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.
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Sunny, with a high near 76. Overnight, clear with a low of 46.
Tuesday
Clouds with a high near 82.
Wednesday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 74
Thursday
Sunny, with a high near 76.
Friday
Sunny, with a high near 77.
Saturday
Sunny, with a high near 67.
Sunday
Sunny, with a high near 68.
Today’s Klamath Falls Headlines
The Klamath Project Drought Response Agency and The Klamath Water Users Association is helping Klamath Project irrigators apply for financial assistance.
KPDRA is accepting applications until June 15. The program has up to $19.1 million available, with estimated payments of $300 to $350 per acre. It is designed to give irrigators another option as they plan for the coming season.
Late last week the Bureau of Reclamation informed local irrigators they were restricting irrigation to try to extend the limited amount of water available from Upper Klamath Lake through the irrigation season.
Local irrigation districts say the flows will be insufficient to provide irrigation needed to finish the growing season. Klamath Water Users Association office is located at 2312 South Sixth St., Suite A.
Oregon Health Authority issued a recreational use health advisory for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge due to the presence of a cyanotoxins above recreational use value.
People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the wildlife refuge where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion or inhalation of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.
OHA encourages people to visit Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy activities such as fishing, bird watching and canoeing. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.
Friday crews from Klamath County Fire District 1 responded to a reported structure fire near Highway 39 and Roberta Drive in Klamath Falls.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a vacant and dilapidated structure with heavy fire involvement throughout the first floor, second floor, and attic space. Fire operations were complicated by live power lines and a limited water supply in the area. Firefighters worked quickly to search the remaining structure for potential victims while simultaneously conducting fire attack operations. Due to fire conditions and structural instability, crews ultimately transitioned to a defensive strategy.
CITY OF KLAMATH FALLS STREET NOTICE
On Tuesday, June 2nd, Mozingo’s Tree Service will be closing Vine Avenue between Mitchell Street
and Division Street from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM. Any questions can be directed to Mozingo’s office
at 541-882-1676.
Klamath County Public Works – Major Work Week of June 1, 2026
Klamath County will have work crews at the following locations. Please use caution when in these
areas and watch for flaggers. If you are able to avoid the work zones, please use an alternate
route for your safety and the safety of Klamath County employees and our contractors.
Matney Way between Wong Road and Hill Road.
Traffic is limited to one lane over County Bridge 904-2 (Lost River), with a 10-ton weight limit in
effect. No semi-trucks are permitted.
ROAD CLOSED: East Langell Valley Road between Jones Road and Bunn Way – Starting
Monday April 20, 2026, at 7:00am through Friday September 11, 2026.
See attached map for detour route.
ROAD CLOSED: Falvey Road at the intersection of Highway 39.
Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will be closing Falvey Road to thru traffic. See
ODOT project webpage for more information:
https://www.oregon.gov/odot/projects/pages/project-details.aspx?project=22077
Spence Mountain – Fuel Reduction & Vegetation Management.
Fuel reduction and tree thinning work will begin Monday May 18, 2026, and is anticipated to end
Monday June 5, 2026. Work area locations include Spence Mountain Trailhead, Shoal water
Bay Trailhead, and various internal roadways. See attached map for approximate locations.
Harlan Drive, Rio Vista Way & La Marada Way – Cross Gutter Work.
Expect intersection closures with detour routes and daytime travel lane closures with Flaggers.
Homedale Road near Lockford Drive – Sidewalk Work.
Expect daytime travel lane and sidewalk closures with Flaggers.
Manhole Rehabilitation Work – South Suburban Sanitary District will be performing work at
various urban county road locations. Expect intermittent lane closures, delays, and active work
zones. Please be alert for flaggers, changing road conditions and follow posted traffic control.
In general, flagging stations will be set up at the end of the work zone and delays will be 0 to 20
minutes for the motoring public. Our goal is to minimize the delay to the motoring public. Other
minor work is occurring throughout the County, but we are only listing the major items in this
announcement. There may be adjustments of work schedules due to weather or other items
outside of the County’s control (breakdown of equipment, material/resource availability, etc.)
Please do not contact the County if you do not see work occurring, it could be finished already or
will be rescheduled. Klamath County Public Works and the Board of County Commissioners appreciate the motoring publics’ patience during the repair season for our local roads and bridges. If you have any
questions regarding work, please contact the Public Works Department at (541) 883-4696.
The Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries will provide Roosevelt City School and several Klamath County schools with $5,000 grants to update their library collections.
In total, eight schools in the Klamath Basin were among the 220 from 38 states to receive the funds.
Bonanza Jr./Sr. High School, Chiloquin Elementary, Ferguson Elementary, Henley Elementary, Malin Elementary, Shasta Elementary and Stearns Elementary,
Check Out ICE FLOOD!
While researching in her PhD studies, Klamath Falls native and former Klamath Community College student Karen Caverly-Molineaux came across a unique historical event.
Hollywood had come to Klamath Falls in the mid-1920s when silent films were in their heyday. Not only that, some big name actors of the silent era starred in it. Early in her doctorate studies, she discovered that a Hollywood film crew spent a few weeks in Klamath making the movie “Crashing Timbers” which would later be renamed “Ice Flood.”
It had established silent picture stars of the day, Viola Dana and Kenneth Harlan, who each had about 100 films to their credit. Sadly, many films of that era have been lost or simply disappeared. However, “Ice Flood” survives and can be viewed today on YouTube or via DVD disc. She went on to say that while they were here, the actors and the film crew participated in many different local events. They had contests, dinner and dancing. They even did a Valentine’s Day ball at the Pelican Hotel.” Later that same year, the Pelican was destroyed by fire.
Oregon Institute of Technology is proud to announce the launch of its new, fully online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program, officially approved to begin this summer.
The program is the first of its kind in Oregon, reflecting Oregon Tech’s continued commitment to meeting evolving workforce and professional needs. The Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program is designed to provide current and future dental hygiene professionals with the advanced knowledge, leadership skills, and research experience needed to expand their impact across the field.
Delivered entirely online, the program offers flexibility for working professionals while maintaining Oregon Tech’s rigorous, applied approach to learning. The program will begin offering new courses this summer, with additional coursework rolling out throughout the upcoming academic year.
Oregon Tech invites graduates, their families, and friends to gather at the Klamath Falls campus on June 13 beginning at 10AM to honor the Class of 2026.
The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Shereef Elnahal, President of Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), who took office in August 2025.
In his capacity as president, Dr. Elnahal manages a budget exceeding $6.2 billion and oversees more than 22,000 employees, making OHSU the largest employer in Portland and one of the most significant in Oregon. His leadership focuses on strategic planning, financial sustainability, and maintaining high standards across healthcare, research, and education to ensure the continued success of Oregon’s academic health center. Under his guidance, OHSU’s Knight Cancer Institute received a landmark $2 billion donation from Phil and Penny Knight and inaugurated the Vista Pavilion, a new inpatient facility dedicated to cancer care.
Ragland Arts Festival, June 20th
June 20th is the first Ragland Arts Festival from 10AM-2PM.
There will be vendors, art, music, food, and so much community fun. Join us in the Cultural Center for a day of fun, sunshine, and last minute shopping for Father’s Day.
This event is free to the public, but donations will be accepted. All proceeds from this event go to our Education Scholarship Fund. The Education Scholarship Fund helps ensure that no one is denied the opportunity to attend one of our camps or classes due to financial restraints.
TICKETS: FREE. Donations are accepted.
The YMCA of Klamath Falls will be having the annual Community Golf Tournament on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at Shield Crest Golf Course.
Sponsors are needed at $500, which includes one complimentary team of four players with carts, lunch, a tee box advertising sign and media recognition, and 18 holes of great golf.
Everyone is invited to enter and play with the tournament limited to the first 72 players. Tournament entry fee for individuals is $80 a person. All proceeds support scholarships for youth and families.
Call 541-884-4149 or 541-883-3977 to register or ask questions. Thank you from the YMCA!
5th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival Returns June 19-20
Free Family Fun, Live Music, Chili Cook-Off, Vendors, and More
CHILOQUIN, OR — The City of Chiloquin invites residents and visitors alike to attend the 5th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival on Friday, June 19, and Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Chiloquin Rodeo & Event Grounds.
This year’s festival is especially meaningful as Chiloquin continues celebrating its Centennial Year, marking 100 years since the city’s incorporation. The festival has grown into a popular, family-friendly summer event that brings together community members, local businesses, nonprofits, artisans, musicians, and visitors for two days of fun, entertainment, and community spirit.
