Summer burning restrictions took effect in Jefferson County on May 4, and fire officials are warning that the 2026 wildfire season could be one of the worst in years due to low snowpack, drought, and warm temperatures arriving early.

Stage 1 public use fire restrictions took effect May 18 on the Deschutes and Ochoco national forests, Crooked River National Grassland, and Prineville District BLM lands. Campfires are prohibited except at a limited list of designated campgrounds.

As of May 18, campfires are banned across most Central Oregon public lands, including the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland. The 2026 fire season officially began May 8.

The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is meeting today, May 21, to consider revoking Tyler Anderson’s police certification. Anderson, who is running against incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock in November, was fired from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in 2025 amid allegations of dishonesty and misconduct.

Campfires are now banned on most Central Oregon federal public lands as fire danger reaches 'high' — and Jefferson County's open burn ban has been in place since early May.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office has been urging boaters to complete their 2026 aquatic invasive species inspections before hitting the water. Here's why it matters — and what happens if you don't.

Jefferson County entered summer burning restrictions on May 4, limiting open burning to approved containers with permits. State fire officials say the 2026 season could rival 2015 as one of Oregon's worst.

A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in Culver was sentenced May 14 to 30 months in federal prison for crossing state lines to sexually abuse a child on multiple occasions in 2025.

As of 12:01 a.m. Monday, campfires and open flames are banned on Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland, and Prineville BLM lands — including areas near Jefferson County.

Oregon's 2026 fire season was declared on May 8 for the Central Oregon District, covering Jefferson, Deschutes, and Crook counties. That means burn permits are now required, and officials warn this year could be among the most dangerous on record.

Annual BLM campfire restrictions went into effect May 13 along portions of the Crooked and Deschutes Rivers, Lake Billy Chinook, and Lake Simtustus — affecting recreation spots heavily used by Jefferson County residents all summer long.