Rogue Valley News, Friday 8/7 – Southern Oregon Experiencing Critical Wildfire Activity, Eight Local Suspects Arrested for 71 Felony Counts of Encouraging Child S*xual Abuse & Other Local and Statewide News Stories

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

Friday,  August 7,  2026

Rogue Valley Weather

https://graphical.weather.gov/sectors/oregon.php

Please remember:

– Don’t park on dry grass

– Avoid dragging chains or towing equipment that can create sparks

– Use caution with outdoor equipment

– Report smoke or suspicious fire activity immediately

Important Links:

Emergency Alerts: https://member.everbridge.net/76864345342052/login

Know Your Zone: https://protect.genasys.com/search

Emergency Kits: https://rvem.org/Get-Ready-Rogue/Kit-Types

WatchDuty: https://app.watchduty.org/

Southern Oregon is experiencing critical wildfire activity today, highlighted by the rapid expansion of the Wrights Spring Fire in Klamath County to 8,722 acres and a 0% containment level.

Concurrently, the Woodrat Mountain Fire in Jackson County has reached 320 acres with 50% of the fire lined by suppression crews.

These incidents unfold against a broader context: Oregon has officially shattered its all-time annual wildfire record, with over 2.04 million acres burned across the state so far this season.

Major Active Wildfires:

• Wrights Spring Fire (Klamath County): This fast-moving fire erupted southeast of Chiloquin and east of Modoc Point. It exploded past 8,722 acres. Fire behavior remains extreme due to timber fuel, and containment stands at 0%. Firefighters are aggressively attacking the flanks using substantial air support, including water drops and large air tankers.

• Woodrat Mountain Fire (Jackson County): Located south of Jacksonville near Ruch, this fire is estimated at 320 acres. Ground crews worked overnight to slow its progress near Sterling Creek Road. The right shoulder and the head of the fire are still actively moving uphill in steep terrain.

• East Evans Creek Fire (Jackson County): This human-caused blaze northeast of Rogue River remains stable at 15,580 acres and is heavily secured at 95% containment. Crews continue routine infrared monitoring to find small interior hot spots.

Evacuations and Closures

• Wrights Spring Fire Evacuations: The South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership has instituted Level 2 (Be Set) and Level 1 (Be Ready) evacuations for surrounding zones. Check the Genasys Protect Map to find your specific zone.
• Wrights Spring Closures: While no main highways are closed, the public is strictly requested to avoid Forest Service Roads 5813, 5817, and 22 (Switchback Road) to clear paths for emergency vehicles.
• Woodrat Mountain Fire Evacuations: Jackson County Emergency Management has issued Level 3 (Go Now) evacuations for zones JAC-436 and JAC-428A. Level 2 warnings are active for zone JAC-428B, and numerous Level 1 warnings cover surrounding areas.
• Woodrat Shelters: Jacksonville Elementary School is serving as the primary evacuation center. Livestock can be brought to the Jackson County Expo Fairgrounds in Central Point.

Weather and Air Quality

• Heat Advisory: A severe heat advisory remains in effect until 11:00 p.m. tonight. Temperatures are forecasted to near the upper 90s, complicating suppression efforts.
• Red Flag Warnings: Recent gusty winds up to 25 mph and critically low humidity levels mean that any newly developed fires will spread rapidly.
• Air Quality: Smoke columns are visible across Klamath Falls, Medford, and Ashland. While parts of Western Oregon saw temporary clearing this morning, local shifting winds can cause air quality to fluctuate rapidly between moderate and unhealthy. Keep windows closed and monitor live reports via Oregon Smoke Information.

Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) 3 is now in effect on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Southwest Oregon District in Jackson and Josephine counties. The Fire Danger Level remains at Extreme.

