JCSO Case 23-4725

ALTURAS, Calif. – The United States Marshals Service led Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force (PNVOTF) tracked down and arrested a wanted Central Point man hiding out in Alturas, California on November 25. The suspect had a felony warrant following a Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) investigation into possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

U.S. Marshals arrested Larry Lynn James Sr., 64, of Central Point, Ore., for six counts of first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse, and four counts of second-degree encouraging child sexual abuse. James is lodged in the Jackson County Jail.

Investigations led the task force from Central Point to Klamath Falls, and finally to rural Alturas, Calif. U.S. Marshals spotted James’ vehicle and conducted a traffic stop where he was arrested without incident. Modoc County Sheriff’s Office assisted.

The arrest originated from a search warrant SOCET served December 7, 2023, at a residence in the 6500 block of Blackwell Road in rural Central Point. SOCET served the warrant after discovering numerous CSAM images were uploaded from the residence. SOCET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies and detectives, and Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) investigators.

During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which were forensically examined by SOHTCTF for further evidence of child exploitation. A tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children started the investigation, which led to subpoenas, followed by the search warrant at the residence, and the U.S. Marshals arrest.

PNVOTF includes personnel from the U.S. Marshals, JCSO, and Central Point Police Department. The task force specializes in locating and arresting fugitives wanted for offenses including, but not limited to, murder, assault, sex crimes, failure to register as a sex offender, firearm violations, and probation violations.

SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, Medford Police Department, Oregon Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), as well as prosecutors from our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson and Josephine County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD. There is no further information available for release.

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RELEASE DATE: December 11, 2025

REPORTING DEPUTY:  Undersheriff Travis Snyder

INCIDENT: In Custody Death

INCIDENT DATE: December 10, 2025

REPORTING DEPUTY: Undersheriff Travis Snyder

DETAILS: On Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at approximately 11:45pm during regular cell checks, a Josephine County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Deputy discovered Adult in Custody, 50-year-old Nathan Adams, unresponsive in his cell. The Deputy immediately began life saving measures with the assistance of other staff until American Medical Response (AMR) arrived.  AMR continued life saving measures, but unfortunately Nathan was pronounced deceased.  Next of kin has been notified.

Per standard protocol to use an outside agency, the Oregon State Police was contacted to investigate the death.  There were no indications of foul play.

No further details are being released at this time.

Klamath Falls, OR — Interim Fire Chief Brent Knutson and Klamath County Fire District 1 personnel formally recognized firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs on December 2nd for their exceptional performance during a structure fire on November 14, 2025—an incident in which their actions directly contributed to saving a life.

Crews arrived on scene in under four minutes from the initial 911 dispatch. Upon arrival, firefighters conducted a rapid size-up and immediately located and removed a critically injured resident trapped inside the burning home. Within just over five minutes of the rescue, the patient was en route to Sky Lakes Medical Center and soon after transferred to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) for advanced care.

These actions were executed under deteriorating and hazardous conditions. Working as a coordinated team, responders carried out a swift rescue, initiated immediate medical care, and ensured that advanced life-saving interventions began without delay. Because of their decisive action, discipline, and professionalism, a life that might otherwise have been lost remains with us today.

“Our KCFD1 team delivers outstanding service every single day, but what occurred on November 14 rose above even their customary high standards,” stated Interim Chief Knutson. “Their actions reflect the very best of what this profession stands for — courage under pressure, commitment to each other, and dedication to the people we serve. They didn’t just perform their duties; they lived out the oath to protect life, no matter the risk.”

Klamath County Fire District 1 commends all personnel involved for their professionalism, bravery, and service. Their actions on November 14 are a reminder of the importance of training, preparedness, and the unwavering dedication required in emergency services.

Marion County, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025)- On Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 2:30 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 99E, at the intersection with Quinaby Road NE, in Marion County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Dodge Charger, operated by Juan Santiago Sandoval (30) of Woodburn, was stopped on Quinaby Road NE at the intersection Highway 99E when it turned northbound onto the highway. The Dodge entered the path of a southbound Yamaha XJ650 motorcycle, operated by Xander Ashton Colter (22) of Kiezer, causing a side impact collision.

The operator of the Yamaha (Colter) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Sandoval) and passenger, Ricardo Alvarez Acosta (27) of Woodburn, were reportedly uninjured.

The operator of the Dodge (Sandoval) was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. Impairment is considered a primary contributor to the crash. The investigation is on-going.

OSP was assisted by the Marion County Sheriff's Office, Salem Fire Department, and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Update: Direction of Buick LaCrosse changed from westbound to eastbound.

Douglas County, Ore. (Dec. 11, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 5:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 38, near milepost 22, in Douglas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Buick Enclave, operated by David Michael Lawson (48) of Elkton, entered the westbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a westbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Kevin Morgan Leiser (65) of Vancouver (WA). The collision caused the Buick Enclave to spin uncontrollably in the roadway, where it was struck by an eastbound Buick LaCrosse, operated by Krystal Richelle Jacks (53) of Elkton, before rolling and coming to rest on its side.

The operator of the Buick Enclave (Lawson) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Leiser) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Buick LaCrosse (Jacks) was reportedly uninjured.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by Scottsburg Fire and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Umatilla County, Ore. (Dec. 15, 2025)- On Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 5:13 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 395A, near milepost 2, in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a pedestrian, Tony James McCorkindale (39) of Pendleton, was struck by a northbound Scion xB, operated by Jose Trinidad Mariano (37) of Hermiston, while crossing the highway in an unlit area.

The pedestrian (McCorkindale) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Scion (Mariano) was reportedly uninjured.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Hermiston Police Department, Umatilla County Fire District 1, and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Lincoln County, Ore. (10 Dec. 2025) – Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public's help to locate the person(s) responsible for the waste of one cow elk in Lincoln County near Waldport.

