Back-to-School Season Arrives in Jefferson County — Here’s What Families Need to Know

With reduced water allotments, extreme drought conditions, and a punishing fire season, Jefferson County farmers are managing one of the most difficult growing seasons in years. As harvest winds down for summer crops, the financial toll is coming into focus.

Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue is inviting the community to a pay-what-you-can breakfast fundraiser on September 6 to support their volunteer firefighter association — the same crew that’s been stretched thin covering local calls while fighting fires across Oregon this summer.

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are entering a new phase of recovery after the Bench Fire was largely contained at just over 67,000 acres. A boil water notice has been lifted, but tribal leaders say rebuilding will take months or years — and they still need the community's support.

Wildfire smoke from multiple fires burning in Oregon and Washington has kept air quality at unhealthy levels across Jefferson County since Monday. The Oregon DEQ advisory is expected to remain in effect through at least Wednesday afternoon.

With the 2026–27 school year on the horizon, Jefferson County School District 509J and COCC's Madras campus are preparing to welcome students back — including a Warm Springs Back to School Barbecue on September 3.