The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcasting’s RogueValleyMagazine.com
Wednesday – April 15, 2026
Rogue Valley Weather
https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php
Here’s the overview of weather outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast
Joint Task Force/Eagle Point Police Serves Child Sexual Abuse Material Search Warrant in Eagle Point
EPPD Case 25-0581 EAGLE POINT, Ore. – The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) along with Eagle Point Police Department (EPPD) and the Oregon Department of Justice’s (ODOJ) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Forceserved a search warrant this morning in Eagle Point. Investigators served the search warrant after discovering Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) images were uploaded from the address. Investigators interviewed possible witnesses and involved parties, and investigations are ongoing.
SOCET served the search warrant Tuesday, April 14 at a residence on Chantrell Court in Eagle Point. SOCET and EPPD began their investigation after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children which led to subpoenas, followed by the search warrant at the residence.
SOCET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Medford Police Department (MPD), ODOJ ICAC, EPPD, and the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF). During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by SOHTCTF for further evidence of child exploitation.
SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, MPD, ODOJ ICAC, and HSI, as well as prosecutors from our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD.
Investigators continue to examine seized devices and interview witnesses as the investigation moves forward. No further details will be released at this time.
Tax Filing Deadline is Today
Oregon taxpayers have until midnight Wednesday, April 15, 2026 to file their tax year 2025 federal and state personal income tax returns and the Oregon Department of Revenue wants to remind taxpayers of information and options that can make the last-minute filing experience less stressful.
You must file a return to get your kicker — In 2026, Oregon is returning $1.41 billion in revenue above projections to taxpayers in the form of a “kicker” tax credit. The kicker is a refundable credit that will either increase a taxpayer’s Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe. It is not sent to taxpayers separately as a check.
Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. Taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using the What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online.
Where’s my refund? — Through Friday, the Department of Revenue has processed 1.5 million of an expected 2.2 million Oregon personal income tax returns.
Taxpayers can check the status of their Oregon state income tax refund using Revenue’s Where’s My Refund? tool. The Department recommends logging in to your Revenue Online account to access enhanced tool features.
Taxpayers who don’t already have a Revenue Online account can create one by following the Revenue Online link on the department’s website.
Filing last-minute paper returns — Due to changes to US Postal Service processes in recent years, taxpayers dropping paper returns into a US Postal Service mailbox at this late date can’t be certain that their returns will be postmarked by the due date.
Taxpayers who want to mail their return can take their return to a USPS office during regular business hours no later than April 15, 2026 and make an in-person request to have their return manually postmarked at the counter before mailing it.
Revenue staff will be on hand in the lobby of the Revenue headquarters building in Salem to accept and date stamp returns for taxpayers 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Tax Day, Wednesday, April 15. Taxpayers can also hand deliver their returns to DOR Regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford, and Portland during regular business hours. For federal returns, taxpayers should seek a hand-stamped postmark at their local post office.
After hours, paper Oregon personal income tax returns can be deposited in drop boxes available on both the east and west sides of the Salem office; on the west side of the Portland State Office Building; or outside the DOR offices in Eugene, Medford, and Bend. A drop box inside DOR’s Gresham office is available during business hours.
The department doesn’t recommend using the state drop boxes for federal returns. Paper federal returns should be sent to the IRS. Federal returns dropped in the DOR drop boxes are date stamped and forwarded to the IRS, but the Department of Revenue can’t guarantee that the IRS will accept them as having been filed on time.
Free e-filing options and tax preparation help — Taxpayers can use Free Fillable Forms to file their federal return and then use Direct File Oregon to file their Oregon personal income tax return directly with the state through Revenue Online. Other free electronic filing options are available for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.
Public computer kiosks for filing taxes with Direct File Oregon and free fillable forms are available in department regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford, and Portland.
From IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites to Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) or AARP Foundation TaxAide locations, Oregon taxpayers needing free assistance can find free tax assistance sites near them on the Department of Revenue Department’s interactive map or through the United Way’s MyFreeTaxes program.
Filing an extension. — Individuals who are not able to file by midnight Wednesday can file an extension directly with the Oregon Department of Revenue or with the IRS. If the IRS extension is granted, the Oregon extension is automatically granted. A timely filed extension moves the federal tax filing deadline and the Oregon filing deadline to October 15, 2026.
Taxpayers should only request an Oregon extension if they:
- Don’t have a federal extension,
- Owe Oregon taxes, and
- Can’t file their return by April 15, 2026.
Remember that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay any tax owed. Taxpayers who can’t pay the full amount they owe should pay what they can to avoid late payment penalties.
RADE/DEA Operation Nets Meth, Cocaine, Guns, and Cash
GRANTS PASS, Ore. (15 April 2026) – On Friday, April 10, 2026, members of the Rogue Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) team, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Medford, Oregon State Police (SWAT, Patrol and Major Crimes), Grants Pass Police Department (SWAT), Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Highway Patrol (Northern Division) concluded a six-week-long drug investigation in Oregon and California by executing three residential search warrants in Wolf Creek, Oregon, and one residential search warrant in Corning, California. During the investigation, RADE and the DEA identified a drug trafficking organization operating out of Wolf Creek that was being supplied with methamphetamine from Corning.
On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the investigation led to a traffic stop on Marshall Clifford De La Garza (39), who was found to be transporting approximately 90 pounds of methamphetamine destined for Josephine County, Oregon, from Corning, California.
