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, August 15, 2025
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Sunny, with a high near 84. West northwest wind 5 to 9 mph. Mostly clear, with a low around 56. Northwest wind 8 to 13 mph and could gust as high as 20 mph overnight.
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
Research is currently being conducted to update the hazard mitigation plan for Klamath County, following the recent approval of a contract agreement by the Board of County Commissioners.
During the regular business meeting on Tuesday, Klamath County Emergency Management received the board’s approval, which permits the use of grant funds that were previously allocated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Emergency Manager Ian Thigpen stated that the expenditure of the FEMA grant will enable the county, in collaboration with the University of Oregon, to revise the Klamath County multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan. The agreement emphasizes the importance of updating the plan to encompass additional communities beyond Klamath Falls, such as Bonanza, Chiloquin, Malin, Merrill, as well as unincorporated areas and special districts.
The total cost of the contract agreement amounts to $81,000, which is part of the $93,000 FEMA grant awarded in March.
The Evening Primrose Garden Club is set to conduct an Iris Rhizome sale at the Klamath Falls YMCA on Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
The YMCA is situated at 1221 South Alameda Ave. The proceeds from the rhizome sale will support the YMCA and the community beautification initiatives of the Evening Primrose Garden Club.
The sale will feature a diverse selection of iris rhizomes, including both bearded and arilbred varieties, primarily sourced from the extensive iris beds located at the YMCA.
Rhizomes will be priced between $1 and $5, based on factors such as quality, color, rarity, and/or uniqueness of the iris. Payments for rhizomes must be made in cash only. Founded in 1992, the Evening Primrose Garden Club aims to foster beauty, cultivate an interest in gardening, and encourage the development of friendships. The club convenes monthly on Sunday afternoons.
As a member of the Klamath District of the Oregon State Federation of Garden Clubs, the Club also plays a role in organizing annual flower shows at the Klamath County Fair and the Klamath Basin Potato Festival in Merrill. For further details, please reach out to Vickie Liskey at (541) 891-7019.
The Bureau of Land Management has initiated aerial herbicide applications aimed at mitigating the spread of invasive annual grasses and the threat of wildfires across approximately 12,000 acres of land overseen by the BLM.
From now until December 31, the BLM will be treating regions in Lake and Klamath counties, thereby protecting communities and enhancing wildlife habitats by restoring native plant species and diminishing the presence of flashy fuels that elevate wildfire risks. “Invasive annual grasses pose one of the most significant dangers to the health of our public lands in eastern Oregon.
These aerial treatments serve as a vital instrument in our efforts to restore resilient native plant communities, lower wildfire risks, and promote long-term rangeland health. We are grateful for the public’s awareness and cooperation as we undertake this essential work. Signs will be displayed at roads leading into active project areas. Each site may require up to two weeks for treatment, contingent on weather conditions.
The BLM advises the public to refrain from camping or traveling through these areas during active operations to enable crews to complete the treatments safely and effectively.
Dr Dolittle Jr This Weekend at Ragland Theater!
Almost three weeks of effort are nearing fruition as the youth theater campers at the Ross Ragland Theater finalize their interpretation of the musical “Dr. Dolittle Jr.”
This year’s summer production for 2025 showcases a sizable ensemble of young actors, aged 10 to 18, who have dedicated the majority of the month to preparing for an outstanding performance. The annual youth theater initiative unites young individuals to explore all facets of the theatrical realm.
This musical adaptation of the beloved children’s story narrates the adventures of the young Dr. Dolittle, who possesses the ability to communicate with animals. Dawn Loew, the Education and Outreach Director at Ross Ragland Theater, remarked that overseeing the camp is both a fulfilling and enriching endeavor.
With a cast and crew of 45 students, everyone is fully engaged as they work to finalize costumes, rehearse theatrical makeup, and construct sets for the show. Last Friday, Loew noted that the parents of the campers participated in assembling sets and costumes, a practice that has become a cherished tradition within the youth program.
Two performances of “Dr. Dolittle Jr.” are scheduled for Saturday at 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. at the Ross Ragland Theater. Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for children. https://ragland.org/
Klamath County Fire District 1 Board of Directors Regular Meeting Agenda
4:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Central Fire Station
143 N. Broad Street, Klamath Falls, OR 97601
Virtual Attendance Information:
Please register to join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone
by contacting our administrative office at 541-885-2056 by Monday, August 18, 2025.
Klamath Community College’s Computer Technology Department has received a federal S-STEM grant amounting to nearly $1 million from the National Science Foundation.
