See Road Camera Views around the Klamath Basin:

Lake of the Woods
Doak Mtn.
Hiway 97 at Chemult
Hiway 140 at  Bly
Hiway 97 at GreenSprings Dr.
Hiway 97 at LaPine

Around the State of Oregon

State issues first 2026 income tax refunds for e-filed returns; Refunds for paper-filed returns won’t start until April

Salem, OR—The Oregon Department of Revenue has begun distributing refunds for the 2025 tax year. Through February 17, the department has processed more than 500,000 electronically filed tax returns.

Most taxpayers can expect to receive their refunds within two weeks of the date their return is filed. Some returns, however, require additional review and can take up to 20 weeks before a refund is issued.

Oregon is returning a $1.41 billion revenue surplus “kicker” to taxpayers in 2026. The kicker credit will either increase a taxpayer’s refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year. Taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online.

The department encourages taxpayers to file electronically. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper returns will experience a significantly longer wait in 2026 due to processing delays.

In the closing months of 2025, the IRS was late providing necessary tax form information to the Oregon Department of Revenue. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns will not begin until the end of March. The first refunds for paper-filed returns are not expected to be issued until April.

Taxpayers can check the status of their e-filed refund by using the department’s Where’s My Refund? tool. The Department of Revenue recommends that taxpayers wait one week after they have electronically filed their return to use the Where’s My Refund tool. Paper-filed returns won’t show up in the Where’s My Refund? tool until processing begins in late March. Taxpayers mailing their return should wait two weeks after the department starts processing paper returns in late March or after mailing their return, whichever is later.

The Where’s My Refund? tool has been updated for 2026, providing clear messaging about the status of their return to taxpayers who are signed into their Revenue Online account. Taxpayers who don’t already have a Revenue Online account can create one by following the Revenue Online link on the department’s website. Taxpayers who don’t have a Revenue Online account can still use the Where’s My Refund? tool but won’t be able to see the updated features.

A video outlining the refund process and timelines is also available to help taxpayers understand the process.

Taxpayers should file just once unless they need to make a change to their return. They should choose to either file electronically or by paper. Doing both will delay processing of their return.

In addition to checking the status of their refund, taxpayers can make payments, or get tax forms by visiting the department’s website. Questions can be emailed to questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

Taxpayers can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), the department accepts all relay calls.

 

The State of Oregon is backing a lawsuit against the federal government regarding actions taken by ICE against demonstrators. The liberal Oregon Attorney General, Dan Rayfield and his office is supplying evidence from a demonstration that occurred on January 31st outside the Portland ICE facility.

ICE agents deployed tear gas and pepper balls at the crowd, impacting children and elderly individuals. This evidence bolsters a lawsuit initiated by the ACLU.  

A hearing is set for March 2nd, during which the judge will be requested to issue a preliminary motion to halt the use of crowd-control munitions.  Stay tuned.

 

Authorities are currently conducting a search for a 25-year-old man who went missing on Monday afternoon during a rafting excursion near Greenwall Rapids on the Illinois River.

Gabriel Vaughn was last observed at approximately 4:15 p.m. on February 16 near Greenwall Rapids, as reported by the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office. Vaughn was part of a rafting group but chose to hike alone into the adjacent woods, intending to exit the area towards the Chetco drainage, according to officials.

Vaughn is characterized as a white male, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing around 160 pounds, with blonde hair and brown eyes. At the time of his last sighting, he was attired in a blue dry suit, accompanied by a helmet and a life jacket.

The U.S. Coast Guard has been informed but is presently unable to dispatch a helicopter due to adverse weather conditions, as stated by authorities. Local Search and Rescue teams have also been notified, and the investigation remains active.

 

A proposed initiative for the Oregon ballot aimed at modifying the state’s animal cruelty laws is attracting significant online attention as both supporters and opponents engage in discussions regarding its potential effects.