Under IFPL Level 3:

The following activities are prohibited between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.:

• Power saws at loading sites
• Loading or hauling of any product or material
• Blasting
• Welding, cutting or grinding of metal
• Any other spark-emitting operation not specifically mentioned

The following operations may only operate between 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., provided mechanized equipment capable of constructing fireline is immediately available:

• Ground-based logging operations
• Power saws on ground-based operations
• Rotary head saw feller-bunchers with a continuous Firewatch
• Non-rotary head saw feller-bunchers
• Tethered logging systems
• Cable yarding systems are prohibited at all times, except for limited exceptions outlined in the IFPL 3 Closedown Order.
• The Firewatch requirement is reduced from a minimum of three hours to two hours during breaks and at the end of the operating period.

For more information about fire season restrictions, visit www.swofire.com or follow ODF Southwest Oregon District on Facebook.

Eight Local Suspects Arrested for 71 Felony Counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse by Joint Child Exploitation Task Force

JCSO Case 26-3876 — JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) along with the Oregon Department of Justice (ODOJ) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force arrested eight suspects on August 5th, on a total of 71 encouraging child sexual abuse felony charges. The cases are not connected. The arrest sweep required investigative efforts throughout Jackson County including Ashland, Medford, Talent, White City, and Central Point.

The first arrest was around 6:30 AM when Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies pulled over a suspect near his residence in the 1500 block of Clear Springs Drive in Medford. SOCET arrested Eric Richard Rand, 58, of Medford, on three felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse, and 11 counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.

The task force then located a suspect at 6:40 AM at his residence on Taylor Avenue in Talent. The task force arrested Charles Harvey McMillan, 33, of Talent, for 10 felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.

Just before 8:00 AM, a Medford Police Department (MPD) officer located the next suspect sleeping in his car at Holmes Park in Medford. The suspect, Jermaine “JJ” Owens, 53, of Medford, was arrested on charges of first-degree online sexual corruption of a child, second-degree online sexual corruption of a child, second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse, and luring a minor.

Around 8:04 AM, the task force located and arrested Joel Vincente Leal, 21, at his apartment in the 1000 block of Spring Street in Medford. Leal is charged with eight felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse and two counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.

The next arrest was minutes later when SOCET investigators located Robert Paul Phillips, 74, at his residence in the 300 block of West Gregory Road in rural Central Point. Phillips is charged with 10 felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.

At 8:20 AM, the task force located and arrested another suspect at an apartment complex in the 600 block of Northwood Drive in Medford. The suspect, Nathan Chet Wilson, 25, of Medford, is charged with 10 felony counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. During the arrest, his father Tracy Lynn Wilson, 58, attempted to intervene and was charged with interfering with a peace officer.

The final arrest for the sweep came when investigators contacted Cannon Garrett Green, 31, of White City, at a business in the 200 block of Holly Street in Medford. Green is charged with nine felony counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.

One suspect was arrested out of state by Island County Sheriff’s Office in Washington. The suspect, Jeremy Paul Maeder, 32, of Talent, will be extradited back to Oregon to face seven charges of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.

Generally, the investigations began when SOCET received tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led to subpoenas, followed by search warrants of the respective residences. Investigators seized digital devices during the searches and applied for additional warrants to examine the devices. Once the additional search warrants were signed, the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) forensically examined the devices for further evidence of child exploitation. At that point SOCET took each case through a Grand Jury hearing and the courts issued warrants for each arrest.

Many local and federal law enforcement agencies assisted SOCET with today’s arrests. These agencies included JCSO, ODOJ, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Marshals Service Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force, Oregon State Police, MPD, Ashland Police Department, Central Point Police Department, Eagle Point Police Department, Talent Police Department, and SOHTCTF.

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 and Josephine County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD.

The roadway between those streets will be closed for most of the day. There is no danger to the public.

**** Iguana Comics will also be closed for the day. We apologize for all those who planned to be at their event today.   **** Chase Bank on Midland will also be closed for an extended period.  (NO Other INFORMATION has Been Released at this time)

The City of Grants Pass, has announced that it will close the last remaining authorized resting site on 7th Street this Friday.

Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center is with Wooldridge Creek Vineyard.  Join us on Saturday, August 15, from 4:00-6:00PM at Wooldridge Creek Winery for a special opportunity to witness the release of three rehabilitated barn owls back into the wild!