Admission is free, and attendees can enjoy a wide variety of activities throughout the weekend, including:
• Live music performances throughout both days
• A farmers’ market and craft fair featuring local vendors and artisans
• Food vendors serving a variety of delicious options
• Giant water slides, bounce houses, and family activities
• The 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off will take place on Saturday
• A silent auction benefiting Chiloquin Visions in Progress (CVIP)
Festival-goers will enjoy a diverse lineup of musical entertainment featuring talented local and regional
performers. Visitors can also browse unique handmade crafts, artwork, specialty foods, and products from
vendors throughout Southern Oregon.
“The Chi-Town Family Festival is about bringing people together,” said Robert Cowie of the festival
committee. “Whether you’re enjoying the music, competing in the chili cook-off, supporting local vendors, or
simply spending time with family and friends, there’s something for everyone. We’re excited to welcome
visitors to Chiloquin and celebrate our community.”
The festival is made possible through the generous support of local businesses, organizations, sponsors,
volunteers, and community partners. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses wishing to
support the event and receive community recognition.
The Chi-Town Family Festival will be held at the Chiloquin Rodeo & Event Grounds, located just off Highway
97. Parking and admission are free. For additional information, vendor registration, sponsorship opportunities, music schedules, and event updates, visit: www.chi-townfamilyfestival.com
Events This Week
Looking for something fun and educational for the kids? The Klamath County Museum’s Kids Summer Program continues Saturday at 11 a.m. with “Field Guide to Geology.” This free monthly program gives children the chance to learn through hands-on activities, and each participant receives a free field journal to track their discoveries throughout the summer.
Saturday, Sky Lakes Medical Center will host its Classic Car Show and Chili Cook-Off from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check out an impressive collection of classic vehicles, sample delicious chili, or enter your own chili creation into the competition. Visit the Sky Lake Medical Center Facebook page for more event details.
Around the State of Oregon
Medford Police Investigate Shooting at In-N-Out; One Arrested
On Friday, May 29 at about 11:40pm, Officers responded to the IN-N-Out Restaurant on Crater Lake Highway on a report of shots fired.
Upon arrival, officers located a 19-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound, along with three other individuals outside a vehicle that had crashed into a tree in a nearby parking lot.
The preliminary investigation determined that the occupants of the vehicle had fled the area immediately following the shooting before losing control and colliding with the tree. The injured victim was transported to a local hospital, where he was treated and admitted for his injuries.
During the investigation, officers located and detained a 21-year-old male suspect in the Target shopping center parking lot. Detectives and forensic personnel responded to the scene and assumed responsibility for the investigation.
Following the investigation, 21-year-old Ivan Ortiz was arrested and lodged on charges of Assault in the First Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.
This investigation remains active. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Medford Police Department
Fire restrictions: Stay vigilant this summer to reduce human-caused wildfires
Statewide fire restrictions remain in effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington, and many local regions have additional restrictions in place. BLM leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of all active restrictions and closures as warmer weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest.
“Every visitor to public lands can take additional precautions to lower the risk of starting a fire,” said Kim Prill, BLM Oregon/Washington Acting State Director. “Just one spark can start a wildfire.”
Visitors should research their destinations in advance, as restrictions vary by location and jurisdiction. The use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns remain prohibited.
“Preventing human caused fires is one of the best ways we can all work together to keep our firefighters and our communities safe,” added Josh O’Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.
Many local restrictions address questions of when visitors can use power tools, what kinds of stoves or campfires are allowed, and what type of safety equipment to have on hand.
Vehicle Maintenance and Parking Safety
As roadside brush dries out, vehicles become a primary source of accidental ignitions. Drivers are urged to properly maintain their vehicles and avoid parking or idling on tall, dry grass. Even without a spark, the intense heat from a vehicle’s exhaust system or catalytic converter can ignite vegetation beneath the car in a matter of seconds. Motorists should stick to established roads, gravel turnouts, or cleared parking areas.
Safe Towing and Equipment Practices
Towing trailers or driving recreational vehicles requires extra vigilance during fire season. Motorists must ensure that tow chains are properly secured and not dragging on the pavement. Loose metal links striking the highway create a continuous stream of sparks that can easily ignite the roadside. Additionally, all off-highway vehicles, chainsaws, and portable generators operated on public lands should be equipped with a properly functioning spark arrestor to stop hot embers from escaping.
