• NYE BEACH  – Newport
• SEAL ROCK SP BEACH – Seal Rock
• SILETZ BAY – Lincoln City
• ONA BEACH (Brian Booth – Beaver Creek State Park) – Seal Rock
• ROADS END – Lincoln City (new for 2026/2027)

Tillamook County

• SHORT SAND SP BEACH – Arch Cape
• MANZANITA BEACH – Manzanita
• ROCKAWAY BEACH – Rockaway
• TWINS ROCKS BEACH – Twin Rocks
• OCEANSIDE – Oceanside
• CAPE KIWANDA – Pacific City
• NESKOWIN SP BEACH – Neskowin

When laboratory testing of water samples taken at monitored beaches indicates levels of bacteria above recreational guideline values, OHA issues an advisory, urging visitors to avoid contact with water at the beach. OHA advisories encourage people to avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water.

Beach advisories are only issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within the May-September sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in the upcoming beach monitoring seasons.

OHA and DEQ work together to evaluate beaches for monitoring based on several criteria. These criteria are: pollution hazards present, previous beach monitoring data that identify water quality concerns, type and amount of beach use, and public input.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in beach water can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including stormwater runoff, sewer overflows, failing septic systems, and animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.

Puffin Season is Back 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.

Florence Youth Police Academy

 Applications for the 2026 Florence Police Department Youth Police Academy are now available! 

Meant for youth ages 14 to 18 interested in a career in law enforcement, first response, and government, the Youth Police Academy will run from June 22 to 27, 2026. Applications are due Friday, May 22. Scholarships are available.

For more information, visit https://www.ci.florence.or.us/Youth-Police-Academy.

Newport & South Beach, Oregon Community  · The City of Newport Parks and Recreation · We want YOUR input, Newport!

The Newport Recreation & Aquatic Center is getting a new look — and we’re asking the community to help design it! We’re creating new window wraps for the front of the Rec Center and want your ideas on the themes, activities, and imagery that best represent our community.

Take our short survey and make your voice heard! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GMSBDH3The more responses we get, the better our design will be — so share this with your friends, family, and neighbors!

Three Rivers Casino Resort Foundation Announces Grant Applications Opening

Nonprofit organizations will soon have an opportunity to apply for community funding through the Three Rivers Casino Resort Foundation. The foundation’s annual grant application cycle runs from April 1st through April 30th, offering support for projects that benefit local communities.

Nonprofits throughout the region are encouraged to apply during that window. According to foundation organizers, funding has helped support a wide range of local initiatives in surrounding areas. More information on eligibility and the  application process is expected to be available through the Three Rivers Casino Resort Foundation. https://www.threeriversfoundation.org/apply-now#:~:text=The%20Foundation%20will%20be%20accepting,applications%20from%20April%201%2D30%202026&text=If%20you%20have%20any%20questions,please%20contact%20foundation%40threeriverscasino.com

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.

Seasonal recreation restrictions have helped protect and recover the western snowy plovers living on Oregon’s beaches. Nests, and especially chicks, are well-hidden. During the nesting season, human disturbances can flush adult plovers away from their nests as they attempt to defend their young. Left alone too long, or too often, eggs or chicks can die from exposure and predators. Habitat loss from invasive plants and human disturbances—including litter and discarded food scraps that attract predators— also contribute to the birds’ decline.

Recreation restrictions occur only in designated plover management areas where plovers nest or might nest. These areas combined make up about 40 miles of Oregon’s 362 miles of shoreline.

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

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

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed western snowy plovers as a threatened species in 1993 when officials counted only 45 breeding adults. Populations have steadily increased since then due to ongoing efforts. Officials counted 546 during the breeding season survey in 2025.

“We appreciate visitors’ support in keeping these shorebirds safe. We invite visitors to enjoy permitted recreation in sensitive areas or to recreate without seasonal restrictions on beaches not designated as plover nesting areas,” said Laurel Hillmann, ocean shore specialist for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

More information on the snowy plover, including detailed maps of nesting sites, can be found on the Oregon State Parks website (oregon.gov/plovers) and on the Siuslaw National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/r06/siuslaw/animals-plants/western-snowy-plover).

Visitors to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area can review Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) maps to identify unrestricted recreation areas and information on riding motor vehicles on the sand at fs.usda.gov/r06/siuslaw/recreation/rules-and-guidelines.