4:00PM- Guests are invited to arrive early to enjoy a glass of wine from the tasting room and delight in the beautiful surroundings.

4:45PM- Our wildlife rehabilitation team will share the stories of these owls, how they came into our care, and the rehabilitation process that prepared them for life back in the wild.

5:00PM- We’ll witness the exciting moment as the three barn owls are released into their natural habitat.

We hope you’ll join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating wildlife rehabilitation!

Mt. Ashland Ski Area is set to revive its drive-in movie series this summer, following a successful inaugural season last year. The lineup features a selection of classic films

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

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

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

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

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

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

40 Modular Homes to Be Built in Phoenix to Replace Homes Lost in Almeda Fire

Oregon Housing and Community Services selected five projects to build 117 affordable homes using factory-produced housing methods across the state.

AGE+ and Blazer Modular Construction plan to use the funding to build 40 fully accessible, affordable homes for older adults in Phoenix. The project, Phoenix Commons, will replace housing lost in the Almeda Fire. The modular construction will reduce per-unit costs and cut the construction schedule by several months.

The initiative comes from House Bill 3145 passed in the 2025 Legislative Session. It will fund up to five factory-produced housing projects with Local Innovation and Fast Track set-aside funds totaling $25 million. Factory-produced housing, like modular homes, offers an alternative to traditional construction and can produce homes faster and at lower costs.

City of Roseburg Government — Wondering where to get the facts about City projects, plans, decisions, events and upcoming meetings?

 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆: 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 

Looking for a welcoming place to pick up supplemental groceries? The 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝘆 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 in Medford has been thoughtfully renovated and decorated with chalk drawings by a passionate volunteer, staffed by Salvation Army Jackson County employees and volunteers who make a difference in the community every day. This pantry offers a partial shopping-style experience, so you can choose foods that work best for you and your family.

Thanks to strong community partnerships, this pantry is stocked with:

 Fresh produce in boxes built by The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

 Bread donations supplied by local grocery stores through our Fresh Alliance Program, which reroutes food from grocers to our pantries for hungry families.

 A variety of pantry staples to help stretch your budget

𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗬 𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗢:

*Please check our website at accesshelps.org/food-pantries for all current pantry info, as it is subject to change.

 922 N Central Ave, Medford

 Hours:

• Monday: 1:00–3:00 PM

• Thursday: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM & 1:00–3:00 PM

• Friday: 1:00–3:00 PM

Visits at this pantry are available every other week; however, you may visit another ACCESS pantry each week.

 Accessible via RVTD Bus Route 40

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. 

Southern Oregon PBS Still on The Air Despite Federal Funding Loss

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) voted to dissolve itself, due to the recent rescission of federal funding  after nearly six decades of distributing funds to public media stations across the nation.

PBS, PBS KIDS and local stations like SOPBS are still here, and we’re still serving you with programming that informs, connects, and strengthens our community.

And now, more than ever, we need the support of Viewers Like You to keep going strong.  Protect the future of SOPBS at https://donate.sopbs.org/sopbs/donate

Rogue Valley Humane Society · Donations Always Needed to Help Community

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 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

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.

8/7/2026 — Gas Prices in Oregon Today

 PACIFIC NORTHWEST WILDFIRE UPDATE 

As of today, August 7, 2026, Oregon has officially set an all-time state record with over 2,008,000 total acres burned this season.

There are currently 55 active wildfires burning across the state, encompassing roughly 1.46 million acres still actively on fire. Four of these blazes are officially classified as megafires. Fire crews are bracing for a dry cold front bringing gusty west winds and critical fire weather today and tomorrow, which is expected to amplify fire behavior.

Major Active Fire Centers:

• Rowe Creek Complex (Crook, Jefferson, and Wheeler Counties): Burning at 329,012 acres and is 62% contained. It remains highly active, sending significant smoke plumes across Central Oregon, with Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation orders still in place.
• Grasshopper Fire (Mt. Hood National Forest): Currently at 39,439 acres and 20% contained. The fire is actively pushing toward Highway 35 and the Mt. Hood Meadows ski resort, which remains under a mandatory Level 3 (“Go Now”) evacuation order. Nearby Government Camp and Timberline Lodge are under Level 1 (“Be Ready”) alerts.
• Bench Fire (Warm Springs): Spanning 67,071 acres and is heavily contained at 84%. Fire behavior has shifted to minimal-to-moderate mop-up operations, and all Warm Springs evacuation notices have been successfully lifted.
• Shingle Fire (Central Oregon): Currently sitting at 70,551 acres with 33% containment.

