Oregon

Snowy plover numbers tick up as Oregon beaches roped off for nesting season

Published

9 months ago

March 15, 2025

Snowy plover numbers tick up as Oregon beaches roped off for nesting season

The number of Western snowy plovers in Oregon increased slightly last year, continuing what’s been a major success story for the threatened shorebird as officials begin roping off beach for nesting season.

After two years of slight declines, officials counted 440 plovers during the 2024 breeding season survey, which was higher than the 433 counted in 2023 but still lower than the historic high of 532 in 2021.

Plovers are one of Oregon’s biggest success stories. Their numbers dropped to as low as 55 in 1993 and 76 in 2003, leading to them being listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act.

“With the support of the public and improvements to plover habitat, we’re making great strides in reversing the decline of this species,” said Cindy Burns, Siuslaw National Forest wildlife biologist. “Keep doing your part to understand nesting season rules and to share the beach this spring and summer.”

Beaches roped off to protect nesting for snowy plover

A main reason for the rebound has been the policy of roping off roughly 40 miles of dry sand on coastal beaches in management units that allow plovers to hatch and thrive in peace.

That policy, which started in 2010, began anew on Saturday. Plover nesting season lasts from March 15 to Sept. 15. The plover management units prohibit people and dogs tramping into the dry sand of plover nesting units, though in some cases they can bypass the areas on wet sand.

Sensitive plover nesting areas are identified on maps for the northern Oregon Coast and southern Oregon Coast. Signs may be present at trailheads with additional rules and limits, such as staying on the wet sand and no dogs even on a leash, “to help protect the small shorebirds and their exposed nests during this crucial period,” a news release from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department said.

Reminders for recreation on designated plover beaches March 15-Sept. 15:

The following are not permitted: dogs (even on a leash), driving a vehicle, riding a bicycle, operating electric-assisted bicycles, camping, burning wood, flying kites or operating drones.
Foot and equestrian traffic are permitted below the high-tide line on hard packed sand.

Snowy plovers nest in open sand

The numbers of plovers began to improve dramatically following the establishment of the roped-off units, the numbers show.

“They’re a ground-nesting bird that lays their eggs in small depressions on open sand — we call them scrapes in the sand — and rely on camouflage for protection. They need undisturbed time for the young to develop,” Cheryl Strong, a wildlife biologist and plover lead for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, told the Statesman Journal last year.

If the birds are disturbed by people, dogs, kites or drones — all of which are perceived as predators — they may fly away from their nest and put the eggs or young at risk.

Snowy plovers expanding range

Beyond plover numbers improving is the fact that they’ve expanded their range, Strong said previously.

“We’ve seen them expand their range to the north and south. We now have plovers in every coastal county in Oregon. It’s quite a turnaround,” Strong said last year.

One of the new areas plovers have been nesting is the Sand Lake Recreation Area, near the lake’s inlet, every year the last few years.

Zach Urness has been an outdoors reporter in Oregon for 18 years and is host of the Explore Oregon Podcast. He can be reached at zurness@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6801. Find him on X at @ZachsORoutdoors and BlueSky at oregonoutdoors.bsky.social.

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Oregon

5 major takeaways from Oregon Ducks’ 51-34 CFP win over James Madison

Published

2 hours ago

December 21, 2025

Press Room

5 major takeaways from Oregon Ducks’ 51-34 CFP win over James Madison

Ignore the scoreboard. Ignore the stat sheet. Ignore the litany of things that Dan Lanning, Tosh Lupoi, and Will Stein said after the game.

This was an ass-kicking by the Oregon Ducks, who beat the James Madison Dukes 51-34 on Saturday night in the first round of the College Football Playoff. Anyone who tuned in could see that. It doesn’t take advanced stats or high football IQ to see that the Ducks were the better, more talented team, and for the better part of 60 minutes, they did what they wanted to on the field.

Sure, giving up 34 points and over 500 yards of offense to a Group of Six team may not qualify as “championship-level” football to Lanning and his staff. However, if you’re going to mention what Oregon gave up, you have to also mention that those numbers were achieved by the Dukes late in the third and fourth quarter, when Oregon had literal fourth-string guys out there on the field.