The initiative, referred to as the People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions (PEACE) Act, seeks to amend specific sections of Oregon law concerning animal abuse, neglect, and assault by eliminating certain exemptions that currently pertain to activities such as hunting, fishing, livestock production, and research.

Proponents assert that the proposal aims to alleviate animal suffering and modernize state law to acknowledge that animals can experience pain, stress, and fear. The initiative would redefine the terms “minimum care,” abuse, and neglect, and would restrict the circumstances under which harm to animals is legally permissible, primarily to instances of self-defense or veterinary treatment. The measure is also generating discussions on social media, where organizers report an increase in interest.

In late December on Instagram, the campaign supporting the proposal, Yes on IP28, announced that it has gathered 100,000 signatures to date. According to Oregon law, initiatives are required to collect 117,173 valid signatures by July 2 in order to qualify for the statewide ballot.

 

Mt. Ashland Ski Area is set to reopen on Thursday, Feb. 19th, following a temporary halt in operations last month due to significantly lower than average snowfall and snowpack.

The ski area had suspended its activities on January 15, citing a 63% decrease in seasonal snowfall and a 71% reduction in snowpack, which restricted terrain access and safe operations. However, recent storms and cooler weather have enabled crews to prepare the mountain for the return of skiers and snowboarders.

In a Facebook post, Mt. Ashland Ski Area announced that the lifts scheduled to operate upon reopening include the Sonnet, Lithia, and Comer chairlifts, as well as the First Act Learning Carpet.

Operating hours will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with twilight skiing available from Thursday to Saturday between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. using the same lifts. In a related development approximately 80 miles to the south, Mt. Shasta ski park revealed its reopening earlier this week. This ski area had paused operations on February 9 due to below-average snowfall and limited terrain conditions. Recent cold temperatures and a promising weather forecast have encouraged officials to resume operations.

 

During the Open Enrollment period of 2026, a total of 118,372 individuals in Oregon secured health coverage via the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, which provides private health insurance options for those lacking coverage through their employer, Medicaid, or Medicare.

Approximately 60 percent of those who sought financial assistance were successful in receiving aid in 2026, a decrease from 80 percent in 2025. Although there was a decline in enrollment by about 15 percent, equating to 21,316 fewer individuals obtaining coverage through the Marketplace, the high rate of re-enrollment suggests that residents of Oregon continue to prioritize access to quality health care.

Simultaneously, the enrollment trends of 2026 reveal increasing difficulties. The cessation of enhanced federal premium tax credits led to elevated costs for numerous consumers, especially for middle-income families who no longer met the criteria for the same level of financial assistance.

Individuals earning between 200-400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level experienced premium hikes ranging from $90 to $165. Enrollment partners within the Marketplace indicated that the rise in premiums caused some individuals and families to postpone enrollment, opt for plans with greater out-of-pocket expenses, or entirely forgo coverage.

 

The American Red Cross is making an urgent appeal for blood donations due to a nearly 35% decline in their supply over the last month.

The organization reports that winter storms and the flu season have intensified the shortage, resulting in hospitals facing challenges in meeting patient requirements. The Red Cross is responsible for supplying 40% of the nation’s blood, and the situation is critical, with blood being required every two seconds. Although 62% of Americans are eligible to donate, only 3% are currently participating, according to the organization.

From January 26 to February 28, donors will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. The Red Cross urges eligible individuals to schedule an appointment via their website to assist in replenishing the blood supply.

 

February is American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health and learn more about heart disease. Small, everyday choices like staying active, eating well, managing stress, and getting regular checkups can help keep your heart healthy. Join us in learning more about ways to protect your heart and support heart-healthy communities across Oregon. 

Feb. 1-7 is Women’s Heart Week. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., but it is often preventable. The Oregon Health Plan (OHP) covers many services that can help you take care of your heart. 

Here are 5 ways to protect your heart:

1. Check your blood pressure: High blood pressure often has no symptoms. OHP covers routine checkups and screenings.  You may also be eligible for a blood pressure cuff to monitor your blood pressure at home.  