For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please seewww.blm.gov/orwafire.
ODHS shares update on SNAP work rule impacts as additional Oregonians remain at risk of losing food benefits
Salem, Ore. —Last month the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) warned that 6,948 people were at risk of having SNAP benefits close at the end of April due to federally directed changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work rules. Those closures and reductions have now taken effect. The average SNAP benefit for affected cases was about $287 per month, money that would otherwise have been spent on groceries in local communities across Oregon.
Based on average benefit amounts, these closures and reductions represent nearly $2 million in SNAP benefits that will not be spent in Oregon communities this month.
An additional 6,309 people are currently at risk of having SNAP benefits close or reduce at the end of May. Because these changes could take effect soon, some people may not be able to prevent a June benefit loss before the end of the month. However, people should still contact ODHS. Even if SNAP benefits stop and a person’s EBT card does not have June benefits on it, they may still be able to regain benefits by meeting work rules, qualifying for an exemption or reporting a change in their situation.
The federal bill HR1 significantly expanded SNAP work rules, increasing the number of Oregonians subject to time limits. Adults ages 18 to 64 without a child under age 14 in their SNAP household may now need to meet work rules to continue receiving benefits unless they qualify for an exemption.
People who do not meet work rules and do not qualify for an exemption can only receive SNAP for three months within a three-year period. Each month a person does not meet work rules is called a “countable month” that counts toward the three-month limit.
For some SNAP participants, the cost of meeting work requirements can be difficult to manage. While the average SNAP benefit for affected cases was about $287 per month, the average monthly SNAP benefit for one adult statewide is about $183. That means a single adult receiving SNAP would receive the equivalent of about $2.29 per hour for the time spent completing 80 hours of required activities each month, before accounting for transportation or other costs.
“We want people to know they still have options. If you have questions about your SNAP benefits or think work rules may apply to you, your best next step is to contact us. We’re here to help,” said Nate Singer, ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Director. OEP staff help people with ABAWD status learn if they are already meeting the rules, qualify for an exemption or need support in getting a plan in place to keep their food benefits.
ODHS has been working to connect with people before benefits stop. In March, approximately 20,000 people were notified that their SNAP benefits could close if they did not meet work requirements or qualify for an exemption. About 6,000 people connected with ODHS and were able to keep their benefits by qualifying for an exemption or meeting work requirements.
Some people who lost benefits may still qualify for an exemption but did not connect with ODHS before benefits closed.
If someone has lost SNAP benefits due to work rules, there are several ways they may be able to regain eligibility.
People may qualify again if they:
- Meet work requirements
- Qualify for an exemption
- Report changes in their situation that affect whether work rules apply
People who need to meet work rules can receive free employment and training support through partnerships between ODHS, the Oregon Employment Department and WorkSource Oregon.
These services can help with:
- Job search and applications
- Training and education programs
- Resume building and interview preparation
- Support services like transportation
ODHS encourages anyone who may be affected by work rules to contact the agency as soon as possible. Benefits do not restart automatically after they stop. People who lose benefits at the end of May should still contact ODHS in June. Their EBT card may not have June SNAP benefits on it, but ODHS can help them understand what happened and what steps they can take to regain benefits if they are eligible.
For more information about SNAP work rules and exemptions:
- English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
- Spanish: Oregon.gov/snapnormastrabajo
- ODHS ABAWD Team:
- Call: 1-833-947-1694
- Email: SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.
gov
For more information about SNAP benefits:
- Online: benefits.oregon.gov
- Call the ONE Customer Service Center: 1-800-699-9075
- In person or by phone: at any ODHS office
An effort to ban the killing of animals for food in Oregon has cleared a major hurdle on its path to the November ballot.
Supporters of Initiative Petition 28 have gathered enough signatures to qualify the measure for consideration. The proposal would make it illegal to intentionally injure or kill animals, effectively banning hunting, fishing, and many animal breeding practices in Oregon.
The petition drive began in 2024 and recently reached the required signature threshold. However, the measure is not officially on the ballot yet. The Oregon Secretary of State’s Office must first verify the submitted signatures before it can move forward.
Oregon’s classroom cell phone ban appears to be having a positive impact nearly a year after it was introduced.
