Southern Oregon & Northern California News
Latest local news from Southern Oregon and Northern California, covering Medford, Ashland, Grants Pass, Klamath Falls, Jackson County, Josephine County, Klamath County, Siskiyou County, Del Norte County, and communities throughout the region.
Prairie Creek Restoration Nears Public Opening (VIDEO)
The Yurok Tribe has planted thousands more native species at Prairie Creek as the future ‘O Rew Redwoods Gateway and Restoration Project moves closer to opening to the public.
Growing Opportunities
Bonanza senior Brooklyn Latscha has helped transform the school greenhouse into a thriving student-led program focused on agriculture, business skills and hands-on learning for younger students.
Oregon Expands EV Charging Network
Oregon is adding 24 new EV fast charging station sites through the latest round of federal funding, including Klamath Falls, Chemult and several key Highway 97 travel stops.
$6 Million Awarded to Restore Spring Salmon in Klamath Basin
Federal agencies have awarded $6 million to help tribes and Oregon officials restore spring Chinook salmon in the Klamath Basin through hatchery expansion and remote stream incubation sites.
Volcano Preparedness Workshop Coming to Klamath Falls, Bend
Free volcano preparedness workshops are coming to Klamath Falls and Bend next week as Oregon emergency officials work to educate residents and strengthen readiness for future Cascade volcanic hazards.
Thousands Lose SNAP Benefits in Oregon; How to Reapply
Thousands of Oregonians have already lost SNAP benefits under expanded federal work rules, with thousands more at risk this month. Oregon officials say some residents may still be able to keep or regain food assistance by meeting requirements or qualifying for exemptions.
Conger Third Graders Explore Nature at Moore Park
Conger Elementary third graders explored Moore Park through the Klamath Outdoor Science School, learning forestry, ecology, wildlife habitats, and how to estimate a tree’s age by counting its rings.
Overnight Motorhome Fire in Murphy
A motorhome being used as a residence was destroyed in an overnight fire in Murphy. The occupant suffered minor burns while trying to extinguish the flames before the fire spread to a nearby vehicle and trees.
Six State Titles, One Team
Henley High School students captured six state championships and qualified multiple teams for nationals at the SkillsUSA Oregon State Conference, highlighting the continued strength of the school’s Career and Technical Education programs.
Millions Headed to Southern Oregon Counties
Nearly $48.7 million in federal Secure Rural Schools funding is headed to Oregon counties, with Southern Oregon communities receiving some of the largest allocations in the state. Douglas, Klamath, Jackson, and Josephine counties are among the top recipients.
Fire Sprinklers Stop Apartment Blaze in Medford
A sprinkler system stopped a potentially dangerous apartment fire on Broad Street in Medford, according to fire officials. Investigators say the blaze was accidentally caused by an unattended candle.
Shots Fired During Medford Break-In Attempt
A man armed with an axe was shot during an apparent apartment break-in attempt early Tuesday in Medford, according to police. Authorities say no other injuries were reported.
Klamath Water Bank Opens 2026 Drought Program
The Klamath Water Bank has opened its 2026 drought response program with up to $19.1 million available for irrigators as water shortages are expected to idle tens of thousands of acres this season.
Charges Recommended After Dorris Paraquat Spill
CHP has recommended possible charges after a paraquat spill in Dorris shut down Highway 97 and triggered a shelter-in-place order. Investigators say the tank came loose from a truck headed to a spraying job in the Shasta Valley.
Ross Ragland Announces Packed May Lineup
The Ross Ragland Theater has announced a full May lineup featuring Klamath Chorale, Blippi, the Klamath Symphony, Oregon Ballet Theatre, and a summer camp fundraiser supporting local youth programs.
United Way Executive Director Announces Retirement
United Way of the Klamath Basin Executive Director Christine Hess has announced her retirement after nearly four years of service. The nonprofit says it will begin an immediate search for new leadership as it continues programs supporting health, education, housing, and financial stability across the region.
Three Rescued From Two-Story House Fire in Wilderville
Three people were rescued from a two-story house fire in Wilderville after a kitchen blaze trapped occupants upstairs. Firefighters used ladders to reach second-floor windows, while two people were taken to the hospital and several pets were also saved.
Semi Truck Fire Triggers Explosions on I-5 Near Sunny Valley
A semi truck carrying hazardous cargo caught fire on I-5 near Sunny Valley, triggering explosions and spreading into nearby vegetation. Fire crews from multiple agencies responded, and one firefighter was treated for smoke exposure as crews worked to contain the blaze and prevent environmental impact.
Lake County DA Resigns, Citing Severe Funding Crisis
Lake County District Attorney Paul Charas is resigning just over a year into his term, saying chronic underfunding has made it increasingly difficult to prosecute cases. According to Oregon Public Broadcasting, Charas cited staffing shortages, minimal trial resources, and the strain of serving as the county’s only prosecutor.
SOU Raises Tuition as Budget Challenges Continue
Southern Oregon University will increase tuition and fees by nearly 5% next year for in-state undergraduate students, the maximum allowed without additional state approval. According to reporting by Jefferson Public Radio, university leaders say tuition hikes alone will not solve broader financial challenges tied to enrollment declines, rising costs, and limited public funding.