Local News
Drought and Curtailments Squeeze Jefferson County Farmers in Brutal Mid-Season
A punishing combination of record-low snowpack and aggressive water curtailments is forcing Jefferson County farmers to make hard choices, with North Unit Irrigation District patrons receiving only about 57% of a normal water supply.
Events
Airshow of the Cascades Returns August 28-29 with Navy F-18 Growler Demonstration Team
Madras Municipal Airport will host the 2026 Airshow of the Cascades on August 28 and 29, headlined by the U.S. Navy's elite EA-18G Growler Demonstration Team and the Patriot Jet Team.
Local News
Warm Springs Faces Years of Recovery After Bench Fire Tears Through Reservation
The Bench Fire burned at least six homes on the Warm Springs Reservation, left thousands without power or clean water for days, and dealt a deep financial and cultural blow to the Confederated Tribes — one that tribal leaders say will take years to heal.
Public Safety
Rowe Creek Complex Grows to 367,847 Acres; US-26 Remains Closed as New Command Teams Arrive
The massive Rowe Creek Complex fire reached nearly 368,000 acres Sunday as US Highway 26 remains closed and a new unified command structure brings fresh resources to the fight.
Weather
Wildfire Smoke Lingers Over Jefferson County — Here's How to Protect Your Health
Smoke from the Rowe Creek Complex, Bench Fire, and other active Oregon wildfires continues to degrade air quality across Jefferson County, with health officials urging residents — especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions — to limit time outdoors.
Public Safety
State Grant Helps Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue Keep Pace During Brutal Fire Season
A wildfire staffing grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal is helping Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue maintain local emergency coverage while contributing personnel to the statewide mutual-aid system during one of Oregon's worst fire seasons on record.
Local News