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 BasinLife.com, KFLS News/Talk 1450AM/102.5FM, The Herald and News, and powered by Mick Insurance. Call them at 541-882-6476.
TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Afternoon showers expected, high near 54 degrees. West southwest wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. Late evening and overnight showers continue, low of 38.
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
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
On Sunday, the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office and Klamath Tribal Police responded to a reported assault and possible stabbing in Chiloquin.
Authorities are urgently seeking information regarding a woman, identified as Cherae Minthorn, who may be suffering from life-threatening injuries.
She was last seen wearing a turquoise shirt and blue jeans, and was barefoot near the flagpoles in downtown Chiloquin. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office or Klamath Tribal Police at the non-emergency dispatch number: (541) 884-4876.
75 acre “South Fork Fire” in Bly is contained and monitored
BLY, Ore. — A fire referred to as the South Fork Fire near Bly, Oregon was reported last Friday and according to (SCOFMP), the fire has been contained.
Fire engines remain at the scene, monitoring and patrolling the area. SCOFMP states that light smoke will be visible and may continue for some time. Fire engines remain on scene to monitor and patrol the area. Light interior smoke may continue to be visible for some time, but the perimeter is secure.
Oregon U.S. Senator Ron Wyden is back in Oregon this week and will conduct 11 public town halls with a plan to see all of Oregon’s 36 counties this year.
On Thursday, April 2, Senator Wyden will appear in Lake County at 12:30 p.m. at the Lakeview Elks Lodge, located at 323 North F Street in Lakeview, followed by Klamath County at 5 p.m. in the Oregon Institute of Technology’s College Union Building Auditorium, 3201 Campus Drive in Klamath Falls.
On Friday, April 3, he will host a session in Jackson County at 10:30 a.m. at the Holly Theater, 226 West 6th Street in Medford.
For security purposes, backpacks and large bags are prohibited at these events. Only clear bags up to 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, one-gallon clear plastic bags, or small clutches not exceeding 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches are permitted, in addition to essential items such as medical or infant care bags. No storage will be provided for restricted items. Attendees may enter beginning one hour prior to each event.
In a related story, Senator Jeff Merkley will host a basin town hall Friday, April 3rd, 2026 at the Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls.
All Klamath County community members are welcome to come and discuss ideas to strengthen our state and our nation. The Town Hall will be at 2:30 in the College Union Building in the Crater Lake Complex. 3201 Campus Drive. Please park in Lot B, and follow the signage to College Union.
Klamath County Reminds Residents of Burn Season Guidelines
Klamath County Fire District 1 announced guidelines for the 2026 open burning season running now until April 12 and is urging residents to use extreme caution when conducting debris burns.
Following a mild winter and rising fire danger conditions, Fire Chief Brent Knutson is reminding residents to use extra caution when burning. Escaped debris burns are already being reported across the county and throughout the state.
The fire district is asking all residents to follow these requirements when conducting open burning. Wind must be 10 mph or less, and residents can call (541) 883-8127 for current wind speed.
Burn piles should be no larger than 4 feet by 4 feet by 4 feet. No more than two active piles are allowed per property.
There must be at least a 5-foot clearance beyond the burn pile base. The base must be at least 25 feet from combustibles, fences or buildings.
Only residential yard waste, such as tree limbs, brush and leaves may be burned. No trash, plastic, rubber, tar, petroleum products, treated or painted wood or similar materials may be burned.
All open burning requires a water source to control or extinguish the fire. Hand tools such as shovels or rakes must be on hand, and an adult must monitor the open burn at all times.
The person conducting the burn is responsible for any damage, suppression costs, traffic problems and hazards caused by smoke. These regulations apply to all areas within Klamath County Fire District 1 boundaries, not just the Air Quality Zone.
Residents are strongly encouraged to monitor their fires closely and ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving the area. Even small debris burns can quickly escape control under current dry conditions.
Failure to comply with open burning regulations may result in fines or liability for suppression costs if a fire escapes.
KCFD1 is offering an alternative to burning by utilizing the Community Risk Reduction Team and Equipment to remove combustible yard debris to create a defensible space. More details are available on KCFD1’s website.
KLAMATH COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT – Press Release
The Klamath County Public Works Department announces the following ROAD
AND BRIDGE CLOSURE: East Langell Valley Road between Jones Road and Bunn Way
Intermittent single-lane closures at the bridge are anticipated Monday, April 6,
2026, through Friday, April 17, 2026. Full closure beginning Monday, April 20, 2026, at 7:00am through Friday
September 11, 2026.
East Langell Valley Road will be reduced to one lane, then fully closed at the construction site, as crews remove and replace the East Langell Valley Road over Lost River bridge near Bunn Way.
The existing bridge is currently weight restricted and supported by temporary shoring to maintain the current level of service. The project will replace the timber structure with a new steel and concrete structure, along with roadway and drainage improvements.
