Correction note: This alert has been updated to add that Brittan went missing from Gresham on July 29.  

Date: 7/30/25

Missing child alert – BRITTAN ARRINGTON is missing and is believed to be in danger

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Brittan Arrington (Female/She/Her), age 13, a child in foster care who went missing from Gresham on July 29. Brittan Arrington is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Brittan Arrington and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Brittan Arrington.

Brittan Arrington is suspected to be in Portland, Gresham or could be traveling to California

Name: Brittan Arrington
Gender identity: Female/She/Her
Date of birth: 8/6/2011
Height: 5’ 4”
Weight: 125
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Blonde dyed black
Other identifying information: Nose piercing, wears fake lashes
Gresham Police Department Case #PG 25-29955
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children  #2056772

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Keizer, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for trafficking more than 17 pounds of fentanyl and methamphetamine in Oregon and Washington.

Caden Jay Christman, 28, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on February 21, 2024, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, law enforcement officers in Powell County, Montana, conducted a traffic stop and arrested Christman and his co-conspirator. Officers searched the vehicle, which had multiple hidden compartments, and seized nine pounds of methamphetamine, over 5,000 fentanyl pills, approximately $17,000 in cash, and two loaded firearms.

On February 22 and 26, 2024, investigators executed search warrants on Christman’s residence and seized 15,000 fentanyl pills, four pounds of fentanyl powder, two pounds of methamphetamine, heroin, $21,600 in cash, and twelve firearms.

On April 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a four-count indictment charging Christman with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On February 4, 2025, Christman pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Nicole M. Hermann, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

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LANE COUNTY, Ore. (July 30, 2025) – On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 8 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 186.  

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Dodge Caravan, operated by Kennith James Nelsen (56) of Coos Bay, was traveling southbound on I-5 when it attempted to turn into the emergency vehicle turnaround from the slow lane and struck the side of a gray Dodge Charger, operated by Timothy Brian Smith (59) of Springfield. The Charger attempted to avoid the crash by swerving towards the median. The Caravan impacted the Charger while it was in the emergency vehicle turnaround, sending the Charger into the northbound travel lanes of I-5, where it went beneath a white Kenworth dump truck, operated by Jaison William Karow (44) of Coos Bay, towing a loaded trailer.
 

A passenger in the Dodge Charger, Kenneth Nicholas Thomas (61) of Springfield, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Charger (Smith) was transported by ground ambulance to a local hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the Dodge Caravan (Nelsen) was not injured.
 

The operator of the dump truck (Karow) was not injured.

Following the initial crash, a secondary collision occurred on the southbound side of I-5 involving three vehicles. No injuries were reported as a result of the secondary crash.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation, and the crash remains under investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, Pleasant Hill Rural Fire Protection District, Eugene Springfield Fire, South Lane Fire and Rescue, Lane County District Attorney’s Office, Lane County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  
 

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire is on a gas leak in Downtown Eugene near East Broadway and Oak St.  101 East Broadway is evacuated wile NW Natural is doing their work.  Traffic in the area will be impacted for the next hour or so.  

PORTLAND, Ore.—Gildardo Rivera Garcia, 45, a Mexican national unlawfully residing in Salem, Oregon, has been charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin for trafficking more than 43 pounds of illicit drugs in Oregon.

According to court documents, on July 27, 2025, as part of a drug trafficking and fatal fentanyl overdose investigation, investigators from the Westside Interagency Narcotics (WIN) team, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) executed a federal search warrant on Garcia’s residence in Salem. Investigators located and seized approximately 32 pounds of fentanyl, 11 pounds of heroin, an automated money counter, and cash.

Garcia made his first appearance in federal court Tuesday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

This case was investigated by the FBI, HSI, DEA, and WIN. It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

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07/30/2025 Distant Tsunami Talking Points

What Caused the Tsunami Advisory?

The evening of July 29^th, the National Weather Service issued a tsunami watch which included the Oregon Coast due to an earthquake about 80 miles off the coast of Russia. The watch was then upgraded to a tsunami advisory.
 

What do you need to know now?
As of this morning, July 30, 2025, the advisory remains in effect. This means you need to stay out of the water, off the beach, and away from harbors, marinas, breakwaters, bays and inlets. Our team continues to monitor information from the National Weather Service (NWS) and tsunami.gov, but you also want to continue to be alert and watch for updates.

What is the difference between a watch, advisory, and warning?
A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or another event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location or timing is still uncertain. This is why the NWS originally issued a distant tsunami watch. It is intended to provide enough time for people in the potentially impacted areas to set their plans in motion. A watch means hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case the situation develops further and they should listen for updated information and possible warnings.

An advisory is issued when a hazardous weather or another event is occurring, imminent or likely. Advisories are used for less serious conditions than warnings, but still cause significant inconvenience and if caution is not exercised, could lead to situations that may threaten life or property. This is why we were upgraded to an advisory last night, there was and still are dangerous conditions on our beaches, marinas, harbors, bays, and inlets.

A warning is when hazardous weather or events are occurring, imminent, or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the affected area need to take protective action when a warning is issued. For a tsunami warning, which is not active for the Oregon Coast as of 7am on July 30, 2025, this means moving to higher ground and out of the tsunami inundation zones.

What is the difference between a distant tsunami and a local tsunami?

A distant tsunami, such as this one, is caused by an earthquake or other event that is not in our area. This means there is time for responders to get information, assess the situation, and get information out to impacted areas, including information on if they need to evacuate.

A local tsunami is caused by a local earthquake or event. With a local tsunami, the earthquake is the notification that you need to evacuate to higher ground. There is not time for local responders to get information out to the affected areas. If you are ever on the Oregon Coast and feel the ground shake, evacuate to higher ground.
 

How do I know if I am in the tsunami inundation zone?

Nanoos.org has an interactive map where you can enter any address and see what areas are in the known distant and local tsunami inundation zones. That’s nvs.nanoos.org/TsunamiEvac

What did the response look like last night?

Our small Emergency Operations Center (EOC) team was activated at about 5:20pm yesterday, July 29, 2025. We quickly called back some team members that had left at the end of their shift and put additional staff on standby in case the situation escalated quickly. We continued to monitor developing information and put together public information and information for Lincoln County Cooperators. Traditionally, during local events and disaster response, the Lincoln County communities do an incredible job coming together. One piece of this puzzle is making sure responders and similar organizations have information about the situation, are communicating with each other, and have a good grasp on the action plan or activities already in motion. Another really important piece of this puzzle is our community members doing one of the things they do best, which is helping keep each other informed and prepared for any action that may be needed such as evacuations. Our team and partners work very hard to get information out in a timely manner, but some of our community members don’t have access to some forms of communication; this is one area community members make a big impact by checking on neighbors, friends, and vulnerable populations.  
 

Our team continued to monitor the situation through the night and continues to do so this morning.

During those initial phases of activation there are a lot of moving pieces. Team members are working on assessing developing information -which can change quickly, managing public information and notifications, making plans for evacuations and shelters or assembly points, and so much more. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and cooperators are incredibly dedicated to our communities’ safety and wellbeing and reflect that in our coordinated responses to events.

What is the Sheriff’s Office currently doing?

Continuing to monitor the situation and sending relevant updates to our community.

What about expected impacts?

The National Weather Service has information on anticipated impacts. In one of their messages they shared the following:

Impacts will vary at different locations in the warning and in the advisory areas.

If you are in a tsunami warning area:

• A tsunami with damaging waves and powerful currents is possible.
• Repeated coastal flooding is possible as waves arrive onshore, move inland, and drain back into the ocean.
• Strong and unusual waves, currents and inland flooding can drown or injure people and weaken or destroy structures on land and in water.
• Water filled with floating or submerged debris that can injure or kill people and weaken or destroy buildings and bridges is possible.
• Strong and unusual currents and waves in harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets may be especially destructive.

If you are in a tsunami advisory area:

• A tsunami with strong waves and currents is possible.
• Waves and currents can drown or injure people who are in the water.
• Currents at beaches and in harbors, marinas, bays, and inlets may be especially dangerous.
   

If you are in a tsunami warning or advisory area:

• Some impacts may continue for many hours to days after arrival of the first wave.
• The first wave may not be the largest so later waves may be larger.
• Each wave may last 5 to 45 minutes as a wave encroaches and recedes.
• Coasts facing all directions are threatened because the waves can wrap around islands and headlands and into bays.
• Strong shaking or rolling of the ground indicates an earthquake has occurred and a tsunami may be imminent.
• A rapidly receding or receded shoreline, unusual waves and sounds, and strong currents are signs of a tsunami.
• The tsunami may appear as water moving rapidly out to sea, a gentle rising tide like flood with no breaking wave, as a series of breaking waves, or a frothy wall of water.

What can I do to prepare for future events or disasters?

• Stay updated with current information and alerts:
  • National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/
  • Tsunami.gov: tsunami.gov/
  • Lincoln County Emergency Alerts and Information - Lincoln Alerts
    • Sign up for or update your existing account to receive messages directly: member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/new
    • View sent messages and local alerts: member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
  • Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Media Releases - FlashAlert: flashalert.net/id/LCSO
• Make an Emergency Plan
  • Review NVS Tsunami Evacuation Zones
    • Learn what tsunami evacuation zones your home, work, school, and other areas you frequent are in.
    • Learn the Tsunami Message definitions and appropriate actions.
  • Talk with family and friends about what you will do, including if you’re not together during an emergency.
  • Practice your plan at different times and on different days. What will you do if you are at home, work, school, or another location?
  • Plan to check on your neighbors or vulnerable community members and offer assistance if possible.
  • Build an Emergency Kit
    • Create an emergency kit or update your existing one.
    • Some supplies include:
      • at least 4 weeks supply of food and water for each person and any pets. Remember to include water for drinking, sanitation, and preparing meals
      • battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
      • flashlight
      • first aid kit
      • extra batteries
      • whistle (to signal for help)
      • dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) and face coverings
      • plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
      • moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
      • wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
      • manual can opener (for food)
      • local maps
      • cell phone with chargers and power banks

Our Public Information Officer is working through media requests this morning. Additional questions and requests can be sent to LCSheriff@co.lincoln.or.us

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry wants to remind urban homeowners that now is the perfect time to remember to water your trees.

“By the end of July, soils in Oregon are very dry. Coupled with long, hot days, this puts trees under a great deal of stress. Drought-stressed trees are vulnerable to pests, at risk from losing their leaves early, and even dying,” said ODF Community Assistance Forester Brittany Oxford.

Oxford advises that trees three years and younger need about 15 gallons of water once a week, possibly more during heat waves.

“What’s harder for many in western Oregon to grasp is that even older trees benefit from a deep watering at least a few times during the summer,” said Oxford. “That’s why the last week of July and the last week in August have been designated as Soak It Weeks, to serve as reminders for urban homeowners to deeply water their older trees at least once during those times.”

