Jefferson County
Warm Springs Tribe Enters Fall Season with Water, Wildlife, and Cultural Programs in Focus
As summer transitions to fall, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are advancing a range of natural resource, cultural, and community health initiatives on the 640,000-acre reservation in north-central Oregon — from ongoing water rights stewardship on the Deschutes to wildlife conservation work recognized nationally earlier this year.
Local News
Jefferson County Schools Start 2026-27 Year Leaner but Ready, After $2M in Budget Trims
Jefferson County School District students headed back to class this fall under a restructured budget that cut roughly $2 million and eliminated around 18 positions — a response to falling enrollment and changes in Oregon's school funding formula. Officials say no layoffs were required and focus remains on student outcomes.
Local News
Jefferson County Farmers Close Out a Tough Season as Fall Harvest Gets Underway
With cooler temperatures arriving and summer irrigation wrapping up, Jefferson County's agricultural community is moving into fall harvest mode after one of the driest years on record. Despite severe drought conditions that stretched across 94% of the county this spring, many local producers found ways to adapt.
Local News
Two New Voices Join Madras City Council, Sworn In September 1
The Madras City Council appointed Tony Chard and Chris Heden to fill two vacant seats this week, with both men taking the oath of office on September 1. They will serve through the end of 2026 as the city continues its search for a permanent police chief and works through a busy fall agenda.
Weather
Central Oregon Fire Restrictions Drop to Stage 1 — Campfire Relief for Labor Day Weekend
Fire officials reduced public use fire restrictions from Stage 2 to Stage 1 across Central Oregon public lands at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, citing improved moisture conditions and cooler temperatures. Campfires are now allowed at designated campgrounds, including Skull Hollow on the Crooked River National Grassland.
Events
Labor Day Weekend Roundup: VFW Beef Raffle, Health Inspections, and Community Notes
From a VFW beef raffle benefiting Jefferson County Fair 4-H and FFA kids to a clean sweep in August restaurant health inspections, here's what's happening around Jefferson County this Labor Day weekend.