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.
Monday, June 9, 2025
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 11am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west northwest 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon. This evening a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11pm. Partly cloudy overnight, with a low around 57. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph.
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
Klamath County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a shooting in the 1700 block of Gary Street in Klamath Falls at about 4:03AM.
Upon arrival, deputies found a male victim who was suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim has been identified as 19-year-old Kane L. Harrell, a resident of Klamath Falls. Harrell was subsequently transported to a local medical facility for treatment. His current condition has not been disclosed.
Following a prompt investigation, 34-year-old Taylor R. Jackson, also from Klamath Falls, was identified as the suspect. Jackson was apprehended without any further incident and is currently being held at the Klamath County Jail.
Jackson is facing several charges, including:
• Attempted Murder
• Assault I
• Assault II
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm
The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office expresses gratitude to the Klamath Falls City Police Department and Klamath County Community Corrections Officers for their support in this case. This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office.
Shasta Way Intermittent Lane Closures This Week
Utility work for the WinCo Grocery Store continues this week with Shasta Way, between Avalon Street and Fred Meyer, and will narrow down to one lane at times.
These lane closures will continue for the next three weeks between 6AM-7PM. Flaggers and barricades will control traffic. It is highly recommended taht motorists avoid this area, as the delays will be longer than usual. Questions can be directed to Dan Dendrickson at 858-568-0123.
FIRE SEASON OFFICIALLY BEGAN ON IN KLAMATH AND LAKE COUNTIES
Fire managers officially announced the commencement of fire season in Klamath and Lake counties on Friday
This announcement encompasses all private, county, and state wildlands safeguarded by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Klamath-Lake District. It also pertains to the Fremont-Winema National Forest, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lakeview District, the Sheldon-Hart Mountain and Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complexes, as well as Crater Lake National Park.
Given the forecasted warmer temperatures and winds, igniting a fire that could expand to several acres within minutes requires only a small spark or heat source. Fire managers will persist in monitoring the current conditions over the upcoming weeks and will reassess the fire danger level as necessary.
Again, be ready for any alerts that forest agencies send this Summer.
It is important to note that abandoned campfires are the leading cause of human-induced wildfires on public lands. While most campfires remain small and can be easily extinguished by firefighters, it only takes one to endanger lives, damage property, and permanently alter a beautiful landscape. Escaped debris burning continues to be the primary source of human-caused fires on private land.
With the declaration of fire season, all burning activities are forbidden without a permit.
Officials from the Bureau of Land Management have imposed restrictions on specific activities on public lands located within half a mile of the Klamath River, extending from the Keno Dam to the Oregon/California border, in order to mitigate the risk of wildfires caused by human activity.
As summer approaches and temperatures rise, dry and volatile fuels become more prone to ignition. Implementing fire restrictions is essential for ensuring the safety of both the public and first responders.
“When visiting your public lands this summer, be prepared,” stated Trent Wilkie, Fire Management Officer for the BLM Lakeview District. “Ensure you pack a shovel and a fire extinguisher, and adhere to BLM’s fire restriction orders to help prevent fires.”
Visitors can remain informed about fire restrictions by checking the fire restriction webpage of BLM Oregon/Washington. The public use restrictions that will take effect on Friday include several simple measures to help prevent fires:
- Smoking is not allowed while traveling, except in vehicles on improved roads, in boats on the water, and in other designated areas.
- Users of power saws, whether electric or combustion-powered, must carry a shovel and an 8 oz. (or larger) fire extinguisher, and they are required to maintain a firewatch for at least one hour after using the saw. Currently, the use of power saws is allowed throughout the day, provided the area remains at low fire danger.
- While traveling in a motor vehicle, visitors are required to have one shovel and one gallon of water or one fire extinguisher of 2½ pounds or larger. (This requirement does not apply to travel on state highways, county roads, or driveways.) All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with a fire extinguisher of 2½ pounds or larger.
- Fireworks are banned on BLM public lands, as are exploding targets, metal targets, and the use of tracer or incendiary devices.
Klamath and Lake Community Action Services, a distinguished member of the national Community Action network, is showcasing their efforts to provide housing for unsheltered individuals and families, prevent evictions, and enhance housing stability for our most vulnerable neighbors in Klamath and Lake counties.