This initiative aims to assist high-achieving, low-income students in computer engineering and cybersecurity who have shown financial need, helping them cover attendance costs to enhance completion rates. Additionally, it will aid the workforce in southern Oregon by focusing on establishing pathways to lucrative, high-demand jobs in the technology sector.
The application was co-authored by KCC program lead Pete Brandsness and instructor Troy Lanning, with the assistance of the KCC Grants Resource team. Dr. Leonard Taylor from the University of Indiana also contributed to the research efforts. The announcement of the award was made at the end of July. This grant is particularly significant as it is usually four-year institutions, rather than small, rural community colleges, that receive projects of this magnitude.
The $981,000 initiative will enroll and support students over a period of six years, commencing on October 1.
Nearly $1.8 million in grants will be distributed to 37 community-based organizations, including Klamath Falls, providing free information and expert assistance to individuals enrolling in health coverage via OregonHealthCare.gov.
The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, the state agency tasked with aiding Oregonians in comprehending their private health coverage options, will allocate these grants over the period of 2025-27 to organizations and insurance agents dedicated to reaching diverse populations, including those who provide support in various languages.
The recipients of these grants will assist Oregonians in understanding their health insurance and financial assistance alternatives, facilitate the transition from the Oregon Health Plan to private coverage, and support enrollment during the upcoming enrollment period from November 1 to January 15. These grants are particularly aimed at assisting individuals who do not qualify for employer-sponsored coverage, the Oregon Health Plan, or Medicare.
Among the community partner organizations awarded grants is Tayas Yawks, which serves the counties of Deschutes, Klamath, and Lake. The licensed insurance agents receiving grants include Highstreet Insurance Services West, which operates in Hermiston, Klamath Falls, Medford, Oregon City, and Sandy.
OHA issues recreational use advisory for Odell Lake
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Odell Lake in Klamath County, due to the presence of microcystin.
People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.
OHA encourages people to visit Odell Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.
Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.
Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.
EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN THE BASIN
Third Thursday, Downtown Klamath Falls, coming Aug 21st
ROSS RAGLAND
Doctor Dolittle Jr., Aug. 16th
The musical tells the classic tale of a wacky, but kind, doctor who can talk to animals, taking the audience on a journey from the small English village of Puddleby-on-the-Marsh to the far corners of the world.
- August 16th, 2025, at 2:00 PM & 5:30 PM
LINKVILLE PLAYHOUSE
The Linkville Klammie Awards
Tickets available at Poppy or at the door and champagne served in the lobby.
- August 16th, 2025, Doors open at 6:30 P.M. & Ceremony begins at 7:30 P.M.
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Experience History at Fort Klamath
Fort Klamath Museum is open for the season from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Thursday through Monday until Labor Day.
Historic Baldwin Hotel Museum
Baldwin Hotel Museum is open for the season. The historic museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday until Labor Day.
Klamath County Museum
Klamath County Museum is open from 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Tuesday through Saturday, year around.
PET READY FOR ADOPTION FROM KLAMATH ANIMAL SHELTER
This week’s pet is a dog named ” Baxter “. Baxter is a male, Labrador, around 5 years old, he is solid black and weighs around 50 pounds. 
If you are interested in adopting Baxter the shelter is located at 4240 Washburn Way, Monday through Friday from 12:00 – 4:00, walk throughs are available, pet meet and greets are by appointment, you can reach the shelter at 541-884-PETS (541-884-7387)Around the State of Oregon
Oregon State Police is continuing their investigation into a murder-suicide that occurred in Grants Pass after a woman failed to show up for work on Monday, prompting a request for a welfare check.
The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and OSP responded to the 200 block of Hussey Lane in the Picket Creek area, where the woman resided, at approximately 9:30 a.m. Police reported observing suspicious conditions around the premises before entering the residence. Upon entering, law enforcement discovered four victims who had succumbed to gunfire, along with a deceased male identified as Chad Scott Behee, 40, who is believed to be the perpetrator.
The four victims include Hannah Marie Behee, 42, an 11-year-old boy, a 9-year-old boy, and a 7-year-old girl. The family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses for Hannah and her children.
In a statement released on Tuesday, OSP indicated that the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office had requested OSP to take the lead on the investigation, with support from the Grants Pass Police Department.
Parking fees are set to rise at Oregon State Parks this year. Beginning on October 1, parking fees will be implemented at 21 state parks where they were previously exempt.