On November 28, 2025, Fish and Wildlife troopers responded to a report of a dead cow elk in the Alsea Unit within the Siuslaw National Forest. The cow elk was found in a remote area near the end of U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Road 3462, off the main USFS 58 Boundary Road. The entire cow elk had been shot and left to waste. Additionally, the intestinal remains of a bull elk were discovered nearby, indicating that someone had likely shot and taken a bull elk from the same area around the same time.

The investigation determined the elk were most likely shot sometime between November 22 and November 24.   

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, call OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number SP25-482212.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration among the Oregon State Police, the Oregon Hunters Association, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Oregon Wildlife Coalition, the Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information that leads to an arrest or citation for the unlawful take/possession, or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information that leads to an arrest or citation for the unlawful take/possession, or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining a hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as "threatened" or "endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information, visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

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About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state's roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon. 

REDMOND, Ore. - The Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (OYCP) held its graduation ceremony for Class 70 on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, for 160 Cadets who completed its 22-week program. The graduation ceremony took place at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. OYCP is an alternative high school operated by the Oregon National Guard, located in Bend, Oregon.

“Today, 160 cadets will walk across the stage thanks to the collaborative effort of the Youth ChalleNGe staff, the Oregon National Guard, the Department of Education, the Oregon Legislature, the Governor's Office, our advisory board, and the Deschutes County community,” said Frank Tallman, Director of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program. “The growth and transformation you see in the cadets over these past five months is no accident. It’s a direct reflection of their connection, passion, and commitment.”

The program offers at-risk students a second chance to earn credits. It also lets participants re-enter high school, graduate on time with their peers, or graduate from OYCP with a state-accredited high school diploma.

In delivering his welcome message as the guest speaker for the ceremony, Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny congratulated them on their accomplishments over the past five months, but also addressed their future.

“Today is not the end. It’s a transition point. It’s an important transition point; nevertheless, academically, each of you followed the pathway in your past, in your own situation, and each situation is unique,” he said, reminding each cadet of the journey that brought them to OYCP. “Whether rebuilding credits, or accomplishing a GED certificate, completing your high school graduation, or following other academic plans…you did the work, you met the requirement, and earned being here today. That's super important, and congratulations to each of you.”

The mission of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program is to provide opportunities for personal growth, self-improvement, and academic achievement for high school dropouts, teens who are no longer attending school, and those who are academically struggling. This is achieved through a highly structured, non-traditional environment that integrates training, mentoring, and a variety of educational activities.

In 1999, the Oregon National Guard established the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (OYCP) in Bend, Oregon, as an intervention initiative aimed at helping teens who had either dropped out of high school or were at risk of not graduating. The term "at-risk" refers to students who might not complete their high school education. To support these at-risk students, the Department of Defense invested in the OYCP's challenge model, which focuses on youth development and community outreach.

Attendees must be between 15 and 18 years old, be legal residents of the U.S. and Oregon, and be academically behind in high school credits or at risk of not graduating. OYCP can be reached via their website at https://www.oycp.com or by calling 541-317-9623.      

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Released photos:

251210-Z-CH590-1103: Cadet Larson M. Szulc, Student Body President of Class 70 for the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program, delivers opening remarks at the graduation ceremony for Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the opportunity to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1111: The Oregon Youth Challenge Program, Graduating Class 70, stands as the Color Guard enters for their graduation ceremony at the Fair & Expo Center, Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, offering at-risk students the opportunity to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1117: A group of Cadets led the singing of the National Anthem for their graduation ceremony for Class 70 for the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program on Dec. 10, 2025, held at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1127: Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny delivers the welcoming address as the guest speaker during the Oregon Youth Challenge Program Graduating Class 70 at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon, on Dec. 10, 2025. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1138: Several Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program cadets are recognized for their outstanding achievements during the graduation ceremony for Class 70 for the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program, held at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon, on Dec. 10, 2025. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1145: Frank Tallman, Director of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (left) and Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny (right) pauses for a photo with Cadet Jennifer  Gil-Rodriguez as she received her award as the Class Valedictorian during the OYCP Graduation of Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, held at the County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1146: Frank Tallman, Director of the Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (left) and Oregon Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny (right) pauses for a photo with Cadet Julissa Espinoza Gonzalez as she received her award for Overall Outstanding Cadet of the Company during the OYCP Graduation of Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, held at the County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the chance to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251210-Z-CH590-1335: Cadet Yazlyne Martinez celebrates with her family and friends after the graduation ceremony for the Oregon Youth Challenge Program Class 70 on Dec. 10, 2025, at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center in Redmond, Oregon. OYCP is the Oregon National Guard's alternative high school in Bend, providing at-risk students the opportunity to graduate from high school or meet other academic requirements and life goals. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management continues a highly successful prescribed burn season, having treated more than 18,000 acres of public lands since the beginning of September. These efforts reduce hazardous fuels, improve wildlife habitat, and build more resilient landscapes across the region.

“BLM fire staff have stayed prepared, so we’re ready to capitalize on windows with the safest burning conditions,” said Michael Solheim, fire management specialist. “We’ve been waiting for rain and for drought conditions to gradually improve. These conditions are essential to executing treatments effectively and maintaining our commitment to protect communities and restore landscape resilience.”

Prescribed burning is one of the most effective tools land managers have to reduce excessive vegetation and restore native ecosystems. This season’s burns have helped return nutrients to the soil, stimulate new plant growth, and maintain open spaces, while also supporting a sustained yield of timber and forage for cattle.

Many landscapes in Oregon and Washington have evolved with fire, making it a vital, natural process. Through careful application, prescribed burning helps maintain watershed health, protect water quality, and sustain the biodiversity that characterizes these fire-adapted ecosystems.

Crews rely on detailed weather monitoring, fire-modeling tools and careful planning to ensure burns are conducted safely and effectively. The BLM works closely with rural fire departments, federal and state agencies, and nonprofit partners throughout the year to focus on critical work.

