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

PacifiCorp Ordered to Pay $305 Million for 2020 Oregon Wildfires

An Oregon jury has ordered PacifiCorp to pay $305 million to 16 victims of the state’s 2020 wildfires, part of a class-action lawsuit involving thousands.

The utility has now faced over $1 billion in damages for failing to cut power during a windstorm despite warnings. Appeals are ongoing, and trials for more than 1,000 class members are scheduled for 2026 and 2027. The fires killed 11 people, burned 1,560 square miles, and destroyed thousands of homes.

 

Oregon lawmakers are considering a new bill aimed at regulating flavored nicotine pouches. The legislation seeks to close a loophole that currently allows these products to be sold without the same restrictions applied to other tobacco products.

Health experts warn that despite their different appearance, nicotine pouches carry similar risks of addiction as cigarettes and vaping products. Lisa Fischer, a Tobacco Prevention Outreach Coordinator, emphasized that nicotine is highly addictive and can alter brain chemistry by triggering dopamine release, reinforcing repeated use.

Under current Oregon law, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase tobacco products, but that restriction does not currently apply to nicotine pouches.

These smokeless products, which are placed between the gum and lip, have grown increasingly popular in recent years, raising concerns among public health officials.

 

ATRIO Health Plans is currently facing financial challenges, with an outstanding debt of nearly $60 million owed to Asante for services that have already been provided.

This situation has resulted in a notable alteration in network status for ATRIO members. As stated by Asante, starting January 1, ATRIO’s Medicare Advantage coverage will be considered out of network with Asante.

Members are required to take action before March 31 to prevent any disruption in their care, as new routine appointments will not be accessible after this date, with certain exceptions.

Heather Rowenhorst, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Asante, highlighted their dedication to the community, noting that the non-payment from ATRIO has necessitated challenging decisions.

“This decision underscores our commitment to our communities to ensure the sustainability of Asante and health care in southern Oregon,” Rowenhorst remarked.

Members affected by this change have until March 31 to switch their Medicare Advantage plans. Asante provides resources to assist members in continuing care with their existing providers.

 

Oregon is currently facing a significant housing crisis, and recent legislative measures have ignited debate.

Senate Republicans assert that a vital bill designed to decrease construction expenses for affordable housing was obstructed by Democratic leaders in the Senate.

Senate Bill 1566, introduced by Sen. Dick Anderson and Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, aimed to reduce costs by 10-20% for affordable housing initiatives. The legislation sought to clarify exemptions from prevailing wage regulations for privately owned developments.

The bill was anticipated to facilitate the creation of 1,300 units in the Eugene Waterfront region and provide housing for homeless veterans. Senate Republican Leader Bruce Starr condemned the decision, stating, “Oregonians always lose when politics takes precedence over people.”

 

Rural communities throughout Oregon are set to receive approximately $49 million in back payments from the federal government, which local leaders assert will aid in stabilizing vital services.

This funding consists of retroactive payments from the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Secure Rural Schools bill, which was reauthorized in the previous year.

Rural communities throughout Oregon are set to receive approximately $49 million in back payments from the federal government, which local leaders assert will aid in stabilizing vital services.

This funding consists of retroactive payments from the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Secure Rural Schools bill, which was reauthorized in the previous year. The funds can serve as a crucial support system for schools, public safety, and wildfire preparedness.

 

Congressman Cliff Bentz is proposing new legislation that has the potential to transform the management of millions of acres of timberland in Western Oregon.

The proposed bill centers on areas known as O&C lands, which encompass over two million acres of federally managed forests arranged in a checkerboard pattern across 18 counties in Western Oregon.

These lands were originally associated with a railroad land grant from the 1800s, later coming under federal management. A law enacted in 1937 designated them for sustained-yield timber production to benefit local communities.

Bentz’s initiative aims to modify that law to reaffirm timber harvesting as the primary objective for these lands.

 

The Oregon House has recently approved HB 4138, known as the Law Enforcement Accountability and Visibility Act (LEAVA), which is designed to improve transparency and accountability within law enforcement activities throughout the state.

The bill is now pending review in the Senate. As stated by the Oregon House, this legislation establishes uniform standards for law enforcement identification, restricts the use of facial coverings, and limits state support for unconstitutional federal actions.

Under the provisions of LEAVA, officers are required to display their name, badge number, and agency identification while performing their duties. Additionally, it mandates the public posting of policies regarding facial coverings for designated circumstances. The bill also establishes a barrier against unconstitutional federal overreach, forbidding state and local employees from participating in actions that discriminate against individuals based on their beliefs or constitutional rights.

 

The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission has made a decision with a vote of 6-1 to reject a petition from environmental organizations that sought to implement more stringent regulations on the state’s commercial Dungeness crab fishery.

This petition, initiated by groups such as the Center for Biological Diversity and Oceana, aimed to further reduce the risk of whale entanglements along the coast. During a well-attended meeting in Springfield, numerous local fishermen provided testimony opposing the proposal, contending that external interests should not control local fishery management.

In the end, the commission opted to allow the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) to proceed with its existing rulemaking processes and ongoing collaboration with federal agencies.

 

Oregon Considers Funding Moda Center Renovations

Portland plans to remodel the Moda Center, and state lawmakers are considering a bill making Oregon part-owner of the arena. Renovations would be funded by state bonds repaid through taxes on arena activity. The Trail Blazers must commit to staying 20 years, with a review after 10 years.

Concerns remain that the team could leave once renovations are done.

 

As March approaches, anticipation is growing for Lakeview’s annual Irish Days celebrations.