Last year, Governor Tina Kotek signed an executive order requiring schools to limit student cell phone use during the school day. Districts across the state were required to implement policies by the start of the current school year.
Many schools use a two-strike system, giving students a warning for a first offense and confiscating the device after a second violation.
Teachers say they’ve already noticed improvements in the classroom. With fewer distractions, students are spending more time engaged in lessons and interacting with classmates. Educators report seeing more face-to-face conversations and less time spent focused on screens.
The restrictions apply not only to cell phones, but also to smart watches, tablets, and other personal devices capable of connecting to the internet.
Forest Service debuts new recreation mobile app
National Forests and Grasslands app available for download on iOS and Android
Washington, D.C., June 1, 2026 — To kick off Great Outdoors Month, the Forest Service is launching a new, single visitor-
For the first time the app provides the most complete and accurate
“Due to the sheer size and remote nature of our 165,000 miles of trails and more than 30,000 recreation sites, we know that mobile service can be limited once you reach your destination,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “We encourage everyone to download the National Forests and Grasslands app – your own pocket-sized Forest Service guide – to check trail conditions, download offline maps, and view safety alerts before your trip.”
With the app, users can design their own adventure by identifying and favoriting recreation
Downloading maps ahead of time allows users to access their location even in remote areas. Optional, map layers, including fire information
This debut will retire nearly 30 similar, outdated agency apps,
Download the app, explore your favorite trails and check out events happening during National Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
The National Forests and Grasslands app is available for download on Apple store for iOS and Google Play for Android.
Deadline for temporary rent and utility assistance through ReOregon is June 30
SALEM, Ore. — The deadline for Intermediate Housing Assistance (IHA)for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds is coming soon. Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) administers IHA, which provides temporary rent and utility assistance for renters who lived in the disaster-affected counties of Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, or Marion at the time of the wildfires and have a verified loss.
Survivors have until June 30 to apply for the program, which has expanded eligibility, including higher incomes, so more households can get help. Assistance may last for up to 24 months or until the program’s funding is fully spent.
OHCS encourages any interested folks to reach out to a local community action agency to find out more and get started on an application.
“IHA provides a vital need for renters who are also wildfire survivors to help keep them stably housed as they figure out their permanent housing solution,” said Shannon Marheine, director of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at OHCS. “We encourage anyone who is eligible and hasn’t yet applied to do so as soon as possible. If you know someone might benefit from this program, please spread the word.”
IHA is part of a suite of wildfire recovery programs called ReOregon intended for survivors of the 2020 Labor Day Disasters and is funded by a $422 million Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery to support long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.
So far, OHCS and its partners have successfully served 401 households with the IHA program.
To learn more about IHA and other ReOregon programs, visit OHCS’ website.
About Oregon Housing and Community Services
OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income.
Residents in Medford will soon receive energy generated by Oregon’s first floating solar panels through the state’s Community Solar Program.
More than 1,700 panels on floating platforms atop a Medford Irrigation District reservoir will generate power intended to cut costs for the district, the city and about 60 homes in Jackson County. Kyle Petrocine, program manager at theEnergy Trust of Oregon, one of the administrators of Oregon’s Community Solar Program, said people can subscribe online to community solar projects across the state.
Customers pay for a subscription and receive credits on their utility bills, lowering overall costs. Petrocine said low-income subscribers can get discounted subscription rates and save up to 40% on their power bills. He said several similar projects are being considered in the Rogue Valley and other parts of Oregon.
The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) has denied PacifiCorp’s request for an interim rate increase while the Commission conducts a full review of the utility’s general rate case filing.
PacifiCorp is asking to raise overall customer revenues by $170.7 million, or 8.6 percent, in its general rate case. As part of that filing, PacifiCorp sought a temporary 2.8 percent increase starting June 4, 2026, saying it was needed to address financial pressure and concerns about its credit ratings.
If approved, the interim increase would have reduced the size of possible rate changes in 2027 and shifted the timing of those changes from April to July 2027. After reviewing PacifiCorp’s filing for interim rates, the Commission did not find justification to approve the interim rate request.
The Commission will investigate the general rate revision request under the standard 10-month suspension. The review will continue through 2026, with a final decision expected in March 2027.
A Romanian National Unlawfully Residing in the United States Sentenced to Federal Prison for Defrauding Elderly Victims
A Romanian national unlawfully residing in the United States was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for defrauding elderly victims by stealing their bank cards and taking money from their bank accounts.