The three residential search warrants executed in Wolf Creek led to the seizure of multiple firearms and a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Three individuals were arrested: Johnny Dean Davis Jr. (43), Daniel Cody Green (44), and Stephen Ray Higgins (56). Davis, Green, and Higgins were all lodged at the Josephine County Jail and charged with multiple crimes, including racketeering, delivery of methamphetamine, and possession of methamphetamine.
Additionally, Jesus Fernando Vega (53) was arrested and booked in Corning, California, by the CHP. The search warrant executed at Vega’s residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 58 pounds of methamphetamine, 6 kilograms of cocaine, $227,752, a stolen pistol, a revolver, a hunting rifle, and a MAC-10–style machine gun.
The RADE team is a multijurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts and dismantles local, multistate and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multiagency, prosecutor-supported approach. RADE is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), composed of members from the Oregon State Police, Grants Pass Police Department, Josephine County Community Corrections, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office.
The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP)-sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multiagency drug enforcement initiatives, including RADE. — There is no additional information available at this time.
OSP makes arrest in Grants Pass sex abuse case
GRANTS PASS, Ore. (14 April 2026) – Following a grand jury indictment, Oregon State Police made an arrest today in a Grants Pass sex abuse case involving a Grants Pass school support staff member.
On February 6, 2026, the Oregon State Police began an investigation into Highland Elementary School educational assistant Joseph Deley (64), for potential sexual abuse crimes against a female student. The investigation led to the discovery of three additional female Highland Elementary student victims of Deley, during the school years of 2018, 2022, and 2024, for a total of four identified victims.
The investigation was referred to the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office. On April 9, 2026, Deley was indicted on six counts of sexual abuse in the first degree by a Josephine County grand jury, and a warrant was issued for Deley’s arrest. This morning, Deley was arrested and lodged at the Josephine County Jail without incident.
Anyone with additional information is requested to contact the OSP Southern Command Center dispatch center at (541) 664-4600 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-042392.
U.S. Forest Service – Umpqua National Forest Seeks Campground Hosts
Join them on Tuesday evenings for 5 weeks for FREE Community Concerts beginning June 16th through July 14th, 6:30pm-8:30pm in the picturesque Riverside Park.
Make a night of it! Bring the family for an evening of great music, delicious food, dancing, and fun for all ages. This family-friendly event features:
- Local Food Trucks: Savor a variety of culinary delights from our food truck partners.
- Activities & giveaways: There are always fun offerings for kids.
- Vendor Booths: Explore a diverse range of goods and services from local vendors.
- Wild River’s Tap Trailer: Enjoy refreshing beverages from a beloved local brewery.
The Chamber is pleased to announce that they will be in the same location as last year near the Pavilion. This spot offers plenty of shade and convenient access to parking. They encourage attendees to park in the McKinny lot across from the 6th street park entrance and safely utilize the walking path under the bridge.
The Chamber relies on the generosity of partners, supporters, and volunteers to continue offering this FREE gift to the community. If you are interested in sponsoring, there are many levels to accommodate any budget. Your support helps us maintain the tradition of community concerts and promotes a vibrant local culture.
Without further ado, they are thrilled to present the 2026 Line-Up for our upcoming concert series! This year’s selection promises an exciting mix of both renowned artists and local talent, ensuring a lasting impression on all who hear them.
2026 LINE-UP
June 16th – Gunstock RED
Strap in and get ready for a wild ride with Gunstock Red. This band’s music is a roller-coaster, taking listeners on a journey through southern rock, funk and everything in between. With a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh, their music pays homage to a wide range of music. GSR’s dynamic stage presence and infectious energy make them a standout act leaving a lasting impression on all who hear them.
June 23rd – Simple Dreams Oregon
Everything began with Simple Dreams Oregon – Ronstadt’s greatest hits, their signature full band musical tribute. A rich, emotional journey through Linda Ronstadt most beloved music, each performance is a love letter to an era of unmatched songwriting – delivered with powerhouse vocals, soaring, harmonies, and a band that plays with both passion and precision. It’s more than a concert. It’s a revival of spirit.
June 30th – Pozitronics
Not just a band—they’re a musical time machine that electrifies every event with an unparalleled song arsenal spanning the decades. From James Brown’s soulful grooves to Dua Lipa’s modern beats, from Beatles classic rock to Michael Jackson pop, they seamlessly flow through genres, curating pure musical energy that transforms any space into an unstoppable dance floor. With professional precision and infectious passion, Pozitronics doesn’t just play music—they create unforgettable experiences that keep every crowd moving from the first note to the last call.
July 7th – Evening Shades
The Evening Shades is an indie/alternative rock band based in southern Oregon. With a modern, yet nostalgic sound, the band is known for their high energy, dynamic live shows. From driving, angsty rock anthems to stripped down, introspective and cheeky love songs, Evening Shades might be your new favorite band.
July 14th – The John Dough Boys
The John Dough Boys are a ruckus-including 5-piece string band formed in Southern Oregon. East met west, punk met bluegrass, and rock met folk, giving birth to a host of fast paced, foot stomping songs about women, beer and bad decisions. The lineup includes upright slap bass, drums, fiddle, guitar and banjo. Their aggressive live sound is infectious and is sure to leave anyone who witnesses it wanting more!
Join the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce as they honor four decades of music, community, and joy in Grants Pass. Looking forward to celebrating this milestone with you!