2. Know your cholesterol numbers: OHP covers lab tests to check cholesterol and other heart health risks.  

3. Quit tobacco for good: OHP offers free support, including counseling and medications.  

4. Take care of your mental health: Stress, anxiety, and depression can affect your heart. OHP covers mental and behavioral health services. 

5. Stay active and eat healthy foods: Talk to your provider about nutrition and physical activity. OHP may offer programs that support healthy habits in your region.  

Need help getting started? Call your Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) or visitOHP.Oregon.govto learn more.  If you don’t know your CCO or do not have one, call OHP Client Services at 800-273-0557. 

 

Oregon Health Authority – Protecting Health During Cold Days

Winter’s chill: Protecting your health when temperatures drop

February can be one of the coldest and stormiest months in Oregon.

Because freezing temperatures, snow and ice, and winter storms and power outages increase the risk of injuries and health problems, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) encourages everyone to stay safe with a few simple tips.

Slipping on ice is one of the most common winter injuries. It can cause sprains, broken bones or head injuries. Very cold weather can also cause frostbite and hypothermia. These risks are higher for older adults, young children, people with ongoing health conditions and anyone without reliable heat.

• Prevent slips and falls: Wear shoes with good grip, walk carefully on icy surfaces and clear snow and ice from walkways.
• Protect against extreme cold: Wear layers, cover exposed skin and limit time outdoors during freezing temperatures. Frostbite can happen quickly in extreme cold.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia: Symptoms include strong shivering, confusion, slurred speech and extreme tiredness. Get medical help right away if you notice these signs.

 

Earned Income Tax Credit could mean thousands more in cash refunds for eligible Oregonians

Salem, OR—A single parent of two young children earning $24,000 in Oregon could receive over $12,000 as a cash refund if they claim the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the federal Child Tax Credit, the Oregon Earned Income Credit (EIC), and the Oregon Kids Credit.

Low-income Oregon families overwhelmingly use cash refunds to cover the basics—housing, utilities, food, etc.

Yet, more than 20 percent of Oregonians eligible to claim the EITC, don’t. Low participation rates in these programs leave millions of dollars on the table for low-income Oregonians.

AnIRS study of 2020 federal tax returns found that Oregon ranked last in EITC participation with only slightly more than two out of three eligible taxpayers claiming the credit. Oregon’s standing has since improved, rising to 44^th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia, and participation rates were up to more than 78 percent for tax year 2022.

The Oregon Department of Revenue is working with other state agencies and community partners to encourage taxpayers to learn more about this credit and find out if they’re eligible.

The department is working to increase uptake of the EITC in Oregon by both raising awareness of how refundable federal and state credits can put cash directly in the pockets of low-income Oregonians, and by offering free tax filing assistance. The state partners with community based organizations to offerfree tax filing assistance at sites across the state. The hands-on guidance encourages Oregonians to check if they are eligible for these refundable tax credits.The Earned Income Tax Credit is a fully refundable federal tax credit for people making up to $68,675 in 2025. A refundable credit not only reduces the amount of tax a taxpayer owes, any leftover credit results in a cash refund that can be deposited directly into their bank account. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $8,046 on their federal tax return, and a maximum Oregon Earned Income Creditof $966 on their state tax return. Certain taxpayers without children may also be eligible for these credits.

Individuals may qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Oregon EIC, and other credits, even if they are not required to file a tax return. To receive the refundable credits, however, they must file a federal and state tax return.

Basic qualifications for EITC include:

• You, your spouse, or any qualifying child must have a Social Security number to claim the federal credit.
• Your earned income in 2025 must be below certain limits based on your number of qualifying dependents.
• You may be eligible even if you do not have a qualifying child.
• Taxpayers can use the IRS EITC Assistant to check their eligibility further. The assistant is available in English and Spanish.