Rexona Caldararu, 34, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release.
According to court documents, beginning in the summer of 2023 and continuing through the summer of 2025, Caldararu and her co-conspirators would memorize the debit card pin numbers of elderly victims as they checked out at the grocery store. Caldararu or one of her co-conspirators then followed each victim back to the parking lot, told the victim they dropped cash and insisted on helping place the cash back in their wallet while at the same time removing their debit card. Caldararu and her co-conspirators would then proceed to the victim’s bank and remove as much money as possible and sometimes also use the debit card to make purchases. Caldararu defrauded 12 victims from the District of Oregon and elsewhere and stole more than $73,500. Caldararu had been previously arrested for similar conduct throughout the country, in the United Kingdom, and in France.
On Oct. 7, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 12-count superseding indictment charging Caldararu and her co-conspirators. On Jan. 22, 2026, Caldararu pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.
FREE FISHING DAYS! Everyone can fish, clam and crab for free in Oregon on Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7, 2026.
No fishing/shellfish licenses or tags/validations are required on these days (meaning you do not need a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement, Ocean Endorsement or two-rod validation where two rods are allowed).
Both Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish for free. Oregon State Parks also offers free parking on Saturday, June 6. All other fishing regulations apply including closures, gear restrictions, bag limits, and size restrictions.
The Oregon State Marine Board, in partnership with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will not require non-motorized boat operators to have a waterway access permit in conjunction with free fishing, clamming and crabbing days. In 2019, when the Waterway Access Permit program was approved by the Oregon Legislature, with an exemption for permit requirements on ODFW-designated Free Fishing Days. In 2025, the program was expanded, requiring all lengths of non-motorized boats to purchase a waterway access permit when operating a boat on the water..
BLM celebrates Freedom 250 with public events across Oregon
The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence through three public events across Oregon in 2026. The events foster a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past, the beauty and value of public lands, and the work it takes to sustain the health and productivity of these lands for the use and enjoyment of generations to come.
The events are part of the national Freedom 250 commemoration and also recognize the BLM’s 80th anniversary of public land stewardship.
Featured Freedom 250 Events:
- Oregon Trail Days – Baker City, Ore.
When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT
Where: Geiser-Pollman Park, Baker City, Ore.
The signature Freedom 250 event for BLM Oregon/Washington, Oregon Trail Days transforms Geiser-Pollman Park into an immersive Oregon Trail experience featuring wagon rides, storytelling, live demonstrations, music, crafts, and games.
The free, family-friendly celebration highlights the role public lands play in preserving the landscapes and stories tied to America’s westward expansion. Additional programming will also take place at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center throughout the weekend.
- Wood River Wetland Volunteer Day – Near Klamath Falls, Ore.
When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT
Where: Wood River Wetland, approximately 30 miles north of Klamath Falls, Ore.
This Freedom 250 volunteer event invites the community to assist with invasive weed removal and restoration work on public lands.
The event highlights the continued role Americans play in caring for public lands through volunteerism and stewardship.
- Victorian Holiday Celebration – Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT
Where: Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, near Newport, Ore.
This coastal Freedom 250 event connects visitors to Oregon’s maritime history through a Victorian-themed holiday celebration at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.
Activities may include caroling, historical parlor games, ornament crafts, interpretive storytelling, and live music.
As a dedicated custodian of America’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, the Bureau of Land Management in Oregon and Washington proudly celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence with the nation.
From iconic landmarks like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to the historic Oregon Trail, BLM-administered public lands represent the spirit of the nation’s foundational principles. These events honor stories of exploration, resilience, stewardship, and public service woven throughout America’s history.
SNAP interviews will be required for all households starting June 1st
Starting June 1, 2026, all SNAP households must complete an interview when they apply for or renew their monthly food benefits.
This change returns SNAP to standard federal rules, which require interviews for all applications and renewals. These rules help make sure benefits are accurate and reflect each household’s current situation. An interview must be completed before benefits can be approved.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, some households were allowed to skip renewal interviews. This temporary flexibility ends May 31, 2026.
This includes households that previously did not need an interview, such as those where:
- All adults are age 60 or older or meet the SNAP definition of disability, and
- No one in the household has income from work
For some people, this may be the first time they complete a SNAP interview when renewing their benefits.
