The latest and most comprehensive coverage of local News, Sports, Business, and Community News stories in the Klamath Basin, Southern Oregon and around the state of Oregon from Wynne Broadcasting’s KFLS News/Talk 1450AM / 102.5FM, The Herald and News, and BasinLife.com, and powered by Mick Insurance. Call 541-882-6476.
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Poor Air Quality Alert today, 8/6/2024
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Widespread morning haze, otherwise sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming west 5 to 9 mph. Overnight, hazy smoky skies with a low around 56 degrees. Northwest wind 8 to 13 mph.
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
More than $1 million is being awarded as part of two Klamath Basin Salmon Restoration grant programs by the Bureau of Reclamation.
In making the announcement, BOR officials said projects totaling more than $1 million are being awarded by the agency in partnership with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to administer the programs. The awarded projects will reportedly generate more than $2 million in matching contributions for a total conservation impact of more than $3 million.
The BOR statement said the Klamath River, which Flows from the Klamath Basin to the redwood forest of the Northern California coast, “boasts one of the most unique and productive watersheds in the Western United States. The Klamath River historically supported the third largest Pacific salmon runs of any river system in the continental United States.
The shallow lakes and wetlands of the upper basin are a globally important stop for migratory birds on the Pacific Flyway, as well as habitat for endemic suckers and salmon species.”
The announcement, which was made Thursday, follows the historic agreement signed in February by the Klamath Tribes, Yurok Tribe, Karuk Tribe, Klamath Water Users Association, and the Department of the Interior to advance collaborative efforts to restore the Klamath Basin ecosystem and improve water supply reliability for Klamath Project agriculture.
The Department of Interior has also launched the Klamath Basin Drought Resilience Keystone Initiative, one of nine key conservation initiatives through a new restoration and resilience framework that will guide $2 billion in investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act.
ExplorUS, the company that in April took over the concessions contract at Crater Lake National Park following years of systemic issues that forced out former concessioner Aramark, has been facing an uphill battle.
The company officially took the reins at the remote southern Oregon destination April 15, giving it less than a month to open the property May 13 for the season – a process that involved bringing on managers and hiring nearly 200 staff, most of whom had no previous experience at the park, while digging out buildings, roads and sidewalks from multiple feet of snow.
Aramark sold the contract to ExplorUS in April, giving it control of concessions at Crater Lake through 2030. While the National Park Service runs the park, a private concessioner is put in charge of lodging, camping, restaurants, gift shops and the boat tours.
William Boas, vice president of operations for the West at ExplorUS, said the company hasn’t been spending any time dwelling on the troubled tenure of its predecessor.
Now, as crowds return to the park this summer, Boas said the company, operating locally as Explore Crater Lake, is focused on establishing a healthy culture at the park for both employees and visitors.
Another section of the Klamath River is again free flowing.
A section of the river downstream from Keno is following its historic course following the removal of a cofferdam at the site of Moonshine Falls, where the Klamath was diverted by the John C. Boyle Dam.
A cofferdam is an enclosure built within a body of water that allows the enclosed area to be pumped out or drained. The pumping creates a dry working environment so that the work can be carried out safely.
Jeff Mitchell, chairman of the Klamath Tribes culture and heritage committee, said tribal members stayed in wickiups, temporary shelters, during the fishing season and dried fish on racks.
When work is completed, the dam removal will reopen more than 400 river miles to migrating salmon and rejuvenate habitat for other wildlife. Among the most impacting sights as the Klamath regained its historic path was seeing the released river water quickly clear out a section colored with blue-green algae. Within minutes the algae was gone.
Others watching the cofferdam’s removal included Mark Bransom, chief executive officer for Klamath River Renewal, which is overseeing and coordinating dam removal and revegetation efforts.
A local man has been charged with multiple counts of first-degree sexual abuse of a minor under 14.
Monday evening, Carson David Newsome, 19, was charged with a total of 10 counts for allegedly sexually abusing a minor child between 2015 and 2021.
Court documents say the charges resulted from alleged repetitive sexual contact with a minor over a period of her life ranging from ages 6 to 12.
All 10 charges are for first-degree sexual abuse. Newsome’s alleged crimes occurred when he was between the ages of 10 and 16. This is the second case of sexual abuse charges to be filed against Newsome since he reached 18.
A prior case that is has not yet been tried was filed in 2023 by two separate victims of similar ages.
Newsome’s bail was set at $1,000,000. He remains in custody at Klamath County Jail.
Suspect Still At Large
Last week that shooting that took place near Klamath Union High School at the Modoc Field Bridge overlooking the canal, wounded a parent who was shot at a youth soccer camp.