The small yet effective Homeless Prevention team at KLCAS is dedicated to reducing homelessness in these counties, assisting one person or family at a time. They engage with community members directly, offering practical support and meaningful connections to foster successful outcomes, assisting eligible community members in avoiding eviction or securing housing significantly impacts their lives.
These initiatives not only deliver immediate relief but also establish a foundation for long-term community resilience and well-being. This represents an investment in the individuals or families receiving these essential supports, as well as a substantial investment in our communities. Our objective is to ensure that our most at-risk community members have access to basic necessities and the support required to achieve long-term stability.
In the most recent federal fiscal year, concluding on September 30, 2024, KLCAS’ Homeless Prevention team aided 1,452 individuals across 360 households with move-in assistance or eviction prevention services. The total number of households receiving move-in assistance is 385, while the number of eviction preventions stands at 1,739.
Among those served, there are 901 adults and 552 children. The work of this team is vital in providing essential stability to households, as health outcomes improve when their housing situations are secured.
Additionally, our team collaborates with various community partners to enhance access to other supportive services, advocates with landlords on behalf of tenants, and offers case management to participants in our mid- to long-term housing programs. Learn more by calling KLCAS or visiting their website.
https://www.klcas.org/
A new trail has been introduced for walkers, runners, and mountain bikers in Klamath Falls. Specifically, the recent development is an extension of the Klamath Falls “Geo Trail”, which was established by the Klamath Trails Alliance (KTA) in 2016.
This extension facilitates access from the Sky Lakes Medical Center and Oregon Tech. The newly finished extension allows for convenient access from nearby communities along Harmony Lane, as well as direct access for residents of the Crystal Terrace senior living center.
The Geo Trail was designed as an urban recreational pathway to benefit students, workers, and residents in the vicinity of Oregon Tech, Sky Lakes Medical Center, and Crystal Terrace. It provides an opportunity to enjoy a leisurely walk while taking in scenic views.
The trail’s gentle slopes are intended to accommodate individuals with varying mobility levels, and its gravel surface is ideal for walking during wet conditions when dirt trails may be inaccessible. The initial phase of the 1.2-mile trail incurred a cost of approximately $119,000, funded by a state recreational trails grant and contributions from DCI Construction, the Rhine-Cross Group, and private donors.
The recently completed extension, which spans nearly a mile, cost $127,000. Rodriguez mentioned that KTA requires an additional $3,000 to meet its fundraising target. He pointed out that while the use of compacted gravel is more costly, it offers an all-weather surface that remains non-muddy during periods of rain or snow.
Col. Adam Gaudinski, the Commander of the 173d Fighter Wing at Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls, is set to be the keynote speaker for Klamath Community College’s commencement ceremonies on June 13, 2025.
The Colonel oversees the U.S. Air Force’s exclusive F-15C pilot production program, which is dedicated to training the world’s top air superiority fighter pilots. In this capacity, he leads a team of over 1,100 personnel, including a 110-member active association from Luke Air Force Base, and is accountable for a total inventory of 23 and 26 primary assigned F-15 aircraft. Additionally, Col. Gaudinski serves as the Oregon Air National Guard State Partnership Program Air Lead and Senior Advisor for Vietnam and Bangladesh, where he is responsible for collaborative, multilateral initiatives in the INDOPACOM region.
Col. Gaudinski graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2003, where he was a four-year Division 1 lacrosse scholar-athlete. He completed his undergraduate pilot training at Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi in 2005 and was selected to return as a T-37 and T-6 instructor pilot for his initial assignment.
The commencement ceremonies will commence at 6 p.m. Families are encouraged to utilize the parking lots located on the southern and western sections of the campus, entering from Highway 39. Handicapped parking will be provided.
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.
What’s new this year?
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The 4th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival is set to take place on Friday, June 27, from 2:00 – 6:00 pm. and Saturday, June 28, from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm at the Chiloquin Rodeo & Event Grounds off Highway 97.
Celebrate 25 years of the Klamath County Library Service District Through Sunday, August 31st, 2025
FARMER’S MARKET
The Klamath Falls Farmer’s Market kicks off at 9AM-1PM each Saturday now through October 25th. The market is located on Ninth Street between Main and Klamath.
CALLING ALL VENDORS FOR THE 2024 CHI-TOWN FAMILY FESTIVAL
Vendor Registration Closes Friday, June 13
The City of Chiloquin is excited to welcome back vendors for the 4th 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.
