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 them at 541-882-6476.

Friday, May 30, 2025

Klamath Basin Weather

Oregon Tech is initiating the construction of a new field house. The Kip Thomet Memorial Field House is expected to be finished by December of this year, with construction commencing next month.

This $3.5 million endeavor is entirely financed by private contributions. The 8,500 square foot indoor facility will provide student-athletes with the opportunity to train throughout the year. Additionally, it will serve health and science programs, community events, and more.

The field house is named by Glenn and Sherry Thomet in memory of their son Kip, a passionate adventurer who passed away in 2019. The couple has generously contributed $1 million towards this project.

 

Oregon Tech is set to host graduates, their families, and friends at the Klamath Falls campus on June 14 to honor the Class of 2025.

Congressman Cliff Bentz, the U.S. Representative for District 2, will be the keynote speaker. Bentz, a third-generation resident of Oregon, grew up on his family’s cattle ranches in Harney County. He completed his high school education at Regis High School near Salem, followed by a degree from Eastern Oregon State College and a juris doctorate from Lewis and Clark Law School. He became a partner at the Yturri, O’Kief, Rose and Burnham law firm in Ontario after four years, specializing in ranch reorganizations and water law.

Bentz has held various positions, including member and chair of the Oregon Water Resources Commission, director and chair of the Ontario 8C school board, vice-chair of Project Dove, and served on boards for St. Peter Catholic School, Eastern Oregon University Foundation, and the Oregon Historical Society. He was also involved in the Blessed Sacrament Parish folk mass group for over twenty years.

In 2008, Bentz was appointed to the Oregon House of Representatives for District 60 and was re-elected for five consecutive two-year terms, serving on committees related to Revenue, Transportation, Energy and Environment, Legislative Counsel, and Joint Tax Credits, while also chairing several work groups.

Subsequently, he was appointed to the Oregon Senate for District 30 and in 2020, he was elected to represent Oregon’s Second Congressional District representing Oregon in Washington D.C. For further details regarding Oregon Tech’s commencement ceremonies, please visit www.oit.edu/registrar/graduate/commencement.

 

Saturday, experience the wonders of the universe this weekend at the Ragland Theater with a local dance production’s recital titled “Into the Cosmos.”

Presented by the esteemed Klamath Dance and Exercise company, this year’s spring recital promises to elevate audiences beyond the confines of their earthly existence, featuring thematic backdrops of moons, planets, and stars above. Becky Chase, the director of the dance company, stated that the stage will showcase approximately 130 performers from the Klamath Basin, with participants ranging from just 2 years old to adults.

There will be two performances scheduled for this Saturday at the Ross Ragland Theater, one at 3 p.m. and another at 7 p.m.

 

BUCKCHERRY – Live at the 2025 Klamath County Fair, Aug 2nd!

Explosive, unapologetic, and unmistakably rock and roll, Buckcherry has spent over two decades lighting up stages across the globe with their signature blend of raw emotion, relentless energy, and platinum-selling hits. Known for tracks like Lit Up, Crazy Bitch, and Sorry, Buckcherry carved out a space for hard rock during an era when few others dared to.

With nine studio albums under their belt and millions of fans worldwide, their latest release Hellbound marks a return to form with bold riffs, high-octane vocals, and a spirit born from years of relentless touring. Buckcherry has built their legacy on unforgettable live shows, and this summer, they’re bringing that fire to Klamath Falls.

Shane Smith and the Saints are bringing their signature blend of country, folk, and roadhouse rock to the 2025 Klamath County Fair, August 2^nd, 2025!

Known for their on-screen performance in Yellowstone and sold-out shows across the country, this is your chance to see them live in the John Hancock Event Center.

Tickets on sale now at klamathcofair.com or the Klamath County Event Center Box Office. Call the Fairgrounds office at 541-883-3796.  Find out more about the artist here.

CALLING ALL VENDORS FOR THE 2024 CHI-TOWN FAMILY FESTIVAL

Vendor Registration Closes Friday, June 13

CHILOQUIN, OR — The City of Chiloquin is excited to welcome back vendors for the 4^th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival, happening Friday, June 27, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Saturday, June 28, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Chiloquin Rodeo & Event Grounds on Highway 97.

