Weather
Dry October Raises Alarm for Jefferson County Farmers as Drought Threatens Second Straight Tough Year
A stubborn drought gripping 57.6% of Oregon shows no signs of breaking this fall, while fire season remains officially in effect — a compounding challenge for Jefferson County farmers and ranchers who may be facing a second straight year of water shortages.
Local News
Two Months After the Bench Fire, Warm Springs Is Still Rebuilding — Largely on Its Own
Grassroots organizers in Warm Springs are doing much of the heavy lifting two months after the Bench Fire burned more than 60,000 acres of the reservation, filling critical gaps where state and federal resources fell short.
Events
Jefferson County Celebrates Its First-Ever Books, Bites and Harvest Delights Fair
Jefferson County hosted its first-ever Books, Bites and Harvest Delights fair Saturday at the Madras fairgrounds, bringing together local farmers, artisans, and neighbors for a day of harvest-season celebration.
Sports
Madras High Among Oregon Pioneers as Girls Flag Football Earns Official OSAA Status
Madras High School helped pilot girls flag football in Oregon, and now the sport is officially sanctioned by the OSAA — meaning White Buffaloes athletes could compete for a state championship as early as spring 2027.
Jefferson County
Madras Mayor's Race Takes Shape as Forum Spotlights Staffing, Finances, and City Growth
With Mayor Mike Lepin stepping down, Madras candidates for mayor met for a public forum focused on city staffing challenges, municipal finances, and development priorities ahead of the November election.
Weather
Residential Burn Season Now Open in Jefferson County — Tips for Safe Debris Burning
Open residential debris burning is now permitted in Jefferson County after fire chiefs across Central Oregon collectively reopened burn season on October 1, 2026, following a dry summer of restrictions.