KINGSLEY FIELD, Oregon – Thunderbirds scheduled to perform at Klamath Falls airshow July 19-20, 2025.
The 173rd Fighter Wing will welcome back the U.S. Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team, the Thunderbirds, for the Wings and Eagles Airshow and Kingsley Field Open House, July 19-20, 2025.
“The Wings and Eagles Airshow will showcase the Thunderbirds, with one aircraft being flown by a previous Kingsley F-15 instructor pilot,” said Col. Lee Bouma, 173rd Fighter Wing commander. This will be the first time since 2008 that the Thunderbirds have been featured in Southern Oregon.
The public is invited to enjoy a wide variety of civilian and military performers, which will be announced at a later date, and admission is free.
“Please mark your calendar and come share the weekend with us, enjoying military aviation,” said Bouma. “This is one way we can give back to our amazing community that supports us so well.”
The Wings and Eagles Airshow will be held in conjunction with the Sentry Eagle air-to-air combat exercise, one of the Air National Guard’s largest air-to-air exercises. This exercise provides military pilots of the National Guard, Active Duty and Reserve components a forum in which to test their flying skills.
Additional information will be shared on the 173rd Fighter Wing website at https://www.173fw.ang.af.mil/ and on the wing’s social media pages.
For more information about the Wings and Eagles Airshow or the Sentry Eagle air-to-air combat exercise contact the 173rd FW Public Affairs Office at (541) 885-6677.
Around the State of Oregon
Oregon National Guard General Retires After 38 Years of Service
SALEM, Ore. – Maj. Gen. Gregory Day retires from the Oregon National Guard in a retirement ceremony held June 7, 2025, at the Elks Lodge #336 in Salem, Ore.
A Soldier for more than 38 years, he has served in both the Army National Guard and in the active duty Army.“His leadership in these pivotal moments speaks to his character and commitment to ensuring the safety and success of our Soldiers and citizens alike,” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, the Adjutant General, Oregon.Day enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1986, as an M1 Abrams Main Battle Crewman. He commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in 1989. He left active duty and joined the Oregon Army National Guard in 1992, where he served as the Executive Officer for A Company, 1st Battalion, 162nd Infantry in Eugene, Oregon.
Since then, Day has served with many units across the state including the 3rd Battalion 116th Cavalry, the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the 1st Battalion 186th Infantry, and the 82nd Brigade.
Day was deployed overseas to Afghanistan, Iraq and Egypt, and worked stateside as an executive officer during Operation Katrina Relief in Louisiana. Day was most recently assigned as the Special Assistant to the Combatant Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command/United States Northern Command.
Day’s military education includes the Advanced Strategic Education Program – Basic, an Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies fellowship, Dual-Status Command Course, the Joint Forces Staff College, the U.S. Army War College, the Command and General Staff College, the Combined Arms and Services Staff School, the Infantry Captain’s Career Course, the Scout Platoon Leader’s Course, and the Armor Officer’s Basic
Course.
Day’s awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with triple bronze oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with double bronze oak leaf cluster, and Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon, the Iraq Campaign Ribbon, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the NATO Article V Medal and the Multinational Force and Observers Medal. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge and the Excellence in Competition Badge – Pistol.
“As we reflect on his storied career, we recognize not just achievements and the accolades, but the friendships that he’s forged, the lives he’s affected, and the legacy
that he leaves behind,” said Gronewold.
SHERIFF’S DEPUTIES ARREST MURDER SUSPECT ON HWY 62 TRAFFIC STOP FOLLOWING SUSPICIOUS DEATH INVESTIGATION IN PHOENIX
PHOENIX, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies and detectives arrested a murder suspect this morning during a traffic stop on Highway 62 near Vilas Road in Medford. JCSO deputies arrested the man in connection to a suspicious death turned murder investigation that occurred in Phoenix earlier this week.
The victim is Julie Renee Hastings, 60, of Phoenix. Our condolences go out to her family and friends.
The suspect, William Irvin Hastings, 60, of Eagle Point, is charged with second-degree murder and first-degree abuse of a corpse. He is lodged in the Jackson County Jail.