We invite farmers, crafters, artists, food vendors, nonprofits, and local businesses to join us in celebrating community and summer fun at this free, family-friendly event. The festival features live music, food, water slides, bounce houses, a bike rodeo, a mobile escape room, and a vibrant market and craft fair that showcases our region’s talents and offerings.

Vendor booths are 12’x12’ with setup beginning at noon on Friday and 8:00 AM on Saturday. Additional details and guidelines are available at www.chi-townfamilyfestival.com.

The last day to sign up as a vendor is Friday, June 13.

Join us in making this event an unforgettable celebration for the entire community!

More information is available at https://chi-townfamilyfestival.com.

Around the State of Oregon

The Oregon Senate has approved HB 2385-B, which safeguards the ability of Oregonians to access 340B program medications at nearby community pharmacies.

The hospital association expresses gratitude for the Senate’s backing, particularly to Sen. Patterson, Sen. Reynolds, and Sen. Campos, who were instrumental in facilitating the bill’s approval.

Although the 340B program has been operational for over 30 years, it has recently faced challenges from pharmaceutical companies. HB 2385-B ensures that health care organizations can partner with pharmacies to enhance patient access, particularly in rural regions. Oregon ranks second in the nation for the lowest number of pharmacies per capita, complicating the process for Oregonians to obtain necessary medications.

Limiting the use of community pharmacies would necessitate that individuals travel to their local hospitals, thereby creating further obstacles to care. Community hospitals and federally qualified health centers in Oregon are not the only entities encountering opposition from drug companies.

Other states, including Arkansas, Maryland, and Louisiana, have enacted similar legislation. Furthermore, 27 states are contemplating legislation in 2025 that would establish protections for the utilization of community pharmacies. The bill is now proceeding to the House for a concurrence vote.

A 22-year-old individual from Utah sustained severe injuries after leaping from the summit of Abiqua Falls in Marion County, Oregon on May 18, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

The individual had allegedly viewed online videos of others making similar jumps and decided to attempt the leap himself, as stated by a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office. The trailhead leading to the waterfall is located approximately 11 miles southeast of Scotts Mills.

Social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube are filled with footage of individuals jumping from the falls. Authorities received two text-to-911 messages at around 7:39 p.m. requesting assistance for an injured person who had jumped approximately 90 feet from the top of the falls, as reported by the sheriff’s office in a Facebook post last week.

Rescue teams extracted the individual using an ATV and transported him to a LifeFlight helicopter, which then airlifted him to a trauma center.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has appointed James Diegel as the interim superintendent for the Oregon State Hospital (OSH). His tenure will commence on June 4.

Diegel will succeed Acting Superintendent Dave Baden, who is the OHA deputy director of policy and programs and has been fulfilling the interim position since April 14. The search for a permanent superintendent is currently in progress. Diegel’s position as interim director will allow the hospital and its personnel to persist in implementing the measures established by Acting Superintendent Dave Baden. Baden will maintain his responsibilities as OHA deputy director.

A report from an independent organization detailed the challenges faced by ODOT as legislators strive to pass a transportation package.

The Oregon Department of Transportation is grappling with significant staff turnover, outdated financial software, budget overruns, and delays that have diminished trust among elected officials. This information comes from an evaluation of the department’s projects and organizational framework that has reached the desks of lawmakers on the Joint Committee on Transportation Reinvestment this week. The committee is considering the most effective ways to finance ODOT, possibly through new taxes and fees, as the agency seeks substantial funds to address a budget shortfall.

Concurrently, it is under scrutiny for its management of increasingly costly megaprojects. Concerns regarding such projects were a primary factor in lawmakers hiring external transportation specialists to evaluate how ODOT oversees its personnel, finances, and projects.

The assessment depicts an agency facing a range of systemic issues, including a lack of personnel and a bureaucratic maze that has led to problems such as “communication barriers” and “workflow bottlenecks and accountability challenges.” For instance, the department’s contract management procedures are described as “cumbersome and inefficient,” according to the review.