Plover activity near Sand Lake Recreation Area — The increase in plover numbers may result in nesting occuring at new or historical nesting sites. For example, visitors to Sand Lake Recreation Area may see small roped off areas near the lake’s inlet to protect active nests and may encounter plovers on the beach. Beachgoers are encouraged to protect these birds by restricting recreation activities to wet sand areas, avoiding roped off nesting areas, packing all trash out and keeping dogs on leash. Paragliders should steer toward the northern area of Sand Lake Recreation Area to avoid gliding or landing near plover nests on the southern edge of the Sand Lake spit.

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.

NW Natural has released a multi language notice that will also go to every customer regarding how to best identify a NW Natural Utility Worker when they come to your home or are nearby.

There has been reports of ICE agents disguising as utility workers to lure people out of their homes. Please stay aware.

“We are aware of reports of individuals impersonating utility workers in order to gain access to residents. Please note:

Our workers who show up at your home should either be wearing a uniform and a utility badge or wearing a badge that says “CONTRACTOR.” Their vehicles should be similarly marked with a NW Natural company logo and/or “CONTRACTOR.”

If someone comes to your house and asks for access to your home or for you to come outside:

• Our employees will never ask for immediate access to customers’ homes. They often will go to a back or side yard to access a meter.
• In most situations, if there is a reason a NW Natural employee would need to go inside a customer’s home (such as a safety check or inspection), they would have set this up with the customer in advance.

NW Natural is a company based in Coos Bay, OR that specializes in providing natural gas services to residential and commercial customers.

If you want to verify if someone at your home is a NW Natural employee or contractor, you can call our customer service line at 503-226-4211 or 800-422-4012. If you suspect an imposter, call 9-1-1 immediately.” https://www.nwnatural.com/…/2025-utility-and-contactor…

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. 

4/29/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

Oregon National Guard Invites Public to Two Southern Oregon Events In May

Open House and Norwegian Foot March offer community members a chance to engage with local Guard Soldiers

MEDFORD, Ore. — The Oregon Army National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment is hosting two public events in the Medford area in early May, inviting community members and media to participate and learn more about their local National Guard.

1-186 Infantry Open House – May 1, 2026

HHC/1-186 Infantry invites the public to its Open House at the Medford Armory, 1701 S. Pacific Hwy, Medford, Oregon 97501. The armory will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors will have the opportunity to talk with soldiers and learn about military occupational specialties, including scouts, medics, and more. Military vehicles will be on display, and Oregon Army National Guard recruiters will be on hand to answer questions about military service and career opportunities. Registrants will also be entered to win a pair of Apple AirPods 4. Registration is available via QR code on the event flyer.

Norwegian Foot March – May 2, 2026

The following day, HHC/1-186 Infantry will host a Norwegian Foot March at Bear Creek Greenway, 2931 S. Pacific Hwy, Medford, Oregon 97501. Registration and ruck sack weigh-in begins at 4 a.m., with the march kicking off at 5 a.m. The event concludes at noon.

The Norwegian Foot March is a physically demanding endurance march with roots in Nordic military tradition. Participants carry a 24-pound dry rucksack over the 30 Kilometer course. Those who complete the march will receive a commemorative plaque or coin. Drinks and snacks will be provided.

The event is open to the public and free to participate. Registration is available via QR code on the event flyer. Registrants who complete the event are also entered for a chance to win a pair of Apple AirPods 4. Current service members may register and participate, but are not eligible for the raffle.

For more information about the Open House, contact SFC Michael Ege at michael.j.ege.mil@army.mil or (541) 450-8978. For more information about the Norwegian Foot March, contact CPT Christopher Gallagher at istopher.i.gallagher.mil@army.mil“>christopher.i.gallagher.mil@army.mil or (971)-355-1310.

The Oregon National Guard is a part-time, community-based organization of more than 8,000 men and women who serve their neighbors in times of emergency and defend the nation when called upon. Guard members serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year while maintaining civilian careers and community ties. For more information about joining the Oregon Army National Guard, visit oregonarmyguard.com.

Oregon governor signs housing bills addressing affordability, urban growth boundaries

Oregon’s new housing laws let cities expand urban growth boundaries under requirements and offer loans for developers willing to build housing units

Six new Oregon housing laws aim to make it easier for cities and developers to build housing and prioritize affordable housing for families and older Oregonians.