Critical Air Quality & Evacuations

• Statewide Health Advisories: The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has extended air quality advisories for nearly the entire state due to heavy wildfire smoke.
• Hazardous Air: Conditions are rating as “Hazardous” near Prineville and “Unhealthy” across Central and Eastern Oregon. The smoke has also blanketed the Portland metro area and the Willamette Valley, pulling air qualities into “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” ranges.
• Evacuation Shelters: Active emergency shelters remain set up at South Wasco County High School (Maupin) and the Sherman County Fairgrounds (Moro) for Mt. Hood area evacuees. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Real-Time Maps and Safety Portals – To check your specific neighborhood boundaries and color-coded risk maps, utilize these active state trackers:

• Track current air monitoring reports on the official Oregon Smoke Information Portal.
• View active perimeters and geographic lines via The Oregonian Wildfire Tracker.

Oregon on track to have one of its most harmful and expensive wildfire seasons in history.

As dozens of wildfires continue to burn across Oregon, state officials say fire suppression efforts this year have cost the state more than $150 million so far, a number likely to grow significantly in the coming months.

Oregon appears to be on track to have one of its most harmful and expensive wildfire seasons in history. In 2024, public agencies spent $350 million on firefighting efforts when a record 1.9 million acres burned. Just days into August, the state has surpassed that record with more than 2 million acres burned. (READ MORE)

Oregon state agencies remind everyone to be informed and prepared

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

According to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center’s predictive services, each year the Pacific Northwest is at elevated risk of significant fires from now until October.

With fire crews responding to new fire starts every day, Oregonians and our visitors need to be prepared for wildfires, help prevent future ones, and be aware of up-to-date conditions as they travel across the state.

How can people help prevent wildfires?

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

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

Take Simple Steps to Protect Your Home from Wildfire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evacuation Levels

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

Stay Informed

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

Have a Plan

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

Make a Go-Kit

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

Recreate Responsibly

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

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

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

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

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

Before You Go:

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

Oregon Division of Financial Regulation offers insurance tips for Oregonians affected by wildfires

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has tips for homeowners and renters who have evacuated or been affected by wildfires, smoke, or ash damage.

“We know this is a hard time for many Oregonians as wildfires affect communities across the state,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “We want people to have these tips so they know what their insurance covers and what steps to take if they are affected by a wildfire.”

• If you were evacuated, save your receipts. Your homeowners policy may pay for expenses such as lodging, food, and even pet boarding due to a mandatory evacuation. Be sure to check with your insurance company or agent to confirm your specific coverage. Coverage is typically available for fire, smoke, and ash damage to your home and personal property.
• Additional living expenses (ALE) are typically subject to your deductible, so before you file a claim, be sure it makes sense to do so. It is important to note that a claim can be counted against you for underwriting purposes, even if the insurance company does not make a payment. Most homeowners and renters’ insurance policies help pay for extra expenses such as ALE if you are unable to live in your home. Every company handles these expenses differently. Check with your company or agent for specifics.
• If you have not evacuated and it is safe to do so, make a quick home inventory list by taking photos or video of each room in your home. Pay close attention to what is on the walls and in drawers and closets. Don’t forget storage areas such as the attic and garage. You can also check your insurance company’s website for an app or checklist that will help. Creating that list will help you after a fire or disaster. If your personal belongings are damaged, the insurance company will request a list of items that are damaged or destroyed. Take some time to work on your home inventory list now. Look through your photos and videos to help recall personal items. Be sure to look for smaller items, such as jewelry. To the best of your ability, write down the age, original cost, and replacement cost of each item.
• Ask about your auto coverage, too. You need comprehensive coverage on your auto policy to cover fire, smoke, and ash damage, no matter where your vehicle is located at the time of loss.