Oxford points out that rainfall in western Oregon is no longer reliable enough in spring and fall to get trees through the dry summer months in good shape. ”Higher average temperatures are especially hard on the many trees in Oregon cities that are native to places where it rains a lot in summer, such as eastern Asia or the eastern U.S.,” she said.

While some trees native to dry areas of the world might not need or even want watering in the summer, most other trees will grow faster, look better and be healthier if watered in the summer.  

“Get to know what species of tree you have and adjust the watering needs according to how drought-tolerant it is, your soil type, and how exposed to sun your tree is,” says Oxford. “A tree in full sun may need more water than one growing in shade.”

She recommends that trees four to 10 years old may need anywhere from 20 to 30 gallons every other week. Trees older than that may only need a deep soaking once a month.

In all cases, water should be given close to the tree’s trunk. “Apply it slowly so it soaks down into the roots and doesn’t run off,” advised Oxford. “Drilling small holes on one side of a five-gallon bucket near the bottom can be a convenient way to water. Just refill the bucket from a hose as many times as needed.”

Watering in the morning or evenings is advised to reduce water loss from evaporation.

“Mulching around a tree also cuts down on water loss, but keep it from touching the tree’s trunk,” said Oxford.

Find more guidance on watering trees at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/Documents/forestbenefits/fact-sheet-watering-your-trees.pdf

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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a brush fire on Gillespie Butte in Eugene early Wednesday morning.  Just after 2:30 AM a driver on I-105 reported a smoke column and what looked like orange lines on the hillside. Arriving firefighters found an approximately 1 acre area burning.  The fire was contained without any damage to nearby homes.  Cool night time air and high humidity aided in a slow rate of spread, which would not have been the case in the middle of the day.  The cause is under investigation. 

DISTANT TSUNAMI ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT
Updated at 5:50am on 7/30/25

The Tsunami Advisory remains in effect from the National Weather Service.

What to do now in Lincoln County:
- Stay out of the water, off the beach, and away from harbors, marinas, breakwaters, bays and inlets.
- Be alert to and follow instructions from your local emergency officials.
- If you feel a strong earthquake or extended ground rolling take immediate protective actions such as moving inland and/or uphill preferably by foot.

Continue to monitor for updates:
- National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/
- Tsunami.gov: tsunami.gov/
- Lincoln Alerts: member.everbridge.net/892807736721689/notif
- Lincoln County Sheriff's Office FlashAlert: flashalert.net/id/LCSO

We will continue to provide updates as the situation develops or the tsunami advisory is downgraded.

On July 29, 2025, a magnitude 8.8 earthquake occurred at 4:25 p.m. PDT, approximately 74 miles SE of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia, at an estimated depth of 12.9 miles. The earthquake was determined by the U.S. Geological Survey to be a thrust event resulting in vertical deformation (uplift) of the sea floor, which has produced a tsunami.

The Tsunami Warning Center of the National Weather Service has issued a Tsunami Advisory for the Oregon Coast that remains in effect. Tsunami forecasts indicate that wave amplitudes of 1 to 2 ft. may impact the Oregon coast, with the waves forecast to arrive at 11:35 p.m. at Port Orford on the southern Oregon Coast, and 11:55 p.m. in Newport (central coast) and Seaside (northern Oregon coast). People should stay away from open coast beaches, estuary mouths, marinas, and harbors. Dangerous currents are possible even without significant wave activity. Do not go to the beach to watch the waves. Remain in a safe location away from the coast until the advisory is lifted.

Per the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, do not call 9-1-1 for general updates or tsunami information. Only call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies. Contact local non-emergency numbers for inquiries. Additionally, sign up for OR-Alert for local emergency notifications and visit https://tsunami.gov for official tsunami updates and arrival times.

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PORTLAND, Ore.— Edis Odalis Centeno Banegas, 45, a Honduran national unlawfully residing in Portland, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release Monday for possessing and distributing fentanyl in Oregon.

According to court documents, on September 6, 2023, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle occupied by Banegas and his co-conspirator. During a search of the vehicle, officers located and seized fentanyl and Super Mannitol, a cutting agent used to mix with fentanyl for further distribution, and arrested Banegas and his co-conspirator.

Later the same day, investigators executed search warrants on Banegas’s residence and storage unit. Investigators located and seized additional fentanyl powder, counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, Super Mannitol, three firearms, ammunition, and equipment to process fentanyl including vice presses, a scale, masks, and a blender. In total, more than ten pounds of fentanyl and Super Mannitol were seized. 

On September 19, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count indictment charging Banegas with conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On February 5, 2025, Banegas pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl.

This case was investigated by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Westside Interagency Narcotics (WIN) team, Portland Police Bureau, and Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: July 29, 2025

Two arrested in ATM jackpotting attempt

Salem, Ore. — Felony Crimes Unit detectives arrested two men this afternoon for their involvement in the breaching an automated teller machine (ATM).

Just before 3:00 a.m. this morning, Umpqua Bank security personnel reported two men tampering with an ATM at 550 Center ST NE. The surveillance recording showed the suspects used a key to access the inside of the machine and then took photographs of the internal components. The suspects then left the scene.

Approximately 30 minutes later, officers apprehended the suspects, Brandon Lee Ramirez, age 26 of California, and Jhonathan Vargas-Yanten, age 31 of Washington, who had returned to the bank. Inside the suspect vehicle, officers recovered a functional ATM key, several smart phones, computer devices and adapters, tools, and license plates.

Ramirez and Vargas-Yanten were arrested, each on the following charges:

• Aggravated theft, first-degree (attempted)
• Criminal mischief, third-degree
• Computer crime (attempted)
• Possession of a burglary tool or theft device

Both suspects are in custody at the Marion County Jail and await arraignment at the Marion County Circuit Court Annex on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.

The investigation is ongoing, and all inquiries into the case must be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

The Salem Police Department extends its thanks to the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Portland Office for lending their expertise to this jackpotting investigation. Jackpotting is a term for the unlawful installation of malware to bypass the authorized transaction process, prompting the ATM to dispense money on command. Although jackpotting does not directly affect consumer accounts, banks are the primary victims in this scheme.

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Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to back to back brush fires in Springfield on Tuesday afternoon.  Just after 2PM, fire crews were called to the area of Glenwood Blvd and Henderson Ave to a fire in the bush along Glenwood.  Glenwood Blvd was closed down for about an hour.  The fire was about 1/2 acre in size. Crews dealt with a couple of spot fires due to the wind kicking up but we got on them quick preventing fire spread. This fire is under investigation. 

In July, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office conducted online child luring investigations using decoy social media accounts as part of its ongoing commitment to proactive policing and the protection of vulnerable community members—especially children.

As part of the operation, deputies posed as underage children on various social media platforms. During the investigation, they were contacted by adult males who engaged in sexually explicit conversations and attempted to arrange in-person meetings for illegal sexual encounters.

On July 28, 2025, a Lincoln County detective traveled to Albany, Oregon, and arrested Jimmy Smith, 45, of Albany, on charges of Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree.

While enroute back to Lincoln County with Mr. Smith in custody, deputies operating decoy accounts were contacted by Kyle Carter, 34, of Sweet Home, Oregon. Based on the nature of the interaction, probable cause was established for Mr. Carter’s arrest.

On July 29, 2025, Mr. Carter traveled to Lincoln County to meet with the decoy persona and was subsequently arrested. He was charged with Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the First Degree.

These arrests underscore the effectiveness of proactive, targeted enforcement strategies designed to identify and apprehend individuals seeking to exploit children online—before harm can occur. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in its mission to protect children and hold offenders accountable.

Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to monitor their children’s online activity and maintain open, ongoing conversations about the risks of communicating with strangers on the internet. Through community awareness, education, and enforcement, we can work together to ensure a safer environment for all children.

Salem, OR – Oregon Chief Information Officer Terrence Woods, Director of Enterprise Information Services (EIS), has appointed Nik Blosser as the state of Oregon’s first Chief Privacy Officer (CPO) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategist. The CPO will be charged with crafting the strategic vision for the state of Oregon relating to privacy, data protection, and AI. As the first-of-a-kind position in Oregon state government, the CPO must make strategic judgements and decisions relating to developing policy and as the AI Strategist, Nik will play a pivotal role in shaping Oregon’s AI landscape. 

“Adding a Chief Privacy Officer and AI Strategist to the team at EIS has been a goal of mine for a few years and I am excited to bring Nik onboard,” said Woods. “Nik will significantly enhance our ability to safeguard data, ensure compliance with privacy regulations, prioritize workforce AI literacy, and lead efforts to promote a culture of awareness across all state agencies, ultimately making Oregon a leader in data protection, privacy management, and AI Governance.”

Blosser brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished career to his new role. A Stanford University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts and Science in Aeronautical Engineering and English, he has a diverse educational background.

He has worked in both private and public sectors, with his career highlights including serving as Chair and Board Member of Sokol Blosser Winery for 22 years, one of the oldest family-owned and operated wineries in Oregon. Blosser also held significant roles in the Executive Office of the President, Portland General Electric, The White House, and served as Chief of Staff for Oregon Governor Kate Brown. 

Blosser co-founded Celilo Group Media, Inc., a company focused on sustainable products and services, and has been actively involved in numerous volunteer roles, including board memberships with Literary Arts, Oregon Business & Industry, and the Oregon Environmental Council. 

Nik Blosser’s leadership and dedication to public service and sustainability make him an invaluable asset to EIS and the state of Oregon. 

On July 24, 2025, Governor Kotek signed Senate Bill 95 into law.  Senate Bill 95 creates new judicial positions for Douglas, Lane and Clackamas Counties. 

The number of elected judges in Douglas County has not been increased in at least four decades (OJD records go back to 1985, with no new judges).  A request that Douglas County receive a new judge has been included in proposed legislation consistently since 2017. 

At the time Senate Bill 95 was proposed, Oregon Judicial Branch’s Judicial Workload Study showed that Douglas County needed three additional judges in order to properly adjudicate the number of cases being filed.

The judges of the Douglas County Circuit Court extend our appreciation to those legislators who recognized the need for additional judicial resources in our County and voted in favor of Senate Bill 95.

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (July 29, 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the person(s) responsible for the illegal take and waste of a buck deer in Grants Pass.

On the morning of July 23, 2025, a dead buck deer was found on private property on NW Vine Street near NW Highland Avenue in Grants Pass. The property owner recalled hearing a single shot on the evening of July 21, 2025, but had not noticed the deceased animal until later.
 

Anyone with information is asked to call the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number #SP25347008.
 

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitters and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.
 