The investigation began after JCSO Patrol deputies responded to a welfare check Wednesday night at a residence in the 4000 block of South Pacific Highway outside of Phoenix. JCSO deputies forced entry into the residence, found the victim deceased, and identified suspicious circumstances at the scene. JCSO detectives and Medical Examiners responded and took over the investigation. Oregon State Police (OSP) Crime Lab, Jackson County District Attorney’s office, Medford Police Department, Phoenix Police Department, and OSP detectives responded to assist with the investigation.
This case is active and ongoing with detectives following additional leads. There is no further information available for release at this time.
CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – A motorcycle and an electric dirt bike collided last night killing the juvenile dirt bike rider. ECSO Dispatch received a 911 call Thursday at 8:56 PM for a crash that occurred near the intersection of Ross Lane and Old Stage Road in rural Central Point.
Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies, Oregon State Police, and Jacksonville Police Department responded along with a Mercy Flights ambulance.
Next-of-kin has been notified. We will not be releasing decedent information due to the rider’s age and out of respect for the family’s privacy in this difficult time. Our condolences go out to the family and friends.
Jackson County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team responded to investigate the incident. The motorcycle rider is cooperating with the investigation and no criminal charges have been filed at this time.
The STAR Team consists of investigators from JCSO, Medford Police Department, Central Point Police Department, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. This case is open and ongoing. There is no further information available for release at this time.
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland area drug trafficker was sentenced to federal prison Thursday for repeatedly possessing and distributing fentanyl.
Bexon Javier Calix-Rivera, 21, a Honduran national unlawfully residing in Portland, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison and four years’ supervised release.
According to court documents, in January 2023, Portland Police Bureau (PPB) officers first arrested Calix-Rivera after he arrived at a prearranged drug deal in Portland. Officers searched Calix-Rivera’s car and seized thousands of fentanyl pills along with significant quantities of fentanyl powder and heroin for redistribution. Calix-Rivera was booked in the Multnomah County Jail on state charges and released the next day.
On May 24, 2024, PPB officers contacted Calix-Rivera in downtown Portland after reports of a person threatening another individual with a firearm. Officers detained Calix-Rivera and seized several hundred fentanyl pills, fentanyl powder, and $1,492 in cash. PPB officers again arrested Calix-Rivera and booked him in the Multnomah County Jail, where he was released on his own recognizance.
On June 4, 2024, PPB officers recognized Calix-Rivera from the encounter ten days prior. Officers observed Calix-Rivera carrying a hatchet and engaged in hand-to-hand drug transactions in downtown Portland. Officers attempted to detain Calix-Rivera, but he fled on foot. When officers apprehended Calix-Rivera, they seized fentanyl powder, a firearm, and $755 in cash. PPB officers booked Calix-Rivera in the Multnomah County Jail, and he was released the same day.
On June 11, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Calix-Rivera with possession of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine with the intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
On March 12, 2025, Calix-Rivera pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Portland Police Bureau and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Cassady A. Adams, 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 3-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.
The FBI’s Portland Field Office, in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, apprehended a juvenile from Columbia County, Oregon, who had plotted to execute an improvised explosive attack and a mass shooting at the Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington, on May 22, 2025.
The minor, whose identity will remain confidential to protect their privacy, was taken into custody on the morning of May 22, 2025, by deputies from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.
The comprehensive and imminent attack plans were communicated to the FBI on May 19, 2025. In response, the FBI promptly coordinated with its partners to identify the individual responsible for the threat. The suspect was identified the following day, May 20, as a juvenile resident of Columbia County who expressed nihilistic violent extremist beliefs and shared the attack plans in online discussions.
For public safety reasons, the suspect was placed under court-sanctioned surveillance, and a federal search warrant was executed on May 22, 2025, prior to the arrest. The suspect exhibited both the intent and capability to execute their plan, which included specific details such as a map of the mall, a designated route for the shooter, a strategy to deploy an improvised explosive device, commonly referred to as a chlorine bomb, to create chaos, and subsequently to shoot mall visitors as they exited the movie theater, ultimately intending to take their own life at a predetermined location within the mall.
A concerning number of indicators pointed to a clear trajectory towards violence; at no stage in this plan did it appear that the suspect would refrain from carrying out their intentions.
A Republican tax legislation has been approved by the U.S. House and is now moving towards a Senate vote, that reduce federal Medicaid funding nationwide — affecting states like Oregon that prioritize inclusive health care policies according to Oregon officials.
