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Despite mild fire season forecast, agencies tell Oregon leaders they need to invest in workforce – Ashland News – Community-Supported, NonProfit News

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Despite mild fire season forecast, agencies tell Oregon leaders they need to invest in workforce – Ashland News – Community-Supported, NonProfit News


Agency officials said firefighters are hard to hire and retain, and are often left to sleep in their trucks or camp on the job due to a lack of housing

By Alex Baumhardt, Oregon Capital Chronicle

Oregon is likely to face fewer big wildfires this summer than in previous years, but a lack of rural housing, coupled with unstable and often low pay, continues to create firefighter workforce challenges across the state and region. 

That was a big part of the message from state and federal fire and emergency response officials, who discussed this year’s fire outlook and what they need at a meeting Monday at the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center. The Portland-based center is part of a larger wildfire prevention and response network that includes nine state and federal agencies.

In particular, they said they need more investment in technology —  including on satellite detection — along with consistent pay increases for wildland firefighters and stable housing options. Jeff Fedrizzi, the state fire management officer for the federal Bureau of Land Management, said many wildland firefighters live out of their cars while they’re on the job.

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“We have folks living in the back of their rigs. They go to work and fight fires and camp out for two weeks and then come back and camp out,” he told Oregon U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, who hosted the meeting. All three are Democrats. 

The wildfire season in the Northwest can last from May through October, but typically the season is most intense from July to September. During that time, firefighters may end up fighting several big blazes at once, and that strains resources as officials share and coordinate equipment and manpower.

This year, the U.S. Forest Service has about 80% of the firefighters it needs in Oregon and Washington with 20% of jobs unfilled, according to Ed Hiatt, assistant director of operations for the regional office of the Service. He said it’s been like that for about the last six years even with a recent bonus in pay. 

Federizzi and officials from the Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State Fire Marshal and U.S. Forest Service praised the $20,000 supplemental pay bumps many wildland firefighters have received since 2021 under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, but they said the pay supplement needs to be made permanent and pay scales need to be updated. The supplemental money is only authorized through September of this year while agencies wait for a new pay scale to be finalized.

Wyden, Merkley and Bonamici committed to ensuring firefighter pay will continue to go up and to vote for bills investing in rural and wildland firefighter housing.

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Summer conditions

Due to a wet El Niño winter, much of the state has had lower than normal average temperatures over the last three months compared to the 30-year average according to Jon Bonk, a meteorologist at the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center. In central Oregon and east of the Cascades, forecasters expect that temperatures will be above average and precipitation will be below average by September. Between mid-July and September, they also said that a La Niña weather system will move over the state creating warmer, drier conditions, mostly impacting eastern Oregon and Washington.

Investing in detection

The number of cameras able to detect wildfires in the state have grown, and Oregon is likely to surpass Nevada as the state with the second most cameras in the U.S., officials said.

Electric utilities are also setting up their own cameras, according to Chris Cline, fire protection division chief at the Oregon Department of Forestry. The department is deploying a new night vision helicopter around the Medford area, according to Cline, something done in California before but new to Oregon.

Still, more money is needed for federal agencies to connect with state and local agencies and share data, said Mariana Ruiz-Temple, state fire marshal, who advocated investment in a wildfire fusion center that can bring all stakeholders together.

Hiatt told the lawmakers that inflation is driving up the cost of a lot of the equipment they need.

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“We can’t keep up with the increasing costs,” he said. Some parts needed for firetrucks can’t be delivered for several years, according to Hiatt. “By the time you’re paying that bill, it costs 50% more than when you originally we’re putting in the order. We’re spending a large percentage of our preparedness budget just on equipment.”

Alex Baumhardt has been a national radio producer focusing on education for American Public Media since 2017. She has reported from the Arctic to the Antarctic for national and international media, and from Minnesota and Oregon for The Washington Post.



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Oregon

PHOTOS: Corgi Beach Takeover returns to Seaside for second year

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PHOTOS: Corgi Beach Takeover returns to Seaside for second year


About 1500 people attended from all over the country

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Almost 800 short-legged, round-butted canines stormed the beach at Seaside when the Corgi Beach Takeover returned for its second year on Saturday.

This year featured races, costume contests, a silent auction and dozens of raffle items in a fundraiser for the Oregon Humane Society. According to the shelter, the corgi meetup is one of their most important fundraising events.

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  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)
  • The Corgi Beach Takeover took place at Seaside for the second year on June 29, 2024. (Courtesy: Oregon Humane Society)

“You can’t help but smile when you attend Corgi Beach Takeover – it’s cuteness overload on a whole new level,” OHS Events Manager Shelby Hollenbeck said. “Plus, you can smile knowing that your registration is supporting the lifesaving programs at Oregon Humane Society.”