The TIP program offers cash rewards or preference point rewards to individuals who provide information leading to the arrest or citation of those responsible for the unlawful killing of wildlife and/or waste of big game. When making a report, provide as much of the following information as possible:

• Description of suspicious activity or violation
• Date, time, and location of activity
• Description of any vehicle involved
• Name and/or description of suspect(s)

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx

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About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

PORTLAND, Ore.— The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that Scott E. Bradford has taken the oath of office—administered by U.S. Circuit Court Judge Danielle J. Forrest on Monday—to serve as the United States Attorney for the District of Oregon. On July 28, 2025, United States Attorney General Pamela Bondi appointed Mr. Bradford to serve as interim U.S. Attorney.

The District of Oregon serves approximately four million people and covers more than 98,000 square miles. Our expansive region hosts a wide variety of cultural and geographic diversity and is home to nine federally recognized Tribes. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon has approximately 100 employees, with the main office located in Portland, where nearly half the population of the state lives, and two branch offices in Eugene and Medford, Oregon.

“I am honored to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon and thank Attorney General Bondi for placing her trust in me. It is a privilege to lead this great office, serving alongside such dedicated public servants. I look forward to working with our federal, state, and local partners to protect the public and defend the interests of the United States,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Bradford is an 18-year veteran of the Department of Justice, joining the Department in 2007 through the Attorney General Honors Program and the U.S. Attorney’s Office as an Assistant United States Attorney in 2009. He has held several leadership positions in the office, including Chief of the White Collar Unit, Chief of the Economic, National Security, and Cyber Crimes Unit, and Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division. In 2022, Bradford was the Department’s Regional Cybercrime Attaché in Southeast Asia. Bradford returned the Department of Justice in 2024 in Washington, D.C., most recently serving as the Acting Chief of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section of the National Security Division. Prior to joining the Department of Justice, Bradford clerked for U.S. District Court Judge Michael W. Mosman.

Bradford received his bachelor’s degree from Bringham Young University and his law degree from Gonzaga University School of Law.

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LINN COUNTY, Ore. (July 29, 2025) – On Monday, July 28, 2025, at approximately 7:47 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 226 near Albany.

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Buick Envoy, operated by Jarri Lynn Saul (55) of Lebanon, was traveling eastbound on Highway 226 near milepost 1.5 when it attempted to turn north onto Old Bridge Drive. The Buick turned into the path of a westbound blue Kenworth commercial motor vehicle, operated by Douglas Edward Ahlberg (49) of Aumsville. The vehicles collided nearly head-on.
 

The operator of the Buick (Saul) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
 

The Buick’s front passenger, a 15-year-old female Japanese exchange student, was also pronounced deceased at the scene.
 

The Buick’s rear passenger, another 15-year-old female Japanese exchange student, sustained serious injuries and was transported by air ambulance to a local hospital.
 

The operator of the Kenworth (Ahlberg) was not injured.
 

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Albany Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Earlier this year, DOC hired the Falcon Group, a national consulting firm specializing in correctional healthcare. Falcon conducted a comprehensive review of DOC’s healthcare delivery system including policies, practices, and the overall quality of care. Falcon arrived at 67 findings and key observations reflecting convergence among sources of information and stakeholders that were unprecedented in Falcon’s experience. The key findings in “State of Oregon Department of Corrections Healthcare Delivery System Assessment,” included Falcon noting that DOC impressed them as authentically committed to studying and improving healthcare for AICs. The report also noted that Pharmacy Services and Dental Services both emerged as best practice models, and that Behavioral Health Services has many best-practice approaches.  

Salem, Ore. – Oregon Lottery’s efforts to educate and support responsible gaming initiatives are being recognized nationally with four top awards. Each year, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) honors individuals and organizations from around the world for their significant impact in the fields of problem gambling awareness, research, and responsible gambling.

Oregon Lottery earned awards in the following categories: 

• Corporate Social Responsibility Award for Oregon Lottery’s overall program
• Corporate Public Awareness Award for Oregon Lottery’s “Safer Play” PSA campaign
• Corporate Multicultural Communications Award for Oregon Lottery’s “multicultural digital/print media marketing campaign” 
• Don Feeney Award for Responsible Gambling Excellence (individual honor) - Stacy Shaw, Oregon Lottery senior manager for product marketing

"These awards reflect how deeply safer play is woven into everything we do," said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. "It's more than just a requirement. It's a shared commitment for the entire agency and is rewarding to be recognized as a national leader."

The awards ceremony took place on Friday, July 18, in Columbus, Ohio, during the National Conference on Gambling Addiction & Responsible Gambling 2025. 

“Over the past year, we have invested in our Safer Play Program to conduct research, offer marketing outreach, and provide resources that let us reach more people on their help seeking journey,” said Shaw. “Receiving these awards shows that our peers and colleagues see the impact of this important work, which we are excited to continue." 

Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery profits have funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts throughout Oregon. Since that time, over $148 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.

Oregonians can access online tools and connect with free, professional counseling by going to the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource (OPGR) website. 

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has reached a milestone in strengthening its unit that regulates long-term care.

As part of a broader strategy to improve safety, the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) in July began implementing recommendations from an independent consultant’s external assessment of its unit that oversees nursing, assisted living and residential care facilities as well as adult foster homes. 

The consultant’s report provides recommendations for how the unit can build a stronger foundation to support its regulatory work, which has grown in size and complexity in the past decade. It includes an overarching framework for processes to: realign staff with the workload; update practices for efficiency; clarify procedures for state and federal regulations; implement new legislation and provide ongoing training for staff. 

These changes will help address work backlogs and measure the unit’s performance in improving safety. 

As the unit strengthens its operations, APD will also incorporate the consultant’s recommendations into existing safety projects underway. These projects range from adopting a statewide protocol for responding to suspicious deaths in licensed long-term care to developing improved training tools to support staff in implementing regulatory changes. 

 
Independent consultant Alvarez and Marsal (A&M) conducted the external assessment and produced the Final Report for ODHS. 

“We are committed to continually improve what we do to ensure the safety of older adults and people with disabilities in Oregon,” said APD Director Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, Ph.D. “Our goal is to make changes that will continue to improve our operations today and will equip us to meet Oregonians’ needs in the future.” 

PORTLAND, Ore. – A Portland man made his initial appearance in federal court today after committing various offenses – including aggravated assault of a federal officer and damaging federal property – during a violent protest at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Robert Jacob Hoopes, 24, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offenses of aggravated assault of a federal officer with a dangerous weapon, and depredation of federal property in an amount exceeding $1,000.

According to court documents and information shared in court, on June 14, 2025, Hoopes was present at a protest at the ICE building.  He was seen throwing large rocks at the building.  He threw one of those rocks at an ICE officer and struck the officer in the head, causing a significant laceration over the officer’s eye.  Later that same day, he and two other individuals were seen using an upended stop sign as a makeshift battering ram, which resulted in significant damage to the main entry door to the ICE building.  Hoopes was identified from a photo online later that same day.  Hoopes was arrested by FBI agents on Friday, July 25, 2025.

Hoopes made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.  Hoopes was ordered released pending trial.

Aggravated assault of a federal officer with a dangerous weapon that results in bodily injury is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison.  Depredation of federal property in an amount exceeding $1,000 is a felony punishable by up to ten years in prison.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Since June 13, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged 23 defendants with offenses committed at the ICE building including assaulting federal officers, arson, possession of a destructive device, and depredation of government property.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

# # #

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (July 28, 2025) – On Saturday, July 26, 2025, at approximately 3:11 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 213 near Oregon City.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a black Ford F-250 pickup truck, operated by Bryce Montplaisir Ainslie (28) of West Linn, was traveling southbound on Highway 213 near milepost 2.5 when it left the travel lane for an unknown reason, crashed into a guardrail, and went down an embankment.

The operator (Ainslie), and sole occupant of the Ford, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Fire District, the Clackamas County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire is on scene of a house fire in the 500 block of 17th St in Springfield.  Firefighters were called around 10:40 AM on July 28th to reports of smoke from the roof of a home.  Engine 4 arrived 4 minutes after the call and found fire in the garage that extended to the attic.  Firefighters quickly contained the fire and are working to eliminate remaining hot spots. There were no injuries and the cause is under investigation.  

SAIF offers tips on how to keep your workers safe from hazardous wildfire smoke.

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With several fires already burning across the state, it’s important for businesses and individuals to be prepared for wildfire smoke. 

As with any emergency, having a plan in place before there is a need could help prevent injuries and illness, and potentially save lives. 

Know the risks

Smoke travels much farther than the fire itself and contains chemicals and particles that, when breathed in, can cause severe health issues, including: 

• Reduced lung function 
• Fatigue 
• Eye irritation 
• Worsening asthma and other existing heart and lung conditions  
• Coughing 
• Sore throat 
• Wheezing  
• Difficulty breathing 

Keep in mind certain workers may be more susceptible to the impact of smoke due to their age, health history, and how much they work outside.

“Smoke is complex. It could be made up of trees and other organic matter and may contain biotoxins like poison ivy or poison oak,” says Kim Henry, an industrial hygienist at SAIF. “But it can also contain fumes and vapors from burned items such as car tires, metal equipment, and other human-made materials. Smoke can travel hundreds to thousands of miles and impact communities far away.”

Know which fires are burning

Employers should have current information on active wildfires, even the ones that aren’t in their immediate area or community. Monitoring weather forecasts, fire conditions, and air quality reports can help you make more informed decisions.

Know your plan 

Before wildfire smoke hits your area or community:

• It’s crucial to provide annual wildfire smoke training to all employees and include wildfire smoke events in your emergency plans.
• Prepare production schedules and work assignments with potential business interruptions in mind and identify the risk of smoke exposure for each type of employee. 

During a wildfire or smoke event:

• Communicate frequently with employees and make it easy for them to communicate with you.
• Conduct an exposure assessment at the start of each shift to determine air quality.
• Offer the appropriate filtering facepiece respirators based on the air quality index (AQI). Find out more about respirators in SAIF's online training. 
• For those working inside: shut down outside air intakes and allow air-conditioned buildings to operate on recirculated air. Change filters on HVAC units and keep windows and doors closed. 
• For outside workers, relocate or re-assign work activities away from the smoke zone. Stop work when air quality and/or visibility present health and safety hazards. 

After a wildfire or smoke event:

• Talk about what you learned: what went well and what could have gone better?  
• Cleaning up after wildfire smoke impacts requires a thoughtful response. Make sure whoever conducts the cleaning has the correct equipment and guidance. 

You can find more details and prepare your business for wildfire season. 

About SAIF

SAIF is Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ compensation insurance company. For more than 100 years, we’ve been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: July 28, 2025

Victim identified

Update published at 1000:

The person who died in the Saturday morning train collision is identified as Robert Ivar Jeffers, age 66, of Salem.