During construction, the roadway will remain closed at the project site, and traffic will be directed to the posted detour route. Traffic control measures will be in place to guide motorists. Please note that cell
phone coverage may be limited along portions of the detour route. For additional information or questions, please contact Klamath County Public Works, at 541-883-4696.
Two Klamath County School District students have been elected to leadership positions at the Oregon FFA State Convention and will represent FFA throughout the state and nationally throughout 2026-27.
Lost River Junior/Senior High School’s Anna Kliewer was elected Oregon FFA state president for 2026-2027 and Henley High School’s Dylan Orr was elected Oregon FFA state treasurer for 2026-2027.
This marks the first time KCSD has produced a state president and the first time the district has had two state officers in the same year. Both students will have their living expenses covered and are eligible for additional scholarships as they serve.
Their duties will include travel across Oregon and time at Oregon State University in Corvallis, as well as national events. The election wins were just one highlight of a productive state convention.
And dozens of students earned state degrees, top proficiency awards, art honors, and team achievements across Bonanza, Henley, Lost River, and Mazama FFA chapters. Congratulations to all our FFA members on their accomplishments.
Lost River FFA won the National Chapter Award Gold, advancing to National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, Oct. 21–24.
Jahangeer Ali, 34, owner of Oregon Clinical Laboratory in Klamath Falls, has been arrested and charged with medical fraud and billing Medicare, submitting more than $46 in claims to Medicare Advantage Plans.
Ali was arrested at the Los Angeles International Airport in February prior to trying to board a flight to Turkey with an ultimate destination of Pakistan.
A detention hearing was held today in the District of Oregon and Ali was ordered to remain in custody pending further court proceedings.
Ali has been charged with medical fraud as for the past one year he claimed to be operating a medical lab which was nothing but an empty storefront. The man claimed he owned and operated the Oregon Clinical Laboratory in Klamath Falls for genetic testing.
Hiding in Los Angeles, Ali is now in a detention center after an initial hearing on March 4th, 2026.
The Department of Justice has charged him after allegedly participating in a scheme to fraudulently bill Medicare for laboratory testing services never performed. Jahangeer Ali is a citizen of Pakistan.
According to court documents, from June 2025 through January 2026, Oregon Clinical Laboratory in Klamath Falls submitted more than $46 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare Advantage plans. However, no providers actually ordered testing services and none of the Medicare Advantage beneficiaries on the claims actually received testing services from the company. As a result of the fraud, Medicare Advantage plans paid out over $28 million on the fraudulent claims to him.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General and Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew T. Ho is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Klamath Irrigation District (KID) has expressed its intention to upgrade the irrigation infrastructure within the district to enhance system efficiency, seeking public feedback during a meeting scheduled for April in Merrill.
The initiative involves the installation of piping and lining for canals and laterals, as well as the implementation of automatic flow monitoring systems.
Gene Souza, the executive director of KID, emphasized that these improvements would optimize water management and increase resilience against drought conditions.
A public meeting is set for Thursday, April 9, from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Merrill Civic Center, specifically designed to engage water users from the Merrill and Malin regions. Souza highlighted the project’s regional importance, noting that agriculture plays a vital role in the economic landscape of the Klamath Basin.
The Klamath National Forest announced the results of its March snow surveys, part of the statewide California Cooperative Snow Survey program.
Forest Service crews measured snow depth and Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) at established monitoring sites in the headwaters of the Scott River watershed, the forest service said in the announcement.
The survey results showed that snow depth was34.2% of the historical average, while the SWE measured was 33.4%.
Snowpack typically reaches its peak between late March and early April. February’s weather brought significant variability to the region. A mid‑month storm added to the snowpack, but an atmospheric river at the end of the month brought warm temperatures and heavy rainfall, reducing the snowpack’s gains.
Healthy Klamath Network: VA pilot program, partnering faith and mental health resources
Collaborating in Care – Ministry and Mental Health (CCMM) is a FREE four-hour, highly interactive, community training that is geared toward leaders of faith communities, mental health professionals, and community advocates.
Thursday, April 9, Noon – 4:30 PM
Oregon Institute of Technology
3201 Campus Dr. Klamath Falls, OR 97601
Goal #1: To consider how clergy, faith communities, mental health professionals, and mental health advocates can more effectively partner and offer care for Veterans and people with mental health struggles
Goal #2: To promote understanding between faith-based and mental health perspectives, equip attendees for collaboration by reducing. stigma associated with different forms of help-seeking and encourage a “no wrong door” attitude and approach toward care.
Goal #3: To engage in community-based discussions about how to recognize distress, create space for suffering, and get “upstream” with suicide prevention.
Registration Required. Please register at the following link or by following the QR code on the flyer.
https://varedcap.rcp.vaec.va.gov/redcap/surveys/?s=EHME47FP74FFDXAF
2026 Mr. Pelican Pageant at the Ragland!
One of the year’s most popular events for Klamath Union High School, Mr. Pelican is here once again. Mr. Pelican, a storied custom at KU since 2005, is a parody of Miss Klamath County and Miss City of Sunshine.The event will feature male Klamath Union students who will showcase why they should be this year’s Mr. Pelican. The event is at 7 p.m. on April 10th, 2026. Tickets are available at the Ross Ragland Theater Box Office and ragland.org.