This cherished tradition will commence with dinner at the Lakeview Elks Lodge on the evening of Friday, March 13. Guests who present an O’Button will receive a $2 discount on their dinner.

O’Buttons are available for purchase at the Lake County Chamber of Commerce in Lakeview. The dinner on Friday will feature the crowning of both the grand and wee leprechauns, along with a performance by the Sagebrush Echoes. Dan Michaelson has been named this year’s grand leprechaun.

The Wee Leprechaun will be selected through a drawing this Friday. The festivities on Saturday will begin with breakfast at the Eagles Lodge prior to the Irish Days Parade.

The parade lineup is scheduled for 10 a.m., with the parade itself starting at 11 a.m. Additionally, the Eagles Lodge will offer a potato bar lunch; diners can enjoy a $2 discount on lunch with an O’Button.

 

Beginning on March 30, 2026, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will discontinue the waiver of parking fees at an additional 22 day-use parks.

Currently, a day-use parking permit costs $10 for residents of Oregon and $12 for out-of-state visitors, and it is valid for the entire day of purchase at any state park in Oregon. Access to the parks remains complimentary for those who walk, bike, or utilize public transportation.

Visitors arriving by car can present valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a valid 12 or 24-month parking permit. Additionally, visitors who acquire parking permits online or through parking QR codes can link their license plates to the valid payment.

At present, OPRD mandates a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks throughout the state. The selection of the 22 additional parks was based on the amenities and features that necessitate maintenance and operation, including restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps, and more.

The revenue from parking fees contributes to the maintenance and operation costs, ensuring that these facilities remain available for all visitors.

 

Major meth bust: 61 pounds seized in Siskiyou County

SISKIYOU COUNTY, Calif. – A significant drug bust late last week when a Siskiyou County Sheriff’s sergeant stopped a vehicle for multiple violations.

According to the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office, the traffic stop led to the discovery of approximately 61 pounds of methamphetamine in the trunk of a 2013 Kia Optima.

A 40-year-old man from Anaheim, Calif., was arrested for felony possession and transportation of controlled substances for sale.

He was taken to Siskiyou County Jail for booking. More details to be released soon.

 

The Oregon Department of Revenue is currently in the process of distributing refunds for the 2025 tax year.

As of February 17, over 500,000 electronically submitted tax returns have been processed. Most taxpayers can anticipate receiving their refunds within a two-week period following their filing. Nevertheless, certain returns may necessitate additional time, potentially extending up to 20 weeks.

In 2026, Oregon will be providing a $1.41 billion revenue surplus “kicker” to taxpayers. This credit will either enhance refunds or decrease state tax obligations. Taxpayers who are eligible are those who have filed returns for both the 2024 and 2025 tax years. The kicker credit is determined by the 2024 Oregon personal income tax liability.

The department recommends electronic filing to expedite the refund process. E-filed returns with direct deposit are typically processed within two weeks, whereas paper filings may experience delays.

The Oregon commercial fishing sector achieved a new economic milestone in 2025. The sector produced an income of $517 million and provided support for 10,321 jobs.

This represents a notable increase compared to the average over the previous five years. The overall economic activity, which encompasses both harvesting and processing, was assessed at $1.1 billion.

The total value of the harvest for onshore deliveries amounted to $223.3 million. In spite of these advancements, challenges persist. The sector contends with variability in catch, fluctuating market conditions, and the effects of climate change. Additionally, there are conflicts with other oceanic uses, including energy production and telecommunications.

Marcus Hinz from the Oregon Coast Visitors Association underscored the significance of the sector. “It illustrates the importance of the fishing industry within Oregon’s blue economy,” Hinz stated. “However, this does not signify an ‘all clear’ regarding the threats facing the industry.”

Hinz further pointed out that fishing opportunities enhance tourism. “Eco- and culinary-focused travelers are drawn to locations that showcase robust natural resource assets,” Hinz remarked.

 

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is requesting public feedback on proposed revisions for the management of 2.5 million acres of timberlands located in western Oregon.

This initiative is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to enhance domestic timber production and reduce reliance on foreign imports. The comment period will commence with a notice published in the Federal Register and will conclude on March 23. Comments may be submitted through the BLM National NEPA Register or sent directly via email to BLM_OR_Revision_Scoping@blm.gov.

The BLM’s initiatives in western Oregon are in accordance with the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937, which emphasizes sustainable forestry practices. This strategy benefits local communities by distributing timber revenue among 18 counties in western Oregon, thereby supporting schools, libraries, and infrastructure projects.

Timber sales conducted by the BLM contribute to approximately 2,000 local jobs each year and generate over $1 billion for the regional economy.

 

Oregon State Parks to hire seasonal Park Rangers, Park Ranger Assistants

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks is hiring seasonal Park Rangers and Park Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2026 season.

Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through June with new positions listed on a rolling basison the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December.

Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.

Salaries start at $20.28 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.79 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, who are enrolled in high school start at $20.27 or more per hour, depending on experience.

Several of Oregon State Parks’ top leaders started their careers as seasonal employees, including all three Region Directors.

“We are focused on developing an engaged workforce by partnering with staff on career development, investing in skill building and fostering a culture of belonging. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you make a difference in protecting and promoting Oregon’s special places,” said interim Director Stefanie Coons.

Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Park Rangers at parks around the state. Positions are available in Oregon’s coastal areas, scenic valleys, and mountain regions, offering opportunities to work in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.

For more information about current openings, visithttps://bit.ly/oregonparkjobs. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department RecruitingOPRD.Recruiting@oprd.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.

 

(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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