That suspect is still at large.
Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police continue their extensive search for the suspect who has been identified as 44 years old Andrew Wyatt Gregory of Klamath Falls. His whereabouts are still unknown, and we are requesting the community’s
assistance in finding Gregory so he can be held accountable for his actions. Gregory should be
considered armed and dangerous. If you see him or know his whereabouts, please do not approach him
and immediately call 9-1-1.
If any members of the community have additional information regarding this investigation, you are encouraged to call the Klamath Falls Police Department at (541) 883-5336 and contact the lead detective, Det. Witmer. If you want to remain anonymous, you can call our anonymous Tip Line at (541) 883-5334. SEE POSTER BELOW.
There is a new apprenticeship program soon to launch at Klamath Community College: Well Drilling.
Domestic water wells in southern Oregon are running dry due to the ongoing drought. As the water table recedes, the need for well drilling operators is on the rise.
KCC is answering that need with the purchase of a new, $845,525 drilling rig thanks to funding from the Oregon governor’s office and the Oregon Water Resources Department.
Assistant watermaster for the Klamath basin, Caleb Puszkiewicz, who tracks dry well reports for the state, said that since 2021, there have been a total of 1,280 dry wells reported in the basin, the majority of which are domestic wells. So far this year, 44 dry wells have been reported and last year 255 dry wells were reported, he said.
KCC was awarded $975,000 through emergency funding from the state. The remainder of the money after the truck’s purchase will be use to outfit it with needed equipment.
Apprentices would take classes online from KCC and get hands-on experience in the field with drilling companies in their communities. The apprenticeship program partners with the welding program, as well drillers need to be able to weld pipes for well casings to prevent aquifer and well contamination.
Some students who want to be in the new program are already taking their welding classes at KCC.
Chiloquin Visions in Progress (CVIP) is excited to announce that the Chiloquin Youth Bike Program has been awarded a substantial $110,000 grant from the CATENA Foundation.
This generous funding will play a pivotal role in enhancing the program’s efforts to renew and expand its bike fleet, improve biking infrastructure, and establish a structured support system for the youth bike programs.
The Chiloquin Youth Bike Program, affectionately known as “Bike Club,” was initiated in 2021 under the direction of Hannah Levine and Richard La China, with initial funding from local business Ninja Mountain Bike Performance. Both six-year residents of Chiloquin, Hannah, and Richard, are certified mountain bike instructors who are passionate about getting kids on bikes. Richard is the founder of Ninja Mountain Bike Performance, and Hannah serves as the company’s Captain of Global Development.
Since the Chiloquin Bike Club’s inception, the program has achieved significant milestones, including: • Acquiring 50 strider bikes for Chiloquin Elementary School. • Teaching kindergarten and 1st graders how to ride a bike during PE class. • Establishing an after-school bike club for students in grades 2 through 12. • Organizing annual elementary biking field trips. • Constructing a bike track at Chiloquin Elementary School. • Building the new Chiloquin Bike Park. • Participating in community events like the Bike Rodeo at the Chi-Town Family Festival and the 4th of July Parade with over 30 kids.
Grant funds will be directed toward three primary areas: 1. Renewing and expanding the bike fleet and equipment. 2. Enhancing trail features at both the Chiloquin Bike Park and the Chiloquin Elementary Bike Playground. 3. Hiring paid staff to support the program and ensure its longevity.
Tiny rolling robots, mechanical arms and other technology kits will be featured on Saturday, Aug. 17, as the Klamath Falls Composite Squadron of Civil Air Patrol is hosting an open house on from 10am- 1pm at Crater Lake – Klamath Regional Airport.
The event will be held in the Terminal Building. The Airport is at 3000 Airport Way, Klamath Falls, OR 97603.
Civil Air Patrol pilots will be available to talk with current pilots about opportunities for flying in the Civil Air Patrol, such as search and rescue, and orientation flights for cadets.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Kits available through Civil Air Patrol will be available for teachers and students to review and use, including Spheros, indoor quadcopters, robotic arm, rocketry, etc. All STEM Kits are available for teachers for free through the Civil Air Patrol Aerospace Education Membership program.
Members of the Civil Air Patrol will be available to talk with youth ages 12-18 and parents about opportunities for leadership, STEM, aerospace, and emergency services. Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that has a strong youth program. It also involves adults in Aerospace Education, piloting and search and rescue. The Klamath Falls Squadron meets weekly at the airport on Tuesday nights.