At times, it can take as long as 18 months from the moment the agency awards a contract to when it notifies that a project can commence.

The South Coast Interagency Narcotics Team (SCINT) declared on Tuesday that they confiscated illegal drugs, firearms, and cash from the West Coast Game Park Safari located in Bandon, leading to the arrest of an individual linked to the investigation.

 Brian Tenney, aged 52 and the proprietor of the park, was taken into custody at the Coos County Jail on Tuesday, facing charges related to the possession, manufacturing, and attempted distribution of methamphetamine.

As reported by the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, SCINT discovered approximately 80 grams of methamphetamine while executing a search warrant at the park. A subsequent warrant revealed the presence of eight grams of cocaine, 44 firearms—including one that had been modified into a machine gun—and around $1.6 million in cash, cashier’s checks, bonds, and certificates found on the premises.

These search warrants were executed as part of an ongoing investigation by the Oregon State Police concerning animal welfare and business practices at the West Coast Game Park Safari. During a four-day search that concluded on May 18, authorities seized 310 animals and euthanized three due to their poor condition. 310 animals were seized, and three were euthanized during the Oregon State Police’s search of the Bandon wildlife park.

310 animals were seized, and three were euthanized during the Oregon State Police’s search of the Bandon wildlife park. The Oregon State Police announced the completion of their search of the West Coast Game Park Safari following a four-day operation. The park remains closed to the public as the OSP investigation continues.

Oregon’s sole Republican representative in Congress defended the party’s choice to impose new work and citizenship criteria for Medicaid eligibility during a virtual town hall last week, stating that there exists a “travesty” of able-bodied, non-working Americans.

U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz, who serves Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District, which encompasses a large portion of eastern Oregon, addressed fewer than twelve questions that were submitted online or via phone throughout the hour-long event. Bentz explained that he opted for a virtual meeting with constituents to connect with a larger audience simultaneously, and noted that some attendees at his earlier in-person town halls this year had been “borderline abusive.”

Oregon currently has a greater number of residents aged 65 and older than it has individuals under the age of 18, marking a significant demographic shift with substantial consequences for the state’s economy.

As recently as 1985, Oregon had more than double the number of children compared to seniors. However, the state’s birth rate has dramatically decreased — ranking among the lowest in the nation — and the majority of baby boomers have now reached retirement age. Consequently, the population of older adults has surpassed that of children.

The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis projects that in 2024, there will be nearly 900,000 individuals over 65, in contrast to 832,000 under 18, with an estimated 821,000 currently.

State economists anticipate that the senior population will continue to grow while the number of children declines. By 2035, they predict that Oregon will have 40% more seniors than children.

Oregon’s prohibition on plastic grocery bags is set to intensify with a bill that is on its way to Governor Tina Kotek’s desk. Starting in 2027, Senate Bill 551 will mandate that retailers and restaurants are prohibited from providing any type of plastic bags to customers during checkout.

This regulation is already applicable to most single-use plastic bags due to legislation enacted by lawmakers in 2019. However, the previous law allowed stores to provide slightly thicker plastic bags deemed reusable, which critics argue are frequently discarded. Senate Bill 551 eliminates this loophole, designating bags made from recycled paper as the sole option available to stores and restaurants. The legislation does not affect grocery stores’ ability to supply plastic bags for bulk items, raw meat, or certain other products.

The bill, which was approved by the Senate with a vote of 22-8 on Tuesday, is significantly more restricted than an earlier version of SB 551 that the chamber passed in March. In addition to prohibiting plastic bags, the earlier bill would have prevented restaurants from providing customers with plastic utensils or single-serving condiments in plastic packaging unless specifically requested.

Furthermore, it would have prohibited hotels and Airbnb hosts from automatically supplying guests with shampoo and other amenities in single-use plastic containers.

Gas prices rose in Oregon and Washington during the Memorial Day weekend. According to Triple-A, the average price in Oregon increased by five cents to $4.02 per gallon.

Under the Trump Administration now, this figure is approximately 30 cents lower than the average at the same time last year.

Meanwhile, the national average remains much lower than Oregon at just $3.17 per gallon.

Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, together with Governor Tina Kotek, are requesting assistance from FEMA for the residents of Harney County after experiencing the most severe flooding in over 70 years.

The sewer system in the City of Burns was inundated, resulting in raw sewage entering residences. Over 1,400 individuals were evacuated. Numerous homes require cleaning due to the presence of raw sewage. FEMA is being solicited to offer Individual Assistance, which would aid uninsured residents in covering expenses for essential needs and repairs.

Oregon Department of Emergency Management Unveils Comprehensive Homeland Security Strategy

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) today released the 2025-28 Oregon Homeland Security Strategy (HSS), a five-year roadmap to strengthen the state’s ability to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from the full spectrum of threats and hazards facing Oregonians. 

“Oregon’s risks—whether natural, technological, or human-caused—demand a coordinated, data-driven approach,” said Erin McMahon, OEM Director and Oregon Homeland Security Advisor. “This strategy reflects months of collaboration with local, tribal and state partners, and it positions Oregon to share intelligence faster, protect critical infrastructure better, and respond to crises more effectively than ever before.” 

Strategy Highlights  

Approved by the Governor’s multi-agency Oregon Homeland Security Council, in April 2025, the strategy prioritizes seven strategic goals that align with FEMA’s National Preparedness System: 

1. Strengthen Intelligence and Information Sharing Capabilities  
2. Enhance Critical Infrastructure Resilience  
3. Enhance Cybersecurity Resilience  
4. Strengthen Counterterrorism Capabilities  
5. Strengthen Public Health and Medical Emergency Preparedness  
6. Advance Interoperable Emergency Communications  
7. Strengthen an All-Hazards Preparedness and Response Capabilities at the Local, Tribal, and State Level 

Key to all these goals is a 24/7/365 common operating picture. OEM is working with legislators to deploy a next-generation data-management system that fuses threat intelligence while honoring Oregon’s privacy and civil-rights laws.   

OEM will accomplish this through a whole-community approach. The plan leverages councils and workgroups—including the Oregon Homeland Security Council, Cybersecurity Advisory Council, and Homeland Security Advisory Workgroup—to coordinate resources across government, private industry, nonprofits and academia. This collaboration with our partners, and the integration of data tools, will help us track, manage, assess and share threat information while adhering to our state laws regarding civil rights and privacy protection. 

Why Now? 

• Escalating natural disasters. Wildfires, ice storms and earthquakes now occur with greater frequency and intensity. 
• Evolving human-caused risks. Domestic violent extremism, fentanyl trafficking, ransomware and disinformation campaigns all pose growing threats to public safety and economic security. 

This strategy provides a comprehensive framework for Oregon which will identify, unify, guide, and streamline homeland security efforts over the next three years, 2025-2028, with revisions occurring in the spring of 2027 for the next 3-year cycle. 

Some of the Next Steps Include: 

• Developing the disaster preparedness stockpile program. 
• Improving the common operating picture and information sharing across agencies and sectors. 
• Expanding education and awareness efforts through outreach activities including newsletters, community messaging, and webinars.  
• Aligning with the Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan. 
• Strengthening private sector partnerships. 
• Securing funds for infrastructure protection, cybersecurity efforts, and mitigation efforts. 
• Developing a prevention and protection framework through the update of the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan CEMP Volume II: Preparedness Plan. 

The full Homeland Security Strategy is available here. More information about the Homeland Security Council can be found on the OEM website. 

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has verified the existence of three new wolf packs within the state. This occurrence contributes to the increasing wolf population throughout California.

The Tunnison Pack, situated north of Susanville, is made up of two wolves. One female wolf, LAS32F, was born to the Lassen Pack in 2022, while a male wolf, DIS04M, originates from Oregon. They commenced their travels together in October 2024. To the north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, the Ash Pan Pack consists of two wolves. One is a female wolf, WHA04F, from the Whaleback Pack.

The origin and gender of the second wolf remain unidentified. These wolves began their journey together in April 2024. In eastern Tehama County, the Ishi Pack is composed of three wolves, all of which are of unknown sex and origin. Their travel history has not been recorded.

