Local News
Jefferson County and Warm Springs Veterans May Qualify for Up to $30,000 in Free Home Repairs
NeighborImpact's Veteran Restore Health and Safety Program is offering grants between $15,000 and $30,000 for eligible veteran homeowners in Jefferson County and on the Warm Springs Reservation — covering roofing, heating, electrical, plumbing, and accessibility upgrades.
Sports
White Buffalos Snap Three-Game Skid With High-Scoring 40-36 Win Over Coquille
The Madras White Buffalos scored a season-high 40 points Friday night, edging out the Coquille Red Devils 40-36 at home to earn their first win of the 2026 season.
Local News
COCC Faculty Vote 96% to Authorize Strike — What It Could Mean for Madras Campus Students
Central Oregon Community College faculty voted nearly unanimously to authorize a strike over a salary dispute with the college. Negotiations are ongoing, but a work stoppage could affect students at all COCC campuses, including Madras.
Weather
Jefferson County Residential Burn Season Opens Thursday — Free Permits Required Starting October 1
Fire danger has eased across Central Oregon, and Jefferson County residents can once again burn yard debris starting October 1. Free permits are required and available at the Fire & EMS station on Fifth Street in Madras.
Jefferson County
Jefferson County Fair Lost $14,000 in 2026 — But Organizers Already Looking Ahead to 2027
A canceled carnival, wildfire smoke, and closed roads cut fair attendance by two-thirds, leaving the Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo with a $13,995 deficit. But the fair manager says 2027 will be “nothing this community has ever seen.”
Jefferson County
Jefferson County Irrigation Season Winds Down October 9 After Drought-Strained Year
The North Unit Irrigation District will shut off water deliveries on October 9, closing out a difficult 2026 season that saw reduced allotments, a significant Wikiup Reservoir drawdown, and persistent drought conditions across Jefferson County farmland.