Founded in 1941 and established as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force seven years later, Civil Air Patrol is chartered by Congress as a nonprofit organization for the purposes of youth development, aerospace education, and to promote general aviation. In an auxiliary role as a Total Force partner of the Air Force, CAP operates the world’s largest fleet of single-engine aircraft for search and rescue, disaster relief, training, and education. Civil Air Patrol is dedicated to serving America’s communities, saving lives, and shaping futures.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife along with the Klamath County Library are in need of some citizen biologists.
The agencies are teaming up for a Duck Branding Night Adventure.
Families are invited with everyone ages 11 and older to help catch, band, and release ducks in the Klamath Wetlands. The free event takes place on Tuesday from 7:30 p.m. until midnight.
After it concludes, the library says attendees will have a good answer to “what did you do on summer vacation?” Register by calling the Klamath Wetlands at 541-281-0140.
Journey under the sea at Klamath County libraries Klamath County Library
Service District A fan-favorite Summer Reading special guest returns with
another awesome museum exhibit!
The University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History will take us on a Journey Under the Sea, investigating the wide variety of life forms that call the ocean off Oregon’s coast home. This collection of specimens and hands-on activities will appear at the following library branches:
* Bonanza – 31703 Hwy 70 – Tuesday, August 13th at 10 am
* Chiloquin – 140 South First St. – Wednesday, August 14th at 2 pm
*
Downtown Klamath Falls – 126 S. 3rd St – Wednesday, August 14th at 10 am
* After the event – Wednesdays from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm – stop by
the grass between the library and the Klamath County courthouse for free
lunch, provided by Integral Youth Services.
*
Keno – 15555 Hwy 66 #1 – Thursday, August 15th at 2 pm
* Malin – 2307 Front St. – Tuesday, August 13th at 2 pm
*
South Suburban Klamath Falls – 3625 Summers Lane – Thursday, August 15th at
10 am
This exhibit is for all ages, but those under 10 years old need to be
accompanied by a parent or guardian, please.
For more information, call us at 541-882-8894 or visit
klamathlibrary.org/SRP<https:/
You’re invited to come by Sky Lakes Washburn Pharmacy on Thursday, August 15th. Fill a prescription or purchase an over-the-counter item and get a free backpack stuffed with school supplies.
Sky Lakes Washburn Pharmacy is open Monday – Friday from 9:00am – 7:00pm and Saturday 9am – 5pm.
One backpack per child while supplies last. Child must be present. While supplies last.
Ragland Youth Theater: Finding Nemo Jr!
In partnership with Klamath County Developmental Disabilities Services (KCDDS), the Ross Ragland theater is proud to make our August 10th, 2 pm performance of Finding Nemo, Jr a sensory-friendly show!
A sensory-friendly show is one that provides the opportunity to enjoy a show for those with sensory issues or a disability, who normally may find the theater environment difficult. The lights will stay up a bit, the volume will be lower, there will be fidget toys available, and the ability to enjoy the performance on screen in the lobby if they need time away from the larger theater environment. This will be a time to enjoy the theater experience in a friendly, non-judgmental environment.
Thank you to KCDDS for providing information, fidget toys, and support to help make this happen!
SEE RAGLAND THEATER WEBSITE
Performances: August 10th, @ 2:00PM & 5:30PM
Tickets:
$10 Adults, $5 Students
Win-R-Insulation, Inc. wants you to know of a special partnership with EnergyTrust of Oregon where you may be able to qualify for a FREE CEILING INSULATION PROGRAM.
Click here for full details: https://www.basinlife.com/2024/07/08/win-r-insulation-announces-free-ceiling-insulation-program-click-here-for-info/
Around the State of Oregon
Fire restrictions are now in effect at Lava Beds National Monument.
In a news release, park officials said the park is “enduring extreme drought conditions while experiencing high temperatures, low humidity, and critically dry fuels.
To reduce the possibility of accidental human-caused fire that could threaten visitors and employees, fire restrictions are being implemented.”
Under the restrictions, wood, charcoal fires, and smoking outdoors are prohibited but gas and propane stoves are permitted. All areas are also closed to smoking, although the restrictions do not include smoking at a permitted campsite, in the designated smoking area at Lava Beds — or within 5-feet of the smoker’s disposal receptacle post by the bulletin boards — and in a private vehicle.
The order is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice. These restrictions will be in place until rescinded.
For more information about visiting Lava Beds National Monument, call (530) 667-8113
|
As school approaches, measles outbreak highlights importance of kids being up to date on vaccinations
Kids across Oregon are still behind on their routine vaccinations, and it’s critical to get them back on track before school starts to protect them, as well as our schools and communities, from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Take this quiz to learn which vaccines your child needs. You can also check out this printable 2024-2025 School Year Immunization requirement sheet for Oregon.