Gov. Tina Kotek, local elected officials and state legislators gathered at Woodburn’s city hall Wednesday to celebrate the new laws, which include one to clear the way for Woodburn to add more housing outside of current city limits.

State economists say Oregon has to build 29,500 new homes a year, mostly in the Portland region and Willamette Valley, if it wants to overcome its housing shortage, while Kotek set — but has yet to meet — a more ambitious goal of 36,000 homes per year. Since the start of her administration, Oregon has financed or added 17,000 housing units with state support and has taken action to add 50,000 future housing units, Kotek said Wednesday.

Woodburn Mayor Frank Lonergan introduced Kotek, saying it was a special day because Kotek signed House Bill 4035, which modifies a 2024 law that lets eligible cities make a one-time urban growth boundary expansion. The law will allow Woodburn to oversee its own 120-acre expansion.

Similarly, Kotek, state lawmakers and housing advocates celebrated the signing of House Bill 4082. It’s a one-time expansion of urban growth boundary rules, with the condition that additional land be used for manufactured housing, prefabricated structures, manufactured dwelling parks or for housing specifically for people 55 years old and older. It lets cities with populations of 25,000 or more to bring in 100 additional acres for development, and those with smaller populations to bring in up to 50.

“To all the Oregonians who are struggling to find affordable housing right now, all the folks who are working on this, we see you,” Kotek said. “We are working for you. I’m working for you. We want to make sure that everyone in the state has a safe, stable, affordable place to call home.”

Three of the new housing laws Kotek signed also strengthen state loan programs to preserve and build affordable housing, including Senate Bill 1567, which authorizes the Oregon Housing and Community Services Department to establish a $20 million loan fund that will offer subsidized loans to developers willing to build housing units affordable to residents at different levels of income.

House Bill 4036 also establishes the Housing Opportunity, Longevity and Durability Fund, a new program funded through the same bond money the state uses to acquire, repair or furnish state-owned property. The new fund would help preserve existing affordable housing that’s at risk of being lost because of expiring federal or local affordability restrictions, financial distress or physical rehabilitation needs.

“With existing federal funding for affordable housing under attack, it’s critical for Oregon to find cost effective ways to build homes available to Oregonians at different income levels,” said Sen. Khanh Phạm, D-Portland.

And House Bill 4037, an omnibus bill addressing a range of housing issues, modifies the state loan program to expand low and moderate-income housing production, strengthens state enforcement of local housing laws and clarifies that surplus state-owned land should be prioritized for housing development. The bill cuts red tape for new housing, Kotek said, by expanding the ability for developers to self-certify that building plans meet requirements and reducing notice and public hearing requirements for certain housing projects.

Elected officials and Kotek also celebrated House Bill 4128, which gives families, individuals and small real estate businesses a 90-day head start before private equity firms can purchase single-family homes for sale in Oregon.

“I think the lineup of bills today is pretty reflective of the work that we have to do,” said Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, the chair of the House Housing and Homelessness Committee.  “It is not just one solution to solve the housing problem in the state of Oregon. Really, we have to hit and address every point on the continuum of development.”

Kotek signed most of the housing bills in late March, according to the state’s legislative information website. Wednesday’s event was a ceremonial celebration of their passage into law. (SOURCE)

Former U.S. Postal Service Employee Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Mail

A Burns, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for repeatedly stealing mail while working as a U.S. Postal Service employee at the Hines, Oregon Post Office.

Patrick Wright, 44, was sentenced to 45 days in federal prison and two years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay over $2000 in restitution.

According to court documents, from January 2024 through June 2024, while working as a U.S. Postal Service employee, Wright opened mail and stole the contents, including money and gift cards.

On April 17, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a one-count indictment charging Wright with theft of mail by a postal employee.

Wright pleaded guilty today to Count One.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey S. Sweet.

Oregonians will soon have the ability to take legal action against private companies that sell or misuse data obtained from license plate-reading cameras, thanks to a new state law.

Senate Bill 1516, which was signed by Governor Tina Kotek on March 31, took effect immediately due to an emergency provision included by lawmakers.

This 16-page legislation is part of a broader public safety package that garnered bipartisan support, yet it is particularly notable for its stringent regulations on the use of automated license plate reading technology and the street cameras associated with it.

While law enforcement has utilized this technology to disrupt criminal activities, its deployment has faced heightened scrutiny, especially in light of intensified federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has finally achieved profitability after enduring years of financial losses, yet the pressure to generate revenue continues to escalate within the state’s sole academic medical center.