10 & Under: $Free, Students: $10.00, Active Military: $10.00, Seniors (60+): $10.00, Adults: $15.00
Around the State of Oregon
NBA approves $4.25B sale of Trail Blazers to group led by Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon
The NBA announced on Monday that it’s approved the sale of the Portland Trail Blazers to a group led by Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon. Per the league, the sale is expected to close this week. Dundon will serve as the team’s governor.
Dundon reached an agreement to purchase the team from the estate of late owner Paul Allen in August. Per multiple reports, the team is being sold at a $4.25 billion valuation.
Allen, who co-founded Microsoft, previously owned the Trail Blazers from 1988 until his death in 2018. He purchased the team for $70 million in 1988. The team has since been run by his his estate, which is managed by his sister, Jody Allen.
Allen’s will dictated that the team be sold after his death and for the proceeds to go toward philanthropic ventures. Now that sale is final and approved by the NBA. It’s not clear what philanthropic efforts the proceeds will support.
Dundon, 54, purchased a majority stake in the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes in 2018, and the franchise has experienced success under his leadership.
The Hurricanes have made the playoffs in each year from 2019-25, making the conference finals three times. Prior to the 2018-19 season, the Hurricanes missed the playoffs for nine consecutive years.
Per the Oregonian, Dundon built his fortune in the supbrime auto lending industry as the co-founder and eventual CEO of Drive Financial, which later became Santander Consumer USA. He left the company in 2015 with more than $700 million and now runs the Dallas-based investment firm Dundon Capital Partners in addition to his sports ownership ventures. Dundon is also majority owner of Major League Pickleball and the PPA Tour.
SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) has approved rate adjustments for PacifiCorp residential customers that take effect April 1, 2026.
The changes reflect the outcome of PacifiCorp’s annual power cost adjustment (true-up for 2024), which was resolved through an agreement among PUC staff, PacifiCorp, and consumer advocates. They also incorporate several additional filings that either increase or decrease customer rates, with the net effect being an overall increase.
The combined effect of the power cost adjustment and other routine filings is expected to increase the typical residential customer’s monthly bill by about $5.64 or 4.1%. Actual impacts will vary based on individual energy usage.
Residential rate changes were delayed until April 1 under House Bill (HB) 3179, the FAIR Act, which prevents residential rate increases during the winter heating season (Nov. 1-March 31) to help reduce customer cost impacts. The overall change reflects updated actual costs for fuel, purchased power, wholesale market sales, and other power cost expenses for 2024 compared with the forecasted costs for that year.
A major tax bill is now sitting on the Governor’s desk—and it’s getting pushback.
Last month, Democrats in the Oregon State Legislature passed Senate Bill 1507. The proposal would raise taxes on local employers by an estimated $311 million.
Now, Republican gubernatorial candidate Christine Drazan is urging Governor Tina Kotek to veto it.
In a statement, Drazan said the state needs to focus on improving the economy—not adding more pressure on businesses. She warned that higher taxes could drive employers out of Oregon, saying residents deserve job security and a business climate where companies can grow.
The debate comes at a time when Oregon is seeing a spike in business struggles. Bankruptcies are at a 12-year high, up 25% over the past year. That follows a 33% increase in business taxes between 2019 and 2023.
Supporters and critics now wait to see what the governor will decide—and what it could mean for Oregon’s economy moving forward.
A renewed debate is taking shape in Salem over whether Oregon should expand cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including allowing agents into state prisons.
At the center of the issue is what happens when an undocumented immigrant completes a prison sentence. Should ICE be allowed to take that individual into custody before they are released, or should enforcement actions only occur after they return to the community?
Several states, including Minnesota and California, already allow ICE access inside prisons. Oregon Republicans say adopting a similar approach would improve public safety and accountability. However, Democratic leaders argue now is not the time to expand cooperation, citing concerns about trust with federal immigration authorities.
The topic was featured this week on “Your Voice, Your Vote,” with perspectives from both sides. Republican Alek Skarlatos said he plans to continue pushing related legislation in future sessions, while Democrats emphasized the need to rebuild trust with federal agencies before considering any changes.
Meanwhile, at the national level, a partial government shutdown is creating widespread disruptions. Airports across the country are experiencing long lines as travelers—many heading out for spring break—navigate security checkpoints staffed by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers.
The shutdown stems from a funding lapse affecting the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies, tied to ongoing disagreements in Washington over border policy and law enforcement reforms. Without a long-term spending agreement, key agencies remain underfunded following the expiration of a temporary measure in mid-February.