For the 2022-2023 school year, only 87.1% of Oregon’s kindergarteners were up to date on their required vaccinations. Twenty years ago, that number was 94.4%. The overall decline has state health officials concerned, especially with a recent measles outbreak among mostly unvaccinated people under age 20, centered in Marion County.
People in Oregon may have been exposed to measles if they were in any of these locations during these times on Wednesday, July 17:
- Waremart (5450 River Road N., Keizer), noon to 1:20 p.m.
- Walmart (3002 Stacy Allison Way, Woodburn), 1:15 to 2:35 p.m.
- Safeway (1550 N. Pacific Hwy, Woodburn), 2:40 to 3:05 p.m.
Measles is highly contagious (watch video), and it may take 7-21 days after exposure before symptoms appear (fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, rash). Stay up to date on Oregon’s current measles outbreak, including what to do if you think you were exposed, here.
Every child who attends public and private schools, preschools, child care facilities, and Head Start programs in Oregon must be up to date on required vaccinations (including measles), unless they have a medical or non-medical exemption. COVID-19 and flu vaccinations are not required in these settings but are highly recommended for people of all ages. Parents and caregivers can learn more about children’s vaccine safety here.
Visit OHA’s interactive School Immunization data page for Oregon’s latest school immunization statistics, and track infectious diseases in Oregon on our Monthly Communicable Disease Surveillance Report.
Firefighters working to contain 27 fires around Diamond Lake and Crater Lake
Oregon Wildfire Firefighters from all over the state are working on containing the 26 fires that make up the complex of forest fires near Diamond Lake while also dealing with a fire in the Crater Lake National Park.
In total, the Diamond Complex is estimated to be burning about 5,188 acres in the Umpqua National Forest and is about 7% contained.
The largest fire in the complex, the Pin Bench Fire north of Highway 138 near Dry Creek, is burning 1,981 acres and is 0% contained as of July 29. Firefighters said they carried out a controlled burn to stop the fire’s northward spread, and the fireline created by this burn will be monitored for any spillover from the wildfire itself.
The Trail Fire east of Diamond Lake itself, is burning 826 acres and is 25% contained, according to U.S. Forest Service officials. Crews are working to monitor the fire with the objective of protecting Diamond Lake’s resort, infrastructure and campgrounds.
The Lemolo Fire, burning 804 acres north of Lemolo Lake on Bunker Hill, is 0% contained. Crews have been working to put out hot spots and build control lines to protect infrastructure and recreational sites around Lemolo lake.
In the northwest corner of Crater Lake National Park, the Middle Fork Fire is burning about 715 acres and is 1% contained. Forestry officials said fire crews were able to complete a containment line along the western flank. The park is still open, but USFS officials said visitors should use caution as fire personnel are working in the area. Stay tuned for more, from BasinLife.com and Wynne Broadcasting.
The Middle Fork Fire is now 1,938 acres and is still 1% contained, according to the South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership.
“Crews are using heavy equipment to open old fire lines from the 2015 National Creek Complex fires to stop the Middle Fork’s northward spread and confine it within the park. Firefighters are doing some structure protection work around the north entrance,” SCOFMP said in a news release. “On the west side, crews are working on a shaded fuel break and opening roads that parallel Highway 230. The Pacific Crest Trail from the Dutton Ridge Intersection to Hwy 138, Lightning Springs, Bald Crater Loop, Bert Creek and Boundary Springs Trails (within the park) are closed.”
Residents wanting information about current park conditions can call Crater Lake National Park at 541-594-3000.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the Elk Lane Fire in Jefferson County.
The move comes following a request made by the local fire defense board and approved by the state fire marshal Monday morning.
On Sunday night, two task forces from Lincoln and Polk counties, pre-positioned in Central Oregon, helped local responding agencies with structure protection. This morning, the OSFM mobilized its Red Incident Management Team and three additional structural task forces
to protect life and property. The OSFM moved to swiftly bring in more resources through the Emergency Conflagration Act.
According to Jefferson County Fire District 1, the region was hit by a massive lightning storm last night that brought gusty winds and sparked the Elk Lane Fire.
As of this morning, the fire was estimated to be roughly 3,000 acres. The region is expecting temperatures in the high 90s on Monday, with wind gusts up to 18 miles per hour. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation orders in place. A map of evacuations can be found here.
The OSFM mobilized its Red Incident Management Team and five structural protection task forces from Clackamas, Lincoln, Polk, Washington, and Yamhill counties.
There isn’t much relief in sight for improved fire weather conditions over the next week. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on everyone to be wildfire aware.