Following a staggering loss of over $130 million in the previous fiscal year, OHSU reported a $65 million operating gain in the last nine months, placing the institution approximately $103 million ahead of its budget.

This financial turnaround is attributed to an increase in complex cases requiring specialized care, which yield higher reimbursements and align with OHSU’s core competencies that many other Oregon hospitals lack. However, the institution faced significant financial challenges during and after the pandemic, including rising labor costs due to wage increases and staffing shortages, inflation-driven supply price hikes, and discharge delays that restricted patient admissions.

Additionally, OHSU has navigated various controversies, including leadership changes and ongoing discussions regarding its primate research center.

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding political campaigns that placing signs within highway rights of way is prohibited.

ODOT regularly removes signs that are improperly positioned, as they can distract drivers, pose safety risks, and obstruct official road messages. Any campaign signs found in violation are taken down and stored at a nearby ODOT district maintenance office for a period of 30 days or until they are retrieved. While signs are permitted on private property visible from the highway, they must adhere to specific regulations, including a maximum size of 12 square feet.

Oregon is exploring innovative technology to monitor endangered bird species in its state forests, shifting from traditional nighttime surveys that require biologists to navigate challenging terrain in darkness.

The Oregon Department of Forestry has implemented Autonomous Recording Units to track northern spotted owls and marbled murrelets, allowing for the automatic recording of bird calls over extended periods without the need for human presence in the forest.

In contrast, conventional surveys are conducted only once per site at night, necessitating biologists to drive along unlit gravel roads and hike into dense, trail-less forests, often enduring hours of difficult conditions, including rain.

This outdated approach is becoming increasingly ineffective as barred owls encroach on the habitat of spotted owls, which are now found at higher elevations and are less likely to respond to calls, as doing so risks revealing their location to the competing species.

Oregon Prescription Drug Affordability Board to host community forums to hear how prescription drug prices affect Oregonians

The Oregon Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is hosting a series of community forums in April and May to hear from people about the high cost of prescription drugs and the effect it has on their lives and budgets.

The in-person forums will be held May 5 at the Salem Library, May 6 at the Redmond Library, May 12 at the Asian Health & Service Center in Portland, and May 18 at the Beaverton Library. Online forums are scheduled for April 28, May 11, May 13, and the online board meeting, May 20.

“We invite all Oregonians to join us at these forums and share your stories about the cost of your medications and how those costs impact your lives,” said Sarah Young, PDAB executive director. “All forums will have similar content, so choose the best option for your schedule. We would love to have patients, caregivers, and consumers join us to share their experiences. Hearing your stories will help inform the board as it reviews drugs to identify affordability challenges and high out-of-pocket costs for patients.”

The board conducts annual drug reviews and presents a list of medications that may create affordability challenges to the Oregon Legislature each year. This year, PDAB will review the following medications to evaluate their affordability and their impact on Oregonians and the state’s health care system:

• Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Ozempic (Type 2 diabetes)
• Humulin R U-500 (improve blood sugar control for those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who require more than 200 units of insulin per day)
• Keytruda and Verzenio (cancer)
• Xeljanz (autoimmune and inflammatory conditions)
• Ocrevus (multiple sclerosis)
• Skyrizi (immune-mediated inflammatory conditions)
• Tremfya (plaque psoriasis)
• Xolair (allergic and inflammatory conditions)

The feedback from the community forums will help inform PDAB’s drug review process. Each of the drugs and what they treat can be found on PDAB’s website.

The three online forums are:

• Tuesday, April 28, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 161 635 9753 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)
• Monday, May 11, from noon to 1:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 160 556 2737 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)
• Wednesday, May 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (zoomgov.com/join, meeting ID is 160 948 4958 and the passcode is OregonPDAB)

The four in-person forums are:

• Tuesday, May 5, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Salem at the Salem Public Library, 585 Liberty St. SE
• Wednesday, May 6, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Redmond at the Redmond Public Library, 817 SW Deschutes Ave.
• Tuesday, May 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in Portland at the Asian Health & Service Center, 9035 SE Foster Road
• Monday, May 18, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Beaverton at the Beaverton City Library, 12375 SW Fifth St.

“We also invite everyone to share online feedback about the prescription drugs the board is reviewing,” Young said. “If you have been prescribed one of the drugs on the list, please answer the questions and submit the form.”

The feedback forms are located on the PDAB website and include options for patients, medical experts, safety net clinics, and others.