The announcement of the three new packs was made during a recent interview on North State Public Radio’s show Blue Dot, featuring wolf coordinator Axel Hunnicutt from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Hunnicutt stated that wildlife officials have been aware of wolf activity in these regions, but it was only recently confirmed that the wolves had formed their own pack, defined as a group of two or more.

With these new additions, California now accommodates 10 recognized wolf packs. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has launched a new online map to monitor collared wolves.

A recent report indicates that there is insufficient oversight at the Oregon Tourism Commission.

Released yesterday by James Neff of the Oregon Journalism Project, the report highlights the agency’s deficiencies in overseeing compensation for senior executives and its management of state funds. Additionally, the report features interviews with former employees who assert that the agency’s leadership practiced “management by intimidation.”

Plan Ahead for Evacuations During the 2025 Wildfire Awareness Month

SALEM MAN SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR TRAFFICKING FENTANYL

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Salem, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison Friday for possessing and trafficking more than 40 pounds of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin.

Rico Anthony Russell Rigutto, 46, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on December 14, 2021, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, investigators arranged a controlled buy of counterfeit oxycodone pills from Rigutto. Investigators observed him arrive and depart the meeting location, after which they conducted a traffic stop on Rigutto.  

Investigators searched Rigutto’s vehicle and seized approximately 3,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and a firearm with a machine gun conversion switch. Machine gun switches, sometimes referred to as “Glock switches,” are small attachments used to convert firearms from semi-automatic to fully-automatic.

Later the same day, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant on Rigutto’s residence. During the search, investigators located and seized 20,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, 28 pounds of methamphetamine, six pounds of heroin, approximately $100,000 in cash, and fifteen firearms, including an AR-15 rifle and another handgun with a conversion switch.

On April 18, 2023, Rigutto pleaded guilty to possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute. However, on March 5, 2024, Rigutto failed to appear for his sentencing and an arrest warrant was issued.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Salem Police Department. 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.

Each year, Oregon State Parks commences its peak season by expressing gratitude to its visitors through “complimentary camping and day-use parking” on State Parks Day.

This event, which has been celebrated since 1998, serves to acknowledge the enduring support of Oregonians for the state park system. Scheduled for the first Saturday of June, this year it will take place on June 7.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will eliminate day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that typically impose them, as well as waive camping fees for all tent, RV, and horse campsites on June 7.

Additionally, State Parks Day features free events at numerous state parks. Park staff have diligently prepared the parks over the past few months for the upcoming busy season and State Parks Day. Their efforts have included addressing storm damage, such as the removal of approximately 180 fallen trees near Nehalem, and relocating significant amounts of debris to reopen camping loops.

The parks are now fully prepared to welcome visitors for both State Parks Day and the busy season ahead.

Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades will host a free festival that celebrates the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Festival of the Land, includes Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ games and activities, petting zoo, educational displays, mini farmers market and more.
• L.L. Stub Stewart will host a star party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI’s website on the day of the party for possible weather-related cancellations: https://omsi.edu/whats-on/
• Carl G. Washburne will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.
• Spring Valley Access will host a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes clearing brush, raking debris and picking up trash.  
• Tryon Creek State Natural Area invites visitors to explore its Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system and attend a guided hike.
• Prineville Reservoir will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. near the Dark Sky Observatory.
• Silver Falls will host an exhibit about the emerald ash borer (EAB) and its role as a threat to Oregon’s ash trees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to share information about the importance of ash trees and this destructive invasive beetle.
• Collier: will offer a guided tour through Collier Logging Museum 11 a.m. to noon so visitors can learn about old logging camps and what machines they used to make life easier.
• Fort Stevens will host disc golf lessons 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Stevens State Park-Historic Area Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.
• Harris Beach we have a multi-park scavenger hunt where visitors can seek natural formations, unique flora and historical locations. Pick up scavenger hunt cards at Harris Beach registration booth or from ranger or host at Alred Loeb.

For a list of events, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/

For camping availability, please check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=reserve.first-come

Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

This boating season promises to be exceptional. To foster memorable experiences, the Oregon State Marine Board urges boaters to remain vigilant of their surroundings, ensure they possess all necessary equipment, and inform others of their recreational plans.