Interviews are a standard part of SNAP. They help:
- Confirm information
- Prevent errors
- Make sure people receive the correct benefit amount
- Connect people to the full benefits and services they may qualify for
What this means for people
People applying for or renewing SNAP benefits will need to complete an interview before their benefits can be approved or renewed.
“These updates help make sure people receive the correct SNAP benefits for their current situation,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, SNAP Director at ODHS. “We know adding another step may be challenging. Our staff are here to help answer questions and support people in the way that works best for them. Completing the interview and providing documents when requested helps us process benefits correctly and connect people to the full amount they qualify for.”
What people can do now
- Make sure ODHS has your current contact information
- Watch for mail, email, text messages or phone calls from ODHS about your interview
- Respond to messages from ODHS to avoid delays
- Connect with ODHS in the way that works best for you—online, by phone or in person
Learn more about SNAP at Oregon.snap.gov
Ways people can contact ODHS
- Online: Through a ONE Online account
- By phone: Call 800-699-9075 or 711 (TTY), relay calls welcome
- In person: Visit a local office (find one online)
- By Mail: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309
About SNAP in Oregon
SNAP is a cornerstone of Oregon’s fight against hunger, helping more than 1 in 6 people in Oregon, approximately 27 percent of households, afford groceries. This includes children, working families, older adults, and people with disabilities. Every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 to $1.80 in local economic activity. SNAP drives an estimated $1.6 billion into the Oregon economy each year.
Oregon Department of Forestry trains, deploys adults in custody firefighting crews for quick wildfire response
Molalla, Ore.—Hoses, chainsaws, Pulaskis and other tools of the firefighting trade were in the hands of motivated adults in custody (AICs) this month as Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) experts trained 37 AICs from the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility and more than 100 assigned to the South Fork Forest Camp.
“We’ve been looking forward to fire season all year,” said Kelsie Martin, an AIC at Coffee Creek. “This will be my second-year volunteering for and going through the training. Nearly all the skills we learn here are transferable to life after we get out. It’s not just the hands-on stuff either—we get to practice responsible leadership and team building. However, the main thing the training and actual firefighting gives us is meaning and purpose.”
Coffee Creek typically has three 10-person crews trained,ready, andon rotation throughout fire season.
“The crews are key to keeping our IA (initial attack) robust,” said Kyle Koonce, ODF’s Santiam Unit Permanent Forest Officer and coordinator of the training for the Coffee Creek crews at the Molalla Office. “We typically have two-to-three engines respond to a fire start, then the hand crews come in and finish lining the fire helping to keep them small. This allows our engines to get back online ready for the next fire start.”
The hand crews are also key to what wildland firefighters call post-fire rehabilitation.
“For a 15-acre fire we might have nearly a mile of hose out there,” said Koonce. “These crew will spend a half to a whole day just emptying and rolling up fire hose. Again, this frees up critical resources like our engines to go after other fires.”
The AIC crews do everything a typical contracted firefighting crew does with one main restriction.
“We only deploy within a 2-hour drive of the facility in Wilsonville,” said Sgt. Patrick Forman, a Department of Corrections officer and certified crew boss. “We still operate under the same standards as any other crew with a 16-hour day, the difference is we may be travelling four hours.”
That restriction doesn’t limit their effectiveness or the value they provide to local communities.
“2024 was the first year I volunteered to be part of a crew,” said Jody Warren, who is back for her third fire season. “We went to the Lee Falls Fire (where the community of Cherry Gove was evacuated) and it was very emotional for me since I grew up in the area. It gave me a chance to give back to a community I took from. It gave me such purpose that now I want to pursue a career in firefighting when I get out in 10 months.”
The women train year-round to get in shape and stay fit for fire season.
“Every weekend, we would do training and every weekend, no matter the weather, these women would choose not to sleep in, but to get out and get after it,” said Foreman, who along with Koonce has been with the program from the beginning.
2026 marks the 10-year anniversary of ODF and DOC working together to train Coffee Creek adults in custody.
The program is so popular they had 110 women apply this year but could only accept 27.
“Many were not medically cleared, and some were not accepted to participate for other reasons,” said Foreman. “Otherwise, we might have nine or 10 crews instead of three.”
The 40-hours of training includes morning classroom sessions, and then the afternoons are hands-on.