Southern Oregon Receives Federal Funds for Regional Airport Upgrades
- $2.67 million to the Grants Pass Airport for new guidance signs., new lighting on taxiway edge lighting, extends paved runway by 13,294 feet, install runway end identifier lights system and precision approach path indicator system, extend taxiway by 870 feet in length
- $2 million to Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford to rebuild 8,000 square yards of apron pavement; rehabilitate 30,000 square yards of apron pavement; update the pavement management plan and pavement survey and study
- $534,000 to Ashland Municipal Airport to reseal 3,331 linear feet of taxilane pavement and joints; rehabilitate 131 linear feet of taxilane pavement; reseal 3,791 linear feet of runway pavement and joints
- $465,789 combined to Roseburg Regional Airport to rehabilitate 27,555 square yards of apron pavement; rehabilitate 5,003 feet of paved runway
”This federal investment in the Grants Pass Airport is a major win for our community and for the long‑term economic vitality of Josephine County,” said Grants Pass City Manager Aaron Cubic. “Replacing aging lighting, signage, and critical electrical systems will significantly enhance airfield safety and reliability, ensuring that our airport can continue to serve residents, businesses, and emergency response operations without interruption. Modern, dependable airport infrastructure is foundational to economic growth. These improvements strengthen our ability to attract business activity, support tourism, and maintain vital air access for firefighting, medical transport, and regional aviation services. We are grateful for the strong support from our federal partners, and this award underscores the importance of continued investment in rural transportation assets that keep communities like ours connected and competitive.”
“We are grateful to the Federal Aviation Administration for granting these funds to install needed safety enhancements that will help the City of Ashland serve our airport users over the next decade,” said Ashland Mayor Tonya Graham.
Crater Lake Ride the Rim Event Cancelled for 2026
Crater Lake National Park has cancelled the 2026 Ride the Rim event due to major construction projects affecting park roads, trails, and visitor areas.
The decision reflects safety and operational constraints associated with multiple rehabilitation projects underway this year, including repairs and paving along East Rim Drive, major repairs on the Cleetwood Cove Trail and marina, improvements at North Junction Overlook, and rehabilitation of the Rim Village employee dormitory. These projects involve active construction zones that limit the park’s ability to safely host the event.
These projects represent a significant, multi-year investment in safety, park infrastructure, and the visitor experience. Improvements to East Rim Drive and key visitor areas will enhance the quality and durability of the route used by Ride the Rim participants and expand access to more secluded areas of the park.
Crater Lake National Park remains open while construction is underway, with a wide range of recreational opportunities available to visitors. While the Cleetwood Cove Trail is closed, visitors can still enjoy scenic viewpoints along East Rim Drive, hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and other experiences throughout the park.
The next Ride the Rim event has not yet been scheduled. For updates, visit https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/bicycling.htm. For current park conditions and events, visit https://nps.gov/crla
At The Expo, Jackson County Fairgrounds, Oregon —
Looking for a summer job?!
The City of Grants Pass is wrapping utility boxes in vinyl printed artwork, and we’re soliciting artists for the next round.
Southern Oregon Goodwill — We are hiring for our new North Medford store, opening May 14th!
New Blog: PIER Grant Round 2 Now Open!
Read the full blog here:
Eligibility details Grant uses (up to $15,000) Important deadlines What support is available to help you apply
Sharing for our friends at Salvation Army
Help Fill Our Food Pantry – Your Donations Make a Difference! Hunger is a reality for many in our community, but together, we can make a change! Our food pantry is in need of non-perishable food items to help families struggling to put meals on the table. Most Needed Items: Canned vegetables & fruits Rice & pasta Peanut butter & jelly Cereal & oatmeal Soup & canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans) Drop-off Location: 922 N. Central Avenue Medford, OR 97501 Hours: 9am-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Every can, box, and bag of food makes a difference in someone’s life. Let’s come together to fight hunger—because no one should go to bed hungry. .
Rogue Valley Humane Society
Our Community Food Bank exists to help folks who need an extra helping hand during a difficult month to feed their pets. Our program has a limited budget and so we rely on generous members of our community to donate some of these goods to continue to help assist our community. In 2023 we fed an average of 700 pets a month! This equates to approximately 70 – 40lb bags of food each month! Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.
CSO Case 24-4928 PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives and Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel continue to search for a woman missing out of Prospect, Ore. since September 2024.
Deenah Padgett, 69, was reported missing on Sunday, September 8, 2024. She was last seen camping in the Prospect area on September 4, 2024. She is described as a white woman with brownish-red, partially gray hair, standing 4’8” tall and weighing 90-100 lbs. JCSO detectives and SAR personnel have searched the area extensively and are looking for the public’s help. If you see Deenah or know her whereabouts, immediately call ECSO Dispatch at (541) 776-7206 and reference case 24-4928. If you have any information that might help the investigation, call Detective Friend at (541) 864-8774.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is asking for help identifying the owner a motorhome. It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area. JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4’ 8” tall, weighing approximately 95 pounds with brownish red/greying hair. JCSO issued an advisory this weekend asking anyone with information about the owner of the pictured motor home or Padgett’s whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.
David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active
The Ashland Police Department’s investigation into the murder of David Grubbs on November 19, 2011 remains open and active. Recently two new detectives have been assigned to look into new leads that have come in.
