Local News
New Bus Route Connects Remote Parts of Warm Springs Reservation for the First Time
Cascades East Transit launched Route 21 earlier this month, bringing scheduled bus service across 50 miles of the Warm Springs Reservation — a long-awaited connection for communities that have historically had little to no public transportation.
Business
Jefferson County Moves Up in State Economic Rankings, Now 8th Most Distressed
New data from Business Oregon shows Jefferson County has improved from the third most economically distressed county in Oregon to eighth, reflecting measurable local economic progress over recent years.
Weather
Memorial Day Weekend Outlook: Warm and Sunny in Jefferson County, Fire Weather Caution Advised
A warm and mostly sunny Memorial Day weekend is ahead for Jefferson County, with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s by Friday. With burn restrictions already in effect and fire danger elevated, residents are reminded to take precautions this holiday weekend.
Events
Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo Returns July 21–25 — Warm Springs Tribes Invited to Participate
The Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo is set for July 21–25, 2026 at the Event Complex in Madras, and Fairgrounds Manager Bart Platt has extended a personal invitation to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs to participate.
Election 2026
Oregon Primary Results: Drazan vs. Kotek Rematch Set; Bentz Advances in CD-2; Gas Tax Rejected
Oregon voters set up a rematch for governor, sent incumbent Cliff Bentz back to a November contest in the 2nd Congressional District, and overwhelmingly rejected a proposed gas tax increase — all results with direct implications for Jefferson County.
Public Safety
Fire Season Is Here: Jefferson County Burn Restrictions in Effect, State Warns of Severe 2026 Season
Summer burning restrictions took effect in Jefferson County on May 4, and fire officials are warning that the 2026 wildfire season could be one of the worst in years due to low snowpack, drought, and warm temperatures arriving early.