The Emergency Conflagration Act is invoked by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, allowing the state fire marshal to mobilize state resources to wildfires to protect life and property.
The Klamath National Forest has updated existing fire restrictions to reduce the number of sites where campfires are permitted.
The expansion of fire restrictions was prompted by an intensifying fire season in Northern California, which has reduced the number of firefighting resources that are available to respond to new fires.
Additionally, a number of abandoned campfires have been found at some of the recreation sites that were previously allowing campfires under the earlier fire restriction order.
Under the updated order, campfires will only be permitted in the following areas:
- Goosenest Ranger District – Juanita Lake Day Use Area, Campground, and Group Site; Martin’s Dairy Campground; Martin’s Dairy Horse Campground; Orr Lake Campground
- Happy Camp and Oak Knoll Ranger District – Grider Creek Campground; Norcross Trailhead; Sulphur Springs Campground; Tree of Heaven Campground
- Salmon River & Scott River Ranger District – Carter Meadows Group Campground; Hidden Horse Campground; Idlewild Campground; Indian Scotty Campground; Jones Beach Picnic Area; Kangaroo Lake Campground and Picnic Area; Trail Creek Campground
Campfires remain prohibited in wilderness and dispersed areas. Other fire restrictions remaining in effect include:
- Campfires, stove fires, and barbecue grills using charcoal briquettes are only allowed in the developed recreation sites listed above. No permit required.
- Smoking is limited to inside enclosed vehicles or buildings, within developed recreation sites, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
- Operating an internal combustion engine, except on National Forest System roads or trails, or within developed recreation sites is prohibited.
- Welding, or operating an acetylene torch or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
Outside of the designated developed recreation sites, forest visitors with a valid California Campfire Permit will still be able to use pressurized liquid or gas stoves, grills, or lanterns with shut-off valves, in an area that is cleared at least five feet of any flammable materials. Permits may be obtained at any forest office or online at www.preventwildfireca.org/campfires/.
For a complete list of fire restrictions for the Klamath National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/klamath/alerts-notices.
If visitors choose to have a campfire within a listed developed recreation site, they must follow these safety tips to prevent starting a wildfire:
- Only use developed fire rings.
- Clear all flammable materials from the ground for five feet in all directions from the edge of the fire and make sure it is located away from overhanging limbs.
- Have a shovel and water nearby.
- Keep your campfire small, and only use dead and downed wood. Don’t cut live trees for firewood.
- Make sure a responsible adult is always in attendance of your campfire. NEVER leave a campfire unattended!
- Always make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it! Drown it with plenty of water, stir well with a shovel, feel to see if it is hot, and REPEAT. If it is too hot to touch, then it is too hot to leave.
Oregon State Police are warning residents to beware of scammers. Police have received multiple reports of people receiving calls impersonating Oregon State Troopers.
Police will not ask for bank account, credit card information, or any other payment information required to complete a financial transaction through a phone call.
Incidents can be reported to your local police agency.
The Oregon Health Authority reporting over 14% of Covid-19 tests are coming back positive.
This is a significant leap since spring, seeing as OHA reports Covid-19 test positivity rates were as low as 3.1% in April.
The CDC is also estimating that Covid-19 infections are growing or likely growing in 36 states and territories.
OPB says the virus is a variant of the Omicron virus.
It says while the variant is proving to be very contagious, the illnesses don’t appear to be severe.
Oregonians can protect themselves by wearing a mask, social distancing and being up to date on vaccinations.
Big Lots, the national discount retail chain, is closing six more stores in Oregon, bringing the company’s planned closure count to eight in all.
As of Friday, the Ohio-based retailer had nearly 1,400 stores nationwide, including 14 in Oregon.
The retailer previously reported plans to close 35 to 40 stores by the end of the year due to financial headwinds, according to a June filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. But the retailer has since marked nearly 300 stores across the country for closure.
The Oregon stores so far spared closure and safe, for the time being, are located in Klamath Falls, Medford, Roseburg, Bend, Hermiston, and Springfield.
The CHP conducted a hoist rescue on the Wooley Creek Trail on Thursday.
CAL FIRE requested H-14 to assist with the hoist rescue. The person they rescued was suffering from heat exhaustion, according to the CHP.
H-14 transported the man to a landing zone and then he was transferred to a hospital.
The CHP wants to remind people to carry a personal locator beacon. A PLB was the only way for this person to request help in remote western Siskiyou County.
Portland Police cited the driver of a Chevy Camaro dressed up as the Batmobile and seized at least 10 other vehicles Saturday and early Sunday to prevent street racing events in Portland promoted on social media.