OHS estimated close to 1,500 people were in attendance, with participants traveling to Seaside from as far away as Southern California, Montana and Michigan.

Further, they project to have raised more than $15,000, all for the benefit of thousands of shelter pets.



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Oregon Football: Former Duck Projected Among Most Productive NFL Running Backs for 2024

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Oregon Football: Former Duck Projected Among Most Productive NFL Running Backs for 2024


In a year that some people considered a “bad” running back class—not a single back selected in the first round of the draft—Oregon Football’s Bucky Irving has an opportunity to prove them wrong.

Irving was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and may enter his rookie year with a chip on his shoulder. He certainly posted numbers in his career at Oregon that warranted a closer pre-draft look. In any event, CBSSports compiled a list of five running backs, including Irving, who could very well play a key role in their respective team’s offense.

To some observers, Irving’s performance at the combine workout was less than spectacular. While his numbers were a little above average, he projects as a more athletic running back than what meets the eye. In fact, Irving has proven himself to be an elusive runner in space and is seen as a reliable back, not only to spell Rachaad White but to give Bucs quarterback, Baker Mayfield, another offensive weapon.

Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers agreed to a three-year contract this offseason.

Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers agreed to a three-year contract this offseason. / Tork Mason / USA TODAY NETWORK

While his size (5-10 and 195 pounds) might have been an issue for some teams, Tampa Bay saw something more but were not sure they could land him in the draft.

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 “We thought he might go a little bit earlier,” Mike Biehl, Buccaneers Director of Player Personnel, said. “He’s a guy we brought in on a ‘Top 30’ visit and spent some time with him. We thought maybe he would be a second-day pick, but he falls to the third day. I think even talking to him, when (we) called him, he had a little bit of a chip on his shoulder, thinking he should have gone earlier. We kind of like that. He’s just another right kind of character guy that we’ve been targeting. He fits that mold.”

Biehl also noted that Irving posted 1,180 rushing yards with 11 scores and 56 catches on his way to second-team All-Pac 12 honors in 2023. He led all FBS backs in receptions, and Biehl believes he can be even more productive in that part of his game in the NFL.

Oregon running back Bucky Irving (RB14) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oregon running back Bucky Irving (RB14) during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

“I think a lot of these college guys that come out, the route-running is what they have to improve, but when you see the traits – the quickness and the burst to separate – you know you can coach them up and they get a lot better at that in our league,” Biehl said. “I think Bucky falls into that category. He’s got really good hands, he’s elusive in space, which is a cool trait to have. He’s a little bit like Rachaad in that.”

Tampa Bay’s off-season work has largely focused on the running game. In addition to the selection of Irving, the Buccaneers used a first-round pick to select Duke center Graham Barton. While there is more that will go into improving the rushing attack, those additions should help.

Early projections for players at any position can be difficult, yet Bucky Irving has impressed with his work ethic and strong desire to be a successful NFL running back. Ducks’ fans have seen what he can do, now it is time for him to shine on a bigger stage.  

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Stay up to date on all things Oregon Ducks by visiting Oregon Ducks on SI daily and following Oregon Ducks on SI on Facebook and X.



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Oregon state agency, lawmakers react to Supreme Court ruling on homeless camping regulations – KTVZ

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Oregon state agency, lawmakers react to Supreme Court ruling on homeless camping regulations – KTVZ


SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Friday’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing cities to enforce regulations against the homeless sleeping on public property draw a somewhat predictable mix of reactions from Oregon officials, with a housing agency official calling it “devastating” and Democratic lawmakers saying it does nothing to solve the crisis while top Republican lawmakers celebrated a clearer path to stronger regulations.

Here are their news releases, in full:

Oregon Housing and Community Services responds to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling allowing cities to ban people from sleeping outdoors
Oregon Housing and Community Services – 06/28/24 1:40 PM

The United States Supreme Court made its ruling today in City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson. In response to the decision, Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) Executive Director Andrea Bell issued the following statement.

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“For many, we knew this day was coming, and yet it is still devastating. This is a wake-up call for all of us – cities in particular. We cannot succumb to cynicism or confuse this ruling as a mandate. Many of us have either experienced the struggle to make ends meet or know someone who has. In the face of this shared reality, out-of-sight, out-of-mind positions that criminalize sleeping or sheltering in public spaces only exacerbates the experiences of homelessness.