This case remains important to David’s family, the community, and the Ashland Police Department. As detectives continue to pursue these new leads, anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to the Ashland Police Department at 541-488-2211. The reward for information leading to an arrest on this case remains at over $21,000.
Taking Another Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey
Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends. But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle 
We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate. Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162 We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home. Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. Tipline- 541-359-5638 Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace In Josephine County
It’s been more than five years since the disappearance of a Lane County Woman, who was last seen in Grants Pass. Back in June of 2020, Fauna Frey disappeared. Police said the 45-year-old left her home in Dexter to drive to Grants Pass to visit her brother’s friend after her brother had recently passed away. The last place she was seen was at the Big 5 in Grants Pass. Investigators said her car was found in the Galice area months later. The circumstances of Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved. Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be Found, Here One Minute, Gone the Next, and Detective Perspective, each trying to fill the silence left by law enforcement. New listeners continue to discover her story, hoping a fresh set of eyes or a single loose memory might be the key to finding Fauna.
Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!
If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:
- Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
- Tip line: (541) 359-5638
- Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com
Currrently there is a $50,000 CASH REWARD for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey. LARGE CASH REWARDS are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Fauna’s, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins. Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132
You can find food in your community at this link
Our network of food banks and pantries provides free food and groceries across Oregon. No proof of income or documentation required.
https://www.oregonfoodbank.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 Map to 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.
4/15/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today
Kotek Announces Approval of Major Disaster Declaration for December 2025 Floods
Governor Tina Kotek announced today that the December storms have been declared a major disaster by the President. This will provide federal Public Assistance funding to support recovery from the December 15–21, 2025 atmospheric river that impacted communities across the state. Read more about the timeline on the incident StoryMap.
The declaration makes Public Assistance funding available to nine counties significantly affected by the storms: Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union, and Yamhill. These funds can be used to cover eligible costs related to damage to roads, bridges, utilities, and other public infrastructure. Oregon has also requested Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding to support long-term risk‑reduction projects; that request is still under federal review.
The storms produced record rainfall and powerful winds, causing widespread flooding, landslides, and mudslides. At the peak of the event, more than 300,000 Oregonians were without power, numerous highways and interstates were closed, and one fatality was reported in Yamhill County. A joint preliminary damage assessment documented more than $15.4 million in eligible damages, with Tillamook County experiencing the highest per‑capita impact at $154.29 per person.
With the approval of the disaster declaration, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management will work closely with FEMA’s Field Coordination Officer, Shawna Jepson—formerly OEM’s recovery program manager—to coordinate the state-federal partnership supporting community recovery. OEM staff are already reaching out to affected jurisdictions to begin the Public Assistance application process and provide guidance on required documentation, next steps, and available resources.
OEM remains committed to supporting local partners through recovery and to advocating for hazard mitigation funding that strengthens long‑term resilience across Oregon.
More information about Oregon’s disaster recovery efforts and emergency preparedness resources is available at Oregon.gov/OEM or read the FEMA fact sheet about the disaster.
Multiple gray whales have washed ashore on the Oregon coast in April 2026, including a 40-foot specimen in Seaside and another near Yachats, marking a surge in strandings during their northern migration. Experts attribute these deaths to poor nutrition and a lack of food in the Arctic.
- Seaside Beach (April 14): A 40-foot male gray whale was found dead, with a necropsy planned by the Seaside Aquarium.
- Yachats Area (April 12): A 38-foot adult female gray whale was discovered dead north of Yachats.
- Earlier Activity: This is part of a broader trend with over a dozen whales washing up along the Oregon and Washington coasts in recent weeks.
- Fin Whale (Feb 2026): A 46-foot fin whale was found dead on Sunset Beach.
Causes and Context
- Nutritional Stress: Researchers believe that a “failure of not finding enough food in the Arctic” during the summer foraging season is causing the gray whales to die during their return trip to the Arctic from Mexico.
- Unusual Mortality Event (UME): Since 2019, NOAA Fisheries has tracked an increased number of gray whale strandings (a UME), suggesting a long-term issue with the population’s food supply.
- Migratory Season: Spring is the typical time for gray whales to be migrating north, leading to higher occurrences of dead whales appearing on beaches.
What to Do If You See a Beached Whale
- Do Not Approach: Experts warn against approaching or touching live or dead whales.
- Report It: Contact the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network via the NOAA Fisheries Website to report a stranding.
- Keep Pets Away: Keep dogs on a leash and away from the carcass.
Previous Incidents
In November 2025, a young humpback whale was found entangled and beached in Yachats. Despite efforts to save it, the whale was ultimately euthanized by experts.
Governor Tina Kotek signs House Bill 4149, strengthening protections for students experiencing homelessness
Governor Tina Kotek has signed House Bill 4149 into law on March 31, codifying longstanding educational protections for students experiencing homelessness into Oregon statute and ensuring those safeguards remain in place regardless of changes to federal policy.
“In Oregon, every child should have access to housing, education and support that gives them the power to live a life of their choosing, regardless of income or zip code,” said Oregon Housing and Community Services Executive Director Andrea Bell. “When we get this right, we won’t just teach them of Oregon’s promise to them—we embed it into the experience of all students.”
House Bill 4149 establishes a durable, state-level framework to support the more than 22,000 students in Oregon who experienced homelessness during the 2022-2023 school year, according to a report by Portland State University.