Police did not identify the driver of the Camaro, but said it was “not Batman.”
“As expected, hundreds of people attempted to establish large scale street takeovers, but were quickly broken up by law enforcement officers working together in a highly successful multi-agency street racing suppression mission,” police said in an Aug. 4 announcement. Dozens of incidents of street racing were broken up over the weekend.
Police said that at least 47 traffic stops were made, at least 11 people were arrested, and at least 10 cars were towed. Some were seized through asset forfeiture, meaning the owners lost their vehicles permanently due to their participation in street racing/street takeovers.
Community members weighed last week on the latest Oregon Wildfire Hazard Map.
The series of meetings taking place Wednesday and Thursday give property owners a chance to voice their opinions over the latest draft of the of the map.
Most of the comments Wednesday morning expressed concern over the high hazard designation of their properties and how they could appeal to ODF.
Eric Krueger, a federal firefighter for 32 years and a representative of Rocky Point Fire and EMS near Klamath Falls, was concerned with how data was collected.
Krueger also says there are many people in his community that will be appealing the designation of their property.
Deputy Chief of Policy with ODF Tim Holschbach explained that each property owner in a high hazard area will receive an information packet and appeal form.
A team of engineers from Oregon State University is racing their motorcycle in a competition at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Their 50cc motorcycle engine isn’t super powerful, but they set a record of over 87 miles an hour earlier this year at another competition. Southern California Timing Association Speed Week runs from August 3rd through the 9th.
Five megafires continue burning in eastern Oregon. Those are fires over 100-thousand acres. Oregon’s Department of Emergency Management says the full impact of losses won’t be clear for months, but initial reports indicate dozens of injuries, at least one wildfire-related death, and the destruction of more than two-dozen homes.
Several organizations are now collecting money and resources to help those most impacted, but you’re urged to be cautious and avoid scams. Legitimate groups accepting donations include the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, Oregon Farm Bureau and Oregon State University.
Summer Gas prices in Oregon are still higher than more than 30 other states in the nation. Triple-A reports Oregon drivers are paying an average of $3.94 a gallon for regular gas. The national average was unchanged at $3.50 a gallon.
Many Oregon State Parks are CLOSED because of wildfire danger. Closings can be monitored by visiting www.stateparks.oregon.gov.
In addition, some roads and highways leading to state parks have been closed due to wildfires. Visit tripcheck.com to learn about closures and alternative routes and don’t rely on GPS units, as they may not have updated information.
For more information on wildfires in the state, visit the Oregon Department of Forestry’s website at www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx.
Telephone Area Fire Rages in Harney County, 39,000 acres burned
The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing four structural task forces and its green incident management team to the Telephone Fire burning in Harney County, 12 miles northeast of Burns.
The lightning-caused fire started on July 22 and is now threatening homes and structures.
The area remains under a Red Flag Warning, Excessive Heat Warning, and Fire Weather Watch. Temperatures are in the high 90s to low 100s. Critical fire weather will continue for the next several days with high temperatures and low relative humidity.
The incident management team and two structural task forces will be briefed at 9 p.m. tonight with another two task forces arriving tomorrow morning.
“Another heat wave with critical fire weather is affecting much of Eastern Oregon. The 2024 wildfire season has already proven to be difficult, with more than 1.2 million acres burned across the state. We have many large wildfires burning with no end in sight,” Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Travis Medema said. “I encourage everyone to be aware of these critical fire weather conditions and take every precaution you can to avoid sparking a wildfire.”
Jackson County, Ore. 2 August 24- Oregon State Police has received multiple reports of persons receiving calls from individuals impersonating Oregon State Troopers.
Oregon State Police wants to remind the public that Oregon State Police does not ask for bank account information, credit card information, or any other form of payment information required to complete a financial transaction via phone call. In addition to account information, investigators will not request personal information required to access financial institutions.
Please remind your loved ones and those vulnerable to these type of scams that law enforcement will not attempt to resolve arrest warrants by financial payment- especially over the telephone. Never provide any sort of financial payment via telephone to avoid an arrest- whether for yourself or a family member.
While investigators face significant challenges in locating and arresting suspects related to these scams, incidents may be reported to the local police agency in which a resident lives.
Wildfires Could Cause Power Outages
As wildfires continue to burn throughout the state and extreme weather events impact communities, Oregon residents are reminded to be prepared for potential power outages.
Wildfires and extreme weather can cause power outages, and weather and other conditions in specific geographies may cause electric utilities to adjust system settings, which can result in more frequent and longer outages, or even in certain cases, implement public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). A PSPS is a safety measure designed to help protect people and communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity during extreme and dangerous weather conditions that might result in wildfires. Utilities may also need to deenergize lines to protect equipment from nearby fires, or to protect personnel fighting fires.