# # #

Originally published 07/26/2025 | 1455

Moving train strikes, kills man on tracks

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police officers responded to the area of McGilchrist ST and Pringle RD SE at approximately 11:00 a.m. after Union Pacific personnel called to report a collision with a person on the railroad tracks.

A rail crew traveling southbound on the line reported a man walking on the tracks in front of the oncoming train. The rail crew used various measures to get the man’s attention and stop the train, but the collision could not be avoided as the man did not move for unknown reasons.

The 66-year-old man was declared deceased at the scene. His name is not being released pending notification to his family.

Streets were closed to east and westbound traffic between McGilchrist ST and Mill ST SE until approximately 2:30 p.m. when the train released from the scene.

# # #

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Brittan Arrington.

Brittan, age 13, is a child who went missing from Gresham on July 22. She was found on July 27.

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is now accepting applications for its 2025–27 Campus Veteran Resource Center (CVRC) Grant Program. This competitive grant opportunity is designed to support Oregon’s student veterans by expanding and strengthening Campus Veteran Resource Centers at the state’s public colleges and universities.

The Oregon Legislature has approved up to $800,000 in funding for this biennium’s grant cycle. The CVRC Grant Program is funded in part by Oregon Lottery dollars, made possible through the passage of Measure 96, which directs a portion of Lottery proceeds to support Oregon veterans.

Campus Veteran Resource Centers are vital to ensuring student veterans have the tools and support they need to thrive in college and beyond. These centers help veterans successfully transition from military to academic life, navigate the challenges of higher education, and prepare for meaningful careers in the civilian workforce. Services offered at many CVRCs include academic advising, peer mentoring, mental health and wellness resources, and connections to VA and community benefits.

“Oregon’s Campus Veteran Resource Centers, along with their dedicated coordinators and staff, serve as a critical cornerstone to support student veterans’ environmental, intellectual, and social well-being while earning a post-secondary degree or certification,” said ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Daniels.

“This grant program underscores our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of student veterans across the state by supporting campus resources and services that promote student veteran personal growth and academic success.”

Oregon’s 17 community colleges and seven public universities (not including Oregon Health & Science University) are eligible to apply for these grant funds.

To be eligible for grant funds, a community college or public university needs to currently have a Campus Veteran Resource Center, a Campus Veteran Resource Coordinator (or intends to hire one prior to the distribution of grant funds), or both.

The window for applications for the Oregon Veteran Campus Resource Center Grant Program will open Monday, July 28, 2025, and will close Monday, September 22, 2025. Grant requests may be up to $100,000.

A webinar will be hosted at 10:00 a.m. August 1 to provide additional information about the application process. To register for the webinar, visit CVRC Grant 2025 - 2027 Intent to Apply.

For more information about this grant or to apply, visit www.oregon.gov/odva/agency-programs/grants/pages/campus-grant.aspx or contact ODVA Grants Coordinator Brenna Bandstra at renna.bandstra@odva.oregon.gov">brenna.bandstra@odva.oregon.gov or 971-388-8204.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.

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Salem, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is gathering public comments on proposed procurement and contracting rule updates now through Aug. 31.

The proposed rule updates seek to implement changes based on SB 838B. That legislation provided OPRD a limited exemption from the state’s Public Contracting Code to better serve park visitors and support local businesses. The exemption does not apply to surplus property, information technology, photogrammetric mapping or telecommunications.

This rulemaking opened for public comment on July 28, 2025. The public is invited to comment on the proposed updates through 5 p.m. Aug. 31, 2025:

• Submit comments online on the rules webpage
• Attend a public hearing 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20
  • Registration required to provide public comment: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Mg-QQFOLQ8OhHW4SqSEmeg
  • Watch the hearing: https://www.youtube.com/@oprddirectorsoffice5783/streams

Individuals who require special accommodations to view the meetings should contact Jo Niehaus at least three days in advance of the meeting at jo.niehaus@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-580-9210.

Once the public comment period ends, the proposal with any incorporated updates is slated to go to Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in September for possible adoption and implementation.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred just before 9:00 p.m. on Saturday,

July 26, 2025, near the 14000 block of Butteville Road NE, just outside of Woodburn.

Deputies responded to reports of a head-on collision and, upon arrival, located a two-vehicle crash with significant impact.

One of the drivers, Angel Moreno-Cano, a 26-year-old man from Gervais, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The second driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

That driver has been cooperative with investigators, and no charges have been filed at this time.

The Marion County CRASH Team responded to document the scene and conduct a full investigation.

Our condolences go out to the families and loved ones impacted by this tragic incident.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, Woodburn Fire, Woodburn Ambulance, Marion County Public Works, the Marion County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Marion County CRASH Team.

EUGENE, Ore. – Bushnell University is honored to announce that it has been selected to host an upcoming NetVUE regional gathering Oct. 2–4. The event, titled “The Purposeful University,” will convene faculty, staff, and thought leaders from across the region to explore the role of purpose, vocation, and calling in higher education.  

This gathering is part of the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education and is funded through a grant from the Council of Independent Colleges. The funds will cover event costs, including pre- and post-event gatherings. The grant is made possible through NetVUE member dues and generous support from the Lilly Endowment Inc. 

An Opportunity for Purposeful Reflection 

“This gathering is more than a conference — it is a vital conversation about meaning making and purpose in the work of colleges and universities”, said Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe, Bushnell Associate Dean and Professor of Bible, Theology, & Ministry. “We are grateful for the opportunity to host this event on our campus and to join colleagues from across the region in reflecting on the future of higher education through the lens of vocation.” 

Building on NetVUE executive director Dr. David Cunningham’s assertion that colleges, like individuals, have callings, the gathering examines how institutions discern, articulate, embody, and live out their institutional callings. This examination will also explore how institutional vocation contributes to the flourishing of the broader communities that colleges and universities serve. 

Planning is already underway for the three-day gathering, which will include keynote presentations, facilitated discussions, and breakout sessions designed to spark meaningful dialogue, provide practical tools for furthering purposeful education, and foster collaborative relationships among participants. 

Three Days of Engaging Conversations 

Opening the event, Cunningham will present the first keynote address, “The Importance of Vocational Reflection for Colleges and Universities in the Present Landscape,” in which he
will explore how the framework of vocation and purpose can be applied at the institutional level. He’ll explain why this approach is particularly vital in the current landscape and compare it with alternative models. 

On Friday morning, Bushnell President Dr. Joseph Womack will lead the first panel session with fellow staff to discuss the university’s journey through institutional vocational reflection. The panel will discuss Bushnell’s Saga Project, the Presidential initiative on creating Becoming Beloved Community, and how this has played out in institutional interactions with visitors during regional accreditation visits.  

Several other excellent sessions follow throughout the day and into Saturday. There will also be meals, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. The gathering will close with a call for “Institutional Purpose and Courage” in Dr. Matthew Hartley’s keynote address. Hartley is an internationally recognized expert on academic governance, leadership, and reform in higher education, and he serves as professor and board of advisors chair of Education at University of Pennsylvania.  

To learn more about the NetVUE regional gathering at Bushnell, including ticket prices and the schedule, visit bushnell.edu/netvue-regional-gathering. 

If you have questions about the event, please contact Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe at aiheanyi-igwe@bushnell.edu. 

To learn more about NetVUE, visit www.cic.edu/netvue.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 25, 2025

An OSMB Grant Helps Douglas County Complete Repairs at Eight County Operated Boat Ramps Following March 2025 Floods

     (Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Tom Kress, and Chris Boice along with the Douglas County Parks Department are pleased to announce the completion of repairs to eight County-operated boat ramps located along the Umpqua River system. These repairs were necessary due to damage sustained during the March 2025 flood event. While crews were mobilized and onsite, the opportunity was also taken to complete some much-needed maintenance that had been previously postponed.  Construction began in mid-June 2025 and was successfully completed by June 30, 2025. 

The work was done in partnership with the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) which contributed $64,590 to completing this work through their Boating Facility Grant program.  They offer grants to improve and develop boating facilities and promote boating safety and education. OSMB grants are funded by user fees from boaters and help to maintain and enhance public access to Oregon's waterways.  The total cost of the repair project was $92,894.  The grant from OSMB accounted for 70%, while the remining 30% came from the County Parks Department budget. 

Work was completed at the following Douglas County operated boat ramps:

• Yellow Creek Recreation Area and County Park: Yellow Creek is located at Milepost 12A on Oregon Hwy 138 (Elkton-Sutherlin Hwy) about 20 minutes from Oakland, Oregon.  Repairs Included: Crews replaced boulders lost in the flood by reinforcing the boat ramp with new ones, paved the boat ramp turnaround and highway access, and graded and added aggregate to the parking lot. Park Amenities: Yellow Creek provides (2) direct areas to access the Umpqua River.  A swift channel of water carves through the bedrock, providing a nice fishing hole and summer recreation destination for floating and swimming.  This park has ample parking, picnic areas, a developed boat ramp, port-a-potty and an overlook. 
• James Wood County Park: James Wood is located on the Umpqua River 6 miles northwest of the community of Umpqua on Tyee Road in Umpqua.  Repairs Included: Crews replaced lost aggregate and graded the parking lot.  Park Amenities: James Wood provides a boat ramp and small day use area.  The park is nestled on a secluded section of the Umpqua River, where the backdrop of mature Douglas fir trees and the river form a deep alcove for fishing and swimming.
• Umpqua Landing County Park: Umpqua Landing is located on the confluence of Calapooya Creek and the Umpqua River on Fort McKay Road in Umpqua.  Repairs Included: Crews cleared a large debris pile, paved sections of the parking lot and boat ramp launch approach and removed sediment buildup from the boat ramp.  Park Amenities: Umpqua Landing primarily provides access to river recreation with a boat ramp, day use area, fishing, parking area, picnic tables, restroom and seasonal swimming.  This park is the original site of Fort McKay, built by the Northwest Company in early 1820s.  The fort was named after one of the builders, Thomas McKay.  McKay was a Canadian fur trader, guide, and company clerk who became a legendary hero among trappers.  The Fort saw seasonal use into the 1830s. 
• Colliding Rivers County Park: Colliding Rivers is located at the confluence of the North Umpqua River and Little River also known as Colliding Rivers on Highway 138 in Glide.  Repairs Included: Crews repaired two large sections of pavement on the access road and cleared sediment from the boat ramp.  Park Amenities:  Colliding Rivers provides a boat ramp, day use area, fishing, parking area, restroom and seasonal swimming.  
• Cleveland Rapids County Park: Cleveland Rapids is located on the main stem of the Umpqua River on Cleveland Rapids Road about 10 miles northeast of Roseburg.  Repairs Included: Crews cleared significant sediment deposits from the boat ramp, then graded and added aggregate to improve the parking lot.  Park Amenities: Cleveland Rapids provides river recreation access along a large gravel bar.  A popular park offering a day use area, fishing, parking area, picnic areas, restroom and seasonal swimming. 
• Whistler’s Bend County Park & Campground: Whistler’s Bend is located about 20 minutes east of Roseburg off Hwy 138 near the community of Glide.  Repairs Included: Crews replaced lost aggregate in the boat ramp parking lot and paved the ingress and egress out of the parking lot.  Park Amenities: Whistler's Bend offers a peaceful escape into nature - where a chorus of wildlife, rippling river currents, and the whir of golf discs have become the soundtrack to outdoor adventures. The park offers two campgrounds, 27-hole disc golf course, three group campsites, five yurts, day use area, fishing, float tubing, parking area, picnic tables, playground area, reservable pavilion, restrooms, river access, seasonal swimming, hiking trails and Wi-Fi access. 
• John P. Amacher County Park and Campground: Amacher is located on the North Umpqua River 6 miles north of Roseburg on Stephens Road (Old Hwy 99).  Repairs Included: Crews cleared sediment deposits from the boat ramp, replaced damaged signage, and installed new boulders to replace those lost in the flood, helping to protect the ramp. Park Amenities: Amacher Park provides both day use and camping recreation opportunities.  It is a great park that can be your home base to experience all that central Douglas County has to offer.  It offers a campground, boat ramp, day use area, fishing, float tubing, parking areas, picnic areas, reservable pavilion, restrooms, river access, showers, seasonal swimming and hiking trails.     
• Pickett County Park: Pickett is located on the banks of the South Umpqua River about four minutes northeast of Canyonville on Canyonville Park Road.  Repairs Included: Crews repaired protective concrete sidewall on the boat ramp.  Park Amenities: Pickett provides a nice spot for fishing and picnicking.  It offers a day use area, fishing, parking area, picnic tables, restrooms, and seasonal swimming. 