Following these tips will help save you money, time, and stress during a wildfire and its aftermath. For more information on preparing for a wildfire, visit DFR’s wildfire page.

If you still have questions or concerns, DFR’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call the team at 888-877-4894 (toll-free), email them at .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov“>dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov, or visit dfr.oregon.gov.

### 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.

Governor Kotek presses feds to get Oregon farmers, ranchers same urgent wildfire relief as red states

‘Oregon asks for the Utah clock,’ Gov. Tina Kotek wrote in a letter for immediate and robust aid to Oregon farmers and ranchers hit by wildfires

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek is urging federal officials to help Oregon farmers and ranchers respond to, and rebound from, wildfires at the same scale and speed those officials delivered in Republican-controlled states hit by natural disasters this year.

In a letter requesting aid that Kotek sent Thursday to Brooke Rollins, head of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Doug Burgum, head of the U.S. Department of the Interior, Kotek wrote: “Oregon asks for the Utah clock.”

Immediately following early July fires that broke Utah’s 10-year records, USDA officials made available to ranchers and farmers in the state the full suite of federal loan, reimbursement and grant programs for losses and rebuilding, as well as expedited permits and fee waivers for livestock that needed federal land to graze on.

Kotek has asked for the same as more than 80 fires, including the four largest wildfires in the nation at present, burn across more than 1 million Oregon acres. That’s three times the amount that burned all of last year, and early in a wildfire season that still has up to three more months to go and two of the hottest and driest to come.

Kotek sent her letter just one day after the Federal Emergency Management Agency approved firefighting assistance grants for three Oregon fires but denied assistance that Kotek requested for two others. The grants are meant to help cover the majority of a state’s costs fighting specific fires that threaten to become a major disaster.

Kotek’s reminders in her request to Rollins and Burgum that they promised and delivered aid this year in the immediate aftermath of natural disasters in Nebraska, Texas and Utah reflect concerns that the agency under President Donald Trump is selectively approving aid based on the political makeup of the state’s leaders.

A federal lawyer earlier this month admitted the administration withheld federal grants to states based on whether voters backed Trump or former Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, as well as whether the state had two Democratic senators. And a recent Politico analysis found Trump in his second term has approved less than 25% of requests for disaster aid from blue states, compared to nearly 90% approval for red state requests.

Kotek in her letter requested a wildfire disaster designation for 14 counties, which would allow farmers and ranchers access to emergency loan and disaster relief programs. She also requested fence replacement funds for hundreds of miles lost to fires and temporary federal-land grazing permits and fee waivers for displaced livestock.

She asked Rollins and Burgum to ensure their agencies collaborate on aid with state officials and with the tribes in Oregon, and requested a written commitment from Rollins that the USDA’s new plans to reorganize its regional U.S. Forest Service offices will not interrupt any wildfire recovery work. Kotek asked that USDA appoint one contact for Oregon fire recovery to coordinate interagency work, “so the state works one door rather than six.”

Kotek wrote that the state, and its farmers and ranchers, have held up their side of the bargain, investing in post-fire recovery from major blazes during the last several years, as well as prevention, mitigation and response planning.

Oregon’s farmers and ranchers “will rebuild again,” she wrote. “What they ask of their government is not sympathy; it is speed.” (SOURCE)

Oregon agency issues emergency order to pause insurance cancellations due to wildfires

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation has issued Wildfire Emergency Order and bulletin for people affected by the state’s growing wildfire situation.

This order requires all property and casualty insurance companies to take proactive measures to protect people in wildfire affected areas. The order:

• Suspends cancellations and nonrenewals
• Establishes a grace period for premium payments for all insurance policies issued, delivered, or covering a risk in the affected areas
• Extends all deadlines for policyholders to report claims or submit other communication related to claims
• Take all practicable steps to provide opportunities for policyholders to report claims

The order applies to all insurance companies transacting property and casualty insurance in Oregon. It provides temporary protections to policyholders in affected areas, including those in ZIP codes subject to wildfire evacuation notices as provided in the order. The emergency order follows Gov. Tina Kotek’s state of emergency declaration on June 16 due to the imminent threat of wildfires. Since that declaration, Gov. Kotek has invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for 11 fires.