This list includes popular destinations such as Beverly Beach, Face Rock, Sunset Bay, Bullards Beach, Harris Beach, and Valley of the Rogue State Parks. Oregon Parks and Recreation indicates that these new fees are essential to address a 14% budget deficit and to sustain current service levels. Furthermore, overnight camping fees will increase next summer at the 29 most frequented parks throughout Oregon.
This encompasses Alfred A. Loeb, Cape Blanco, Humbug Mountain, and Umpqua Lighthouse State Parks. Beverly Beach, Bullards Beach, Sunset Bay, Harris Beach, and Valley of the Rogue State Parks will experience increases in both parking and camping fees. For additional details, please visit the Oregon State Parks website.
More Oregon Gas Taxes and DMV Fees Coming Your Way
Governor Tina Kotek has unveiled a proposal aimed at tackling the transportation crisis, which over the years serving in the Oregon legislature, she is partly responsible for creating.
The funding strategy encompasses an increased gas tax and DMV fees to avert layoffs and sustain services. The proposal seeks to ensure sufficient funding for the State Highway Trust Fund during the 2025-2027 biennium without diminishing emergency funding for other critical issues, such as wildfire suppression.
The revenue sources include a $0.06 increase in the gas tax (raising the total to $0.46), an additional $42 for vehicle registration, a rise in title fees, and a 0.1% increase in payroll tax.
A detailed examination of the revenue sources is available here. Half of the revenue generated from these measures will be allocated to preventing layoffs within the Oregon Department of Transportation. The remaining state highway funds will be distributed to counties and cities across the state according to the traditional 50/30/20 allocation.
Should additional revenues not be secured during a special session, layoffs are scheduled to commence on September 15, with a subsequent wave anticipated in January 2026.
The deadline for applications to the EBT Nutrition Program for Kids is September 3rd.
Families that meet the eligibility criteria can receive 120 dollars per child to assist with food expenses during periods when school nutrition programs are not in operation. Most qualifying school children received their benefits on May 22nd; however, families that did not automatically receive benefits can apply to determine their eligibility.
To learn more:
- Call 833-ORE-SEBT (833-673-7328). The call center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
- Visit sebt.oregon.gov.
Electricity consumption increases significantly during periods of extreme heat, prompting utilities to request that you take measures to minimize your electricity usage.
It is advisable to adjust your air conditioning to a slightly higher temperature than usual. Consider postponing laundry, dishwashing, and charging electric vehicles until the evening. Portland General Electric offers energy shifting programs and Peak Time Rebates. Additionally, Smart Thermostats can be managed by PGE to lower cooling levels throughout the day.
For further details, PGE provides more information on its website.
Oregon officials anticipate that President Donald Trump’s budget reconciliation bill will create a $1 billion deficit in the current state budget and may potentially have a more significant effect — possibly nearly $6 billion — in the 2027-29 budget.
According to a preliminary analysis released by the left-leaning Department of Administrative Services on Monday, the majority of these federal cuts will adversely affect food assistance for low-income Oregonians, as well as their medical insurance benefits.
The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which aids Oregonians in affording food, is projected to provide $1.7 billion less than previously expected through 2029.
Additionally, the state’s Medicaid program is anticipated to experience an almost $5 billion decrease in federal funding, based on the calculations from the administrative services agency. The Oregonian/OregonLive in Portland has extensively reported on the potential impacts on Oregonians enrolled in the state health plan, hospitals, and other aspects of the state health care system. Furthermore, the Oregon Department of Transportation is also expecting to lose hundreds of millions in federal grants allocated for the Interstate 5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project.
President Trump is once more proposing the concept of transferring water from the Pacific Northwest to California.
During a speech at the White House on Tuesday, the president stated that left leaning California Governor Gavin Newsom must permit an increased flow of water from the Pacific Northwest into California, one of many things that Newsom has not permitted for his years in office.
Experts add that work needs to be done to make this more physically feasible, as there is no existing route, diversion, or infrastructure to facilitate the movement of water from Oregon to California. Stay tuned as Trump Derangement Syndrome continues.
Authorities are seeking more victims of a man who has been charged with kidnapping, rape, and administering controlled substances to a minor in Salem. Law enforcement suspects that 48-year-old Elijah Arce may have preyed on additional children.
Officers apprehended Arce on Tuesday night after the family of an 11-year-old girl reported her missing from a location near Waldo Middle School. Police discovered her with Arce in a hidden area obscured by bushes. He enticed her away while she was outside her home.