The new law guarantees:
- Immediate school enrollment regardless of documentation
- Transportation to a student’s school of origin
- Access to comprehensive support services
- Clear and consistent dispute resolution processes
By embedding protections historically provided under the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act into state law, Oregon ensures continuity for students even amid potential federal policy changes.
“We can no longer depend on the federal government to defend the rights of our most vulnerable communities,” said Gov. Kotek. “This bill ensures that students experiencing homelessness can be confident their rights are enshrined in state law and not subject to the whims of an unreliable federal government.”
Students experiencing homelessness face significant barriers to academic success. An Oregon Department of Education report shows that students navigating housing instability graduate at lower rates than their peers, a gap that reflects broader systemic inequities tied to housing instability.
“The federal McKinney‑Vento Act affirms that education is a gateway not only to learning and opportunity, but also to stability, safety, and connection. Oregon legislators reinforced this commitment by passing HB 4149,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education. “As a result, ODE will continue to deepen our work with school districts, community organizations, and all those who support and advocate for students navigating housing instability. Together, we will ensure that every scholar has equitable access to education and the opportunity to thrive alongside their housed peers.”
Advocates and service providers across Oregon emphasized the bill’s long-term impact on preventing homelessness.
“By guaranteeing stable education, immediate enrollment, and comprehensive support for students experiencing homelessness, we’re addressing one of the root causes of intergenerational poverty and homelessness,” said Mary Ferrell, executive director of Maslow Project. “When children can remain in their school of origin, maintain consistent relationships with teachers and friends, and access the services they need to thrive, we fundamentally change their life trajectory.”
With House Bill 4149 now law, Oregon reinforces its commitment to addressing homelessness at its roots by ensuring that students experiencing housing instability have the support they need to stay in school and succeed.
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 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.
Oregon organizations awarded federal funding to improve rural healthcare
Future Rural Health Transformation Program opportunities include May 26 proposal deadline
A dozen projects – offering training for healthcare professionals, mental health and substance use prevention at schools, support for people managing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and much more – are the first in Oregon that are expected to receive federal Rural Health Transformation Program funding.
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is also preparing to release additional funding in the coming months. Details on future funding opportunities – including one that has a May 26 proposal deadline – are provided below.
“Where you live shouldn’t determine whether you get quality health services,” said OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi. “These projects show what’s possible when rural communities lead, and OHA is committed to helping them turn homegrown solutions into lasting impact.”
The 12 projects are expected to collectively receive up to $6.5 million this year. To quickly bring much-needed support to promising, ready-to-go projects, OHA is directly providing this specific pool of rural health funding, which OHA has named Immediate Impact Awards. The organizations that are expected to receive this direct funding are listed below. OHA expects to determine the exact funding for individual projects by May, after budget negotiations are completed.
“These early projects will help Oregon’s Rural Health Transformation Program succeed in its first year, building a solid foundation upon which we can meaningfully improve rural healthcare access for years to come,” said OHA Health Policy & Analytics Director Clare Pierce-Wrobel.
The Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon are also expected to receive a total of $21.7 million this year through the program’s Tribal Initiative, which aims to improve Tribal healthcare access and health outcomes in rural and remote Tribal communities based on each individual Tribe’s identified needs. OHA partnered with Tribal representatives to create this initiative while honoring Oregon’s government-to-government relationship with the Tribes.
Project proposals accepted through May 26 — Through May 26, eligible organizations can also propose their innovative projects for a competitive Oregon Rural Health Transformation Program funding pool known as the Catalyst Awards. OHA expects to grant a total of about $80 million per year for up to two years, pending federal approval, toward Catalyst Award-supported projects. Up to 80 proposals will be funded by early July through this opportunity.
Catalyst Awards will be given to projects that are ready to launch within two months of receiving funding and address at least one of the following areas: maternal and child health; co-occurring behavioral health conditions; aging in place; and chronic disease. More information about the application process is on the OHA Rural Health Transformation Program webpage
In addition to the Catalyst Awards, OHA plans to further award federal funding to hospitals, health clinics and local public health authorities to help rural Oregon improve access to critical services during a time of tremendous change and challenge in healthcare. To further support the Rural Health Transformation Program’s goals, OHA expects to direct a total of $50.4 million this year by late summer.
- Each of the state’s 35 rural hospitals can receive direct grants, with a total of $35 million expected to be provided this year.
- Each rural health clinic can receive direct grants, with a total of $10 million expected to be provided this year. Oregon currently has 100 certified rural health clinics.
- Each of the state’s 33 local public health authorities – most of which are county health departments – can receive funding, with a total of $5 million expected to be provided this year.
OHA also plans to partner with the Oregon Office of Rural Health to support this statewide effort by facilitating regional collaboration and providing technical assistance to organizations that are planning or implementing rural health projects.
Community-driven improvement — The Rural Health Transformation Program was created by U.S. House Resolution 1, a federal tax and spending bill that became law in July 2025. While the law will cut an estimated $15 billion in federal funding for Oregon programs that provide health insurance, food benefits and more, it also created this federal program. The Rural Health Transformation Program will distribute a total of $50 billion nationwide between 2026 and 2031. The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services oversees the program.
Oregon is receiving a total of $197.3 million in 2026 and could receive more in the following four years. If the federal government approves Oregon for similar amounts in future years, the state could receive an estimated total of $1 billion through the program. While each state’s 2026 funding was announced in late 2025, much of Oregon’s funding was restricted and could not be spent until the federal government gave approval on March 19, 2026.