Regardless, the standard is the standard in Eugene, and that wasn’t met for half of the game on Saturday. Ultimately, though, the Ducks won and will now move on to face the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the quarterfinals of the CFP. Before we preview that game, though, let’s further dive into this one and see what we can take away from the blowout.

A Pissed Off Dan Lanning

If you want to look at things in a positive manner — which Oregon fans often do not, for some reason — then the result on Saturday night is just about as perfect as you could ask for. The Ducks destroyed their first-round opponent with a zero-stress game from start to finish, knocked whatever rust there may have been off, and left with a pissed off head coach who will be demanding better from his players for the next 10 days leading up to the quarterfinal matchup vs. the Texas Tech Red Raiders.

Sounds pretty great when you put it that way, doesn’t it?

There were a lot of positives to take away from the day, but ultimately, it’s the way that Oregon finished that left Lanning calling this game “bigger sweet” after the game.

“The second half, as a team, we didn’t play the way we needed to be able to play,” Lanning said. “You’re going to find moments like that when you have a big lead to be able to choke somebody out. We didn’t do that.”

While the Ducks didn’t choke JMU out, and instead gave up a 99-yard touchdown drive late in the 4th quarter that allowed the Dukes to cover the 21.5-point spread, it was still a convincing enough win to give Oregon hope for the remainder of the CFP. When the starters were on the field, and the Ducks were clicking, they looked as good as any team we’ve seen in the nation this year, and one that can give a great game to the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Orange Bowl.

Couple that with a pissed off Dan Lanning who wants more, and you might have a perfect storm brewing in Eugene.

No Rust to be Found

Coming into this game, there was a question about how the Ducks would deal with the rust that likely built up during the three weeks since their last game in the end of November. A year ago, during Oregon’s 25 days off between the Big Ten Championship and the Rose Bowl, we saw Oregon lose a step, which proved fatal against the Ohio State Buckeyes.

If there was any rust that accumulated this year, it was not noticeable against James Madison.

The Ducks’ offense was a freight train early in this game, scoring on average a touchdown every four plays, and displaying an efficiency that we haven’t seen since the Chip Kelly era of Oregon football. At one point late in the second quarter, the Ducks had 34 points on 21 plays, with an average of 16.6 yards per play, 15.0 yards per carry, and 19.9 yards per completion. A few plays later in the third quarter, they took it up another level.

I thought we might see a drive or two stall out in the first quarter of this game because of the rust, but that wasn’t the case. Instead, Oregon became the first team in CFP history to have five different players score five touchdowns on the first five drives of the game.

Rust wasn’t a factor here, to say the least. It will be interesting to see if Texas Tech can say the same thing 10 days from now.

Oregon’s WR Duo

Oregon’s WR health has been in question all year long, but on Saturday night, they finally got good news on that front. Both Dakorien Moore and Gary Bryant Jr. — Oregon’s two leading WRs who have been out since the beginning of November with injuries — suited up and got into the game for the Ducks. Of course, neither had a massive impact — Moore had one catch for five yards, while Bryant didn’t record any stats — but it was a great opportunity for both to knock some rust off and get back into the game before the stretch run of the playoffs.

There’s been an idea that, if Oregon could get healthy at the right time this year, they might be dangerous. Well, they appear to be healthy, with Evan Stewart potentially returning next week as well, and it’s coming when they need it the most.

Benson and McClellan Make Statements

Despite Moore and Bryant Jr. returning to the field on Saturday, it was still clear that Malik Benson and Jeremiah McClellan have their roles in this offense, and they aren’t about to give them up any time soon. For starters, Benson was incredible in this game, hauling in five catches for 119 yards and two touchdowns. The chemistry that he has developed with Dante Moore has been impressive to see, and his ability to use speed to get over the top of the defense is unmatched. He truly has turned into a game-breaking weapon for the Ducks over the past two months.

Similarly, McClellan has really blossomed and become one of the Ducks’ best possession receivers on the roster. His ability to make tough, contested catches dazzles each and every game, and it showed up once again on Saturday night, as he finished with six catches for 83 yards and a touchdown.

Oregon’s offense might be getting Dakorien, Gary, and Evan back in the near future. However, that’s not going to detract from what Malik and Jeremiah can do on the field. Ultimately, it’s only going to make them harder to stop.

Look Out for Dante Moore Draft Buzz

One of the biggest narratives for Oregon this year has been about what QB Dante Moore plans to do after this season: stay in Eugene for another year or head to the 2026 NFL draft.