Be prepared in advance
- Be two weeks ready – Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies, among other things, needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks. Learn more about what supplies to consider.
- For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. This certification provides added benefits and helps the utility ensure they meet your needs in the event of an outage.
- Make sure your utility service provider has current contact information to receive notifications by updating your account online. If uncertain which electric utility serves your area, visit https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/pages/find-your-utility.aspx.
- Keep cell phones fully charged in anticipation of an outage. Consider a car-charger for cell phones and other electronic devices.
- Plan for livestock water needs in the event well pumps lose power.
- Have a plan to relocate to an alternative location for power needs, or if you can, consider a backup generator.
During a power outage
- Avoid downed power lines, including anything near downed lines, at all costs.
- Stay clear of fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service in your community.
- Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Do not use candles or other potential fire hazards.
- Turn off lights and unplug electric appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to help avoid a surge to the system when service is restored. After turning off all the lights, turn one light on to know when power has been restored.
- Use generators safely – Do not run the generator inside the home or garage or anywhere near a window or vent, as these spaces can capture deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Learn more about proper use of a generator to avoid hazardous conditions.
- Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs who might need additional assistance.
- Call your electricity service provider to report an outage, do not call 911.
Natural gas tips
- If required to evacuate, no need to shut off natural gas.
- If natural gas appliances do not operate properly once electricity is restored, call your natural gas service provider.
- If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn on yourself. Call your natural gas service provider to restore service.
- If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.
Stay informed
- Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
- Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.
- Before traveling visit Trip Check for details on road closures and conditions.
- Check air quality in Oregon.
- Visit State of Oregon Fires Dashboard.
Be Prepared with Fire Weather Tools
As we prepare for the peak of wildfire season in the U.S., the National Weather Service (NWS) reminds wildland fire managers that we have tools to help you monitor and fight wildfires. Whether it is a prescribed burn, ground fire or crown fire, fire managers can use this information to make decisions on how best to combat fires and keep the public safe.
Fire weather forecasters – The NWS issues Fire Weather Outlooks for the next eight days. These outlooks show areas where pre-existing fuel conditions, combined with forecast weather conditions, may result in a significant threat of wildfires.
Our Fire Weather Program supports land managers and firefighters who mitigate and respond to fires. Our weather forecasts are designed to highlight times and locations where a fire may be exceptionally hard to control. For example, we offer Red Flag Warnings, which mean warm temperatures, very low humidities and stronger winds are ongoing or expected to produce an increased risk of fire danger in 12 to 24 hours for specific locations.
Need a fire weather Spot Forecast? Land managers can request a site-specific, localized forecast for prescribed burns and wildfires to assess a potential threat. NWS recently updated this tool and will deliver additional enhancements to the application later this year. Learn more about the new Spot Forecast tool.
For federal and select state large wildfires, onsite weather forecasting support to firefighters is critical. An NWS Incident- Meteorologist (IMET) can be deployed to your incident command post. IMETs arrive on scene within 12 to 24 hours after activation and can serve up to 14 consecutive days before being relieved by another IMET. https://www.weather.gov/news/241507-fire-weather-tools
PLEASE Help Prevent Human-Caused Wildfires
- Immediately call 911 to report fires.
- Drones and other unmanned aircrafts are illegal to fly near fires.
- Fireworks, incendiary/tracer ammunition and exploding targets, are prohibited during fire season (May-October).
- Use caution when target shooting. Clear a 20-foot radius around the target by removing all vegetation and rocks.
- Ensure vehicles and trailers are properly maintained
- Make sure chains and other metal parts are not dragging.
- Keep exhaust systems clean and use spark arrestors.
- Do not park on dry grass.
- Carry extra water, shovel, and/or a fire extinguisher with you.
- Ensure your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving your campsite by making sure it is cool to the touch.
- Please don’t smoke and if you do, don’t throw out cigarette butts.