The impact is significant: more than 700,000 federal workers are either furloughed or working without pay, including air traffic controllers and law enforcement personnel. The Department of Homeland Security—along with the Coast Guard, Secret Service, FEMA, and parts of the Department of Defense and agricultural research programs—are all affected. Developments are ongoing.
Republican gubernatorial candidate, Christine Drazan, brought her 2026 campaign to Southern Oregon this week, hosting a meet-and-greet in Medford aimed at connecting directly with voters and addressing the region’s economic concerns.
Speaking to attendees, Drazan emphasized the urgent need for stronger job opportunities across Southern Oregon, framing economic stability as a top priority. “We need people to be able to afford their homes,” she said, pointing to rising costs and limited wage growth as ongoing challenges for local families.
Drazan also sought to position her campaign beyond partisan lines, telling voters the race for governor should focus on “outcomes, leadership, and listening,” rather than political affiliation. Events like the Medford gathering, she said, are central to that approach.
The appearance comes as Oregon’s 2026 gubernatorial race continues to take shape, with 24 candidates already filing for the primary—10 Democrats and 14 Republicans—setting up what could be one of the most crowded contests in recent state history.
Incumbent Governor Tina Kotek, first elected in 2022, has announced her bid for reelection. Her tenure is expected to be a focal point in the campaign, particularly around key issues such as education outcomes, homelessness, public safety, drug addiction, and statewide infrastructure projects.
Drazan, who previously challenged Kotek in 2022, formally entered the race last October and is considered one of the leading Republican contenders. Other notable GOP candidates include state Rep. Ed Diehl, former NBA player Chris Dudley, and Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell.
With early campaigning already underway, candidates are increasingly focusing on voter outreach and regional concerns as they work to define their platforms ahead of the 2026 primary.
Capital City Retro Fest Of 3 Nights Returns to Salem Waterfront
Award-Winning Festival Set for Three Nights of All-Ages Concerts at the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater
Salem, OR – March 30, 2026 – Capital City Retro Fest returns to Salem’s Waterfront Park for its second year, August 14–16, 2026 at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater. The three-night, all-ages tribute band festival follows a successful debut in 2025, where it was recognized by the Oregon Festivals and Events Association with an Ovation Award for “Music Festival of the Year.”
The 2026 lineup spans multiple eras of popular music, with each night featuring three tribute acts.
Friday, August 14, includes Red Not Chili Peppers [Red Hot Chili Peppers], Fighting Foos [Foo Fighters], and Infatuation Junkie [Alanis Morissette].
Saturday, August 15, features Hysteria [Def Leppard], Wild Boys [Duran Duran], and TribU2 [U2].
Sunday, August 16, closes the weekend with Taken By The Sky [Fleetwood Mac], Petty Fever [Tom Petty], and Hall & Bros [Hall & Oates + Doobie Brothers].
Produced by Harefest, LLC, the festival was created to offer a high-quality tribute concert experience in an all-ages setting. The event returns to the Gerry Frank Amphitheater following recent park improvements, which provide a central, accessible outdoor venue for live music in downtown Salem. New for 2026, the festival will include a dedicated “photo stage,” where attendees can step up with instruments and capture their own rock star moment.
“Last year exceeded expectations on a lot of levels,” said Jason Fellman, co-founder of Harefest, LLC. “Winning the Ovation Award was a strong indicator that this event connected with the community. Moving to a weekend ahead of the Oregon State Fair gives us more room to grow and makes it easier for people to plan around both events.”
Capital City Retro Fest will also feature food carts, misting tents, a free water refill station, family-friendly activities, and a central bar serving adult beverages for attendees 21 and over.
Festival Hours
Friday, August 14: Gates 6:00pm / Music 7:00pm
Saturday, August 15: Gates 6:00pm / Music 7:00pm
Sunday, August 16: Gates 4:00pm / Music 5:00pm
Tickets
On sale Friday, April 3 at 10:00am at aftontickets.com/capcityretro
Single-day: $30 advance ($25 early bird through April) / $35 day of show
3-day pass: $75 ($60 early bird through April 30)
Kids 12 and under: Free admission
More info available at capcityretro.com
More at harefest.com
Free help can ensure teenagers don’t miss tax refunds Oregon Department of Human Services’ partners offer tax help in-person or online
Free tax help is available to meet the needs of young people, some of whom may be earning income for the first time. This help is available through a network of community partners funded by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Tax Infrastructure Grant Program.
Downloadable file: FINALFINALFINALYouthTaxNewsRelease.pdf
Downloadable file: YouthTAXNewsreleaseSPMarch2026.pdf
What young people need to know
- Young people in their first jobs or working part-time may be owed a refund of some ̵ or even all ̵ of the taxes withheld from their paychecks.
- Even if a young person is claimed as a dependent on their parents’ or guardian’s return, they still file their own tax return to report their income.
- A correctly filed tax return by a child who is a dependent would not interfere with exemptions claimed by their parents or guardians on their returns.