If he continues to perform like he did on Saturday, then a draft declaration feels like a foregone conclusion.

Moore was magnificent, particularly early on, going without an incompletion until late in the second quarter while spreading the ball around and making big-time plays. In the end, he finished with 313 yards and four touchdowns on 19-of-27 completions, while also adding a rushing TD as well. He also had a pair of interceptions that he would want back, but ultimately, it was an impressive performance.

Now, it will be interesting to see how his NFL stock rises because of it. In the first round of the CFP, there wasn’t particularly much great QB play to speak of, with the likes of Carson Beck, Ty Simpson, Trinidad Chambliss, John Mateer, and Marcel Reed all being the biggest names. Moore was far more impressive than that group.

So how will he compare against the likes of Fernando Mendoza, Julian Sayin, and Gunner Stockton? That’s going to be something to monitor. If he looks anything like he did in Round 1, though, the Ducks have a long CFP run ahead of them, and Moore might be off to the NFL in April.

Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.

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Oregon

National Championship Betting Odds After Oregon’s Win Over James Madison

Published

14 hours ago

December 21, 2025

Press Room

National Championship Betting Odds After Oregon’s Win Over James Madison

The No. 5 Oregon Ducks defeated the No. 12 James Madison Dukes 51-34 in their first-round College Football Playoff matchup on Saturday night at Autzen Stadium. With the win, the Ducks secured their first playoff victory since 2014 and are one of the eight remaining teams with a shot at the national championship. Oregon is looking to secure its first in school history and give generations of Ducks fans a memory that will last a lifetime.

Following the first-round win over James Madison, the Ducks’ national championship odds remained the same. Entering Saturday night’s playoff matchup, Oregon had the fourth-best odds to win the national championship at +800, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

With the win over James Madison, Oregon still ranks No. 4 in national championship odds at +800. No. 2 Ohio State (+180), No. 1 Indiana (+320), and No. 3 Georgia (+500) are the three teams ahead of the Ducks in odds to win the national championship. The Ducks are tied with their quarterfinal opponent, the No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders, at +800.

Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore (5) warms up before the game against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Oregon’s Dominating Offensive Performance vs. James Madison

Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore (5) throws a pass during the first quarter against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Oregon’s offense was red-hot from its opening drive as the Ducks became the first team in CFP history to score a touchdown on its first five offensive possessions. The Ducks had a 34-6 lead heading into halftime with quarterback Dante Moore throwing for 211 yards and recording four total touchdowns, and one interception on 11-of-14 passing in the first half. Moore finished the game throwing for 313 yards, four touchdown passes, and two interceptions on 19-of-27 passing.

Three different Oregon receivers collected touchdowns in the win over James Madison, including Malik Benson, Jeremiah McClellan, and Jamari Johnson. Benson led the Ducks in receiving in the win with five receptions, 119 yards, and two touchdowns.

Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks wide receiver Malik Benson (4) makes a catch for a touchdown during the third quarter against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Oregon running back Jordon Davison led the Ducks in rushing with 10 carries for 90 yards. Dierre Hill Jr. also collected a rushing touchdown, along with six carries for 76 yards in the win. In his first game back from injury, running back Jayden Limar returned a blocked punt for a touchdown.

Concerns On Defense For Oregon?

Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; James Madison Dukes tight end Lacota Dippre (15) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images | Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images

James Madison’s offense found success in certain moments of the game against Oregon. The Dukes’ first two offensive possessions of the game challenged Oregon’s defense. Two holding penalties led to a blocked field goal on a promising drive for the Dukes, which stalled their offensive momentum in the first half.

MORE: Oregon Ducks Highlighted By NFL Draft Prospects to Watch in College Football Playoff

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The Dukes scored four touchdowns in the second half, with wide receivers Nick DeGennaro and George Pettaway recording touchdown receptions. Tight end Lacota Dippre and quarterback Alonza Barnett III both recorded rushing touchdowns. James Madison had 509 total yards of offense against Oregon’s defense, compared to the Ducks’ 514.

Despite the win and the Ducks taking out most of their defensive starters in the second half, some fans may walk away disappointed with how Oregon performed defensively during multiple drives in the game. A poor defensive performance won’t cut it if Oregon hopes to make a run at the national championship.