The Marine Board provides numerous resources to assist boaters in having a safe and enjoyable time on Oregon’s waterways. The agency recommends utilizing the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map, which outlines public boat ramps, local boating regulations, and additional facility information, including ownership and available amenities. It is also advisable to check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides, as well as to consult the agency’s obstructions map for any reported hazards.

Boaters can visit the Marine Board’s website to determine the required equipment based on their boat’s size and type. It is essential to have the appropriate gear for planned activities and to ensure that each passenger is equipped with a properly fitting life jacket approved by the US Coast Guard.

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters to: Operate soberly, refraining from the consumption of marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, as these substances impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, and can lead to dehydration. Boating requires acute situational awareness. All children aged 12 and under must wear a life jacket while underway on all types of boats, both motorized and nonmotorized. Additionally, all boaters navigating Class III whitewater rivers are mandated to wear a life jacket. It is important to be courteous to fellow boaters and to share the waterway. Gear should be staged in the parking lot or designated staging area, regardless of boat type, to facilitate quicker launches and enhance the experience for everyone present.

In Oregon, all motorboat operators with engines exceeding 10 horsepower are required to complete a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card while operating their vessel. Paddlers of nonmotorized boats measuring 10 feet or longer must obtain a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also provides a complimentary online Paddling Course for those new to the activity.

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking a volunteer to serve a three-year term as the Equestrian Representative on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee starting in 2026.

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.

Ideal candidates representing the interest of equestrian trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Recreation related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs, other broad recreational issues and the importance of providing equitable, inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities.

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2025. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.

ODF Reminds Everyone To Exercise Caution With Spring Burning

SALEM, OR – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and other fire prevention experts are urging everyone to exercise caution when disposing of yard debris this spring. There have already been 32 escaped debris burns reported on ODF-protected land in 2025, nearly double the amount compared to this time last year. The average size of a spring escaped debris burn is about one acre, or the size of a football field, and generally requires suppression from the local fire protection agency.

Over seventy-five percent of wildfires in Oregon are human caused, with escaped debris burns topping the list. With forecasters becoming increasingly confident that this season will be hotter and drier than normal, now is the time to practice wildfire prevention. As grass and vegetation begin to dry out, the risk of a fire creeping away from a debris burn pile increases. Make sure to weigh your options and have all of the fire prevention tools in place before lighting the burn pile or incinerator.

Besides burning, preferable options for brush removal include composting or recycling. Check with your local disposal company for recycling options.  

But if burning now is the only option to dispose of yard debris, fire prevention specialists ask people to follow safe burning practices.

• Call before you burn—Regulations vary by location. Call your local district, fire protective association, fire department, or air protection authority to learn about current burning restrictions or regulations, and if you need a permit.
   
• Know the weather—Burn early in the day and never burn on windy days, because fires can spread out of control more easily.
   
• Always have water and fire tools nearby—When burning, have a shovel and charged water hose or a bucket of water on hand to put out the fire.
   
• Clear a 10-foot fuel-free buffer around the pile—Make sure there are no tree branches or power lines above.
   
• Keep burn piles small—Large burn piles can cast hot embers long distances. Keep piles small, maximum of four feet by four feet. Add debris to the pile in small amounts as the pile burns.
   
• Burn only yard debris—State laws prohibit burning materials, treated wood or trash that create dense smoke or noxious odors.
   
• Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to start or speed up your fire.
   
• Stay with the fire from start to finish—NEVER leave your debris burn unattended. State law requires monitoring debris burn piles at all times, until it is out cold. This law is intended to ensure sparks or embers that jump from the fire can be put out quickly.
   
• Put the fire out cold/completely—Drown the pile with water, stir the coals, and drown again, repeating until the fire is cool to the touch.
   
• Recheck burn piles—Return to the burn site periodically over several weeks to check for heat or smoke and refrain from adding new yard debris on top of old ashes. Burn piles can retain heat for several weeks and rekindle when the weather warms up and winds blow.
   