The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program funds IRS-certified community organizations and Tribal governments that provide free tax filing help for youth and all people with low incomes.
The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program also funds projects through educators.
Where and how to get free help
The ODHS Tax Infrastructure Grant Program partners with Get Your Refund, a free online tax filing service through which individuals can have their return prepared or file it themselves using free tax software. Help is available in English and Spanish. To get started, go toGetYourRefund/OR.
In-person help is available through community organizations at ODHS-sponsored sites that
offer free tax return preparation through October 15. All give assistance in English and Spanish at a minimum. Those sites by location are:
- Beaverton, Gresham, Portland: CASH Oregon, 503-243-7765, info@cashoregon.org. CASH Oregon offers virtual help for people who live outside these areas.
- Bend, Redmond: Latino Community Association, 541-382-4366, info@latinocommunityassociation.org
- Corvallis, Eugene, Bend: Oregon State University, 541-737-3371, vita@oregonstate.edu
- Coos Bay, Roseburg: Moneywise Oregon, 541-670-5054, dan@moneywiseoregon.org
- Medford: United Way Jackson County, 541-864-5092, https://unitedwayofjacksoncounty.org/volunteer-income-tax-assistance/
For more information about the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/tax-help.aspx.
Redmond, Ore., March 31, 2026—Hayden Homes is proud to be Certified™ by Great Place To Work® for the 3rd year in a row.
The prestigious award is based entirely on what current team members say about their experience working at Hayden Homes. This year, 96% of team members said it’s a great place to work–39 points higher than the average U.S. company.
Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.
“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” said Sarah Lewis-Kulin, Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasized that Certification is earned solely by real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Hayden Homes stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.”
With an 89% participation rate, up 2% from the previous year, Hayden Homes saw strong engagement from team members in this year’s survey. Of those who participated, 96% of respondents agreed with the statement, “Taking everything into account, I would say this is a great place to work,” exceeding the company’s internal satisfaction goal of 95% and reinforcing its commitment to fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture centered around giving and community.
In addition to being Great Place To Work® certified for the past three years, in 2025, Hayden Homes was also recognized as the 11th Best Workplace for Women in the nation and 13th Best Workplace for Parents in the nation by Fortune and was placed 3rd on the 2025 Fortune Best Workplaces in Construction™ List and 21st on the 2025 Fortune Best Medium Workplaces™ List. With over 1 million employees surveyed nationally, these rankings reflect Hayden Homes’ dedication to providing opportunities for employees at all levels to grow and pursue meaningful careers.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this feedback from our team members,” said Patti Murphy, Vice President of Employee Experience at Hayden Homes. “Each of us brings a unique story and perspective, and it’s through coming together that we create something far greater than any one of us could on our own. We are committed to building a strong, connected community where our team members feel supported and fulfilled. Keeping that purpose at the center of our work is what continues to shape and strengthen our culture.”
Joining the Hayden Homes team means embracing a shared commitment to Give As You Go™, which helps shape and strengthen company culture. Team members are encouraged to use 16 hours of paid volunteer time each year to support causes that matter most to them, whether that’s assisting at local food banks, building bikes for foster children, or collecting school supplies donations for local families. This commitment reflects a broader focus on recognizing community needs and taking meaningful proactive steps that create lasting change and meaningful connections.
According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.
Learn more about Hayden Homes’ Great Place to Work certification.
The Oregon Department of Forestry is adding a new Multi-Mission Aircraft to boost its wildfire detection and emergency response across the state.
The $13.23 million investment includes $12 million in legislatively approved bonds from 2023 and $1.23 million from other funding sources. The new Twin Otter airframe replaces the agency’s Partenavia P.68 Observer aircraft, which served for more than 30 years.
The $7.8 million aircraft brings better endurance, range and payload capacity, letting it stay in the air longer and cover more ground. But the biggest upgrade is $5.4 million in advanced sensing technology and mission systems that turn the aircraft into an aerial intelligence platform. The aircraft is equipped with AI-enabled wide-area mapping, high-definition thermal imaging, augmented reality mapping software and night operations capability.
These tools help ODF spot and communicate emerging incidents faster, track fire behavior more precisely and maintain awareness during day and night operations.
Prescribed fire season has commenced in south-central Oregon, with fire managers from the Fremont-Winema National Forest, Wildland Fire Service, and Oregon Department of Forestry set to implement controlled burns across the region.
This practice is essential for enhancing forest health, improving wildlife habitats, and reducing hazardous fuel loads, thereby mitigating the risk of wildfires. As part of our ongoing dedication to safeguarding communities and natural resources, residents and visitors may observe smoke or flames in various public land areas over the coming weeks. The appearance of prescribed fires can vary based on forest type, vegetation density, specific objectives, and the duration since the last fire event.
All active prescribed fire sites will be clearly marked, and individuals may encounter increased fire personnel, equipment, and traffic in these zones. For the safety of both the public and firefighters, it is advised to avoid these areas when possible.