“We’re grateful to our neighbors for supporting this work,” said Solheim. “Prescribed fire requires patience, especially when smoke is visible, but it’s an investment in long-term safety and healthier public lands.”

For more information about prescribed fire and ongoing fuel reduction efforts, visit the BLM’s website.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

A two-day training conference in Bend will offer safety and health training for workers in the residential, commercial, and industrial construction industries, as well as insights for employers about how to address hazards. The Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit, held Monday-Tuesday, Jan. 26-27, 2026, will engage attendees about everything from fall protection, ladders, and scaffolds to excavations, electrical systems, and underground utilities.

The event will feature the OSHA 10-hour training for construction, training in work zone safety and flagging, and first-responder training. Certifications and recertifications will be available. Attendees will have access to continuing education credits, including credits through Oregon’s Construction Contractors Board and Landscape Contractors Board.

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health (Oregon OSHA), a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, encourages employers and workers to attend the annual Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit at the Riverhouse Lodge Convention Center in Bend. Oregon OSHA is one of several partners sponsoring the event.

The event’s keynote presentation, “The Undeniable Appeal of Risk,” will be delivered by Rachel Walla-Housman, founder of Ally Safety. On Tuesday, Walla-Housman will explore the undeniable appeal of risk, misconceptions about it, and how understanding the misconceptions can lead to better risk-taking decisions.

The Mid-Oregon Construction Safety Summit’s sessions include:

• Fall Protection/Prevention
• Welding Safety
• Underground Utility Safety
• Incident Accident Investigation
• Excavation Safety
• Pre-task Plans
• Energize Your Safety Committee
• Construction A-Z
• Electrical Safety for the Non-electrician
• Employment Law
• Substance Abuse in the Workplace
• Mental Health Awareness
• Safety and the Supervisor

Registration for the event’s preconference workshops (Monday) is $85. Conference registration (Tuesday) is $130. Registration for the OSHA 10-hour training for construction is $175 for both days. The cost of the first-aid workshop (Monday) is $100. Register at safetyseries.cventevents.com/summit26.

For more information, contact the Oregon OSHA Conference Section at 503-947-7411 or egon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov">oregon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov. For information about upcoming safety conferences, visit Oregon OSHA’s online conferences page.

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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

SALEM, Ore.--Washington state is currently experiencing major flooding that is impacting multiple communities, and Oregon is stepping up to support its neighbors during this emergency.

At the request of the Washington Emergency Management Division, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) deployed a six-member swift water rescue team from Clackamas Fire District on Dec. 11 to assist with ongoing flood response efforts. The team is on a seven-day mission and is supporting life-safety operations in affected areas.

This deployment was coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, or EMAC — a national mutual aid system that enables states to share resources during disasters. EMAC ensures that assistance is coordinated, reimbursable and that responders are properly credentialed. This marks the first EMAC deployment for Oregon’s swift water rescue team.

“Oregon is proud to stand with Washington during this challenging time,” said Kelly Jo Craigmiles, emergency program coordinator with the OEM Response Team. “These highly trained responders are answering the call to protect lives and support communities impacted by flooding.”

In addition to the rescue team, Oregon also has alerted Washington that the 125th National Guard is ready to deploy if needed, and that there are additional drone resources available with county-level pilots prepared to assist with aerial assessments and situational awareness. The drones are part of Oregon's State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) program.

OEM extends its gratitude to the responders for their professionalism and commitment, and to state and local partners in both Oregon and Washington for their continued collaboration.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Clackamas Fire District Public Information Officer at 971-204-5944 or cfdpio@clackamasfire.com

Oregon Department of Emergency Management Announces FY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program Grant Applications Open with a Tight Timeline

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is pleased to announce the release of the FY25 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) Applications from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This federal grant program is designed to help nonprofit organizations enhance the physical and cybersecurity of facilities that may be at risk of terrorist or extremist threats.

Eligible nonprofit organizations across Oregon are encouraged to submit their application for funding to strengthen their security posture. OEM will provide further instructions to organizations that register and meet eligibility requirements

Key Program Details:

• Maximum Funding: Up to $200,000 per location with no more than $600,000 in FY25 NSGP Funding per organization.
• Application Limit: Up to six locations total, with no more than three in the same designated area: either high-risk Urban Area (UA) or the rest of the State (S).
• Application Deadline: 10 p.m., Thursday, January 15, 2026
• View a prerecorded application training here.
• OEM will hold more in-depth Q&A sessions in early January. To stay informed about NSGP updates and information sessions, subscribe to the email list.

To Apply:

To be eligible for funding, organizations must register with this form and complete the FY25 Investment Justification Form (IJ form must be downloaded to view).

1. After submitting the registration form, a confirmation message will appear—please take a screenshot for your records. 
2. Then send your completed FY25 Investment Justification Form and the screen shot to shspadmin@oem.oregon.gov.

We recognize this is a short timeline to develop grant applications, we were notified of this deadline on December 12, 2025. We must submit prioritized project proposals to FEMA by Friday January 30, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

More information:

• For federal updates on NSGP and other programs, visit our Federal Actions page.
• For grant questions or assistance, please email: shspadmin@oem.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee will hold a special virtual meeting to discuss the proposed draft Forest Management Plan for state forests on Friday, Dec. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon.  There is no in-person option for this meeting.

To join, use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

 Agenda items will include:

• A public comment period.
• Review of the proposed draft Forest Management Plan for state forests.

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov.

SALEM, Ore. — A virtual rulemaking hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18 to gather public input on repealing rules relating to the administration of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF). Public comment can be made by joining the Teams meeting.

The proposed repeal of rules was prompted by statute changes made by House Bill 3940 in the 2025 Regular Session. View the notice of proposed rulemaking for draft repealed rule language.

Comments can also be sent to sch@odf.oregon.gov">nancy.hirsch@odf.oregon.gov until 5 p.m. on Jan. 1.

For additional information, please visit ODF’s rulemaking activity webpage.