The U.S. Forest Service for the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest has reported that firefighters have responded to four new fire incidents within the past 72 hours. Due to the absence of recent storm activity in the region, the agency has indicated that these fires are likely caused by human activity. Three of the four fires are situated in the High Cascades Ranger District, located to the east of Willow Lake. The remaining fire is found in the Wild Rivers Ranger District, approximately three miles northwest of Wonder.
The largest of the four is the Cedar Fire, which was identified on Sunday. It spans about one acre, and firefighters are currently on-site, with additional personnel en route. The Forest Service is urging the public to exercise extreme caution to prevent any sparks that could ignite a fire. Law enforcement is actively patrolling the forest while air and ground resources conduct reconnaissance to identify any further new fires. Please report any suspicious or negligent behavior.
The former pilot of Alaska Airlines, who is accused of attempting to crash a plane with over 80 passengers from Washington state while off-duty two years ago, is set to change his plea.
Court records indicate that an arraignment and change-of-plea hearing for Joseph David Emerson has been scheduled for September 5th. In 2023, Emerson was seated in the cockpit jump seat on a flight from Everett to San Francisco when he allegedly attempted to shut down the engines of the jet.
Emerson informed the police that he had not slept for 40 hours, was experiencing a nervous breakdown, and had consumed psychedelic mushrooms 48 hours prior to the flight.
Pacific Power has introduced its latest Wildfire Intelligence Center, a facility aimed at improving the company’s capacity to track and monitor wildfires in real time, thereby enabling more informed decisions regarding emergency power shutoffs.
“If we observe that a fire is starting to move away from the equipment, or if we determine that the fire poses no threat, we will restore power as swiftly as possible. The Wildfire Intelligence Center significantly enhances our capability to achieve this,” stated Simon Gutierrez, Communications Specialist for Pacific Power.
The center is staffed by a team of 15 and is transitioning to 24-hour operations. Since its launch on May 3, the center has monitored over 1,300 wildfires, as reported by Nick Linfoot, Wildfire Intelligence Center Manager. Pacific Power asserts that the additional intelligence has already enabled them to prevent numerous emergency de-energizations that would have otherwise been necessary, thanks to enhanced situational awareness and real-time data.
Since the onset of the pandemic, many students in Oregon have fallen far behind their peers across the nation in terms of educational achievement.
Late to the table again, Governor Tina Kotek has proposed four bipartisan bills designed to enhance the educational outcomes within the state. The enhancements outlined in these bills involve allocating state funds to programs that aim to improve and assess student performance, as well as ensuring greater predictability and accuracy regarding the funds distributed to school districts.
Additionally, these bills streamline administrative responsibilities for smaller school districts, allowing them to concentrate more on student needs and to expand upon Kotek’s 20-23 Early Literacy Initiative, supported by an extra $13 million. The enactment of these bills coincides with what Kotek describes as a historic allocation of $11 billion for the State School Fund.
Of the four bills signed, three will take effect immediately upon passage.
The Oregon Department of Human Services’ (ODHS) seeks public comment on proposed changes to two Medicaid-funded services.
These amendments will allow ODHS to implement an Agency with Choice service option for in-home consumers and will update the Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) rate methodology for Adult Foster Homes and Residential Care Facilities. These amendments are proposed with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2026.
More information, including the public notice, amendment summary and available drafts of the proposed amendments, are posted on the APD website.
To submit feedback and comments, the public may take one of the following actions:
- Send an email to Beth.Jackson3@odhs.oregon.
gov - Send written comments addressed to Oregon Department of Human Services, Attn: Beth Jackson, 500 Summer Street NE, Salem, OR 97301.
- Send a fax to 503-947-4245, Attn: Beth Jackson
Deadline: To be considered, feedback must be received by Sept. 1, 2025.
- APD was directed by House Bill 4129 (2024) to create an Agency with Choice (AwC) service model for in-home service options. This model will be added to APD’s in-home service options in Jan. 2026. The detailed requirements for AwC will be in Oregon Administrative Rules. The 1915(k) language will be amended to reference those rules. The 1915(k) will also include a description of how the AwC rates will be developed. Because HB 4129 limits the number of AwC providers to two, APD will specify that limit in the 1915(k). APD will also add AwC to APD’s 1915(b)(4) for case management services.
- APD is also proposing a new way to calculate rates for APD Adult Foster Homes and Residential Care Facilities. The rate methodology for these providers was created in the 1980s and no longer captures the complexity of individuals served in these settings. The new rate methodology will more accurately account for individuals’ needs. The 1915(k) will define the methodology and provider requirements.