A schedule of potential burning locations for the spring season is available, with operations planned from March to June, contingent on weather and conditions.
OHCS lending products helped almost 1,000 Oregon households buy a home in 2025
Britt Festival Getting Ready for Summer
The Britt Music & Arts Festival is gearing up for their 2026 concert season with new additions to its lineup.
Among the newly announced acts are alternative rock band Modest Mouse, Southern rock group Whiskey Myers, and bluegrass favorites Greensky Bluegrass.
Fans can look forward to performances from Country artists Elle King and Brantley Gilbert, along with the legendary rock band Chicago, who will grace the Britt stage once again.
Comedy enthusiasts won’t be left out either, as fan-favorite comedians Jeff Dunham and Gabriel Iglesias are set for performances during the summer events. The group has also announced the second annual Britt Under the Stars Gala, a fundraising event to benefit its arts and education programming.
University of Oregon Raises Tuition for New Students
EUGENE, Ore. – The University of Oregon will increase tuition for incoming students for the third straight year after a unanimous vote by its Board of Trustees.
In-state tuition will rise 4.5%, while out-of-state tuition will increase by 3%. New full-time students will pay more than $14,500 a year for in-state tuition and over $44,500 for out-of-state.
Current students will not be affected due to a fixed-rate tuition guarantee introduced in 2020.
University leaders say the increase is necessary because of limited state funding, noting Oregon ranks near the bottom nationally in public higher education support. Some board members warned higher costs could discourage enrollment, especially among out-of-state students.
Officials also acknowledged the university relies heavily on non-resident tuition to help cover costs.
The Bureau of Land Management is enhancing access to the Lower Table Rocks trail by completing paving work on the Lower Loop Trail, which will necessitate the temporary closure of the trailhead, parking lot, and trail until mid-April.
This project represents the final phase of paving improvements that commenced last fall. The BLM anticipates that the paving will take approximately three weeks, with the trail set to reopen promptly upon completion. With over 50,000 visitors each year, the Table Rocks are among the most frequented hiking destinations in southern Oregon.
Meanwhile, the Upper Table Rocks Trailhead, located five miles from Lower Table Rock, remains accessible, and several alternative trails in the vicinity, such as the Jacksonville Woodlands Trail, Mountain of the Rogue, East Applegate Ridge Trail, and Jack-Ash Trail, are available for hikers.
Oregon has been identified as one of the least favorable states for practicing medicine, according to a recent report by WalletHub, a personal finance website.
The analysis evaluated all 50 states and Washington D.C. based on various criteria, including the number of hospitals per capita, the percentage of insured residents, and the anticipated number of physicians by 2032.
In this ranking, Oregon placed 44th overall. In contrast, Montana emerged as the top state for doctors, followed closely by Indiana. Notably, New York and New Jersey were found to be the least accommodating states for medical professionals.
A comprehensive proposal from the Bureau of Land Management to increase timber production across 2.5 million acres in Western Oregon is eliciting mixed responses in the Rogue Valley as the March 23 public comment deadline approaches.
The administration’s initiative seeks to amend current resource management plans to restore logging on O&C lands to historical levels, emphasizing the need for economic revitalization in rural areas and improved wildfire mitigation through domestic timber production. As the deadline nears, advocates from both sides are encouraging residents to submit their comments to the BLM National NEPA Register.
Documenting environmental and multiple-use concerns is a vital legal step for the public, ensuring that federal managers consider the balance between timber extraction, recreation, water quality, and habitat preservation.
WIC boosts shopping budgets for Oregon families, increases access to healthy foods statewide
March is National Nutrition Month. One of Oregon’s largest nutrition programs, Oregon Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), is marking the occasion by sharing its 2025 annual report. It highlights the program’s role in building healthy families and strong communities.
Key information in the report includes:
- In 2025, nearly $68 million in WIC benefits were spent at 483 authorized grocery stores and pharmacies across the state, an increase of almost 5% from 2024, when close to $65 million in WIC funds were distributed in Oregon. WIC-authorized stores must stock a minimum amount of specific healthy foods, improving access to nutritious options for the entire community. Oregon WIC also sets nutrition standards for food items sold statewide.
- The new WIC food package reflects the latest nutrition science and aligns with dietary patterns recognized globally. The changes bring increased variety, flexibility and choice, allowing families to honor cultural traditions and access healthy food options, including gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-free foods.
- WIC increases health access in rural communities. Nearly 37% of pregnant women in Oregon’s rural and remote areas participate in the program, and WIC has improved access by opening clinics in Gilliam County, Wallowa County and Grand Ronde, bringing services closer to home for more families.
The report comes at a time when some Oregon families are struggling to make ends meet with rising food costs. The 2026 Oregon Financial Score Card shows that three quarters of Oregon households have cut down on spending due to higher housing and food costs.
WIC plays a vital role in providing nutritious foods that support healthy pregnancies and the growth and development of babies and young children. The program helps families maintain their buying power because the WIC food packages supply a set amount of healthy foods each month, offering stability when grocery prices are high.
