Jefferson County
Jefferson County Farmers Face Tightest Water Season in Years as Drought Grips Region
With reduced irrigation allotments, curtailed junior water rights, and reservoirs at historic lows, Jefferson County farmers and ranchers are navigating one of the driest and most difficult growing seasons in recent memory.
Local News
Warm Springs Tribe Unveils New Executive Leadership and Major Community Projects
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs has introduced new top executives and revealed ambitious plans including a Highway 26 rest area feasibility study, a Youth and Elder Center, and a warming and cooling shelter — all detailed in the tribe's inaugural Tomahawk Newsletter.
Public Safety
Round Butte Fire Grows to 1,090 Acres Near Culver; Bench Fire at 84% Containment
The Round Butte Fire west of Culver has grown to 1,090 acres with only 12% containment, while the larger Bench Fire near Warm Springs reaches 84% contained. A wildfire recovery distribution center remains open on the reservation.
Events
Airshow of the Cascades Returns to Madras This Weekend
The Airshow of the Cascades touches down at Madras Municipal Airport on August 28–29, bringing two days of aerobatics, historic aircraft, live music, a car show, and thousands of visitors to Jefferson County.
Jefferson County
A Summer of Hard Choices: Jefferson County Farmers Grapple With One of Oregon's Worst Drought Years
With 94% of Jefferson County under severe drought and irrigation allotments slashed earlier this spring, local ranchers and growers are making tough late-season decisions as water supplies dwindle heading into fall.
Local News
Warm Springs Rebounds: Evacuations Lifted, Community Aid Wraps Up, Back-to-School Events Ahead
Evacuation orders across the Warm Springs Reservation have been lifted following weeks of intense wildfire activity. The community is now focused on recovery, back-to-school preparations, and early childhood enrollment for the coming year.
Local News