OREGON STATE AGENCIES REMIND EVERYONE TO BE INFORMED AND PREPARED
Salem, Ore. – As Oregon heads into its peak wildfire months, August and September, Oregon’s public safety services and natural resource agencies want to remind Oregonians to practice wildfire prevention, prepare their home and a go-bag for evacuation and know where to sign up for alerts.
“As Oregonians and visitors enjoy the beauty of an Oregon summer, we have to remember that we are still in the middle of wildfire season,” Governor Kotek said. “Ignition risks present a real threat to our parks, forests and coastal areas – and it’s on us to act responsibly, doing our part to prevent wildfires wherever we recreate.”
According to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center’s predictive services, the Pacific Northwest area is anticipated to be at elevated risk of significant fires from August to October. With fire crews responding to new fire starts every day, now is the time for Oregonians to be prepared for wildfires and help prevent future ignitions.
How can people help prevent wildfires?
The Oregon Department of Forestry is urging the public to actively practice wildfire prevention as the state continues to put out new fires every day. Additional human-caused fires on the landscape will draw the firefighting efforts away from the lightning-caused fires and put extra strain on ground and aviation resources, which are already spread thin. YOU can help prevent wildfires by:
- Checking and following your local fire regulations. The majority of the state is either in high or extreme fire danger right now, meaning even the smallest of sparks could start the next large wildfire.
- Debris burning may be prohibited where you live.
- Check local restrictions or contact your local ODF office.
- Return to check on your burn site if you burned earlier in the year.
- Make sure your car has been recently serviced to avoid faulty parts throwing sparks.
- Don’t drag tow chains.
- Avoid parking vehicles on tall, dry grass.
- Recreate responsibly. Where campfires are allowed, make sure your campfire is DEAD OUT before leaving it by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel and repeating that process until it is cold to the touch. If there is heat coming off it, there are still embers that could reignite.
Take Simple Steps Now to Protect Your Home from Wildfire
The Oregon State Fire Marshal reminds Oregonians that summer is not the safest time to tackle large landscaping or defensible space projects. Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of starting a fire with tools or equipment. But there are still small, safe steps you can take now to reduce wildfire risk around your home. The Oregon State Fire Marshal encourages everyone to plan ahead and do light cleanup tasks that protect your property without increasing fire danger.
Here are a few easy tasks to reduce risk in the first five feet around your home:
- Clear leaves, pine needles, and other debris from your roof, gutters, and under decks.
- Cut back plants and bushes that are touching your home or growing under roof eaves. Give trees and shrubs space from each other and from structures.
- Remove dead plants and wood mulch. Use nonflammable materials like rocks or gravel near your home. Avoid bark mulch or dry grasses right next to buildings.
- Move firewood, propane tanks, and other flammable items at least five feet away from your home.
- Cover attic vents, soffit vents, and spaces under decks with 1/8-inch metal mesh to block embers.
Avoid using power tools or equipment that could spark a fire, especially during the heat of the day. Summer is a good time to plan defensible space projects so you’re ready to work safely once wildfire season ends.
For more tips or help with defensible space, visit www.oregondefensiblespace.org or https://preventwildfires.
How can I prepare myself in case I need to evacuate?
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) urges everyone to prepare for wildfires and other emergencies by knowing evacuation levels, staying informed, having a plan, and having a go-kit ready.
Evacuation Levels
- Oregon follows a three-level evacuation notification system, each structured around safety threat level.
- Oregonians should become familiar with “Be Ready, Be Set, Go!” evacuation levels to make informed decisions when receiving evacuation notices.
- OEM urges people to evacuate whenever they feel unsafe, conditions can change rapidly; individuals should always make the best decision for their safety.
- Following evacuation, people should not return to the area until public safety officials state it is safe.
- Stay informed sign up to receive evacuation at, ORAlert.gov remember to update information if need be.
- Find the websites for your county emergency management, sheriff’s office, or tribal police and follow them on social media.
What actions should you take if an unsolicited box containing a QR code is delivered to your home? Under no circumstances should you scan it, as warned by the FBI.
This scam represents the latest iteration of a practice referred to as “brushing.” Typically, a brushing scam entails sending an unsolicited package to an individual, followed by the perpetrator writing a fraudulent review in that person’s name to enhance their online reputation and sales. The FBI has indicated that receiving an unsolicited package serves as a warning that your identity may be compromised.