“WIC dollars go directly into Oregon communities. Families use their WIC benefits at grocery stores, pharmacies, farmers markets and farm stands, supporting local jobs, retailers, and farmers while providing nutritious foods,” said Oregon WIC Director Tiare Sanna, M.S., RDN.
The Farm Direct Nutrition Program is just one of the innovative programs highlighted in this year’s report, published March 1. The state-administered federal nutrition program allows participants to purchase fresh, locally grown fruit, vegetables and herbs directly from farmers at farmers markets and farm stands. In 2025, 40,600 WIC participants and 53,000 low-income seniors used benefits to buy produce through the WIC and Senior Farm Direct programs.
“It brightens my day when WIC participants shop at my farmers market booth with their Farm Direct dollars,” said Nicki Passarella of Storybrook Farm in Sandy. “Seeing a child’s eyes light up when they get to choose a vegetable is so heartwarming and encouraging. The impact of WIC Farm Direct is invaluable to me, to my farm business, and to Oregon’s farming community.”
WIC’s modern approaches to nutrition education and breastfeeding support are making a difference for families. Marion County resident Diane Smith shared how WIC supported her breastfeeding journey and her children’s nutrition.
“The information I have gotten from WIC has tremendously helped me. It’s amazing, and I recommend it to anybody—young moms and families that need assistance with nutrition or anything,” Smith said. “I’m so proud of myself for being able to breastfeed through my last two pregnancies because of the WIC program and nutrition program. It’s made me a stronger mom and my kids stronger, and I’m all around a better person because of it.”
Haven’t filed your taxes yet? Here’s what you should know
Salem, OR— Whether it’s where to find free tax help, how to track the status of your refund, or what refundable tax credits you’re eligible to claim, the Oregon Department of Revenue wants to make sure you have the information you need to file tax year 2025 tax returns before the April 15 deadline.
Through March 15, DOR has processed 937,000 electronically filed returns with more than half of the expected 2.2 million Oregon personal income tax returns yet to be filed. The department urges taxpayers not to wait until the last minute to file. If you have questions about filing you can find the information you need on the department’swebsitewith guidance addressing the most common issues included below.
File electronically
“The best advice we can give taxpayers is to be certain their return is complete and accurate, and to file their return electronically,” said Megan Denison, administrator of DOR’s Personal Tax and Compliance Division. “If they need help, free assistance is available at sites across the state, along with a variety of options to e-file for free.”
On average, taxpayers who file electronicallyand request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Distribution of refunds for e-filed returns began in mid-February. Due to the late receipt of tax form information from the IRS in late 2025, processing of paper-filed returns has been delayed until late March and refunds for paper filed returns will not start being issued until early April.
Taxpayers looking for the status of their refund for e-filed returns can use DOR’s Where’s My Refund? tool.
Mailing your return? Mail it early
Taxpayers who choose to file a paper return, should mail it early. The federal and state tax deadline is April 15, but due to changes at the U.S. Postal Service, returns mailed in after April 9 may not receive a postmark on time. Taxpayers who still want to mail their paper returns can take them to a local USPS office and request a postmark no later than April 15, 2026.
Paper returns can also be physically deposited in drop boxes available on both the east and west sides of the Department of Revenue Building in Salem, or outside the DOR offices in Portland, Eugene, Medford, and Bend. A drop box at DOR’s Gresham office is available during business hours.
Claim your “kicker”
The Oregon surplus revenuekicker is a refundable creditthat will either increase a taxpayer’s Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe. It is not sent to taxpayers separately as a check.
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? calculatoravailable on Revenue Online.
Free electronic filing options are available
Direct File Oregon: Taxpayers can use Free Fillable Forms to file their federal return and then use Direct File Oregon to file their Oregon personal income tax return directly with the state.
Now in its third year, Direct File Oregon is a free interview-based program and allows taxpayers the convenience and security of filing their Oregon Personal Income Tax return directly with the state of Oregon through Revenue Online. Nearly 4,700 taxpayers have already used Direct File Oregon this year.
Other free electronic filing options: Free guided tax preparation is available for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Using links from the department’swebsiteensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free. These free services work much like the popular pay to file programs.
Find free tax filing assistance
From IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites to Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) or AARP Foundation TaxAide locations, Oregon taxpayers needing free assistance have over 107 different places across the state where they can get free in-person help filing their taxes.
Free tax help is also available online through the United Way’sMyFreeTaxes program.
Make an appointment at a free tax help site by using the links for each organization on theDepartment of Revenue’s webpage, or consult the department’sinteractive map.
Check your eligibility and claim your refundable tax credits
Taxpayers should check their eligibility for a series of refundable tax credits for low-income workers and families. 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.
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC):The EITC is a fully refundable federal tax credit for people making up to $68,675 in 2025. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $8,046 on their federal tax return.