State tax credits for families

In addition to federal refundable credits, Oregon has multiple state tax credits that low-income families can claim – the Oregon Earned Income Credit (EIC), and the Oregon Kids’ Credit. Both of these credits are also available to taxpayers who use an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) to file their taxes or have a qualifying child with an ITIN. Taxpayers with an ITIN, claim the Oregon EIC using schedule OR-EIC-ITIN. The EIC otherwise has the same basic qualifications as the federal EITC listed above.

The Oregon Kids Credit is a refundable credit for low-income people with young dependent children. For those with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $26,550 or less, the full credit is $1,050 per child for up to five dependent children under the age of six at the end of the tax year. A partial credit is available for individuals and families with an MAGI up to $31,550.

The department recommends that Oregonians wishing to claim the Oregon Kids Credit use Direct File Oregon, the interview-based tax preparation software that allows taxpayers to file directly with the state for free. There was an earlier error in the forms for claiming the Oregon Kids Credit which has been updated and fixed in Direct File Oregon.

Taxpayers who plan to claim the Oregon Kids Credit, and file their taxes using another tax filing software can check the Department’s webpage to see if the software has been updated with the correct forms and instructions. The department has been in communication with its tax preparation software partners to ensure the fix is quickly applied to their forms.

For more information about the federal EITC, the Oregon EIC, the Oregon Kids Credit and other similar credits, go to the Tax benefits for families page.Taxpayers can visit the Oregon Department of Revenue website to find free tax preparation sitesby using the interactive map. For more information on the EITC, visit https://www.eitc.irs.gov/. For questions about Oregon taxes, call the Department of Revenue at 503-378-4988, or email questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

 

The Oregon Heritage Commission is providing grants to museums for projects related to collections, heritage tourism, and education. The awards generally vary from $2,000 to $10,000.

Museums are eligible to apply for a range of initiatives, such as cataloging and conservation of collections, marketing efforts for heritage tourism, and educational exhibits. Additionally, they may collaborate with other organizations on projects that align with their mission. Museums serve as custodians of local, regional, and state history, and this program facilitates the collection, preservation, and promotion of that history throughout the state.

A complimentary online workshop on the grant application process will take place on February 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Registration is mandatory. The commission, which is appointed by the Governor, consists of nine members who represent the diverse heritage of Oregon. Its objective is to enhance Oregon’s heritage through coordination, advocacy, and educational initiatives.

BLM launches public comment on western Oregon timber plan to advance Trump administration priorities

WASHINGTON — The Bureau of Land Management is inviting public input for proposed updates to resources management across 2.5 million acres of highly productive timberlands in western Oregon, an effort that underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to expanding domestic timber production and reducing reliance on foreign imports.

“Bringing timber production back to historic levels is essential for reviving local economies and reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires,” said Acting BLM Director Bill Groffy. “President Trump has made it clear — enhanced domestic timber production is vital for our national security, economic prosperity, and effective wildfire management.”

A notice will publish in tomorrow’s Federal Register to open the comment period, which closes on March 23. Additional information is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments may be submitted through the “Participate Now” option. Written comments may also be emailed to BLM_OR_Revision_Scoping@blm.gov or delivered to: Attention BLM OR930, 1220 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204.

The BLM remains committed to supplying a secure, resilient domestic timber supply. In western Oregon, this commitment is rooted in the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937, which ensures sustainable forestry practices that support communities and livelihoods.

Revenue from timber harvested on these lands is shared between the U.S. Treasury and 18 western Oregon counties—funding essential local services such as schools, libraries, public safety, and infrastructure projects. Each year, BLM timber sales support approximately 2,000 local jobs and generate more than $1 billion for local economies.

 

Pacific Power Shares Winter Heating Tips to Help Customers Stay Warm and Save Money

As cold temperatures linger across the region, Pacific Power is reminding customers of a few simple adjustments they can make at home that can help them stay warm while also reducing their energy bill.