EUGENE, Ore. – The many ways trees protect human health will be the focus of the 2026 Oregon Urban and Community Forestry Conference to be held June 4 in Eugene at Venue 252.

Registration for the conference—We Thrive When Trees Thrive—is now open at https://www.oregoncommunitytrees.org/2026-conference

This annual conference is put on by the non-profit organization Oregon Community Trees in partnership with the Oregon Department of Forestry and USDA Forest Service. It is open to anyone interested in urban tree issues and their impact on people and communities.

Keynote speaker will be Geoffrey Donovan, a natural resource economist with the private consultancy firm Ash and Elm Consulting, LLC. When he was a researcher based at the USDA Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station, Donovan published a ground-breaking study that found each tree planted in Portland by the non-profit Friends of Trees was associated with significant reductions in non-accidental and cardiovascular human deaths. Donovan had access to years’ worth of tree planting data from Friends of Trees. Specifically, he used the planting data from the nearly 50,000 trees that organization had planted in Portland neighborhoods since 1990. Donovan was able to rule out other possible explanations for the lower death rate like race, education, and income, by using the statistical models using data from the American Community Survey. The findings were published in December 2022 in the journal Environmental International.

Donovan’s work has also shown a strong correlation between sudden tree canopy loss and higher death rates using data from the Midwest where ash trees were suddenly killed by emerald ash borer, leaving residents exposed to air pollution, noise, and other stressors. He has also investigated how pregnant women in Portland who live near large shade trees are less likely to give birth prematurely.

Continuing education credits will be available for conference attendees.

Opportunities to be a speaker, panelist or poster presenter are open until Jan. 31. Visit www.oregoncommunitytrees.org/2026-conference to apply.

Early-bird registration pricing remains $150. Students can register for $80. Ticket includes entry, lunch, snacks, and networking social hour following the conference. Scholarships are available for those with an expressed financial need.

About Oregon Community Trees

The mission of this non-profit, Oregon-based organization is to promote healthy urban and community forests through leadership, education, awareness and advocacy. OCT serves as the advisory committee to the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Program.

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Be alert for landslides and debris flows across Northwest Oregon

Portland, OR—The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Northwest Oregon from late Wednesday night (12/17/2025) through late Friday night (12/19/2025). Heavy rainfall from a forecasted atmospheric river event may result in landslides and debris flows in areas of steep terrain, as well as debris flows in and near burned areas from recent wildfires. The watch area includes all of Northwest Oregon.

Find the latest information here: https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=pqr&wwa=all

Debris flows are rapidly moving, extremely destructive landslides. They can contain boulders and logs transported in a fast-moving soil and water slurry down steep hillsides and through narrow canyons. They can easily travel a mile or more. A debris flow moves faster than a person can run. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk.

If your home, work, or travel route is in a watch area:

• Stay alert. Track the flood watch by radio, TV, weather radio, or online. If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Listen. Unusual sounds might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together. A trickle of falling mud or debris may precede larger landslides. If you think there is danger of a landslide, leave immediately.
• Watch the water. If water in a stream or creek suddenly turns muddy or the amount of water flowing suddenly decreases or increases, this is a warning that the flow has been affected upstream. You should immediately leave the area because a debris flow may soon be coming downstream.
• Travel with extreme caution. Assume roads are not safe. Be alert when driving, especially at night. Embankments along roadsides may fail, sending rock and debris onto the road.

For more landslide and debris flow information: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/landslide/Pages/debrisflow.aspx

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Contact ODHS if you have questions about these new rules or if you think they may apply to you

(Salem) - The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) ended Oregon’s SNAP work-rule waivers in November 2025. Because of this, Oregon began applying the work rules statewide starting Dec. 1, 2025, expanding from six counties to all counties. This change affects approximately 37,000 people in Oregon today, and the number of people impacted is expected to increase over time.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is here to help, if you have questions about these new work rules or think they may apply to you, contact ODHS right away.

The change is required by a new federal law passed on July 4, 2025, along with new guidance from the USDA. This means that work rules for some adults who get Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits are now in effect across Oregon. These rules apply to people who have Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) status. ODHS has notified everyone who is affected by this change.

What changed

Oregon had previously waived ABAWD work requirements in 30 of 36 counties and all Tribal lands because of limited job opportunities. These waivers were scheduled to last until Dec. 31, 2025. USDA ended them earlier.

A recent federal law also changed who must follow ABAWD work rules. These rules now apply to:

• Adults ages 18–64
• Adults who do not have children under age 14 in their SNAP household

This is a change from the previous rules, which applied only to adults up to age 54 and households without children under age 18.

Some groups who were previously exempt now must meet work rules. This includes:

• Veterans
• People who were in foster care
• People experiencing homelessness

New exemption added:

People who are enrolled members of a federally recognized Tribe, or who have a parent or grandparent who is, are exempt from ABAWD work rules.

People who live on the following waived Tribal Lands are also exempt from work rules, even if they are not an enrolled tribal member or descendant:

• Burns Paiute Tribe Reservation and off-Reservation Trust Land  

• Coquille Indian Tribe Reservation and off-Reservation Trust Land 

• Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians Reservation  

• Klamath Tribes Reservation

• Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians Reservation and off-Reservation Trust Land 

A full list of exemptions is on the ODHS SNAP Work Rules website.

What people with ABAWD status must do

People with ABAWD status who do not qualify for an exemption must:

• Work or take part in approved work or training activities for at least 80 hours each month. The work can be paid or unpaid, including trading work for shelter.

If they do not meet the 80-hour requirement:

• They may only get SNAP benefits for three months in a three-year period (36 months).

For example: If someone does not meet SNAP work requirements in January, February and March, they will lose food benefits beginning in April. In Oregon, the current three-year period ends December 31, 2027. If their situation changes before then, like moving to a waived area or qualifying for an exemption, they may be able to get SNAP again.