Early Orange Bowl Preview vs. Texas Tech

Dec 20, 2025; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive back Jadon Canady (22) celebrates after a play during the second quarter against the James Madison Dukes at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

With the win, Oregon advances to the CFP Quarterfinal, where they’ll face off against the No. 4 Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Orange Bowl on Jan. 1. The kickoff from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami is scheduled for 9 a.m. PT on ESPN

The Orange Bowl matchup between the Ducks and the Red Raiders will be the fourth all-time meeting and the first since Oregon defeated Texas Tech 38-30 in Lubbock in 2023. Oregon leads the all-time series 3-0 against Texas Tech.

Defense will be a massive key in the Orange Bowl, as the Ducks and Red Raiders have two of the best defenses in college football. Whoever makes the most game-changing plays on defense will likely advance to the CFP Semifinal at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta, Georgia, on Jan. 9.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
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Here’s How to Watch James Madison vs. Oregon Live Online Without Cable for Free

Published

1 day ago

December 20, 2025

Press Room

Here’s How to Watch James Madison vs. Oregon Live Online Without Cable for Free

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The first round of the College Playoff is the next step for top-level teams to take on the road for the National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The top team in the Sun Belt Conference faces off against one of the top teams in the Big East with the hopes to move deeper in post-season play.

The No. 12-ranked James Madison Dukes (12-1) take on the No. 5-ranked Oregon Ducks (11-1) at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday, Dec. 20 with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT

At a Glance: How to Watch James Madison Dukes vs. Oregon Ducks Online

Want to catch first round game live? Below is a quick guide on the best ways to watch James Madison vs. Oregon online.

How to Watch James Madison Dukes vs. Oregon Ducks Game Online

The James Madison-Oregon game airs on TNT. If you don’t have cable, the best way to watch the pro football game is with DirecTV, which offers TNT in all of their packages. Here’s a breakdown of our favorite streaming options, including free trial and pricing information:

best overall

DirecTV

Pros: Free trial, affordable genre packs
Cons: Not as many entertainment channels in genre packs as other options

Watch the CFP game online with DirecTV. The streaming service offers various streaming options, while it carries TNT in everyone of its packages. Prices start at $49.99 for the first month and $89.99 per month afterwards for DirecTV’s “Entertainment” package. The streamer even offer a five-day free trial.

Best For Bundles

Hulu + Live TV
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Pros: Free trial, bonus streaming services
Cons: Pricey

Hulu + Live TV carries TNT for James Madison vs. Oregon livestream. It starts at $89.99 per month, but you get access to more than 95 channels. Subscribers also get access to Disney+ and ESPN Unlimited, and Hulu’s full on-demand library of movies, TV shows, and originals. Meanwhile, Hulu + Live TV offers a three-day free trial to start watching the game.

How To Watch James Madison vs. Oregon CFP First Round Game Online

Best Wallet-Friendly

Sling TV

Pros: Tons of channels, easy to use
Cons: Requires combination of packages + add-ons, no free trial

Sling is the more wallet-friendly live TV streaming service option. College football fans can use to watch James Madison Dukes vs. Oregon on TNT with the Sling Orange package with prices starting at $45.99 per month. Unfortunately, the streaming service does not currently offer a free trial.

Please note: Pricing and channel availability varies from location to location. Learn more about Sling TV here.

How To Watch James Madison vs. Oregon CFP First Round Game Online

Best for ORiginals

HBO Max

Pros: Hollywood blockbusters, prestige TV, live sports and news
Cons: No free trial

You can also watch TNT Sports games, like James Madison vs. Oregon, on HBO Max. Unfortunately, HBO Max does not currently offer a free trial, but it’s relatively affordable with their ad-supported plan starting at $9.99 per month.

James Madison Dukes vs. Oregon Ducks: Date, Start Time, Location

The James Madison-Oregon game takes place at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday, Dec. 20, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

James Madison Dukes vs. Oregon Ducks Predictions & Odds

For the first round of the CFP, the Oregon enter the game as the heavy favorite. Right now, the Ducks are a -21.5-point favorite to win. Meanwhile, as the underdog, the James Madison Dukes have a 950 moneyline, while Oregon sit at -2,000.

How To Watch James Madison vs. Oregon CFP First Round Game Online

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