The latest variant of this scam is termed “quishing,” which also involves an unsolicited package; however, this particular box contains a QR code. When scanned, the recipient is prompted to enter personal or financial information. In certain instances, scanning the QR code may inadvertently install malicious software designed to extract data from your device.
The Oregon Department of Justice issued a critical alert to residents last week following yet another incident of an Oregonian falling prey to a “gold bar” scam.
According to officials, the Oregon woman was deceived out of tens of thousands of dollars after scammers persuaded her to convert her funds into gold, alleging that her bank accounts had been compromised.
This incident follows a case from last month in which a woman in her 60s from Eastern Oregon lost $600,000 to scammers after she adhered to their directives to purchase gold bars and transfer their ownership to them, as reported by state officials.
Officials from the Oregon Department of Justice stated that they, along with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, intervened in that situation after the woman’s sister contacted the state agency’s consumer protection hotline for assistance. Authorities were able to prevent the woman from relinquishing an additional $300,000 worth of gold bars, according to officials.
Oregon Guard Field Artillery Regiment Returns Home from Deployment to Middle East
HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. – Approximately 230 members of the Oregon Army National Guard 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment (FA) returned to Oregon, days ago after a yearlong deployment to the Middle East.
The 2-218th FA deployed to Iraq and Syria in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE, to advise, assist, and enable partner forces to secure lasting defeat of terrorist elements across the Central Command Area of Responsibility. This mission helped protect regional stability while supporting overall U.S. national security.
While awaiting the return of their Soldiers, family and friends gathered in the Camp Withycombe gymnasium, making welcome home signs and connecting with other military families.
The Forest Grove Police Department and Clackamas Fire Department joined in the homecoming celebration, providing support for their return.
The Oregon National Guard command team greeted Soldiers when they arrived at Camp Withycombe to congratulate them on their hard work overseas.
“It’s an honor to welcome this group back,” said Sgt. Maj. Adrian Gonzales, command sergeant major for the 2-218th FA rear detachment. “They did an outstanding job out there.”
After a year of waiting, the Soldiers of the 2-218th FA collected their loved ones and bags, and went home.
“We couldn’t be more proud of what they accomplished,” said Gonzales.
SOME PARKS TO SEE UPDATES TO PARKING FEES AND SEASONAL CAMPING RATES
SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is updating some visitor fees at select parks as part of a broader, proactive effort to build a more resilient financial future for Oregon State Parks.
Starting Oct. 1, 2025, Oregon State Parks will no longer waive the parking fee at 21 additional day-use parks. The parking fee is currently $10 for in-state visitors and $12 out-of-state visitors.
The parking fee does not apply to visitors who walk, bike, use public transportation, have a valid hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a 12 or 24-month parking permit. Currently, OPRD charges for parking at 25 parks and waives parking fees at over 225 parks across the state.
The 21 additional parks include some of the busiest parks in the system such as Harris Beach State Park, which experienced an estimated 2 million day-use visits last year. Visitor fees help pay for maintenance and operation.
Some overnight camping rates will also see updates for visits beginning May 1, 2026:
- Overnight rates at our 29 busiest parks will increase to the top of the current rate range from May 1 through September 30. This increase will apply year round on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights (Top rate is $29 for tents and $52 for full hook-up RV)
- At all parks:
- Cabin and yurt prices will increase to the top of the rate range year round. (Top rates vary from $72 for rustic yurts to $129 for deluxe cabins/yurts)
- Boat moorage fees will increase from $15 to $20.
- Overnight parking, overflow camping and primitive camping fees will increase from about $10 to at least $15 per night.
The park system faces a projected 14% budget shortfall due to increasing costs, impacts from record visitation and a reduction in lottery funds for operations. These targeted fee adjustments, along with internal efforts to reduce costs, modernize procurement and explore new revenue, will help maintain current service levels and ensure the system remains strong and accessible now and in the future.
“State parks are some of the most beloved spaces in Oregon, but we have struggled as a state to sustainably fund them. We’re working to reimagine the future of Oregon State Parks as financially resilient system that will serve generations to come,” said Director Lisa Sumption.
State parks has three main sources of funding: a little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. It is not funded by general fund taxes.
For visitors looking to save on parking, there are annual and 24-month parking permits available for Oregon State Parks. The 12-month parking permit costs $30 and the 24-month permit costs $50. You can buy them online.
Oregon State Parks is also collecting feedback to help guide its effort to reimagine a stronger resilient park system. The surveyincludes priorities for new and existing experiences, services and amenities as well as views on public-private partnerships, sponsorships and other funding options.
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