- Please be mindful and think about your actions
To ensure all Oregonians remain safe during the 2024 wildfire season, we urge everyone to stay tuned into these communications channels and follow all official safety guidelines related to air quality and recreation:
Watch Duty app: Download this app on your smartphone to understand where wildfires are in real time as well as monitor air quality and other metrics. https://app.watchduty.org
Northwest Interagency Coordination Center: During fire season, this web-based interactive map is updated daily with current fire perimeters and locations. This website acts as the wildfire resource coordination center for the Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, Oregon Dept of Forestry, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Washington Dept. of Natural Resources and the National Park Service. https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/index.aspx
InciWeb the Incident Information System: The federal interagency all-risk incident information management system provides an interactive map with real-time location information on wildfires. https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/
Oregon Department of Forestry Wildfire News: The official wildfire news blog for the Oregon Department of Forestry. Look here for all wildfire news related to state forest lands. https://odffire.com/
Keep Oregon Green: A partnership comprised of statewide and interagency groups working together to promote awareness of the risk and causes of wildfires and how to be prepared in case of a wildfire emergency. https://keeporegongreen.org/
OregonLive Wildfire Map: A project managed by OregonLive that incorporates data from InciWeb, National Interagency Fire Center, Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, Oregon Office of Emergency Management, NOAA into an easy-to-use map tool. https://projects.oregonlive.com/wildfires/map
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality – Air Quality Monitoring Data: A real-time map and cell phone application you can use to track air quality, including wildfire smoke impacts, across the state. Check your app store for OregonAir. https://oraqi.deq.state.or.us/home/map
Purple Air – Air Quality Map System: Real-time air quality information using crowdsourced data and data from EPA air sensors. https://map.purpleair.com/1/mAQI/a10/p604800/cC0…
NOAA High Resolution Rapid Refresh Data Visualization: The High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency(NOAA) is an experimental data visualization tool for wildfire smoke. Be sure to turn on the “Vertically Integrated Smoke” layer to see smoke paths. https://hwp-viz.gsd.esrl.noaa.gov/smoke/index.html
(Salem, Ore.) — The Oregon Department of Human Services’ Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) seeks public comment on updates to its six 1915(c) Medicaid waivers:
- Adults’ Home and Community-Based Services Wavier
- Children’s Home and Community-Based Services Wavier
- Children’s Extraordinary Needs Waiver
- Behavioral Waiver
- Medically Fragile Waiver
- Medically Involved Waiver
Summary of substantial updates
- Expanded eligibility for Medicaid services: This change affects all six waivers. The change will make it easier for children with low income to access these waivers’ services. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is making this change to the Oregon Medicaid State Plan. ODDS is making this change to be consistent with OHA.
- Easier to move between waivers: This change affects all six waivers. This change lets people move between waivers that have the same level of care without getting a new assessment. One example would be a child who moves from the Behavioral Waiver to the Children’s Extraordinary Needs Waiver.
- Increase the Medically Fragile Waiver by 10 children: This change adds five spots for children to get services from this waiver. The change also adds five spots for children under 18 who leave the Children’s Extraordinary Needs Waiver. Without this change, children who aren’t eligible for intellectual and developmental services could lose their services when they leave the Children’s Extraordinary Needs Waiver.
- Decrease the Behavioral Waiver by 10 children: This change decreases the number of children served by this waiver by 10. This change allows the Medically Fragile Waiver to serve 10 additional children. Children who are now on the Behavioral Waiver will stay on the waiver. Children who could be eligible for the Behavior Waiver will still be able to get services. They will still be eligible for intellectual and developmental services via the Children’s Home and Community-Based Services Wavier.
Summary of technical updates
- One change clarifies the qualifications for state-trained assessors and case managers. This affects all six waivers.
- The other change clarifies a sentence in the service plan development process. This affects all six waivers.
- Projections for the Medically Fragile Waiver will increase by 10 children.
- Projections for the Behavioral Waiver will decrease by 10 children.
These technical changes will not affect individuals’ services or access to services.
All six wavier applications are available to read on the ODDS website. Print versions are posted in local community developmental disabilities programs and support services brokerages. To request print versions, contact the ODDS Medicaid waiver and State Plan analyst, at 503-507-2083 or odds.info@odhsoha.oregon.
How to submit feedback
Please submit comments by:
- Sending an email to odds.info@odhsoha.oregon.
gov. - Sending written comments to ODDS Medicaid waiver/State Plan analyst, 500 Summer Street NE E-09, Salem, OR 97301.
The deadline is Sept. 4, 2024. Mailed comments must be received by this date.
More information
Translations of the summarized changes are online at https://www.oregon.gov/
To request this or other documents in other languages, large print, braille or a format you prefer, contact ODDS at 503-945-5811. We accept calls from all forms of relay service for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind, blind or have low vision. For more information about relay service providers visit https://www.oregonrelay.
The Red Cross is looking for people to donate blood and platelets before the summer ends.
The Red Cross says donors are critically needed to support hospitals’ around-the-clock demand.
Type O blood donors or anyone giving platelets are especially needed to keep hospital shelves stocked through August.
Anyone who donates from August 1 through August 31 will get a $20 Amazon gift card.
Go to the Red Cross website for more details.
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