“We decided to break up the classroom work, so we have a tools and equipment day, a pumps and hose lay day, a day-long chain saw course, then one day in the use of chain saws, then a field day the last day that incorporates all the lessons and simulates a typical day on a fire,” said Koonce.
The AICs also do a series of firefighting courses: S-130 (Wildland Firefighting), L-180 (Human Factors in the Wildland Fire Service), and S-190 (Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior) that, along with the week-long training, gets them a certification.
For 75 years, DOC and ODF have jointly run the South Fork Forest Camp (SFFC) in the middle of the Tillamook State Forest. At SFFC, the AICs get the same training just in a slightly different format. They have two longer days of classroom training and two hands-on field days. SFFC provides 12 crews that are ready for fire season.
In addition to crews from Coffee Creek and South Fork, ODF also deploys a smaller number of AIC firefighters from DOC’s Santiam, Deer Ridge, and Snake River Correctional institutions as well as the Powder River Correctional Facility.
No matter which facility they come from, ODF uses the firefighters strategically during fire season.
“We have been prepositioning crews ahead of predicted severe weather events for several years,” said Koonce. “This cuts down on response time and that allows us to spend more time with initial attack rather than travelling.”
Even though it takes time and resources for ODF to support AIC firefighting programs, the department sees many benefits.
“These programs we run training and using AIC crews have given us more firefighting resources and, as a bonus, provides our seasonal staff an opportunity to lead and teach that they likely might not get otherwise until later in their career,” said Koonce. “From the ODF perspective, everything about AIC crews are a win-win.”
Corrections also confirms the mutual benefits of the cooperative firefighting program.
“I know of at least eight former AIC that were part of the program that got jobs with firefighting contractors in just the last year,” said Foreman. “How do you put a price on people finding purpose and meaning while with DOC then leaving the system and becoming working, productive members of society?”
Visitors planning to explore Oregon’s state parks this summer should be aware of new regulations that have been implemented this year. Notably, several parks have prohibited drone usage due to environmental concerns, although permits can be obtained for flying in non-restricted areas.
Additionally, it is crucial to adhere to campfire safety guidelines, ensuring that fires are completely extinguished after use, as certain regions may impose total fire bans later in the season based on assessments from local and state fire agencies.
Furthermore, an increasing number of parks are now charging day-use parking fees, and a more stringent cancellation policy for reservations will be enforced, as noted by Lauren Wirtis from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For further details on these regulations, please visit the department’s website.
Oregon Utilities Promote Wildfire Awareness: Get Ready for Fire Season by Preparing Now and Staying Informed
Power companies in the northwest are urging residents of Oregon to stay prepared as we enter this fire season.
encourage Oregonians to prepare for wildfire season. Everyone has a part to play this summer in keeping our communities safe.
Resources to help Oregonians prepare for wildfire season are available at wildfire.oregon.gov, including guidance on staying informed, evacuation planning and creating defensible space to help prevent wildfire.
PGE and Pacific Power share these additional tips on ways to stay safe and be prepared this fire season.
Have a plan
- Consider relocating with a friend, family member or shelter, especially if medication or treatment of a medical condition requires electricity.
- Businesses should communicate their outage-response plans to key employees, plan for workarounds to computers and cash registers and make a plan to bypass electronic door locks.
- Plan for livestock water needs in case well pumps lose power.
- Know how to open and close electric garage doors and security gates.
- Learn how to protect home and business electronics and appliances against data loss and surge damage when power is restored.
Make an outage kit
Prepare your home and businesses by making an outage kit to use in case wildfire leads to a power outage.
- Be sure to include shelf-stable food, water for people, pets and livestock, medications, flashlights, batteries and solar or car chargers for electric devices. Keep ice packs or frozen water in the freezer to help keep food cold until ice is available.
- Outage kits should also include flashlights or camp lights for all areas, including restrooms, battery-powered or hand-crank radios for information, battery-powered fans, extra batteries, car chargers for cell phones and electric devices, bottled water and emergency phone numbers.
- Businesses should prepare to minimize disruption, keep employees safe and protect equipment.
Stay informed
Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you receive up-to-date wildfire information:
- Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
- If you rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment, enroll in your electric provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available, to receive proactive communications about outages. Make a backup plan with your doctor and other medical providers.
- Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.
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