“Last week, I met with fire response teams and community members in Sisters currently challenged by the Akawa Butte Fire,” Governor Kotek said. “I could not be more proud of the way Oregon communities are supporting each other during this time, but the last thing anyone needs to worry about in this moment is losing their homeowners insurance. I’m taking immediate action with this directive to ensure that families and communities across the state that are or will be responding to the catastrophic effects of wildfires this summer are provided with stability and certainty during this ongoing wildfire state of emergency.”

The order protects consumers in ZIP codes under evacuation notices who may be required to leave their homes, businesses, or both, and may be unable to access their property, records, mail, internet, financial information, or other resources. Evacuation may also inhibit an insured’s ability to communicate with their insurer, make a timely premium payment, report a claim, document a loss, or perform other duties required under insurance contract terms.

Providing these temporary measures extends grace periods for premium payments and postpones cancellations and nonrenewals. They also provide relief from reporting and other required communication related to claims submission and processing for insureds, and they give relief from other duties of insureds that may be burdensome. These measures will help ensure that Oregonians do not lose insurance coverage because an evacuation notice or order was complied with.

“We issued this order to make sure evacuees and other Oregonians affected by these wildfires are able to access the insurance resources they need, especially while they are displaced,” Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen said. “We appreciate all the work our state’s insurance representatives are doing to help their customers right now, and we encourage everyone to be patient and work together throughout the recovery process.”

If your home or property was damaged by the wildfires, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss your situation and learn next steps. If you still have concerns, the division’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@oregon.gov .

Visit the DFR’s wildfire insurance resource page to view the order, bulletin, and more insurance information.

### 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.

Statewide hotline available for Oregonians affected by wildfires and smoke

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotline information

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

Oregon officials warn of fundraising, recovery scams amid ongoing wildfire season

Oregonians should exercise significant caution to avoid potential scams when they seek contractors for help to rebuild their homes after a wildfire or support an online fundraising campaign for those who have been affected by the fires, according to state emergency officials.

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management in a press release urged Oregonians to make donations through secure websites and research a contractor’s history before paying for debris removal or home repairs. People should also consider using credit cards instead of cash to ensure transactions are documented, be mindful of door-to-door schemes and verify government workers by requesting their identification, the agency said.

“When disasters strike, Oregonians come together to support neighbors and communities,” the news release reads. “Unfortunately, scammers may try to exploit that generosity by creating fake fundraising campaigns or misrepresenting their intentions. Fraud attempts may come via phone calls, mail, email, text messages, or even in‑person visits.”

Emergency department officials referred to the state Department of Justice’s Charitable Activities website, where Oregonians can verify the authenticity of a nonprofit or professional fundraising firm. The Oregon Department of Justice also operates a scam alert system that state officials encourage people to use. Although it has yet to put out an alert related to the ongoing wildfires, the agency has previously used the alerts to warn about scams related to food stamp card readers, gold bars, fake Oregon attorneys and phone number transfers.

People who believe a fundraising campaign or donation request is fraudulent can reach out to the Oregon Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1‑877‑877‑9392 or go to OregonConsumer.gov.

Here are some other tips and resources state officials have offered:

• Call 211 or visit 211info.org to review trusted organizations currently involved in wildfire response, such as the Oregon Community Foundation, Wildland Firefighter Foundation and United Way Pacific Northwest Disaster Recovery Fund.
• Never share your Social Security number or financial data with groups you have not verified and review your credit report for any new, unfamiliar accounts.
• Verify a contractor’s identity through state licensing boards such as the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. The agency has a public search system for verifying licenses. (SOURCE)

The Lloyd Center Mall in Portland, which has been in operation for over 60 years, is set to close this Saturday, and a variety of activities are scheduled for its final week.

Among these is Prom on Ice, taking place this Friday evening, where participants will don formal attire and vintage prom dresses.