- Oregon Earned Income Credit: This refundable state tax credit is a percentage of an eligible taxpayer’s federal EITC. The maximum benefit for tax year 2025 is $966. The Oregon EIC is also available to taxpayers who have Individual Tax Identification Numbers (ITIN) rather than Social Security numbers.
- Oregon Kids Credit: This is a refundable state 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.
- Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC): Families who are eligible for the Oregon Kids Credit are also likely eligible for the refundable WFHDC, which helps low- to moderate-income families pay for the care of their dependents while they’re working, looking for work, or attending school.
💰 Nike Co-Founder Donates $1 Million to Republican Governor Candidate
Billionaire businessman Phil Knight has donated $1 million to the gubernatorial campaign of former NBA player Chris Dudley, according to state campaign finance records.
The contribution — reported Tuesday on the Oregon Secretary of State’s website — is the largest single donation to a Republican candidate for governor this year.
Dudley, a Republican candidate, played 16 seasons in the NBA, including six with the Portland Trail Blazers. He later became a businessman and philanthropist.
Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 16, Dudley was the first NBA player known to compete while managing the condition. For three decades, he has hosted a basketball camp in Oregon for children living with diabetes.
Knight’s donation is expected to significantly boost Dudley’s campaign as the race for governor intensifies with many candidates hoping to remove liberal incumbent Gov. Tina Kotek, who Oregonians have increasingly become unhappy with bad policies and the current economic and job climate in the state.
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 basis on 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.
Sky Hunters Takes Flight at the High Desert Museum During Spring Break
BEND, OR — Spring break kicks off this Saturday, March 21 at the High Desert Museum with special programs, new exhibitions and summer hours, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
The popular indoor flight demonstration, Sky Hunters returns to the E. L. Wiegand Pavilion in the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center. Visitors experience powerful predators close up as raptors fly just overhead, showcasing the birds’ agility and grace while learning about their lives in the wild. The program is daily from Saturday, March 21 – Saturday, March 28 at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm and is first come, first served. Tickets are $7 and available at Admissions on the day of. Museum members receive a 20% discount. Sky Hunters is made possible by Fly Redmond with support from the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy daily talks about High Desert flora and fauna, free with admission. These include the Nature Walk at 10:30 am, Otter Encounter at 12:30 pm and Mammal Encounter at 3:00 pm.
Spring break visitors will also be able to experience the Museum’s temporary exhibitions. The new, original exhibition Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration in the Spirit of the West Gallery invites visitors to discover the science, spectacle, and significance behind the giants that live among us. For many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980.
Blending history and geology with interactive storytelling and hands-on exploration, visitors will encounter lava rocks, a volcanic hazard map, and hear the rumble of a volcano. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/under-pressure.
Another exhibition on view in the Brooks Gallery is Soil Alive!, a subterranean journey into the world beneath our feet. Presented in English and Spanish, the exhibition beckons visitors underground to discover how soil is not just a bed of crunched up rocks and other materials.
Visitors who enter the exhibition hear the muffled subterranean sounds of animals and microorganisms in the soil. The family-friendly exhibition includes interactive experiences and hands-on activities that share how a complex network of organisms turns ordinary dirt into living soil. From a giant magnifying glass that points at a wall-sized digital illustration and illuminates hidden animals to helping a ponderosa sapling grow in a motion-activated digital experience, Soil Alive! digs into a busy and active universe. The exhibition closes on Sunday, March 29. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/soil-alive.
Other temporary exhibitions include Prophets – Paintings by Hilary Baker. The exhibit, located in the Desertarium Gallery, features 18 of Baker’s artworks depicting moths. Baker, who grew up in Los Angeles, lost her longtime home to the Palisades Fire in January 2025. It was then that she began painting moths, examining them as spiritual messengers, prompting visitors to pay more attention to moths large and small through bright, lavish renderings. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/prophets.
Drawn West: A History of Promoting Place, an original exhibition, explores a century of salesmanship, when artists and cartographers alike crafted an image of the West that depicted both fact and fiction. Featuring 50-plus maps, artworks and advertisement from the Museum’s extensive collections, visitors can take a walk through time and learn about the decades of western expansion, from the growth of cities and towns along railways in the High Desert to the first Pendleton Round-Up in 1910. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/drawn-west.
And Forest at Night reveals the sights and sounds of the forest when the moon is high and the stars are out. An immersive and interactive exhibition, Forest at Night takes visitors on a virtual tour, featuring insects, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. Visitors may gaze up at twinkling stars and learn about the constellations that guide migrating birds on their way through the High Desert. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/forest-at-night.
Throughout the week, the High Desert Ranch and Sawmill will be open from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm beginning Saturday, March 21 through Sunday, March 29 (excluding Monday, March 23). Experience history and jump in to lend a hand or ask about the many buildings and objects.
More information on visiting the High Desert Museum is available at highdesertmuseum.org/visit-bend-oregon.
The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2025 recipient of the Autry Public History Prize from the Western History Association and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.
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