• Costs of run-away debris burns—State law requires the proper clearing, building, attending and extinguishing of open fires all year. If your debris burn spreads out of control, you may have to pay for suppression costs, as well as the damage to your neighbors’ properties, which can be extremely expensive.

As the summer fire season quickly approaches, consider putting off any burning until next fall or winter, when conditions are more favorable. Just cover a portion of the pile with plastic, such as a tarp, to keep dry until you decide to burn. Delaying your burn plans will give the debris more time to cure and prevent spring holdover fires.

More tips on wildfire prevention, including campfire safety, motorized equipment use, and fire-resistant landscaping can be found on the Keep Oregon Green website. Find public use restrictions for Oregon Department of Forestry protected lands before your burn.

Free movement classes for chronic pain

Did you know that more than 1 in 5 people in the U.S. live with chronic pain? If this describes you, or if you want to increase your physical activity, one of the best ways to feel better and improve your overall quality of life is to move more.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 5, at 5:30 p.m. for the second annual Movement Matters event—a free, engaging virtual wellness webinar designed to inspire healthier living through physical activity and chronic pain management.

Hosted by Oregon State University (OSU) Extension, Comagine Health and Food Hero—a statewide education initiative of Oregon’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—this exciting event highlights OSU Extension’s Walk With Ease (WWE), an evidence-based walking program developed by the Arthritis Foundation for adults with arthritis or chronic pain. Participants will get a first-hand look at how to sign up for free WWE classes, which are available in counties across Oregon in English and Spanish, and can be in-person, virtually, or self-directed.

For people with disabilities, WWE classes are modified to include movements such as wheelchair rolling, as well as stretches and strengthening activities for people with limited mobility.

The WWE program is proven to:

• Increase physical activity.
• Increase physical abilities, such as build stamina, strength, confidence and walking endurance.
• Decrease pain and fatigue.
• Help people make lifestyle changes.

The webinar will also feature a healthy cooking demonstration using nutritious recipes from Food Hero. Attendees will walk away with tips for better health and delicious new ideas for your kitchen!

Webinar details:

• WHEN: Thursday, June 5, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• WHO: Anyone
• HOW: Register HERE.

If you have any questions, call 541-737-3173 and leave a message, or email walk@oregonstate.edu. Whether you’re looking to stay active, connect with others, manage chronic conditions, or support community health, Movement Matters is for you. Together, let’s make movement matter across Oregon—one step at a time!

  REGISTER HERE FOR THE WEBINAR

“Skinny”, the oldest harbor seal in the world, is reaching the milestone of 50 years of age.

In the wild, harbor seals typically live into their 20s, whereas those under human care can survive into their 30s, or in Skinny’s exceptional case, far longer.

Skinny was discovered stranded on a beach in Washington state in 1975, orphaned, dehydrated, and malnourished.

She received care at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium before being relocated to the Oregon Coast Aquarium in 1992. A public celebration is scheduled for June 3rd.

An Oregon man who left his position at a tire company and liquidated his retirement funds to embark on a journey to Hawaii with his cat, Phoenix, arrived at his destination last week, greeted by enthusiastic supporters after a weeks-long voyage that he shared with his extensive social media following.

Oliver Widger, who was also welcomed by Hawaii Governor Josh Green at the Waikiki Yacht Club on Oahu, admitted to feeling anxious in front of the crowd, which included journalists. Widger expressed that he felt “really weird” — not seasick, but rather, “I just feel like I have to, like, hold on to things to not fall over.”

He gained significant online attention with his narrative, which began after he was diagnosed four years ago with a syndrome that posed a risk of paralysis, prompting him to realize his dissatisfaction with his managerial role. He left his job with “no money, no plan” and $10,000 in debt, aspiring to purchase a sailboat and navigate the globe.

He learned to sail primarily through YouTube tutorials and relocated from Portland to the Oregon coast. He dedicated months to refurbishing the $50,000 vessel he acquired. He departed for Hawaii with Phoenix in late April, chronicling their adventures for his over 1 million TikTok followers and 1.7 million Instagram followers. He believes that his story, which gained national attention, struck a chord with many people.

Thanks for reading the the news on BasinLife.com from Wynne Broadcasting.

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