“With households using more electricity to stay comfortable during winter months, adopting energy-efficient heating practices benefits everyone,” said Ryan Flynn, president of Pacific Power. “Even small changes support the grid and can lead to significant savings on your monthly bill.”

To help customers get started, Pacific Power recommends taking these practical steps to help keep their energy costs in check this winter.

Tips for staying warm and energy-efficient:

• 68° degrees is great – Setting the thermostat at 68°F when you’re home and awake is recommended.

• Keep warm air in – Close window coverings at night to reduce drafts, and seal air leaks with caulking and weatherstripping around doors and windows.

• Clean and tune – Clean or replace furnace filters monthly during the heating season. Routine maintenance helps improve airflow and ensures your system isn’t working harder than necessary.

• Use space heaters sparingly – and safely – Portable heaters require a lot of electricity and should be used only as needed. Running a typical 1,500-watt unit for eight hours a day over a month can add about $30 to a winter bill.

• Use appliances during off-peak hours– Using appliances like ovens, dishwashers and laundry machines during off-peak hours helps reduce strain on the grid and can help customers manage their bill – an approach Pacific Power also highlights during extreme weather.

Pacific Power offers a range of energy assistance programs, including income-qualified discounts, weatherization support and resources for customers managing high bills. For more information, visit PacificPower.net/Assistance or call 888-221-7070. 

For more tips on how to save energy year-round, visit our Savings & Energy Choices webpage atPacificPower.net/WinterTips. 

 

(BEND, Ore.) — For millions of years, volcanoes have been the most powerful force in nature. And for many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the May 18, 1980, eruption of Washington’s Mount Saint Helens. The science, spectacle, and significance behind these massive peaks will soon be at the center of an immersive new exhibition, “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration,” which will run from Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipient High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore.

On the heels of the Museum’s recent “Sensing Sasquatch” exhibition – which won the Western History Association’s prestigious 2025 Autry Public History Prize and earned national praise for exploring the Indigenous perspectives of what many call Bigfoot – comes the latest groundbreaking exhibition from the High Desert Museum. Under Pressure will take visitors on an educational, insightful, and thought-provoking journey into the forces that make volcanoes among the most majestic and often misunderstood natural wonders of the world, while exploring their individual stories and temperaments.

“From cultural and historical significance to the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens, the Pacific Northwest and High Desert have a particularly long, complex, and symbiotic relationship with volcanoes,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., High Desert Museum executive director. “We live in their shadows, recreate on their slopes, and admire their beauty, but it’s the volcanoes’ ability to simultaneously cause destruction and creation that evokes feelings of awe. Under Pressure will provide an immersive and deep exploration.”

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration, a groundbreaking new exhibition from Oregon’s High Desert Museum.

WHEN:            Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027

WHERE:          High Desert Museum (Spirit of the West Gallery)

                         59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702 (map HERE)

COST:              Free with Museum admission or membership

   Active U.S. military and their families, as well as Tribal members, are FREE with ID

Among the highlights that visitors to Under Pressure can expect to encounter include:

• Engage the senses through interactive displays and exhibits, including volcanic rocks and a volcanic hazard map, to learn about cutting-edge volcano research.
• Hear stories and learn the significance of volcanoes to the people of the High Desert region.
• Get to know 4-6 individual volcanoes through biographies that explain the similarities and differences between them.
• Learn about present-day volcano hazards and how lava flows.
• Understand the technologies that scientists use to detect volcanic activity, which allow us to live among volcanoes while also enjoying their many benefits.

“These geologic giants exist all around us, come in all shapes and sizes, and tell a story of our past, present, and future,” says Whitelaw. “With 350 million people living near an active volcano worldwide, the more we understand about volcanoes, the better we can exist alongside them.”

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration opens to the public on Feb. 7, 2026, and runs through Jan. 3, 2027, in the High Desert Museum’s Spirit of the West Gallery. For additional information on exhibitions or to start planning your experience, visit highdesertmuseum.org.

 

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