Recent rainfall and unseasonably cool temperatures have pushed fire danger down to moderate across ODF-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine counties. Fire season remains in effect, IFPL stays at Level 2, and outdoor debris burning is still prohibited.

Three novice hikers from Roseville were rescued from Mount Shasta after becoming lost in Mud Creek Canyon during a nighttime descent. One suffered a knee injury, and officials say the group had relied on AI, YouTube, and AllTrails while planning the climb.

ODFW is seeking public comment on an ODOT request to waive fish passage requirements at an unnamed Bear Creek tributary near OR 99 and South Stage Road. The proposal would shift mitigation work to habitat restoration and another culvert project within the watershed.

A sudden burst of wind lifted a bounce house during a memorial celebration at Klamath Commons, injuring several children. Six-year-old Lilly Gailey was flown to Portland for surgery as families begin recovering from an afternoon that changed within seconds.

Black bears are showing up across more Ashland neighborhoods as scarce mountain berries push animals toward easier food sources. ODFW says bears have been reported getting into garbage and backyard chicken coops, while residents are being urged to remove attractants and report sightings.

Klamath Falls Police Department has welcomed a new K9 team as Officer Zach Cardoza and 15-month-old Belgian Malinois Titan begin serving together. The pair completed six weeks of intensive training, and Titan is trained in criminal apprehension and narcotics detection.

Mt. Ashland Association has named Rachel Canada as the ski area’s new general manager. Canada brings more than 20 years of mountain operations and resort management experience and will lead Mt. Ashland as it prepares for chairlift replacement projects and continued growth beyond the winter season.

Cycle Oregon Rally 2026 is bringing hundreds of cyclists through Grants Pass, Jacksonville, Ashland, and the surrounding Rogue Valley. The five-day, non-competitive event combines paved and gravel routes with live music, community connections, and a mission that reaches well beyond the ride itself.

A protest outside the Josephine County Courthouse turned physical Wednesday as a protester and counter-protester grappled in the roadway. Videos capture the confrontation, while the two sides dispute what happened beforehand. No arrests had been publicly confirmed as of Friday afternoon.

Eagle Point Police Chief Jim Hamilton will resign Sept. 7, citing philosophical differences with city administration. Meanwhile, two labor groups representing police officers and other city employees have unanimously voted no confidence in City Administrator Aaron Prunty and HR/Finance Director Melissa Owens.

Jacksonville businessman Joel Caswell has been sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for tax evasion, employment tax crimes, bank fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. He was also ordered to pay nearly $1.2 million in restitution to the IRS.

The Fielder Mountain Fire north of Rogue River has grown to an estimated 400 acres as night crews move into place and additional evacuations are issued. Fifteen hand crews, 14 engines, seven dozers, and other resources are working the fire after 11 aircraft supported suppression efforts Thursday.

The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office has ended its contract with Flock Safety and deactivated all 10 automated license plate reader cameras. Sheriff Dave Daniel cited public privacy concerns, potential Fourth Amendment implications, and recent vandalism.

As the Wrights Spring Fire disrupts communities across Klamath County, food banks, volunteers, tribal programs, and local fundraisers are helping displaced families and animals. Residents are urged to check current needs and verify donation requests before giving.

Mark Cruz, a citizen of the Klamath Tribes who grew up in Klamath Falls, has been confirmed to lead the Indian Health Service. Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, both Democrats, voted against the larger confirmation package that included Cruz.

A new wildfire near Crescent and Gilchrist is sending a large smoke column over northern Klamath County and has prompted Level 2 and Level 1 evacuation notices. A temporary evacuation point has been established at La Pine High School.

Level 1 Be Ready evacuation notices are in effect south of Sprague River Road as the Wrights Spring Fire reaches 2,224 acres. About 180 personnel are assigned, and Northwest Team 8 will assume command Friday. No road or highway closures are in effect.

The Woodrat Fire has grown to approximately 300 acres and is 50% lined near Ruch. Six hand crews, four dozers, engines, water tenders, and falling modules are taking over overnight operations as firefighters work to limit movement toward Sterling Creek Road.

The Wrights Spring Fire has grown to approximately 2,000 acres south of Sprague River and east of Chiloquin. Firefighters strengthened lines along the east flank overnight, while heavy timber, dense vegetation, and rugged terrain continue to challenge crews.

The Wrights Spring Fire has grown to approximately 1,200 acres east of Modoc Point in Klamath County. About 100 firefighters are working through the night, with more resources en route. No evacuations or formal closures are in effect, but the public should avoid nearby forest roads.