Oregon depends on over $11 billion in federal funding annually to finance approximately 75% of its Medicaid program, referred to as the Oregon Health Plan. Mostly however, the federal government agency of DOGE has found incredible waste, fraud and abuse of the Medicare system, and many in Congress say the panicking by liberal states and Demcrats is unfounded in this matter.
If the Republican tax legislation is enacted, this funding could potentially be reduced by more than half, as stated by Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. State officials warn that the bill could also result in hundreds of thousands of low-income residents in Oregon losing their health insurance.
Proponents of the bill argue that it will provide substantial tax reductions, enhance immigration security, and implement welfare reforms.
As usual, officials in Oregon have criticized the bill as financially irresponsible, claiming it serves to penalize states that offer Medicaid irrespective of citizenship status, as well as patients seeking gender-affirming care and reproductive health services, including abortion.
Currently, the benefits of the Oregon Health Plan remain unchanged, and the Oregon Health Authority is in the process of evaluating the potential effects of the bill.
A pair of recent reports from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) indicate that health care costs are continuing to rise at a rate that outpaces both the state and national economies.
In response, a new committee is being established to explore effective strategies for making health care more affordable for residents of Oregon.
One of the reports highlights that in 2024, 14.5% of Oregonians postponed or avoided seeking health care due to financial constraints. This trend was particularly pronounced in Southwest Oregon, where approximately one in five individuals delayed care, with dental services being the most frequently deferred across the state.
The second report reveals that total health care spending from 2022 to 2023 surpassed the state’s target of 3.4% by the largest margin since the OHA began tracking data for the Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target program in 2018.
The Oregon Health Policy Board, which is a citizen-led organization overseeing the OHA, is in the process of forming the Committee on Health Care Affordability along with its associated Industry Advisory Committee. The board plans to appoint the initial members of both committees during its meeting on June 10, which will also feature the annual public hearing for the Health Care Cost Growth Target program.
Members of the public are encouraged to voice their concerns and share their experiences regarding health care costs at this hearing. Written testimony can be submitted via email or individuals can register to speak at HealthCare.CostTarget@oha.oregon.gov.
A bill that permits the governor of Oregon to appoint a U.S. senator for the state in the case of an unforeseen vacancy is now just one signature away from becoming law.
In a vote of 31-24, the Oregon House lawmakers approved Senate Bill 952 on Tuesday. This legislation would empower Gov. Tina Kotek, as well as any future governor of Oregon, to appoint an individual from the same political party as the outgoing senator within 30 days of their death, resignation, or inability to continue serving in their role. The appointment would remain valid until the conclusion of the former senator’s term or until a successor is elected, whichever occurs first.
This legislation would eliminate Oregon’s position as one of four states where vacancies remain unfilled until special elections are held, without any appointments made by the governor. Senate Bill 952 was passed by the Oregon Senate in April with a 16-13 vote along party lines, which included one dissenting Democrat, and it also featured amendments that require a special election to be scheduled within 150 days following a vacancy.
In 2022, Oregon lawmakers attempted a similar initiative but were unsuccessful in passing it through the Legislature. However, Oregon Republicans viewed this measure as a way to further consolidate power among Democrats and party insiders. Several members voiced their concerns on the House floor, arguing that the decision should be left to the voters.
Recently, state Senators from Eastern Oregon submitted a letter to the Senate Rules Committee, requesting a public hearing for Senate Joint Memorial 7.
This memorial invites the state of Idaho to initiate discussions regarding border movement with Oregon. Senators Nash, McLane, and Dennis Linthicum from Klamath County referenced the public support for the idea of relocating the state border, which has been evident in their districts, as a basis for requesting the hearing.
Notably, Greater Idaho bills have been approved in 13 counties represented by these three senators. In 2023, the Idaho legislature also passed a similar memorial inviting Oregon to commence border discussions. Matt McCaw, the Executive Director of Greater Idaho, commended the Senators’ initiative.
“We are heartened to witness the representatives of Eastern Oregon uniting to advocate for their constituents by requesting this hearing. For four years, the residents of Eastern Oregon have expressed their desire to consider moving the border and joining Idaho through their votes. Their elected officials are now aligning with this sentiment. The Oregon Legislature has a responsibility to honor the voices of the people in Eastern Oregon and to listen to their concerns.”