What people should do now

People who think they may be affected should contact the ODHS ABAWD Unit as soon as possible:

• Phone: 1-833-947-1694
• Email: SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov

The ABAWD unit can help people learn:

• If they qualify for an exemption
• If they are already meeting the work rules
• If they should connect with the Oregon Employment Department (OED) to create a work or training plan to meet the work rules

ODHS and OED are working together to help SNAP recipients meet ABAWD work rules through job search, training and education services. A referral from ODHS is required to participate in OED ABAWD services.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Tyler Shoop, age 15, a child in foster care who went missing from Clackamas on Dec. 10. Tyler Shoop (he/him) is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Tyler Shoop and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Tyler Shoop.

Tyler Shoop is suspected to be in Clackamas or Portland Metro area.

Name: Tyler Shoop
Pronouns: he/him
Date of birth: 3/3/2010
Height: 5-foot-9
Weight: 148 pounds
Hair: Blonde
Eye color: Blue Eyes
Other identifying information: Tyler’s hair is cut short and is a reddish tint. He typically wears jeans that are really stained and a hat.
Molalla Police Department # 25-024563
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2070863

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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Salem, OR—Connecting with the Oregon Department of Revenue through Revenue Online is the most significant step taxpayers can take now to improve their income tax filing experience in 2026.

“We do everything online. That’s how we pay our bills. That’s where we get our news. We use smart TVs for our entertainment and smart phones to connect with each other. It’s a digital world and Revenue Online is the portal to the best safe and secure digital tax experience,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the Personal Tax and Compliance Division for the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Revenue Online is especially useful for the growing number of Oregon taxpayers filing electronic state returns, she said.

Nearly 95 percent of Oregon returns were filed electronically in 2025 and for Oregon taxpayers anxious to claim their share of a $1.41 billion kicker next year, electronic filing will be even more important in 2026, Denison said.

Oregonians can expect delays in the processing of paper-filed personal income tax returns next year, due to the late receipt of tax forms and information from the IRS in late 2025. Processing of paper-filed returns is expected to be delayed until late March, a process that has historically begun in February. Oregon residents who normally mail their tax return to the department should consider using Direct File Oregon, a free filing option available through Revenue Online, or another tax preparation service, to file their return electronically in 2026 for faster processing.

Despite multiple IRS delays, the department expects to be ready to begin processing electronically filed state returns when the IRS opens e-filing for federal returns. The IRS has not yet announced that date.

On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper-returns and request a paper refund check have generally received their refunds within four weeks – a turn around that is expected to be significantly longer in 2026 due to these delays.

For e-filed returns, the department is on track to begin issuing personal income tax refunds on February 15, in line with years past. For paper filed returns, refunds will not start being issued until early April.

Denison encouraged taxpayers who already have a Revenue Online account to log in to their account before tax season to make sure their password is current and double-check things like the address they have on file with the agency and any estimated tax payments they have made.

Oregon taxpayers who don’t have an ROL account should sign up before the 2026 tax season.

“Using Revenue Online is the best way to communicate with us and the quickest way to get your refund. You can access letters we send to you and respond electronically through your Revenue Online account. It will also provide the best experience for taxpayers tracking the processing of their return using the state’s improved ‘Where’s My Refund’ tool,” she said.

Users who are logged in to Revenue Online will have access to upgraded features to the “Where’s My Refund” tool, including clearer messaging about the status of their refund. Early electronic filers should remember that returns will be processed in the order they are received, and the department will begin issuing refunds on February 15.. Taxpayers using e-file should wait one week after filing before using the “Where’s My Refund” tool. Taxpayers mailing their return should wait two weeks after the department starts processing paper returns in late March or after mailing their return, whichever is later.

Key taxpayer benefits of having and using a Revenue Online account include:

• Access to an upgraded “Where’s My Refund?” tool.
• Account status updates including any activity, credits, or balances.
• Easy viewing and response to correspondence sent to them by the department.
• A secure way to send web messages to department staff, including uploading documents regarding their account.
• Simple and free filing of tax returns for certain tax programs—including the Direct File Oregon tool for personal income taxes—and submitting appeals or penalty waiver requests.
• Sending payments electronically while being able to save their information for future use.
• Viewing activity from previous tax periods and generating Personal Income Tax transcripts.

Creating an account is simple. Go to Revenue Online, click Sign Up in the box at the top right and follow the prompts. Taxpayers who need help can watch a how to video or ask the department’s virtual assistant Doug, for assistance.

To help safeguard taxpayer’s personal information, the department encourages taxpayers to enable two-factor authentication when setting up their account. Taxpayers can choose to receive security codes through a trusted authentication app – such as Google Authenticator – or opt to receive codes via text message or email. These added layers of protection make it significantly harder for unauthorized users to access your account. Now is a great time to review your security settings and choose the method that works best for you.

Other important steps taxpayers can take now to improve their filing experience next year include:

• Gathering and organizing tax records.
• Using a bank account and direct deposit to get refunds quicker.
• Making sure they have filed a 2024 return so they can claim their kicker.
• Choosing a reputable tax return preparer

A full guide to preparing now tax season can be found on the Department of Revenue website.

Denison also pointed out that free help filing a return is available for those who need it.

Taxpayers can also signup for the new “Oregon Tax Tips” direct email newsletter to keep up with information about tax return filing and how to claim helpful tax credits.

December 10, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

OHA seeks applicants for the Oversight and Accountability Council

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

• (a)(G) An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 p.m., Jan. 16, 2025.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb. 1, 2026.

For questions or more information, email e110@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">OHA.Measure110@oha.oregon.gov ,or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

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December 10, 2025  

OHA releases new data showing Oregon's maternal pertussis vaccination rate too low, especially in rural counties

• What you need to know: 
  • Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection that spreads easily through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.
  • Pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, but babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection.
  • Vaccination is important for people of all ages, and it's the best way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization. 