“OHCS’ position remains unchanged – we reject homelessness as an inevitable outcome. Every person, regardless of their background or where they come from, deserves a place to call home. Oregon’s shared values serve as a guidepost of hope and progress. In cities, suburbs, and rural towns across the state, our economies and communities are strongest when everyone’s fundamental needs are met. To the people of Oregon struggling to get by: We see you. We value your life. We will continue to work tirelessly on your behalf.”

In 2023, Oregon prevented more than 9,000 households from becoming homeless, created over 1,000 new shelter beds, and helped some 2,000 people move from homeless to housed. This was done in partnership with Governor Tina Kotek, the Oregon Legislature, numerous state agencies, and many local community partners who implemented the funding and policy developed through the Governor’s homelessness state of emergency (EO 23-02) and the Affordable Housing and Emergency Homelessness Response Package (HB 2001 and HB 5019, 2023).

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

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Legislative Action Must Follow Supreme Court’s Common-Sense Grants Pass v. Johnson Decision

SALEM, Ore. – Today, Senate Republicans celebrate the Supreme Court’s decision in the Grants Pass v. Johnson case, a ruling that stands as a victory for the rule of law and the well-being of our communities. This decision recognizes the critical need for local governments to manage public spaces effectively, ensuring safety and order for all citizens.

The Court’s ruling supports the City of Grants Pass’s right to enforce ordinances that prevent public spaces from becoming unsafe and unsanitary. By upholding these regulations, the Court has validated the efforts of municipalities to protect their communities while safety and dignity of people experiencing homelessness.

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler, in a recent KGW interview, emphasized the need for legislative action: “Unless the legislature decides to revisit the law that HB 3115 enacted, no one in Portland is going to see sweeping policy changes after the Supreme Court issues its decision.”

HB 3115 (2021) was a reactionary piece of legislation by Democrats in response to a misguided court opinion by the Ninth Circuit. This law has suffocated local jurisdictions’ efforts to keep their communities safe. It is essential that the Legislature acts promptly to ensure state laws align with the Supreme Court’s decision, allowing for sensible, community-focused solutions that maintain public safety and health without infringing on individual rights.

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“Despite the Supreme Court’s common sense ruling today, Democrats’ ‘Right to Camp’ law will continue to hamper local governments’ ability to address homelessness effectively,” said Senate Republican Leader Daniel Bonham (R-The Dalles). “The Legislature should immediately provide clarity to our local governments as they work to reduce homelessness in their communities by taking action on HB 3115. This time, cities and counties that are most affected should be at the table, leading the discussions on what is best for their local jurisdictions. We stand ready to pass legislation that balances the interests of all residents – whether they are in a home or seeking shelter, utilizing both compassion and pragmatism to ensure our public spaces are safe, clean, and accessible for everyone.”

Leader Helfrich Responds to City of Grants Pass V. Johnson

SALEM, Ore. – In response to today’s Supreme Court of the United States ruling in the City of Grants Pass v. Johnson case, House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich issued the following statement.

“Our parks were never meant to be campgrounds, and now our cities can finally begin restoring our communities’ public spaces,” said Leader Helfrich. “The Supreme Court’s ruling is a victory for common sense and highlights what conservative leadership looks like.”

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Statement from House and Senate Housing Chairs Following U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson

Building more housing, preventing homelessness remain top priorities

SALEM, OR – Today, the U.S. Supreme Court released its ruling in the Grants Pass v. Johnson case, saying city laws aimed at banning homeless residents from sleeping outdoors did not violate the Constitution’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment.

Senator Kayse Jama (D – Portland), chair of the Senate Housing and Development Committee, and Representative Pam Marsh (D – Ashland), chair of the House Housing and Homelessness Committee, released the following statement on how this decision will impact housing policy in Oregon:

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“Our goal remains making sure every Oregonian has access to safe, affordable housing so no one has to resort to sleeping on the streets. Homelessness will be solved by building more housing, supporting shelters and programs to get people on the path out of homelessness. 

Local jurisdictions have a duty to maintain livability for everyone in their communities – and, importantly, there needs to be a reasonable balance between those concerns and the reality that too many Oregonians don’t have anywhere safe to sleep. Today’s Supreme Court ruling does nothing to solve the housing and homelessness crisis in Oregon. The legislature remains focused on addressing the root causes of homelessness, increasing the housing supply, and funding programs that help get people on a path out of houselessness.”

The Oregon legislature passed significant legislation to address the root causes of the housing and homelessness crisis at the state level. This includes the Emergency Housing Stability and Production Package passed earlier this year, which made a $376 investment in expanding affordable housing and shelter supports and enacted policies that doubled down on the $2 billion housing package passed in 2023.



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