The Douglas County Parks Department was established in 1949 and was the first County Park system to be developed in the state of Oregon. From the Pacific Ocean to the Cascades and throughout the 100 Valleys of the Umpqua, the Douglas County Park system encompasses 69 properties, including 23 boat ramps, 11 campgrounds and 42 day-use parks. For more information, or to locate a park, campground, or boat ramp near you, visit the Douglas County Parks Department’s webpage at: https://douglascountyor.gov/802/Parks.

The Douglas County Commissioners recently highlighted the amazing upgrades, renovations, and improvements made at in our park system in the last ten years in a series titled, “A Decade of New Direction.  The ongoing collaboration, creativity, and dedication of our Commissioners, Parks Directors, Parks Staff and our Parks Advisory Board were instrumental in preserving, revitalizing, and transforming the Douglas County Parks system, efforts that ultimately saved our Parks from certain demise.  If you have not had a chance to read the series celebrating the transformation of our Douglas County Parks titled, “A Decade of New Direction,” visit our Douglas County website at https://www.douglascountyor.gov/802/Parks.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | (541) 670-2804 cell | (541) 957-4896 office | a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (July 23, 2025) – On Sunday, July 20, 2025, at approximately 9:13 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 99E near Harrisburg.

The preliminary investigation indicated a green Toyota Tacoma, operated by Laura Marie Howard (48) of Corvallis, was traveling westbound on Cartney Drive when it entered the intersection of Highway 99E without stopping at the stop sign. The Toyota was struck by a southbound white Freightliner semi-truck and trailer, operated by Barret E. Morrison (31) of McMinnville.
 

The operator of the Tacoma (Howard) was declared deceased at the scene.
 

The operator of the Freightliner (Morrison) was not injured. A passenger in the commercial motor vehicle, Eric Sean Fisher (56) of Newberg, was also not injured.
 

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

In recent weeks, detectives with the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT) had received reports that Robert Dennis, of Riddle, was dealing fentanyl throughout Douglas County.

Detectives began a weeks long investigation in which they compiled evidence of multiple suspected drug sales committed by Dennis.  The case was brought to conclusion on the evening of July 24, 2025.  Detectives, with the help of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, made a traffic stop on 60-year-old Robert Dennis on First Avenue in Riddle.

A search of Dennis’ vehicle revealed suspected fentanyl, a digital scale and baggies consistent with the presumed distribution of controlled substances.

Detectives followed up with a search warrant that was executed on Dennis’ residence in the 1000 block of Yokum Road in Riddle.  The search yielded additional drug related items including baggies, spoons, scales and suspected methamphetamine.

In total, DINT seized 18.9 grams of suspected fentanyl and 1 gram of suspected methamphetamine.

Dennis was lodged at the Douglas County Jail on charges of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance Schedule II (4 counts), Unlawful Delivery of Controlled Substance Schedule II (4 counts), Unlawful Manufacture of Controlled Substance Schedule II (4 counts), Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine and Felony Driving While Suspended.

Dennis was the subject of two recent DINT investigations in which he was arrested and charged on suspicion of several drug related crimes.  Those cases are still pending prosecution within the court system. 

The Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT) is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach.  DINT is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) and the Douglas County Board of Commissioners.  DINT is composed of members from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Roseburg Police Department, Oregon State Police, Douglas County District Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Land Management.

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 multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including DINT.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Planning Commission will meet virtually on July 29 at 6 p.m. to adopt the decision and findings on LU-24-027, Republic Services’ application to expand the Coffin Butte Landfill. Community members can view the meeting through Zoom. Those who wish to watch the virtual proceedings in a County location can go to the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis.

The Planning Commission met July 22 for deliberations. Following nearly four hours of opening statements and discussion, the seven participating Commission members voted unanimously to deny the application.

The County is creating a final written decision document including findings and justification for the decision. The Planning Commission will reconvene on July 29 at 6 p.m. in a Zoom meeting room to adopt the written decision and findings, making the decision final.

The public hearing on LU-24-027 began on April 29. In total, the Planning Commission heard more than 20 hours of presentations and verbal testimony by Benton County Planning Division staff, consultants, the applicant and community members. The Commission also received and reviewed thousands of pages of application materials, reports, exhibits and written public testimony and evidence.

The Planning Commission opted for a virtual meeting on July 29 to make the best use of commissioner time and County resources. With just one item of business on the agenda, the meeting is expected to be short. The Commission also met virtually on June 17, in a meeting that lasted about five minutes, to continue the public hearing to a later date (July 8). All other meetings related to LU-24-027 were held in person in the Kalapuya Building.

Once the decision on the application is final (expected July 29), all parties have 14 days to file an appeal, setting the appeal deadline at 5 p.m. (close of business) on Tuesday, August 12. An appellant is charged the full cost to the County of the appeal, starting with a $5,000 deposit due when the appeal is filed. Appeals are heard by the Benton County Board of Commissioners.  

Learn more:

• Video recording of the July 22 Planning Commission meeting. Recordings of all previous meetings are available in the County’s YouTube channel.
• Understanding the Benton County land use application process
• Zoom registration for the July 29 Planning Commission meeting where the decision on LU-24-027 will be adopted
• View the application, exhibits, reports, written testimony and other documents related LU-24-027 on the Munidocs platform.

Correction note: This alert has been updated to clarify that Brittan is known to frequent 82^nd avenue in Portland and the city of Hillsboro.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Brittan Arrington, age 13, a child in foster care who went missing from Gresham on July 22. Brittan is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Brittan and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her.

Brittan is known to frequent 82^nd avenue in Portland and the city of Hillsboro. 

Name: Brittan Arrington  
Pronouns: she/her
Date of birth: August 16, 2011
Height: 5-foot-4
Weight: 125 pounds
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Blonde/dyed black

Other identifying information: nose piercing

Law Enforcement Agency Case # PG 25-29955
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2056772 

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to an apartment fire in South Eugene on Friday morning.  Fire crews were dispatched to the fire just before 11AM on July 25th. Engine 15 from the South Hills station arrived about 3-1/2 minutes after dispatch reporting smoke from an apartment in single story building. Crews quickly contained the fire to a single room and searched for victims.  A dog named Taquito was rescued and attended to by medics on scene.  There were no other injuries reported and the cause is under investigation.  Willamette St was shut down for a period of time due to fire apparatus and a 5” water supply line in the street.  

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. (July 25, 2025) – On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at approximately 3:59 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 30 in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a gray Chevrolet Cruze, operated by Gary Ronald Thomas (90) of St. Helens, was traveling eastbound on Highway 30 near milepost 39 when it crossed into the westbound lane for an unknown reason. The Chevrolet struck a westbound purple Saturn SL1, operated by Kyler Warren Rinck (20) of Longview, WA, and a blue Toyota Camry, operated by Cori Marie Mack (61) of Rainier.
 

The operator of the Chevrolet (Thomas) was transported to an area hospital by Life Flight with serious injuries. He later died at the hospital as a result of injuries sustained during the crash.
 

The operator of the Saturn (Rinck) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.
 

The operator of the Toyota (Mack) was transported to an area hospital in a private vehicle with minor injuries.
 

The highway was closed for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Rainier Police Department, Columbia County Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #
 

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST, Ore.—The quick actions of Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) crews and rural fire departments have put out five fires just since May connected to target shooting. 

“These fires are all preventable,” said Stephanie Beall, acting District Forester for Forest Grove.  “Thanks to timely reporting and quick response times by firefighting resources, these fires have been kept small so far, with the largest fire reaching only 1.5 acres, but it only takes a little bit of wind to quickly expand a fire if the fuel conditions are right.”

There is a long list of state forest shooting regulations and simplified dos and don’ts while target shooting that are good to follow for any area of the state.  They are all important but there are some critical ones during fire season.

“The two most pressing problems are people bringing out and shooting exploding targets and shooting into stumps, logs or other debris,” said Beall

Exploding targets are banned year-round in all of Oregon’s state forests. Materials such as Tannerite can scatter hot debris in a large area quickly igniting dry fuels. But it’s not only exploding targets that are a concern, the hot lead of regular rounds that hits stumps and other natural backstops or targets can smolder for hours leading to fire starts long after the shooter has left the area.  To minimize this hazard shooters should not put targets on or in front of logs, stumps or grassy areas.

“People are required to use manufactured targets on all state forests, with the exception being paper targets printed at home.” said Ben Burns, ODF’s Recreation Operations Manager.  “Do not place targets on live trees, stumps, logs or in any dry brushy areas.”

The department has built several shooting lanes throughout the state forest system but even those can be a fire hazard if not used properly.

“The Wolf Creek shooting lanes have ranges from 20 – 70 yards,” said Burns.  “It is important that people use the designated backstops and do not shoot beyond these borders into the vegetation beyond.”

Another rule of which many recreational users are not aware, is that anyone using a vehicle in state forests during the regulated use portion of fire season must have a shovel and either a gallon of water or a 2.5-pound (or larger) fire extinguisher in that vehicle.

Although not following the rules can endanger people and the forest itself, ODF’s emphasis is on education before enforcement.