OHA is investing this federal funding in community-driven projects that improve healthcare access, boost chronic disease management and prevention, grow and sustain the healthcare workforce, and expand the use of health technology and data in Oregon’s rural and frontier communities.
Oregon’s Rural Health Transformation Program efforts are divided into two phases. In 2026 and 2027, OHA will swiftly support ready-to-go projects while also helping rural-serving organizations strengthen partnerships for the next phase. Between 2028 and 2030, OHA plans to award larger, competitive grants for longer-term regional projects that transform the healthcare system.
# # # The Oregon Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $197,271,577.67, with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents of this release are those of OHA and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CMS/HHS or the U.S. Government.
State places ATRIO Health Plans under supervision
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) announced today that it has issued an order of supervision to ATRIO Health Plans, Inc., because of concerns over ATRIO’s financial condition. The company has suffered excessive operating losses over the past 12 months.
Additionally, the financial condition of the company has created a claims backlog that has caused provider payments to go unpaid. As the solvency regulator, this situation has caused DFR to take this action.
As of March 2026, ATRIO enrolled a total of about 35,340 Oregonians in its Medicare Advantage plans. The enrollees are in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington, and Yamhill counties.
An order of supervision allows DFR to have a representative on site and in control of all financial decisions to ensure that consumers are protected. The order prohibits ATRIO and its directors, officers, agents, employees, and others affiliated with the company from taking several actions, including withdrawing from any of ATRIO’s bank accounts; lending or investing any of ATRIO’s funds; transferring any of ATRIO’s property; incurring any debt, obligation, or liability of behalf of ATRIO; merging or consolidating with any other insurer or person; approving any new premium or renewing any policies; terminating, surrendering, forfeiting, converting, or lapsing any insurance policy, certificate, or contract, except for nonpayment; and releasing, paying, or refunding premium deposits, unearned premiums, or other reserves on any insurance policy, certificate, or contract.
The supervision order is available here.
DFR took this action because of ATRIO’s excessive operating losses, and inadequate capital and surplus. Capital and surplus is the amount a company’s assets exceed its liabilities.
Consumers with questions about Medicare can find help from the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program at 800-722-4134 (toll-free) or at shiba.oregon.gov. More information can be found on DFR’s website.
The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has been made aware of the order and more information for enrollees may be forthcoming from that federal agency. DFR regulates the financial condition of carriers, while CMS is responsible for operating the Medicare Advantage program.
### About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
Earth Month on the Oregon Coast: SOLVE Volunteer Events Invite Community Action
Earth Month is bringing volunteers together along the Oregon Coast for beach cleanups, habitat restoration, and community stewardship projects throughout April. From Astoria to Brookings, events are happening up and down the coastline, offering meaningful ways to protect marine ecosystems and keep Oregon’s beaches beautiful.
As part of SOLVE’s Earth Month celebrations, more than 200 volunteer projects are taking place across Oregon and Southwest Washington throughout April. On the Oregon Coast, volunteers can join beach cleanups, remove invasive species, screen for microplastics, and restore coastal habitats in communities all along the coast.
Featured Earth Month Events along the Oregon Coast
Manzanita Beach Cleanup for Earth Month
WHEN: Saturday, April 18, 10 am – 12 pm
WHERE: Manzanita
Celebrate Earth Month on one of Oregon’s most iconic beaches. Volunteers will help remove marine debris, then enjoy refreshments and a sack lunch following the cleanup.
Link to register
Road’s End Spring Beach and Neighborhood Clean-Up
WHEN: Saturday, April 18, 10 am – 1 pm
WHERE: Road’s End, Lincoln City
Join a combined beach and neighborhood cleanup with community partners. Volunteers will remove litter from the shoreline and surrounding areas. Link to register
Warrenton Waterfront Trail Earth Day Cleanup
WHEN: Saturday, April 18, 10 am – 12 pm
WHERE: Hammond Marina / Warrenton Waterfront Trail
Help clean the waterfront trail stretching along the Skipanon River. Volunteers will disperse into teams and return for a group photo after the cleanup. Link to register
Cannon Beach Cleanup
WHEN: Saturday, April 18, 10 am – 1 pm
WHERE: Cannon Beach
Join a large-scale beach cleanup covering areas from Ecola State Park to Arch Cape. Volunteers of all ages are welcome to help remove marine debris and microplastics.
Link to register
Brookings Earth Day Cleanup with Chetco Brewing
WHEN: Sunday, April 19, 10 am – 12 pm
WHERE: Brookings
Meet at Chetco Brewing before heading out to nearby beaches including Mill Beach, Harbor Beach, and Harris Beach for a coastal cleanup. Link to register
Microplastic Screening & Beach Cleanup
WHEN: Thursday, April 23, 10 am – 2:30 pm
WHERE: Rockaway Beach
Help screen for microplastics and remove marine debris in partnership with local community groups and students. Link to register
Two for One Day: Earth Day & Arbor Day Cleanup
WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 10 am – 1 pm
WHERE: Estuary Trail, Florence
Celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day with invasive plant removal, trail cleanup, and habitat restoration projects throughout Florence. Link to register
Sparrow Park Beach Cleanup
WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 10 am – 12 pm
WHERE: Reedsport
Collect litter and marine debris along the shoreline as part of the Oregon Spring Cleanup.