PORTLAND, Ore - Pertussis cases in Oregon have reached an all-time high, prompting state officials to urge people to make sure they and their families are up to date on vaccinations—especially those who are pregnant or spend time with babies—and take steps to reduce spread. 

In 2025, as of today—Dec. 10—Oregon Health Authority has received a record-high 1,475 reported cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, breaking the state's all-time annual record of 1,420, set in 1950. The current outbreak began in spring 2024, when Oregon recorded 1,252 pertussis cases by year's end. Other U.S. states have reported similar caseload spikes.

Pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, but babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection. To reduce that risk, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends every pregnant person receive a single dose of Tdap vaccine during their third trimester (weeks 27-36) to protect their newborn from pertussis. That's because babies' immune systems are too weak to protect against infection until they get vaccinated at 2 months old.

Spouses, partners, grandparents and any adult routinely in the baby's life should also consider receiving a Tdap dose at least two weeks before the baby is born.

However, vaccination is important for people of all ages, and it's the best way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization. In addition to pregnant people, pertussis vaccination is recommended for infants and children starting at 2 months through 4 to 6 years old, adolescents at age 11 or 12, and any adult who has not previously been vaccinated.

“I worry people may not fully appreciate the risk pertussis poses as case counts are rising, especially for babies and older adults," said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA's Public Health Division. “One of the most important things someone can do to protect their newborn is to get the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy. Unfortunately, we've seen a statewide decline in maternal Tdap vaccination rates in Oregon, which is a dangerous trend."

VIDEO: Videos of Dr. Chiou discussing Oregon's historic pertussis spread and its impact are available at the top of OHA's Media Resources page.

The numbers

In 2025, 87 cases of infant pertussis (children younger than 12 months)--22 of whom were hospitalized—have been reported in Oregon so far. One infant died in Oregon earlier this year. It is the only death from pertussis reported in Oregon during 2025.

OHA's new Pregnancy Immunization Data dashboard shows only 69% of pregnant people received Tdap vaccination in 2024, down from 72% in 2020.

Maternal Tdap vaccination rates also vary widely from county to county, with rates as low as 17% and as high as 82%. The lowest rates are largely in rural counties, where it's often harder to find vaccinations, and where vaccine hesitancy rates are also higher.

Pertussis outbreaks occur regionally about every three to five years and do not necessarily follow seasonal patterns. Because of widespread masking and social distancing during the pandemic, Oregon saw only three reported cases of pertussis in 2021, followed by 17 in 2022 and 40 in 2023. Health officials attribute the skyrocketing cases since then to a return to pre-pandemic norms that coincides with waning immunity and decreased vaccination rates. 

Why the vaccine matters

Studies show Tdap vaccination during pregnancy is highly effective in preventing pertussis infection and hospitalization. Long-term protection from the pertussis vaccine wanes over time, however, which can create confusion about the vaccine.

“I hear the confusion in my community about pertussis vaccination," said Benton County Health Officer Carolina Amador, M.D., MPH. “When we use the word 'booster,' people may think the vaccine isn't very effective because protection fades, so they may not want to bother. At the same time, we strongly recommend it for certain people, such as children and pregnant people, because in the short term it does a great job protecting the most vulnerable among us."

The disease

The only way a baby will become infected with pertussis is if they are exposed to someone with pertussis, a bacterial infection that spreads easily through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.

But pertussis often goes undiagnosed. The illness is tricky to diagnose because not everyone with pertussis will have the trademark “whooping" sound when coughing. For some, pertussis can be severe and result in a trip to the hospital, while others may experience mild symptoms and may not necessarily seek medical care while they still spread disease.

Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., is a naturopathic pediatrician in Portland whose practice attracts many parents who are vaccine hesitant.

“When parents of my little patients also happen to be pregnant, they often tell me their own OBGYN has recommended the Tdap vaccine, and they will ask me, 'But do you think it's right for me?' The answer is always yes," she said. 

“I can say, 'I've seen whooping cough, and it's truly awful for infants,'" Gibbons added. “Then I'll explain how the vaccine merely adds to the suite of protective antibodies that the mother is already providing the baby through the placenta. I'm always exploring ways to change my language with patients to see if I can get them to look at it differently."

Click here to learn more about pertussis in Oregon.

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Salem, Ore. – For the second time this year, Powerball players have a chance to win a jackpot close to $1 billion. Wednesday’s drawing climbed to an estimated $930 million - ranking as the seventh largest Powerball jackpot ever.

Since the current jackpot run began on September 7, Oregon has seen 453,136 winners and more than $2 million in total Powerball game winnings.

"Playing the Powerball when the jackpot is this high gives players the opportunity to dream," said Oregon Lottery’s Player Services Manager Heidi Quiring. "You can imagine what the holiday season would be like with extra money for gifts and surprises."

Oregon Lottery retailers who sell lottery tickets also earn commissions from the boost in ticket sales and bonus payments for lower tier wins. For instance, a retail location that sells a $1 million ticket would earn a $10,000 bonus.

In 2024, Cheng “Charlie” Saephan, his wife, and friend together shared a Powerball jackpot worth $1.3 billion. The prize was life changing for Saephan and by far the biggest prize ever won in Oregon. Previously, the largest Powerball prize won in Oregon was a $340 million jackpot in 2005. The biggest Powerball ever won in history was a $2.04 billion jackpot in 2022 by a player in California.

Powerball is a multi-state jackpot operated by 45 states, plus the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you always sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim your prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of the drawing to claim their prize.

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

OREGON COAST, Oregon— Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, Dec. 27 through Wednesday, Dec. 31.
 

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 14 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico.
 

The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching

 

This is a great time to see one of the world’s longest migrations, as the gray whales are traveling by our coastline,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.
 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023 when it looked like the population was rebounding. But since then, the population has declined to its lowest level since the 1970s. NOAA now estimates about 13,000 gray whales along the West Coast.
 

Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and park rangers.
 

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Park rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
 

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.
 

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit https://stateparks.oregon.gov/

 

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch on social media using #ORWhaleWatch.
 

Media Resources: photos available at this link.

If you’re planning to gift a boat to a friend or loved one, remember there’s more to boating than just a boat, such as required equipment, including a life jacket and whistle.

Purchasing paddlecraft such as a kayak, canoe, raft, or stand up paddleboard (SUP) is made easy through many retail stores, big and small.

Recreational boating is a great way to connect with the outdoors, stay fit, and give the mood a lift. And human-powered paddlecraft offers a unique experience to be near the surface of the water, to feel every riffle (shallow place in a river where water flows quickly past rocks) and the flow of the current. Wildlife viewing and being fully present are added benefits.

Boats come in all shapes and sizes and have associated required equipment for your safety out on the water. Paddlers need to have on board a properly fitting US Coast Guard-approved life jacket and a whistle, but it’s more practical to just wear them. If paddling at night or during periods of reduced visibility, then paddlers also need to display a white light source, like a flashlight.

So, what does it cost for the additional required equipment? That depends. A comfortable, inherently buoyant vest-style life jacket can range in price, with inflatable belt packs being on the higher end. A whistle costs a few dollars, and a light source varies depending on the model and brand.

The other requirement is having a Waterway Access Permit, which all paddlecraft operators will need in 2026 when using the boat on the water. Permits are transferable to other paddlecraft, and youth under 14 do not need to have one.

Waterway Access Permit options cost $6 for a 7-day permit, $20 for an annual permit, and $35 for a 2-year permit. Your boating dollars are returned to you through improved or new non-motorized access and will help expand boat inspection stations for aquatic invasive species through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Then there’s the gear needed for the activity! Kayak and SUP fishing are booming, as is wing foiling. Just remember, you’re a boater first. Take the time to plan ahead, learn the skills you’ll need for the type of waterway where you plan to boat, and always communicate or write down a float plan with family and friends. Education, planning, and preparation go a long way for you to have a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Marine Board also offers FREE online paddling courses to help newcomers learn the basic skills and techniques to stay safe. Want to learn how to get started? Visit Boat.Oregon.gov and let your water recreation adventures begin!

-End-

Portland, Ore. - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) strongly condemns recent threats and actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that jeopardize the safety, health, and well-being of immigrant communities across Oregon. Immigrants are vital members of our state and our healthcare system—serving as frontline nurses, providers, caregivers, and essential staff who keep our hospitals operating every day.

ICE’s behavior in targeting immigrants is wrong and fundamentally inconsistent with our values as Oregonians. These actions—whether carried out or threatened—create fear that keeps people from going to work, moving freely in their communities, and seeking medical care when they need it most. No person should fear accessing necessary care. That fear violates the most basic principles of being a frontline nurse, provider, or caregiver.

In recent months, ICE has been bringing detainees to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center for medical treatment. Frontline nurses and staff have raised serious concerns about the well-being of these patients and reported highly unusual ICE conduct, including inconsistent application of Legacy’s own policies—particularly when compared to the clear, established protocols used with other law-enforcement agencies. These discrepancies raise profound concerns about patient safety, legal compliance, and the protection of basic patient rights.

Nurses are also witnessing significant gaps between Legacy’s written policies and what is occurring in practice. Yesterday, the Oregon Nurses Association formally notified the President of Legacy Emanuel Medical Center of these issues and requested immediate, collaborative action with nurses, frontline staff, and ONA to correct them. Our letter also called for a meeting within the next 14 days to begin addressing these urgent concerns and ensure that all patients receive safe, lawful, and dignified care.

Additionally, we asked for immediate steps to protect patients, and staff, including:

• Creating an ICE credential-verification log to ensure transparency, accountability, and legal compliance. 
• Strengthening clinical documentation of all ICE-related encounters, including arrest circumstances, use of force, and agent behavior. 
• Protecting patient rights by providing “Know Your Rights” information, connecting detainees with legal and social-support resources, and affirming that all patients—including those in custody—retain full HIPAA protections. 
• Limiting officer presence in clinical areas and requiring agents to step out during sensitive exams when clinically appropriate. 
• Centralizing all protected health information (PHI) disclosures and eliminating informal or bedside disclosures to law enforcement. 
• Safeguarding clinical judgment by documenting any care interruptions requested by ICE and reaffirming that law enforcement is never the medical decisionmaker. 
• Establishing a joint labor–management working group and guaranteeing non-retaliation for nurses who report concerns. 

ONA’s mission is clear: we are here to protect patient privacy, uphold human dignity, and provide compassionate, equitable care to every person who walks through the doors of the hospitals and clinics where we work. The more than 24,000 represented healthcare professionals of the Oregon Nurses Association are steadfast in ensuring that Oregon’s healthcare system remains a place of healing—never an extension of law enforcement—where all people, regardless of immigration status, can receive care without fear.

We call on healthcare executives and elected leaders to stand with us by defending patient rights, enforcing and strengthening transparent policies, and holding ICE accountable. Trust is foundational to effective health care, and we must ensure that every patient—without exception—feels safe seeking the care they need.

ONA will continue advocating for the rights, safety, and dignity of all patients—and for the healthcare workers who provide their care every day. We will not allow fear to take root in Oregon’s healthcare system.

• You can read the full letter here. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 Contact: Scott Simms, ssimms@ppcpdx.org / 503-595-9770

December 15, 2025

Plaintiffs in federal litigation seek actions that would hobble clean hydropower, drive up electricity costs by $152-$169 million annually, increase the risk of blackouts, and add more harmful carbon emissions – all without proven benefits to fish

PORTLAND, OR — The Public Power Council (PPC), representing nearly 100 consumer-owned electric utilities across the Pacific Northwest, today filed its opposition to the motions for a preliminary injunction in long-running federal litigation over operations of the Columbia River System. PPC has been involved in this case since it was initiated almost 25 years ago, when PPC responded to the original Complaint.