“You can ask our recreation staff or any ODF employee to clarify the rules if you are unsure,” said Burns. “We are here to help everyone safely enjoy the forests no matter what activity they choose from hiking, biking, OHV riding, target shooting, camping and many other outdoor opportunities.”

However, for repeat offenders and forest users who put people in imminent danger, local law enforcement officers do patrol state forests and can issue citations on the spot and more.

“The Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office has three dedicated officers to patrol the Tillamook State Forest thanks to funds that come from the state’s ATV registration fees and matching grant funds from ODF,” said Burns.  “We meet regularly with them to discuss issues and areas to patrol more frequently, and target shooting is an area of emphasis right now.”

But the emphasis remains on education and compliance.

“As someone who enjoys target shooting, I keep fire in mind as part of shooting safety,” said Beall.  “I buy manufactured targets, lay down a tarp to catch my brass and check the area for garbage when I’m done.”

Taking fire risk into consideration as part of any recreation activity is one of ODF’s education focuses when talking to the public.  

“Every year 70 percent or more of our wildland fires are started by people—all of those are preventable,” said Beall.

For more information on target shooting safety and rules go here.

For current fire danger levels and restrictions go here.

For a list of shooting lanes and other recreational site locations and details go here.

If you see a fire call 911.  Also if you are a witness to the start of a fire and can provide information, eye-witness statements, video, photos or any other data, you can assist investigators by emailing them to etips@odf.oregon.gov">odf.firetips@odf.oregon.gov. This information helps our investigators in creating a full picture of what happened and identify a responsible party if there is one.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 25, 2025

Douglas County Issues Emergency Drought Order

(Douglas County, Ore.) On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, Douglas County Public Works Director, Scott Adams, requested and received approval from the Douglas County Board of Commissioners to declare an Emergency Drought Order for Douglas County at the Board of Commissioners Weekly Business Meeting.  The Commissioners determined that extraordinary measures must be taken to alleviate the suffering of citizens and livestock and to protect or mitigate economic loss, as well as be responsive to the threat of wildfires.  Click here to read the Emergency Drought Order.

Douglas County is the third county to declare an emergency drought order in Oregon this year.  Oregon’s Governor has already declared State of Drought Emergencies in Lincoln and Baker Counties.  The order formally declaring a drought in Douglas County has been officially recorded, and Douglas County has submitted a signed copy of the order along with an urgent request letter to Oregon’s Governor, requesting an official executive order from the State for an Emergency Drought Declaration for Douglas County pursuant to ORS 526.740.  The Emergency Drought order is a direct result of severe and continued drought conditions, and that such an emergency threatens the availability of essential services and jeopardizes the peace, health, and welfare of the people of Douglas County.  The Governor's executive order will allow increased flexibility in how water is managed to ensure that limited supplies are used as efficiently as possible and authorize state agencies (including the Water Resources Commission) to expedite water management tools to users who would not otherwise have access.

The order cited that Douglas County agricultural, livestock, forest products industries, and related businesses are experiencing economic hardship and potential serious injury and losses resulting from extreme weather conditions within the county.  The above conditions will result in the loss of economic stability, decreased feed, and pasture production, shortened growing season and decreased water supplies for Douglas County agricultural, livestock, and vineyard producers.  In addition, the multi-year cumulative drought has resulted in decreased fuel moisture and early onset fire danger. 

As of July 10, 2025, the Oregon Water Resources Department Water Conditions Report states that Douglas County stream flows were 63% of average for the month of June 2025.  The report also states that soil moisture levels are very low.  The most recent three-month outlook prepared by NOAA Climate Prediction Center indicates "conditions are likely to continue or worsen, as probabilities favor above average temperatures and near average precipitation.”  Also as of July 10, 2025, U. S. Drought Monitor for Oregon illustrates the majority of Douglas County is already in Moderate Drought.  Further, the South Umpqua River and multiple smaller tributaries have already been regulated by the State Watermaster in favor of senior rights, and it is anticipated that further reductions will take place in the weeks ahead.  Due to dry soil and low stream flows, basin water managers expect to regulate surface water right users much earlier and to older priority dates than normal.  The lack of surface water resources will negatively impact consumptive water users including irrigators, industrial, and domestic users resulting in economic losses and hardship.  Groundwater resources will also be affected by a lack of sufficient recharge resulting in reduced spring and well water supplies for household uses.  The extended weather forecast for Douglas County projects higher than normal temperatures, and below average precipitation. 

Although the drought declaration has not resulted in any residential use restrictions, it is a good reminder that water conservation is always a good idea, and that fire danger is already high in Douglas County right now.   

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | (541) 670-2804 cell | (541) 957-4896 office | a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Attached: Drought Order/Request Letter

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025

Contact:

ta.L.FRIASBEDOLLA@odf.oregon.gov%3e">Marta Frias-Bedolla, committee assistant

SALEM, Ore. — The Compliance Monitoring Program Committee will hold a virtual meeting Thursday, July 31, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video link found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Riparian Pilot Study – updates
• FERNS Notification – discussion of Compliance Monitoring Program message
• Mount Hood Environmental (MHE) – updates on Roads and Steep Slopes projects
• Next steps: looking ahead to future meetings

At the discretion of staff, the order of agenda items may change to maintain meeting flow.   

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by emailing ta.L.FRIASBEDOLLA@odf.oregon.gov%3e">Marta Frias-Bedolla.

The CMPC Committee assists efforts to monitor compliance with Forest Practices Rules. The committee advises ODF regarding monitoring projects and procedures. View more information on the CMPC webpage.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025

Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum and Gift Shop Receive Top 10% Worldwide Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2025

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Tom Kress, and Chris Boice, along with James Davis, Douglas County Museum Director, museum staff, and volunteers at Douglas County’s Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum and Gift Shop are excited to announce that the Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum and Gift Shop has been recognized with a Tripadvisor® Travelers’ Choice® Award for 2025, achieving distinction in the TOP 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor in the WORLD.  Every year, Tripadvisor celebrates attractions that consistently deliver amazing experiences with a Travelers’ Choice® Award, and we are honored that the Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum and Gift Shop was ranked among the TOP 10%. 

“The breathtaking overlook above Winchester Bay is home to our Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum, Gift Shop, Art Gallery and whale viewing area.  It is truly a treasure for Douglas County and our citizens.  Beyond the fact that I think it is one of the best properties in Oregon, this gem represents a collective of individuals who have fought hard to keep it alive and prospering for over 128 years.  Kudos to Jamie, his dedicated team of employees and our amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to create a captivating and unique experience for everyone who visits and for making this internationally recognized tourist attraction. We’re excited about the increased visibility this award will bring to Douglas County and the Winchester Bay area and for the opportunity we will have to continue to tell our unique story,” stated Douglas County Museum Liaison, Commissioner Tom Kress

Only businesses that consistently deliver great service and experiences by consistently receiving positive reviews and ratings earn the prestigious Travelers’ Choice TOP 10% Award distinction. These experiences are among the top 10% of all listings on Tripadvisor worldwide and demonstrate a commitment to hospitality excellence. Tripadvisor is a leader with travelers and diners and provides one of the world’s largest travel guidance platforms.  This award is based on genuine feedback from anyone who has visited and left an authentic, firsthand review on Tripadvisor over a 12-month period, making it a valuable and trustworthy designation of travelers’ favorites.  To learn more about how Tripadvisor selects their Tripadvisor® Travelers’ Choice® Awards visit here.  Citizens and visitors can also check out all the reviews and discover more about Douglas County’s Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum and Gift Shop here. 

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Travelers’ Choice Award—one of the most respected and sought-after recognitions in the travel industry. Being named among travelers’ favorites this year is both humbling and deeply meaningful to us.  I’m profoundly grateful to our dedicated staff and passionate volunteers, whose hard work and hospitality make the Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum, and Gift Shop a truly memorable destination. And to our visitors and reviewers, thank you for your support and kind words. Your feedback affirms our efforts and inspires us to keep preserving and sharing this special place,” commented James Davis, Douglas County Museum Director

A Brief History of the Umpqua River Lighthouse and Museum: On December 31, 1894, the newly constructed Umpqua River Lighthouse was officially lit for the first time. Marinus Stream, the lighthouse's first head keeper, ignited the oil lamp inside its powerful first-order Fresnel lens, marking the beginning of the beacon’s service. A sister lighthouse to the one at Heceta Head, it stands 65 feet tall with a focal plane 165 feet above sea level. In recognition of its historical significance, the lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.  In 1939, the U.S. Coast Guard established a station on Lighthouse Hill, constructing officer barracks, a boat storage facility, and personnel cabins. From that point forward, the Coast Guard assumed responsibility for the lighthouse and surrounding grounds.  In 1962, the main Coast Guard station., now known as Station Umpqua River was relocated to its current site at 335 Beach Blvd in Winchester Bay, closer to the ocean. Despite the move, several of the original cabins on Lighthouse Hill continue to house Coast Guard personnel today.  Following the relocation, the former officer barracks building, located about 100 yards north of the lighthouse, was repurposed by Douglas County and now serves as the Coastal History Museum.

Preserving a Coastal Beacon: The Resilience of the Umpqua River Lighthouse: Over its 125-year history, the Umpqua River Lighthouse has weathered numerous challenges—from budget cuts and mechanical repairs to heated debates over its very existence. In 1985 and again in 2009, the iconic Fresnel lens faced potential decommissioning, sparking public outcry and political action to preserve this beloved landmark.  In 1985, after the clockwork mechanism’s chariot wheels broke, the U.S. Coast Guard considered retiring the original Fresnel lens. However, strong opposition from local residents, county officials, and members of Congress convinced the Coast Guard to repair and restore the historic lens instead.  The controversy resurfaced in 2009, when a Coast Guard study declared the lighthouse "no longer a critical component for safe navigation," and again proposed decommissioning it. This time, the Coast Guard offered an alternative: the light could remain operational as a Private Aid to Navigation (PATON), maintained by a local government, nonprofit, or community organization.  Douglas County Commissioners Joe Laurance, Doug Robertson, and Susan Morgan quickly took action. They negotiated an agreement with the Coast Guard, securing the lighthouse’s future. In 2010, Douglas County officially assumed ownership of the Umpqua River Lighthouse and entered into a lease for the historic Fresnel lens, ensuring the beacon would continue to shine for generations to come.

On April 14, 2012, during a special ceremony, the U.S. Coast Guard formally transferred operational and maintenance responsibilities of the lighthouse and its lens to Douglas County.  The preservation of the Umpqua River Lighthouse and the development of the Coastal History Museum stand as powerful examples of the dedication and continued vision of our Douglas County Commissioners, community supporters, staff, foundation members, and volunteers. Their passion and perseverance have helped safeguard an essential piece of Oregon’s maritime heritage.