The Oregon Legislature created the board out of Senate Bill 844 in 2021 to protect Oregonians and the Oregon health care system from the high costs of prescription drugs. The board holds monthly online meetings that are open to the public. The board has eight members with backgrounds in clinical medicine or health care economics.

For more information, email pdab@dcbs.oregon.gov, call 971-374-3724 or go to dfr.oregon.gov/pdab.

About PDAB: The Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) is in the Division of Financial Regulation, part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. The board was established under ORS 646A.693 to protect residents of Oregon, state and local governments, commercial health plans, health care providers, pharmacies licensed in Oregon, and others within the health care system in this state from the high costs of prescription drugs. Visit dfr.oregon.gov/pdab.

Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation’s Vice Chairman Brad Parry Named Inaugural Winner of Schnitzer Prize of the West

Leading one of the largest ecological and cultural restoration projects in the American West, Parry receives the pre-eminent prize awarding collaboration in solving environmental challenges in the region

Bend, OR — April 29, 2026 — The inaugural Schnitzer Prize of the West was awarded to Brad Parry, the Vice Chairman of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation in Ogden, UT and leader of the Wuda Ogwa Cultural and Land Restoration Project.The $50,000 award granted by the High Desert Museum in Bend, OR is the first of its kind in the American West, celebrating and honoring uncommon collaboration and innovation in solving the legacy challenges of the region. Parry will receive the prize during a ceremony in Portland, OR on May 16, 2026.

Parry was awarded for his leadership transforming the site of the 1863 Bear River Massacre in Preston, Idaho, where more than 400 tribal members were killed in one of the deadliest acts of violence against Native Americans in U.S. history, into a place of ecological and cultural healing. When the Tribe purchased the 350-acre site from private owners in 2018, it also became an opportunity to bring wider awareness to a long-overlooked piece of history.

“How we view the restoration is a project not just of restoring the land, but restoring the spirit of forgiveness, and that starts with a small seed. We bring volunteers that come out to plant those seeds, and when they plant it, they bring new friends and family with them. Restoration brings brightness, hope, resilience, and remembrance, but most of all, it brings forgiveness of the past to continue forward in the future. And that’s what this project is,” says Rios Pacheco, Northwestern Shoshone spiritual leader.

Through his collaborations with Tribal members, local farmers and ranchers, academics, state and local governments, and community groups, Parry has built one of the most efficient models of watershed restoration in the American West. Despite scarce resources, ongoing institutional and local tensions, and financial restraints, Parry’s work is successfully restoring the land to its natural state by putting the creek back in its historic path and removing what didn’t belong. Under his leadership, the project is removing invasive species, planting more than 70,000 native plants, restoring wetlands, and freeing the flow of a Bear River tributary. Water is now able to flow more freely downstream, benefitting local farmers, neighboring communities, and ultimately the Great Salt Lake—returning an estimated 10,000 acre-feet of water annually to the lake, which is in its own ecological crisis due to a climate-driven drought. Also central to the restoration project is Parry’s vision for a Cultural Interpretive Center, which will memorialize the site’s history as a landmark to the Northwestern Shoshone’s resilience and their long journey to federal recognition.

“Brad’s visionary leadership is critical to this project’s success. He’s deeply engaged with local biologists, ecologists, and engineers, as well as community groups like the Youth Coalition for Great Salt Lake. He understands that this work is intersectional, and he’s brought together a coalition of stakeholders to make this ambitious project possible,” says Katie Newburn, Education Director of FRIENDS of Great Salt Lake.

Launched in partnership with Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, the inaugural Schnitzer Prize of the West celebrates Parry, his uncommon collaborations, and his innovative response to the urgent issues of sovereignty, ecological restoration, and water security. As the 2026 Prize Winner, Parry’s work illustrates a model for others across the region and the nation to follow.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be the inaugural recipient of the Schnitzer Prize of the West, a recognition I proudly accept on behalf of the Wuda Ogwa project. This achievement embodies the resilience and unity of our Tribe, our people, and our community, building upon the legacy of those who came before us. At its heart, this work is driven by a steadfast commitment to caring for our land, revitalizing our connection to history and culture, and building bridges with other communities—an essential responsibility we must uphold for our future generations,” said Schnitzer Prize of the West 2026 Winner Brad Parry.