Link to register
Netarts/Oceanside Beach Cleanup: Sunset Edition
WHEN: Sunday, April 26, 4 pm – 6 pm
WHERE: Cape Lookout State Park to Bayocean Spit
Join an evening beach cleanup timed with low tide and sunset. Volunteers will help remove marine debris, followed by optional post-cleanup gathering.
Link to register
How to Get Involved
- Volunteer: Browse the event calendar for more events and register yourself or a group at volunteer.solve.org/oregon-spring
- Encourage participation: Invite schools, workplaces, and community groups to take part in Earth Month action
- Spread the Word: Share local events with friends, neighbors, and your community
The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2026 is made possible through the partnership with Portland General Electric and generous support of Clean Water Services, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon State Park & Recreation, The Standard, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Intel, Kaiser Permanente, KOIN6, LAM Research, Lithia & Driveway, National Parks Recreation & Parks Association, and PepsiCo.
For more information or to register, visit solve.org/oregon-spring
About SOLVE — SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solve.org for more information or follow SOLVEPNW on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn. Stefanie Wich-Herrlein (she/her)
Based on reports from early April 2026, Oregon is facing severe drought conditions and a heightened risk of wildfire following an exceptionally mild and dry winter, which has created a “snow drought” with water supply concerns similar to 2015.
- Historic Temperatures: The winter of 2025-2026 (December–February) tied with 1934 as the warmest on record for Oregon, with average temperatures 38.7 degrees, roughly 6 degrees above the long-term average.
- Snowpack Deficit: Due to high temperatures rather than a lack of precipitation, the snowpack across the Pacific Northwest has plummeted to roughly one-third of normal levels, which is one of the lowest in decades.
- Climate Trends: State climatologist Larry O’Neill described this as part of a “worrying trend,” noting that 2025 was the third-warmest year on record and the last few winters have been exceptionally warm.
Drought Emergency and Proactive Response
- Governor Action: On March 31, 2026, Governor Tina Kotek signed an executive order (EO 26-05) declaring a drought emergency for Baker, Deschutes, and Umatilla counties.
- Early Declaration: This declaration was issued significantly earlier in the year than in 2024 or 2025, reflecting the severity of the dry conditions.
- Assistance Measures: The order enables state agencies to assist local water users, including farmers, ranchers, and the recreation industry, and streamlines the process for water-related reviews.
- Fire and Environmental Risks
- Fire Season Preparedness: Officials are bracing for an intense wildfire season starting earlier than normal, with state agencies like the Oregon State Fire Marshal focusing on wildfire readiness and defensible space.
- Water Supply Impacts: The low snowpack is expected to result in reduced streamflows and significantly impact agricultural production, especially in Southern and Eastern Oregon, with some regions facing potential irrigation shortages.
- Aquatic Life: The lack of water and higher water temperatures are expected to negatively impact fish populations, including salmon and steelhead.
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.
Scammers are targeting individuals with deceptive text messages claiming they owe money to the Oregon Department of Transportation or DMV, and these messages are not harmless jokes.
These fraudulent texts often mention unpaid tolls, license suspensions, or traffic violations and include links to counterfeit websites designed to capture your personal and financial information. It is important to remember that ODOT and DMV will never request payment via text, email, phone call, or third-party sites.
Scammers aim to create a sense of urgency to prompt quick action, so it is crucial not to respond, click on any links, or share personal details. Instead, block the number and delete the message.
Such scam texts frequently use alarming phrases like “urgent notice” or “final enforcement,” warning of potential license suspensions or increased fines if immediate payment is not made
Recent federal changes are expanding work requirements for some Oregonians who receive SNAP food benefits. State agencies are encouraging recipients to get free job search and training help through WorkSource Oregon.
The Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Employment Department say more SNAP recipients must now show they are working, looking for work, or in training to keep their benefits. The new rules apply to more people than before, including some adults up to age 64 and some households with older children. Some recipients will also need to meet these requirements for longer than three months. SNAP Director Amya Hoffman says many people may already qualify through jobs, volunteering, or other activities. Free help is available through WorkSource Oregon, which has 37 centers across the state. For more info, go to WorkSourceOregon.org.
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.
BLM seeks seasonal volunteer camp hosts across Oregon, Washington
The Bureau of Land Management is seeking seasonal volunteer hosts for several recreation sites in Oregon and Washington. Hosts will help connect visitors to public lands during a milestone year as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, and the BLM celebrates its 80th anniversary. Campground hosts play an important role in the visitor experience. They offer information about recreation opportunities, answer questions about the area, and help ensure campgrounds remain clean and safe. Light maintenance tasks—such as tidying restrooms, collecting trash, and keeping signs and information boards up to date—are part of the daily routine. This is a live-in volunteer position, and hosts must provide their own self-contained RV. Volunteers may be eligible to receive a daily per diem reimbursementwhile serving on site. Season lengths and schedules vary by location, with most positions running from late spring through early fall. Some locations can accommodate couples who want to host together and share responsibilities. All volunteer campground hosts must complete a federal background check. Those interested in learning more or applying can visit Volunteer.gov and search for “BLM Oregon” or “BLM Washington” to view current openings. -BLM- The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Oregon State Parks to hire seasonal Park Rangers, Park Ranger Assistants
Oregon State Parks is hiring seasonal Park Rangers and Park Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2026 season.
Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through June with new positions listed on a rolling basis on the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December. Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services. Salaries start at $20.28 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.79 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, who are enrolled in high school start at $20.27 or more per hour, depending on experience. Several of Oregon State Parks’ top leaders started their careers as seasonal employees, including all three Region Directors. “We are focused on developing an engaged workforce by partnering with staff on career development, investing in skill building and fostering a culture of belonging. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you make a difference in protecting and promoting Oregon’s special places,” said interim Director Stefanie Coons. Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Park Rangers at parks around the state. Positions are available in Oregon’s coastal areas, scenic valleys, and mountain regions, offering opportunities to work in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest. For more information about current openings, visit https://bit.ly/oregonparkjobs. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Recruiting D.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.
Beginning on March 30, 2026, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will discontinue the waiver of parking fees at an additional 22 day-use parks.
Currently, a day-use parking permit costs $10 for residents of Oregon and $12 for out-of-state visitors, and it is valid for the entire day of purchase at any state park in Oregon. Access to the parks remains complimentary for those who walk, bike, or utilize public transportation. Visitors arriving by car can present valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a valid 12 or 24-month parking permit. Additionally, visitors who acquire parking permits online or through parking QR codes can link their license plates to the valid payment. At present, OPRD mandates a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks throughout the state. The selection of the 22 additional parks was based on the amenities and features that necessitate maintenance and operation, including restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps, and more. The revenue from parking fees contributes to the maintenance and operation costs, ensuring that these facilities remain available for all visitors.
UNDER PRESSURE: A VOLCANIC EXPLORATION, AN EXHIBITION FROM OREGON’S HIGH DESERT MUSEUM, SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON THE RUMBLING GIANTS AMONG US
(BEND, Ore.) — For millions of years, volcanoes have been the most powerful force in nature. And for many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the May 18, 1980, eruption of Washington’s Mount Saint Helens. The science, spectacle, and significance behind these massive peaks will soon be at the center of an immersive new exhibition, “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration,” which will run from Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipient High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore. On the heels of the Museum’s recent “Sensing Sasquatch” exhibition – which won the Western History Association’s prestigious 2025 Autry Public History Prize and earned national praise for exploring the Indigenous perspectives of what many call Bigfoot – comes the latest groundbreaking exhibition from the High Desert Museum. Under Pressure will take visitors on an educational, insightful, and thought-provoking journey into the forces that make volcanoes among the most majestic and often misunderstood natural wonders of the world, while exploring their individual stories and temperaments. “From cultural and historical significance to the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens, the Pacific Northwest and High Desert have a particularly long, complex, and symbiotic relationship with volcanoes,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., High Desert Museum executive director. “We live in their shadows, recreate on their slopes, and admire their beauty, but it’s the volcanoes’ ability to simultaneously cause destruction and creation that evokes feelings of awe. Under Pressure will provide an immersive and deep exploration.” Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration, a groundbreaking new exhibition from Oregon’s High Desert Museum. WHEN: Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027 WHERE: High Desert Museum (Spirit of the West Gallery) 59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702 (map HERE) COST: Free with Museum admission or membership Active U.S. military and their families, as well as Tribal members, are FREE with ID Among the highlights that visitors to Under Pressure can expect to encounter include:
- Engage the senses through interactive displays and exhibits, including volcanic rocks and a volcanic hazard map, to learn about cutting-edge volcano research.
- Hear stories and learn the significance of volcanoes to the people of the High Desert region.
- Get to know 4-6 individual volcanoes through biographies that explain the similarities and differences between them.
- Learn about present-day volcano hazards and how lava flows.
- Understand the technologies that scientists use to detect volcanic activity, which allow us to live among volcanoes while also enjoying their many benefits.
“These geologic giants exist all around us, come in all shapes and sizes, and tell a story of our past, present, and future,” says Whitelaw. “With 350 million people living near an active volcano worldwide, the more we understand about volcanoes, the better we can exist alongside them.” Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration opens to the public on Feb. 7, 2026, and runs through Jan. 3, 2027, in the High Desert Museum’s Spirit of the West Gallery. For additional information on exhibitions or to start planning your experience, visit highdesertmuseum.org.
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.
Oregon’s Missing Persons
Many times you’ll see postings without case numbers or police contact. There is rarely a nefarious reason why (the nefarious ones are pretty obvious). Usually the loved one tried to call to report their missing person and they are either refused or told to wait a day or two by people who are unaware of SB 351 and the laws that they are bound to when answering the phone. Many people don’t bother calling LE if their loved one is homeless or in transition because they believe LE won’t care. The biggest myth is the 24 hour rule.
In Oregon we don’t have those rules and an officer or person answering the phone is not allowed to decide. The law decides. We have Senate Bill 351 and it states that the police CANNOT refuse a request for any reason and they must begin working on it within 12 hours. The person making the report does not have to be related to missing person either. Here is SB 351 written by families of the missing here in Oregon in conjunction with Oregon law enforcement officers. This should be common knowledge, please make it this way. https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/…/SB351/Introduced
Find the mental health support you need
Click to see all resources https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/find-the-mental-health-support-you-need/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Oregon State Police are reminding parents and students of the SafeOregon hotline. It takes reports of potential threats against students and schools. The tips can be made anonymously. They can include safety threats, fights, drugs, weapons on campus, cyberbullying and students considering self-harm or suicide. A technician reviews the reports and assigns them either to police or school administrators. Tips can be made by phone, text, email or on the website https://www.safeoregon.com 
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