Kentucky bluegrass grown under irrigation in the Madras and Culver areas is being used at multiple FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums across the United States. Oregon produces roughly 70% of the nation's Kentucky bluegrass seed — and a significant share of it comes from Jefferson County.

Jefferson County commissioners have approved a site control agreement for a proposed large-scale battery energy storage project in Madras, clearing the way for a feasibility study on what could become a major renewable energy infrastructure addition to the region.

Kentucky Bluegrass seed grown by farmers in Madras and Culver is being used at multiple FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums across the U.S. — a quiet piece of Jefferson County agriculture on the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Open for about six months on Iris Lane in Culver, Shorty's Taphouse has added food trucks, live music, farmer's markets, and themed nights to build the kind of community gathering spot that small-town Oregon rarely has.

A brand new tribute band festival debuted in Madras on June 19–20, drawing roughly 2,000 attendees to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Organizers say it was a smashing success and are already considering a return.

St. Charles Health System, the region's largest employer with a hospital in Madras, laid off 22 people in leadership roles on June 23 and will leave 23 additional vacancies unfilled as part of a restructuring of its top management.

Over The Edge Taphouse — Jefferson County's 2025 Business of the Year — has opened The Edge RV Park on adjacent property in Crooked River Ranch, adding 28 sites for visitors who want to extend their stay in the canyon country of Central Oregon.

A brand-new two-day tribute band festival drew roughly 2,000 people to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds last weekend, bringing out-of-town visitors and economic activity to Madras. Organizers say the event is planting permanent roots here.

Central Oregon's largest employer cut 22 leadership roles and left 23 vacancies unfilled this week, saying it is rebalancing responsibilities amid rapid growth. No direct patient care positions were eliminated, but the cuts ripple across all four hospital campuses including Madras.

The Made in Jefferson County Tour returned June 18 after a years-long hiatus, attracting 60 participants — many from outside the area — to tour Central Oregon Seeds, Keith Manufacturing, and Poland Organic Dairy.

The 2026 Made in Jefferson County Tour, held June 18, attracted 60 attendees for behind-the-scenes visits to three local Madras businesses. EDCO reports 60-70% of participants came from outside the county — a sign that Jefferson County's industrial sector is drawing regional attention.