“The Schnitzer Prize of the West celebrates remarkable individuals working together collaboratively to compromise and forge policies that benefit us all, and not just for us and our children, but generations to come,” said Jordan D. Schnitzer, President of Schnitzer Properties and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation.

Parry’s nomination was selected by an esteemed panel of 13 advisors with deep backgrounds in tribal leadership, ranching and farming, water policy and river restoration, and prominent academic centers focused on the American West. The panel evaluated nearly 100 nominations across 12 states.

Among the nominations, the Advisory Committee also recognized four finalists—Amy Bowers Cordalis, Talent, OR; Kelley Delpit, Bend, OR; Julie Rentner, Chico, CA;and Laura Van Riper, Bend, OR—who will each receive a $2,500 cash prize during the Portland ceremony on May 16. More information on the selection committee and finalists are available on the High Desert Museum’s website.

Administered through the High Desert Museum, the Schnitzer Prize of the West will begin accepting new nominations in May 2026. Nominations for consideration for the 2027 Prize must be received by December 31, 2026 to be eligible. Nominees not selected in one cycle remain eligible in future cycles.

For more information on the Schnitzer Prize of the West, nominations, eligibility, and award cycles, please visit highdesertmuseum.org/schnitzer-prize.

About Schnitzer Prize of the West 2026 Winner Brad Parry — Brad Parry is the Vice Chairman for the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation, where he also serves as the Tribe’s natural resource officer, currently managing and directing the Wuda Ogwa restoration project.  He is actively involved as a member of the Weber River Commission, the Bear River Commission, the Jordan River Commission, the Great Salt Lake Advisory, and the University of Utah’s Board for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement.  Brad spent over 16 years with the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation, focusing on water quality improvement and Colorado River Basin salinity control. Brad spent his formative years in Syracuse, Utah, near the Great Salt Lake, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communication from the University of Utah.  In his spare time, he enjoys golf, fishing, music, spending time with his family, and teaching about his cultural heritage.

About Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation — Jordan Schnitzer has a vibrant legacy supporting the High Desert Museum. He is the visionary and sponsor of the Schnitzer Prize of the West.

Through the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, Jordan carries on the legacy of his late parents and their belief that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, the CARE Foundation and its leaders have given over $300 million to fund hundreds of nonprofit projects that touch lives and enrich communities.

Schnitzer is also a prominent West Coast businessman. He is President and CEO of Schnitzer Properties, one of the West Coast’s Top 10 private real estate owners with offices in six Western states. Schnitzer is also an ARTnews Top 200 Art Collector globally and shares his vast contemporary art collections at no charge to museums and institutions and supports accompanying programming, educational opportunities and publications.

About the High Desert Museum — The High Desert Museum opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

America 250 Oregon Commission Announces State Submission to National America250 Time Capsule

On July 4, 2026, America250 will bury the Semiquincentennial Time Capsule within Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, PA. The stainless-steel cylinder, designed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is designed to safely store commemorative objects for 250 years until the capsule’s opening in 2276.

Each state was asked to contribute a submission that represents its people, stories, and values at this historic moment. In February, the America 250 Oregon Commission invited the public to share their ideas for what Oregon should submit to the time capsule, with suggestions ranging from creative works, written reflections, and symbolic objects. Each state’s submission must fit within a 6″ x 5″ x 2″ archival storage box or consist of a single page of archival paper no larger than 8.5″ x 11″.

The Commission is pleased to announce that Oregon’s chosen submission is a pin handcrafted by acclaimed Native American artist Lillian Pitt (Warm Springs, Wasco, and Yakama). She is widely known for her sculpting and mixed media artistry, which focuses on 12,000 years of Native American history and traditions of the Columbia River region. Her works have been exhibited globally and can be found in Oregon at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland State University, and the Museum at Warm Springs.

The pin that was selected is She Who Watches, Pitt’s depiction of a famous petroglyph and pictograph that is perched high on a mountain visible from her ancestral village. Under the oral traditions of tribes of the Columbia River region, She Who Watches represents Tsagaglalal, a wise and powerful chief who was transformed to stone, where she continues to keep vigil over her people and the Columbia River.

“The inclusion of this pin from one of Oregon’s most celebrated Indigenous artists reminds us that Oregon’s history and America’s history is much longer than 250 or 500 years,” said America 250 Oregon Commission Chair Kerry Tymchuk.

“I am honored that my work will be included in this time capsule and am heartened to know that when it is opened in 250 years, people will be reminded of those who have made this land their home since time immemorial,” said Lillian Pitt.