Recently, representatives from Greater Idaho convened in Salem to meet with Legislators, urging progress on two bills related to border movement. In the House, HB3488 aims to establish a study group consisting of various stakeholders from across Oregon to examine the implications of a border change.
This bill is co-sponsored by several representatives from Eastern Oregon, including Mark Owens of Crane, Vikki Breese-Iversen of Prineville, and Bobby Levy of Echo.
BLM timber sales to offer up to 8.5 million board feet in western Oregon
As Oregon’s breathtaking landscapes draw outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, state agencies are underscoring the vital role of preparedness and safety in reducing search and rescue (SAR) incidents.
With peak tourist season approaching, adventurers are urged to take precautions that can prevent emergencies and lessen the burden on volunteer rescue teams.
The state has recogniced June as Search and Rescue Awareness Month.
Follow Best Practices for Safe Outdoor Adventures
The next best way to support SAR volunteers, is to not need their services in the first place. Each year, SAR teams from mostly small, under-resourced communities across Oregon rescue individuals who are lost, injured, or in distress – at no cost to the individual. According to OEM, lack of preparedness is a leading factor in SAR incidents.
“Our SAR teams often assist people who are inexperienced, overconfident, and ill-equipped for the realities of the wilderness,” OEM State SAR Coordinator Scott Lucas said. “We routinely find individuals who ventured out in flip-flops without water, unaware of potential hazards. Preparation saves lives.”
In addition, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD)—which manages more than 250 state park properties as well as scenic waterways, ocean shores, historic sites, and outdoor recreation programs across the state—urges visitors to respect designated trails, safety barriers and warning signs.
“Many of Oregon’s most beautiful landscapes include inherent risks and hazards like steep cliffs and drop offs that require careful attention,” said OPRD Emergency Manager Jamen Lee. “Leaving marked trails or ignoring safety signs and barriers can increase the risk of injury or fatal falls. We encourage visitors to stay on trail and respect signs and barriers to recreate safely. We also encourage packing the 10 essentials including food, water and sun protection.”
Additional safety tips for heading outdoors:
- Have an emergency kit and cell phone charger in your vehicle.
- Know the trail and conditions – research the trail thoroughly and get accurate directions to the trailhead. Check weather and the park webpage for alerts.
- Check road conditions on Tripcheck.com or call 511.
- Know campfire restrictions at Oregon State Parks as well as public fire restrictions.
- Download maps to a cell phone or print them in case there is no cell service.
- Make a plan and tell someone– make sure they know your route, the exact trail name, possible side destinations and when you plan to leave and return. This information is vital for search and rescue if they need to come looking for you.
- Practice situational awareness – stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on trail markers and landmarks so you can provide those details in an emergency. (This includes Oregon Beach Access Numbers on the coast).
- Listen to your body – know your limits when selecting hikes and when you’re on the trail.
- Watch for hazards – if you see signs of bad weather, wildfires, dangerous wildlife activity or other potential hazards, adjust your plans. Never feel bad about turning around early. Have a plan B.
- Stay on marked trails – going off trail or following social trails increases the risk of getting lost or injured. It also increases the risk of fatal falls.
- Respect trail closures – safety signs and barriers. They are placed there for your safety. Disregarding them can have deadly consequences.
- Exercise caution when crossing streams or navigating steep terrain – never climb on logs or turn your back on the ocean.
- Follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace – minimize your impact.
- Stay in touch – There might not be cell coverage and reception on the trail.
- Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on cell phones.
- If you are using your cell phone, keep the battery fully charged and switch to airplane mode to conserve battery until you need it.
- Consider a personal locator beacon (PLB) like InReach or SPOTS, if you need to call for help.
- Prepare for the weather – layer up, wear appropriate footwear for the terrain and carry an emergency blanket.
- Bring sun protection and lots of water of hot days – Tips for hot-weather hiking.
Practice Boating and Water Safety
Before you go out, plan ahead and check water levels and tide information, obstructions, local regulations and boating access for put in’s and take out locations. The Oregon State Marine Board’s (OSMB) website has planning resources for every boat type, including what equipment to carry.
In addition, OSMB recommends people:
- Review the map of life jacket loaner stations to borrow if you don’t have your own.
- Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- Recreate with others so they can provide aid more quickly if the unexpected happens.
Thanks for reading the the news on BasinLife.com from Wynne Broadcasting.
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