Jefferson County Schools Gear Up for Fall: What Families Need to Know for 2026–27

With 94 percent of Jefferson County in severe drought and a state emergency declaration in place since April, local agricultural producers are facing one of the most difficult summers in recent memory.

One of Oregon's largest annual air shows is just 10 days away, bringing an estimated 20,000 visitors to Madras Municipal Airport for aerobatics, historic aircraft, live music, and more.

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs say immediate supply needs are met after the Bench Fire, but leaders warn that full community recovery will take months — and years — of sustained effort.

Central Oregon Community College's Madras Campus is heading into its first full academic year inside its newly expanded and transformed facility, with fall term registration open and new career-focused programs drawing interest from Jefferson County students.

With 94 percent of Jefferson County classified under severe drought and Governor Kotek's emergency declaration in place since spring, local farmers and ranchers face a punishing summer with tight water supplies and no relief from rain on the horizon.