PPC’s filing warns that the relief sought by plaintiffs – expanded spill requirements and tighter minimum operating pool limits at eight lower Columbia and lower Snake River dams – would significantly reduce the region’s most flexible carbon-free electricity resource, impose substantial replacement power and capacity costs on consumers, and increase blackout risk during summer heat and other emergency conditions, all without a quantified showing that the requested operations would deliver meaningful incremental benefits for salmon and steelhead beyond current operations.

“Public power utilities and the communities we serve are fully committed to salmon recovery – and we have been steadily paying for it, year after year,” said Scott Simms, CEO & Executive Director of the Public Power Council. “But this motion asks the Court to mandate sweeping operational changes with immediate reliability and affordability consequences, without a quantified demonstration that the requested spill and reservoir operations will actually improve fish survival beyond what is already in place.”

Experts say electricity cost hikes and reliability risks are measurable, but plaintiffs’ claims of fish benefits are not quantified

PPC’s opposition is supported by sworn declarations, including an independent analysis by Energy GPS’s Joshua Rasmussen that evaluated the plaintiffs’ proposed spill and reservoir constraints by applying them to historical hourly hydropower operations and modeling the resulting impacts. Rasmussen concludes that the proposed injunction would:

• Eliminate approximately 2 million megawatt-hours (MWh) of carbon-free hydropower production each year;
• Reduce available summer hydropower capability by approximately 1,200–1,400 megawatts (MW), with even larger losses during the most critical high-demand hours;
• Increase replacement energy and capacity costs in 2026 alone to approximately $152 million to $169 million, based on forward market prices and study assumptions; and
• Increase carbon emissions by roughly 815,000 to 881,000 tons of CO₂ in 2026, as lost hydropower is replaced primarily by natural gas generation.

“These losses come at exactly the wrong time,” Simms said. “The Pacific Northwest is already facing tightening resource adequacy margins and rapid load growth. Reducing flexible hydropower during summer heat events materially increases the risk of emergency conditions and higher costs for consumers.”

Meanwhile, Andrew M. Deines, Ph.D., and Managing Scientist at Exponent (and an American Fisheries Society Certified Fisheries Professional), in a separate declaration, explains that plaintiffs’ fisheries expert does not translate the requested operational targets into numerical spill rates, preventing a scientifically robust comparison between current operations and the requested relief. Deines further explains that:

• At today’s already-high spill levels from federal hydro projects, empirical relationships show diminishing marginal returns, meaning additional spill may yield only small incremental biological gains, if any;
• Predictions become increasingly uncertain when extrapolating beyond historically observed operating conditions; and
• Several requested reservoir operations – particularly on the lower Columbia River – would push the system into largely untested operational territory, effectively creating a system-wide experiment.

“We in public power support science-based salmon recovery,” Simms said. “But if plaintiffs want the Court to impose sweeping mandates, they must quantify what they’re asking for and demonstrate the incremental benefit. That showing has not been made.”

Summary of key findings from PPC’s filing

• Significant cost impacts for ratepayers. Energy GPS estimates $152–$169 million in replacement energy and capacity costs in 2026 alone. Public power utilities are not-for-profit and cost-based – meaning increased wholesale costs flow directly to customers.

• Serious grid reliability risks during summer emergencies. The plaintiffs’ requested operations would reduce hydropower’s summer capability by about 1,200–1,400 MW, with impacts reaching as high as roughly 1,700 MW during the most constrained hours analyzed. These reductions occur during the months most exposed to heat-driven scarcity and emergency conditions.

• Higher greenhouse gas emissions. Energy GPS estimates the proposed injunction would increase regional carbon emissions by approximately 815,000 to 881,000 tons of CO₂ in 2026 through electricity purchases from other power producers, undermining state climate goals while worsening conditions that affect salmon habitat.

• No meaningful showing of incremental fish benefit. PPC’s fisheries expert explains that the plaintiffs’ proposal lacks the numerical spill estimates necessary for standard comparative analysis and relies on assumptions that push into areas of diminishing returns and heightened uncertainty.

Legal and policy context

PPC’s opposition explains that the 2020 Biological Opinion, which governs current Columbia River System operations, was developed through extensive scientific analysis under the Endangered Species Act. PPC argues that plaintiffs have failed to meet the high legal threshold required for mandatory preliminary injunctive relief – particularly given the scale of the requested changes and the substantial reliability and economic impacts identified by PPC’s experts.

“Courts don’t issue mandatory injunctions based on speculation or policy disagreements,” Simms said. “The standard is evidence. The record here does not support imposing sweeping operational mandates with region-wide consequences.”

The filing also underscores that public power utilities already fund one of the largest fish and wildlife restoration programs in the world through Bonneville Power Administration rates.

Advocating for a non-litigation path ahead

Consistent with PPC’s publicly-stated position on this case, the filing urges the Court to deny the requested injunction and encourage a collaborative, science-based path forward.

“After more than two decades of litigation, it should be clear that court-ordered operational mandates are not a durable solution,” Simms said. “The region needs a negotiated approach that supports salmon recovery, respects Tribal treaty rights, protects grid reliability, and keeps power affordable for the people of the Northwest.”

Note to Media: PPC’s news release and filings in pdf form are available upon request at ssimms@ppcpdx.org. For Portland market TV media, PPC can be available with advance notice this week for stand-ups at the Bonneville Lock and Dam:

Bonneville Lock & Dam in North Bonneville, WA United States - Apple Maps

About the Public Power Council

The Public Power Council is a nonprofit association representing consumer-owned electric utilities in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Nevada. PPC members include public utility districts, municipal utilities, and rural electric cooperatives that collectively serve approximately 1.5 million electricity consumers. PPC advocates for reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible power supplies, with a strong commitment to fish and wildlife recovery in the Columbia River Basin.

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