A Summer of Hard Choices: Jefferson County Farmers Grapple With One of Oregon's Worst Drought Years

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.

With two council seats vacant following a recent resignation, Madras residents have until the end of August 23rd to apply. Public interviews and potential appointments are scheduled for September 1st.

An air quality advisory remains in effect for Jefferson County as three fires burn on or near the Warm Springs Reservation — the Bench Fire nearing full containment, while the Austin and Grasshopper fires continue to demand crews.

After a punishing fire season that has pushed Central Oregon's first responders to their limits, a quiet weekly gathering at a local training ground is offering veterans and first responders something valuable — community, purpose, and a dog by their side.

Jefferson County Fire and EMS reminds residents that burn barrel use has been prohibited since August 4 and that fire danger remains high — even as the Bench and Round Butte fires inch toward containment. Late August historically brings renewed fire risk.