Jefferson County
Jefferson County Farmers Close Out a Grueling 2026 Growing Season Under Drought’s Shadow
A historically dry year defined farming in Jefferson County in 2026. With 94% of the county under severe drought and North Unit Irrigation District cutting water allotments significantly, local growers faced some of the tightest conditions in decades — and are already planning ahead for 2027.
Weather
Burn Season Is Back in Jefferson County — Free Permits Required Before You Light Up
Jefferson County's residential burn season reopened October 1, giving residents their first legal opportunity since spring to burn yard debris. Free permits are required, FireFree drop-off events are coming this month, and the burn line is open daily.
Sports
White Buffalos Hit the Road Tonight for Showdown at Klamath Union
The Madras White Buffalos travel to Klamath Falls tonight for a 3A Special District 3 matchup against the undefeated Klamath Union Pelicans. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. as Madras looks to build on last week's confidence-boosting win over Coquille.
Local News
Award-Winning Authors Headed to Jefferson County This Winter to Inspire Young Readers
Thanks to an $18,000 grant from the Roundhouse Foundation, three authors from the Oregon Battle of the Books list will visit Jefferson County schools and the public library this winter — starting with a ticketed event on October 7th in Madras.
Public Safety
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Reaches Full Staff as Madras Police Department Continues Hiring Push
Three new corrections officers joined the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office this week, bringing the agency to full staffing — a milestone years in the making. The Madras Police Department, meanwhile, is still recruiting as both agencies grapple with a nationwide law enforcement hiring challenge.