Public Safety
Fire Season Is Here: What Jefferson County Residents Need to Know About 2026 Restrictions
Oregon’s 2026 fire season officially began May 8, and Central Oregon entered a Regulated Use Closure in mid-May. With lightning fires already sparking near Lake Billy Chinook, here’s what’s allowed, what’s prohibited, and how to stay safe this summer.
Events
Airshow of the Cascades Seeks Volunteers for August 28–29 Event at Madras Airport
The Airshow of the Cascades is gearing up for its annual two-day event at the Madras Municipal Airport and needs volunteers for parking, hospitality, guest services, and more. The show draws thousands of visitors to Jefferson County each year.
Local News
Highway 26 Delays Near Warm Springs Continue Through June 15
Travelers on U.S. Highway 26 between the Warm Springs area and Mount Hood should expect delays of 20 minutes or more through June 15 as ODOT and the Confederated Tribes remove about 1,000 hazardous trees.
Business
Wells Fargo Closing Its Only Jefferson County Branch on June 24
The Wells Fargo branch on E Street in Madras will permanently close on June 24, leaving Jefferson County without a single Wells Fargo location. Customers are being directed to the bank’s Redmond branch.
Public Safety
Jordan Fire Near Lake Billy Chinook 50% Contained; Officials Cite Need for More Mitigation Funding
A lightning-sparked wildfire that broke out Monday near Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County is 50% contained after burning about 7.5 acres. Firefighters credit an aggressive initial attack — but note the fire started in an area that lacked funded mitigation work.
Local News
Warm Springs Tribal Chairman Speaks Out on Columbia River Contamination
Following an industrial disaster at a Longview, Washington paper mill that killed 11 workers and sent caustic chemicals into the Columbia River, Warm Springs Tribal Chairman Dennis White III issued a statement calling for transparency and accountability.