“Congratulations to Douglas County’s Umpqua River Lighthouse, Museum, and Gift Shop on its recognition in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2025,” said Kristen Dalton, President, Tripadvisor. “Ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means you have made such a memorable impact on your visitors that many of them took the time to go online and leave a glowing review about their experience. We hope this recognition continues to drive business to you in 2025 and beyond.”

About Douglas County Museums: For more than 50 years, our Douglas County Museum of Natural and Cultural History and our Umpqua River Lighthouse and Museum have been dedicated to preserving and showcasing the region’s rich cultural and natural history. Through engaging exhibits, the museum connects visitors with the industries and communities that helped to shape Douglas County, from timber harvesting and farming to transportation and mining to lighthouses and maritime history.  The Umpqua River Lighthouse, Douglas County Coastal History Museum, Visitors Center, Café & Gift Shop, Artisan Gallery and Gray Whale ‘spy hopper’ viewing station are a part of the breathtaking Discover Winchester Bay community, which provides an abundance of outdoor, cultural and sportsman opportunities.  The Lighthouse and Museum are located atop the hill facing the Pacific Ocean at the mouth of the Umpqua River at 1020 Lighthouse Road in Winchester Bay, Oregon, six miles south of Reedsport off Oregon Hwy 101.  The Lighthouse, Museum, Gift Shop and Cafe are open daily October to February from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and March to September from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm and they are closed on Christmas Day.  It takes roughly an hour to tour the museum and lighthouse depending on your pace.  The Art Gallery is open Wednesday through Sunday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.  Admission is free for members, ages 0-4 are free, students 5-17 are $4.00, adults are $8.00, seniors and veterans are $5.00.   Admission includes a guided tour of the historic 1894 Umpqua Lighthouse and famous Fresnel lens. 

About Tripadvisor: Tripadvisor, the world's largest travel guidance platform, helps millions of people each month become better travelers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before.  With more than 1 billion reviews and contributions, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby.  Since 2002, the Travelers’ Choice awards showcase the best experiences in multiple categories and regions, based on the reviews and opinions of millions of travelers from around the world. Unlike traditional industry awards that require an entrance fee, editorial bias, or surveys, these awards are the result of real-life traveler insights collected over a 12-month period on Tripadvisor.

For more information or to volunteer at our Umpqua River Lighthouse, Douglas County Coastal History Museum, Visitors Center, Café & Gift Shop, Artisan Gallery and Gray Whale ‘spy hopper’ viewing station check out our website at https://umpquavalleymuseums.org/ or call the Umpqua River Lighthouse & Coastal History Museum at (541) 271-4631 museum or the Umpqua River Lighthouse Museum Café & Gift Shop and Art Gallery at (541) 271-1894.   Umpqua River Lighthouse, Douglas County Coastal History Museum, Visitors Center, Café & Gift Shop, Artisan Gallery and Gray Whale ‘spy hopper’ viewing station are all a division of Douglas County Government. 

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | (541) 670-2804 cell | (541) 957-4896 office | a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

UPDATE (July 24, 2025): Investigators are asking witnesses to the pursuit or crash to contact OSP’s Northern Command Center at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please refer to case number: SP25-343407. 
 

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. (July 21, 2025) — The Oregon State Police is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Sunday in Columbia County.

On Sunday, July 20, 2025, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office was in pursuit of a white Kia Optima on Canaan Road near Highway 30 in Deer Island. The suspect, identified as Kyle Davis Graham, 47, lost control of the vehicle, drove off the roadway, and down an embankment before coming to rest near Merrill Creek. The armed suspect was confronted by an officer, and shots were fired, striking Graham. Additional officers from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and Rainier Police Department arrived on the scene. Despite life-saving measures by officers and medics, the suspect died at the scene.

No officers were injured during the incident.

The suspect had also eluded officers from the Washington State Patrol on July 19, 2025, across the Lewis and Clark Bridge from Washington into Oregon.

The involved officer, Deputy Seann Luedke of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, has been placed on administrative leave per standard protocol. Deputy Luedke has been with the department for three years and has prior Oregon law enforcement experience.

The Columbia County Use of Deadly Physical Force Plan under Senate Bill 111 has been initiated for this incident. Oregon State Police is conducting the primary investigation under the guidance of the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office. Any further information will be released by the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office at the conclusion of the investigation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police
The Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that safeguards Oregon’s people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws, investigates crimes, performs postmortem examinations and forensic analyses, conducts background checks, and manages law enforcement data. The agency also regulates gaming and enforces laws related to fish, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP includes more than 1,400 employees—troopers, investigators, and professional staff—delivering comprehensive public safety services to Oregon and supporting law enforcement partners statewide.

SALEM, Ore.– Governor Kotek’s office announced today that FEMA has made federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Oregon to support recovery efforts following severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that struck Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties from March 13–20, 2025. 

The assistance includes Public Assistance funding on a cost-sharing basis for state, tribal, and eligible local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations, to aid in emergency response and infrastructure recovery.  

While requested, Harney County was not included in this declaration by FEMA. However, state leaders recognize the situation in Harney was especially severe. The flooding breached levees and led to the failure of the only wastewater system serving the City of Burns and the Burns Paiute Tribe. Sewage-contaminated floodwaters caused serious public health hazards, damaged homes, and forced extended evacuations.  

As a result, State Legislators provided statutory funding during the 2025 Legislative Session for Harney to minimize flooding through repair and improvement of infrastructure. This work will include work on dikes, levees, dredging and vegetation thinning along waterways.  

“Our staff worked tirelessly, compiling damage assessments, coordinating with local jurisdictions, and ensuring every detail was accounted for,” Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon said. “Their dedication and advocacy for Oregon played a crucial role in securing this declaration and helping communities get needed assistance.” 

John F. Harrison, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO), has been appointed to aid in the recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made if further assessments warrant expanded assistance. Harrison recently severed as the Oregon FCO for the 2024 Wildfire recovery.  

Understanding Federal Assistance  

Public Assistance (PA) is one of two main types of recovery dollars FEMA offers communities after a disaster. The other is Individual Assistance (IA). Neither are meant to help people cover the total cost of replacing their homes. Public Assistance is to help replace public infrastructure damaged by the disaster and recover the cost of responding to it.  

Individual Assistance (IA) has a higher overall damage cost threshold than Public Assistance and acts as a supplement to insurance, savings or loans for individuals whose property is damaged or destroyed. Far fewer disasters qualify for Individual Assistance because the overall devastation has to be far greater and more widespread, and it was never meant to pay replacement costs. 

Federal and State Assistance Available Currently for Oregon Communities Recovering from Floods 

• Public Assistance: funding for emergency work and repair or replacement of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and utilities. 
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans: low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits to cover physical damage and economic injury. People can apply online by visiting https://lending.sba.gov. 
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Emergency Conservation Program (ECP): emergency funding and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to rehabilitate farmland and conservation structures damaged by natural disasters and implement emergency water conservation measures in periods of severe drought. More information is available on this Fact Sheet or visit the USDA website. 
• Oregon Legislature statutory funding: for Harney to minimize flooding through repair and improvement of infrastructure.  

Damage Impacts in Coos, Curry, Douglas and Harney Counties 

• Coos County: floodwaters caused road failures and prompted water rescues. Officials noted damage levels not seen since the 1960s. 
• Curry County: landslides and mudslides disrupted access and damaged infrastructure. SBA loans and other federal resources were requested to support recovery. 
• Douglas County: highway 138 suffered at least 10 landslides, with major damage to drainage systems and roadways. Homes and businesses were inundated, and evacuations were widespread. 
• Harney County: breached levees and led to the failure of the only wastewater system serving the City of Burns and the Burns Paiute Tribe. Sewage-contaminated floodwaters caused serious public health hazards, damaged homes, and forced extended evacuations. 

How to Make Sure Your Home is Insured for Flooding 

Flood insurance provides financial protection against damage caused by flooding, which is not typically covered under standard homeowners or renters' insurance policies. It’s a separate policy offered through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers, and it covers things like structural damage to your home and loss of personal belongings.  

Because flood risk varies by location, coverage and rates are based on your property's elevation, flood zone, and more. Many people only discover it's excluded after it's too late—so it's worth checking before the storm rolls in. Oregon’s Division of Financial Regulation has a good resource page to help the public navigate flood insurance. 

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS 163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of such information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual listed below has been convicted of a sex offense requiring registration with the Oregon State Police. Based on their criminal history, this person has been classified at a level indicating a potential to re-offend. This notification is not intended to increase fear, but rather to support public awareness and safety.

NAME: Cheslee Dave Jeffers
SID#: 12838780
DOB: 04/23/1980
Current Age: 45
Race: White
Sex: Male
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Blue

Residence:
743 Hawthorne Ave NE
Salem, OR 97301

Supervision Status:
Cheslee Dave Jeffers is currently on Post-Prison Supervision for:

• Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle
• Escape II

Previous convictions include:

• Two counts of Sex Abuse II (2021)
• Three counts of Rape III (2006)
• Rape III (2001)
• Rape III (1999)
• Multiple property and person-to-person crimes dating back to 1997

Victim Information:
Jeffers’ known victims were female teenagers known to him.

Supervision began: 05/10/2024
Supervision expires: 12/05/2026

Special Conditions:
☒ No contact with minors
☒ Do not frequent places where minors congregate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025

Douglas County Shares News of First Order for FEMA Disaster Declaration Funding for March Flooding Event

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Tom Kress, and Chris Boice would like to share the announcement that President Donald J. Trump granted a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Oregon which releases federal funds through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support recovery efforts following the severe flooding event that struck Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties from March 13–20, 2025.  This first order will release funding for public entities, as FEMA continues to evaluate funding requests for individual assistance.  A copy of the first FEMA Federal Disaster Declaration Fact Sheet is attached and can be found here. 

According to a release from Governor Tina Kotek this morning, “FEMA Public Assistance funding will now be available to the State of Oregon, tribal and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides in Coos, Curry and Douglas counties.”

Following the declared emergency flood event in Douglas County in March 2025, Douglas County Emergency Management compiled and submitted a combined public entity request for over $11M, but FEMA will evaluate and verify all actual costs that are eligible for reimbursement.  The FEMA approved funding is designated only for public entities that applied for reimbursement of expenses incurred due to the emergency declaration Flood event in March 2025.  The public entities included in the emergency declaration from Douglas County were Douglas County Public Works Department, Douglas County Parks Department, Douglas County Solid Waste Department, Douglas County Fairgrounds, Tenmile Rural Fire District, Standley Estates Road District, Central Douglas Fire and Rescue, Roseburg Urban Sanitary Authority, Glide-Idleyld Sanitary District, Bar L Ranch Road District, Housing Authority of Douglas County, Douglas Electric Cooperative, City of Myrtle Creek, City of Glendale, City of Drain, City of Yoncalla, City of Roseburg, City of Riddle, City of Oakland and City of Sutherlin.  This assistance will help these public entities recoup some of their costs related to the cleanup and repair of roads, infrastructure, buildings, equipment, and utilities damaged during the March 2025 flood event. 