Lillian Pitt was born on the Warm Springs Reservation in 1944 and moved to Portland in the early 1960s, where she resides today. She has received many honors, including the Oregon History Makers Award from the Oregon Historical Society. The Ford Family Foundation recently named Pitt as the inaugural recipient of the 1905 Legacy Award, which will be presented every five years to an active Oregon artist who has been producing art for at least 20 years.

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About the America 250 Oregon Commission

The America 250 Oregon Commission was created through Senate Bill 1531, which was signed into law by Governor Tina Kotek on March 27, 2024. Chaired by the Oregon Historical Society’s executive director, Kerry Tymchuk, the mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

BLM Brings Oregon Folklife Programming to National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center

BAKER CITY, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to explore Oregon’s living cultural traditions through a new interpretive folklife series at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center beginning this week.

The series aligns with America’s 250th anniversary by highlighting the people, traditions, and cultural knowledge that have shaped the nation over time. Visitors can experience firsthand how traditional arts connect past and present while supporting the BLM’s mission.

From April through October, visitors will have interactive opportunities that represent Native American, ranching, and rural lifeways. Presentations will take place daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Pacific Time, offering deeper insight into each artist’s craft and cultural background.

April 23-25, Sara Barton, traditional basket maker of Mono Lake Paiute and Yosemite Miwuk ancestry works closely with Burns Paiute weavers

May 7-9, Kathy Moss, cowboy poet, buckaroo, horse trainer, and rancher from Prairie City

June 18-20, Roberta Kirk, regalia maker, food gatherer, and bead and dentalium artist from Warm Springs, Tenino and Wasq’u

July 9-11, Cheryl Newhouse, spinner and weaver from Richland

August 13-15, Mildred Quaempts, dentalium artist from the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla

September 24-26, Clair Kehrberg, saddle and gear maker and leatherworker from John Day

October 15-17, Katie Harris Murphy and Mary Harris, regalia and beadwork artists from the Wallowa Band Nimiipuu, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Karuk Tribes

“This interpretive outreach brings people face-to-face with the traditions that continue to shape communities across Oregon,” said Robert Reis, acting manager for the Interpretive Center. “These demonstrations create a meaningful connection to the past through the skills and knowledge that are still practiced today.”

This series is designed to build long-term, high-quality cultural programming at the Interpretive Center, ensuring visitors can engage with authentic traditions and perspectives for years to come.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located at 22267 Highway 86 in Baker City and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. Admission fees apply. For more information, visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center website or call 541-523-1843.

Safe Digging Month Reminds Oregonians to Contact 811 Before Digging

In recognition of National Safe Digging Month, the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC), Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), and Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) remind Oregonians to contact 811 before starting projects that involves digging.

Whether a professional contractor or do-it-yourselfer, all play an important role in preventing damage to underground utilities. Contacting Oregon 811 before you dig helps prevent serious injuries and avoid costly damage to essential utility services. There are three easy steps to safe digging in Oregon:

1. Submit a locate request at least two business days before digging at Oregon811.com or by calling 811
2. Wait for utility crews to mark the underground lines
3. Dig carefully

After a locate request is submitted, the OUNC notifies the utility companies that provide service to the area. Utility crews then visit the site and mark the approximate location of the underground lines, pipes, and cables able to be located, at no cost to the homeowner or contractor.

Meanwhile, employers must follow Oregon OSHA requirements to protect workers against the potential hazards of underground utilities. Those requirements include:

1. Notifying OUNC of the proposed area of excavations at least two working days before starting an excavation.
2. Estimating the location of utilities before opening or extending an excavation.
3. Determining by safe and acceptable means the exact location of the estimated utility installations when excavation activities approach them.
4. While excavations are open, underground installations must be protected, supported, or removed as necessary to safeguard employees.

Oregon OSHA offers employers free consultations – no fault, no citations, no penalties – to improve workplace health and safety programs and practices. It also offers free technical help with understanding and applying workplace safety rules.

Most utility line strikes happen during the warmer months, when construction and landscaping activity increases. National data shows that in 2024, an estimated 196,977 instances of damage occurred across the country, and 17 percent were caused by failing to contact 811.

For more information or to submit a locate request, visit Oregon811.com or call 811.

Oregon to Honor Fallen Law Enforcement Officers May 5, 2026

Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 5 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.

The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations.

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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