On Saturday, August 8th, the mall will host several events, including a community walk, a bike ride, and a final skating session dedicated to Jerry and Tally Leonard, who have been regular skaters at the Lloyd Center for nearly six decades. For further information, details can be found on Lloyd Center’s official website.

Tax credit auction offers taxpayers chance to save on their tax bill and benefit Oregon Film and Video Office

Are you looking for a way to both save money on your taxes and support the production of movies and TV shows in Oregon? The Oregon Department of Revenue and the Oregon Film and Video Office may have just what you need.

Revenue and Oregon Film will be offering tax credit certificates worth $500 at auction where taxpayers can get them at a discount.

A total of 42,400 income tax credit certificates worth $500 each will be auctioned off August 10-14. The auction proceeds will benefit the Oregon Production Investment Fund.

The auction allows taxpayers to bid on the $500 certificates at a discount. When tax time comes, each certificate is worth $500 toward a taxpayer’s tax bill even though the taxpayer potentially paid less than that for the certificate. Taxpayers can bid as little as $450 per tax credit certificate, possibly saving up to $50 on their tax bill for every credit purchased.

The online auction will begin on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. PDT and will end on Friday, August 14 at 5 p.m. PDT.

To find out more information, go to the Department of Revenue website.

Award-Winning Capital City Retro Fest Returns to Salem Aug. 14-16

Three-night, all-ages music festival returns to Riverfront Park following Oregon Festivals & Events Association Music Festival of the Year honor.

— After earning the Oregon Festivals & Events Association’s Music Festival of the Year award following its inaugural season, Capital City Retro Fest returns to the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater Aug. 14-16 for three nights of live music, food and family-friendly entertainment.

The festival features nine tribute bands celebrating the music of artists including the Fleetwood Mac, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Def Leppard, Foo Fighters, Tom Petty, Alanis Morissette, Duran Duran, U2, Hall & Oates and the Doobie Brothers.

Presented by Harefest, LLC, the festival offers an affordable outdoor concert experience in the scenic setting of Salem’s Riverfront Park, bringing together music fans of all ages for a weekend celebrating some of the most recognizable songs in rock history.

Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy local food vendors, alcoholic beverages for guests 21 and over, misting tents, free water refill stations, family-friendly activities, and the festival’s interactive photo stage, where fans can grab an instrument and capture their own rock star moment.

“There’s something special about hearing thousands of people sing along to songs they’ve loved for decades,” said Jason Fellman, co-founder of Harefest, LLC. “Capital City Retro Fest brings generations together through music that’s stood the test of time, all in one of the most beautiful outdoor settings in Oregon.”

The festival was created to provide an accessible, high-quality live music experience in downtown Salem while contributing to the city’s growing lineup of summer events. Organizers expect attendees from throughout the Willamette Valley and beyond to gather at Riverfront Park for the second annual celebration.

Festival gates open Friday and Saturday at 6:00 p.m. with music beginning at 7:00 p.m. Sunday’s gates open at 4:00 p.m. with music beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now. Single-day and three-day passes are available, and children 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult.

For tickets and complete festival information, visit CapCityRetro.com.  

About Harefest, LLC — Harefest, LLC produces live music festivals and entertainment experiences throughout the Pacific Northwest, including HAREFEST: The Mother of All Tribute Festivals, Capital City Retro Fest, Legends Reloaded, 90’s Flannel Fest, and Seattle Retro Fest. The company is dedicated to creating memorable live music experiences that bring communities together through the music they love.

Avoid contact with bats to reduce rabies exposure risk

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

What you should know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Perseid Meteor Shower Watch | Wednesday, August 12

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

Equinox Celebration | Saturday, September 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Environmental advocates disagree with the framing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out Oregon State Parks with your library card

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

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

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

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

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

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

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

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

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

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

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

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

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

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

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

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

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

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

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

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

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

 Be Your Own Info Network

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

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

Reconnect When Service Returns

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

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

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

 Final Tip:

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

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 Call us at 5 41-363-7503  Or email us at Info@RogueValleyMagazine.com