As we mentioned above, the individual assistance portion of the declaration request for homeowners, landowners, and businesses is still under review by FEMA.  Douglas County Commissioners and Congressman Cliff Bentz and the rest of our federal delegation will continue to actively push FEMA for approval for individual assistance.  From March 16-20, Douglas County experienced a historic combination of severe storms, rapid snowmelt, and record-level rainfall. The resulting floods caused landslides, infrastructure failure, and widespread displacement, especially in our isolated, rural areas.  Douglas County and the State will continue to work closely with Glide Revitalization, our federally designated Long Term Recovery Group to continue to look for ways to help our residents in the recovery process. 

First and foremost, the Douglas County Commissioners wish to express their heartfelt appreciation to our citizens who once again rose to the occasion to support their neighbors during and after the flood event. Douglas County is known for its strong sense of community and unwavering commitment to coming together in times of crisis.  Their appreciation also extends to all our first responders, fire departments, fire districts, ambulance services, law enforcement agencies, utility companies, cities, non-profit agencies, and businesses that responded without hesitation.  Additionally, the Commissioners would like to thank all county departments and staff who made it a priority to provide assistance and promptly repair damaged areas. Their dedication and swift response were vital in helping the community navigate this challenging time.  The Commissioners would like to especially thank and commend Emily Ring, Douglas County Emergency Manager and her staff, as well as Glide Revitalization for their incredible work before, during, and after the flooding event. 

They also want to thank Governor Tina Kotek for asking for the federal declaration and to the Oregon Department of Emergency Management for assisting in the declaration process. Gratitude also goes out to all our local legislators and specifically Representative Virgle Osborne and Senator David Brock-Smith.  On the Federal level we want to thank Congresswoman Val Hoyle, Senator Jeff Merkley, Senator Ron Wyden and of course President Donald Trump for their advocacy in making this declaration come to fruition.  A special thank you goes to Congressman Cliff Bentz and his staff for personally visiting Douglas County and for graciously taking Commissioner Freeman’s persistent weekly phone calls asking for progress updates about the declaration. His continued support, accessibility and advocacy are greatly appreciated.

"The process has been challenging, but we’re grateful to finally see some progress in helping our county move forward in recovering from this devastating event. Our staff, public entities, and local communities dedicated countless hours to compiling damage assessments, coordinating with local jurisdictions, and carefully documenting every detail. We will now shift our focus to fighting to secure funding to support individual assistance for homeowners, landowners and businesses!" stated Commissioner Tim Freeman. 

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners declared a state of emergency for the flood event on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 10:15 am for the entire county due to the ”extreme conditions related to the severe winter storm that impacted our county causing extreme peril to the safety or person and/or the protection of property.” On March 18, Governor Kotek declared a state of emergency due to flooding and landslides in Southern Oregon. In May 2025, Governor Tina Kotek formally requested Presidential Disaster Declarations to provide federal support for flood recovery in communities devastated by the 2025 floods.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | (541) 670-2804 cell | (541) 957-4896 office | a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

July 24, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Upper Klamath Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Upper Klamath Lake due to the presence of microcystin above recreational use values for human exposure. The lake is in Klamath County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Upper Klamath Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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Supplies gathered will be divided and distributed between five rural schools including Alsea Elementary, Blodgett Elementary, Kings Valley Charter School, Monroe Elementary, and Muddy Creek Charter School, immediately following the event.

“We’re proud to partner with the community to help students start the school year ready to succeed,” said Sheriff Van Arsdall. “Your support in this effort can directly impact a child’s future. Together, we can make sure every student feels prepared and valued.”

Cash/check or supplies may be dropped off or mailed to the Benton County Sheriff's Office, attention: The Sheriff’s Foundation, at 180 NW 5^th St, Corvallis, 97330. Please contact Sgt. Ryan Roth with any questions at 541-766-6858.
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A HOT CAR IS NO PLACE FOR YOUR PET

While many of us welcome the warmer weather, we must remember that some of our loved ones may find themselves in an uncomfortable predicament. It could even result in their death.

Pets regularly accompany many people on trips and errands, which often leaves them alone in a vehicle. Pets should not be left unattended in a parked car. On warm days, and even cloudy days, the temperature in a car can rise to dangerous levels in minutes, even with the windows left open.

A brief stop at a store or another errand can quickly turn into 15 minutes or more before we know it. Leaving pets in a car for this time could be a mistake that takes their life. Leaving the windows cracked won't cool the car enough to protect your beloved pet, even if they have water available.

Oregon was the 11th state to pass a Good Samaritan Law, which allows anyone – not just law enforcement – to enter a vehicle (by force or otherwise) to remove an unattended domestic animal without fear of civil or criminal liability. If you come upon a scenario where you believe an animal could perish, please contact our dispatch center at 541-265-0777 before deciding to enter the vehicle. Be ready to convey your location, the vehicle description, and a description of you. Our Animal Service Deputies will make every effort to respond quickly.

If you determine that more immediate life-saving action is necessary, please ensure you do all of the following:

• have a reasonable belief that the animal is in imminent danger
• notify law enforcement or emergency services either before or soon after entering the vehicle
• use only the minimum force necessary to enter the vehicle
• stay with the animal until law enforcement, emergency services, or the owner or operator of the vehicle arrives.

For more information and tips, check our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook: Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

UPDATE: Updated to reflect that the crash occurred on Saturday, July 12, 2025. 
 

TILLAMOOK COUNTY, Ore. 23 July 2025 – On Saturday, July 12, 2025, at approximately 3:15 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle hit-and-run fatal crash on Highway 18 in Tillamook County near Grand Ronde.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a white Honda Civic, operated by Alejandro Christopher Velazquez Lopez (34) of Tillamook, was traveling eastbound on Highway 18 near milepost 14. The Honda left the travel lane and entered the eastbound shoulder, where a black Nissan Altima with a flat tire was parked. Three 17-year-old males were outside the Nissan, changing the flat tire, when the Honda left the roadway and struck all three juveniles. The Honda did not stop and continued driving eastbound on the highway.
 

All three male juveniles were transported to area hospitals with serious injuries. A 17-year-old female passenger was inside the Nissan at the time of the crash and was not injured.

OSP Major Crime Section detectives were immediately called to investigate and locate the operator of the Honda.

On July 14, 2025, OSP investigators were notified that one of the 17-year-old males died as a result of injuries sustained during the crash.

The operator of the Honda (Lopez) is believed to have left the country and there is an active warrant for his arrest.

The highway was impacted for approximately 11.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln City Police Department, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Tribal Police, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) wants to better understand the public’s values and priorities for the future of state parks through a new survey as it launches a strategic initiative to reimagine how parks are funded, operated and supported.

OPRD faces a potential 14% budget shortfall for park operations by 2027 even with recent fee increases. The gap is due to increasing costs, the impact of higher visitation and changes in lottery funds. The strategic initiative will work to address that shortfall before 2027.

“For more than a century, Oregon’s parks have been a source of pride, joy, and connection for communities across the state,” said Lisa Sumption, OPRD Director. “But the way we fund the system has not kept up with how Oregonians use and value it today. We’re not waiting for the crisis—we’re planning ahead to build a more resilient and relevant park system.”

OPRD launched an online survey this month to collect feedback from visitors and potential visitors about their priorities for new and existing experiences, services and amenities as well as views on public-private partnerships, sponsorships and other funding options.

The survey is open to everyone and will help inform decisions about the future of state parks. Those who complete the survey have the option of entering a drawing for a free Oregon State Parks annual parking permit. 

Oregon State Parks continues to experience record visitation with more than 56.6 million estimated visits in 2024. It is one of the most visited park systems in the country.

This level of use significantly increases wear and tear on aging park infrastructure, driving up maintenance needs and long-term operational costs.

Parks’ funding comes from three main sources. A little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from the agency’s share of recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. Oregon State Park operations is not funded by general fund taxes.

“We already operate leanly, but we’re also taking a hard look at costs and spending decisions as we plan the future. We’re building new partnerships with Oregon businesses and growing opportunities for visitors to experience state parks in new and innovative ways,” Sumption said.

In addition to operating more than 250 state parks and maintaining hundreds of historic structures, the agency also manages the ocean shore, the State Historic Preservation Office, ATV safety programs and permits as well as multiple grant programs for trails, ATVs, historic structures and local government projects.

For more information about the survey or to learn about ways to support parks, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/ or take the survey at bit.ly/stateparksurvey.

Portland, Ore. -- The Oregon Department of Human Services Midtown Child Welfare office is going back to its roots. The 90-person staff and district administration will return to the building where this Portland office first started 31 years ago – 815 N.E. Davis Street in the Lloyd District or Midtown area. The newly remodeled building will be open to the public Monday, August 4. Staff will move in August 1 – 3.

Earlier this year Child Welfare staff had to leave their office at 1425 N.E. Irving Street due to structural issues. They moved temporarily into the Portland State Office Building, 800 N.E. Oregon Street.

“Staff are excited about moving into the remodeled building. There will be more space, a visitation hub for the people we serve, space for community meetings and it will be a trauma informed design,” Marisa Moon, District Manager, said.  

Now staff members were consulted on what their needs what their needs were, and the needs were for children and families. The renovation used trauma-informed design, which creates physical spaces that promote healing, safety and well-being. The environment helps create calming and comfortable spaces that bring a sense of safety, control and dignity to the workforce, community partners, and children and families being supported in the branch. There will be natural light, calming colors and comfortable furniture and areas that allow for privacy in conversations.

The return to this building also shows the Child Welfare program’s intention to stay in the current community, which helps maintain existing partnerships and collaborations to support families. The new structure allows for community partners to use the space for events and meetings. The location maintains its proximity to the Alberta Branch where the Self-Sufficiency Program and the Oregon Eligibility Partnership will continue to offer services so that families that need them will be close to those other programs.  

“We hope that our staff, through this building, can continue to be part of this community, helping those who need assistance and services – for many more years to come,” Moon said.  

To contact the ODHS Child Welfare office at 815 NE Davis Street: 971-673-1800; eception@odhsoha.oregon.gov">midtown.reception@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

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Springfield, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a house fire in East Springfield late Wednesday night.  Just before 10 PM on July 23rd, Firefighters were called to a home on S. 55th St for reports of smoke filling the home with an unknown source.  On arrival Engine 14 reported heavy black smoke in the home and dispatchers reporting potential victims inside.  Firefighters rescued two residents from the home.  Once removed from the home, the victims were treated and transported to RiverBend by waiting medics, one in critical condition and the other serious.