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Public Safety
Public Safety
Boats on Lake Billy Chinook? Make Sure You've Had Your Annual Inspection
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office has been urging boaters to complete their 2026 aquatic invasive species inspections before hitting the water. Here's why it matters — and what happens if you don't.
Public Safety
Burn Restrictions Now in Effect Across Jefferson County — And Fire Officials Warn the Season Could Be Severe
Jefferson County entered summer burning restrictions on May 4, limiting open burning to approved containers with permits. State fire officials say the 2026 season could rival 2015 as one of Oregon's worst.
Public Safety
Culver Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Traveling to Sexually Abuse a Minor
A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in Culver was sentenced May 14 to 30 months in federal prison for crossing state lines to sexually abuse a child on multiple occasions in 2025.
Public Safety
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Take Effect Today Across Central Oregon Public Lands
As of 12:01 a.m. Monday, campfires and open flames are banned on Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland, and Prineville BLM lands — including areas near Jefferson County.
Public Safety
Fire Season Is Here: What Jefferson County Landowners and Residents Need to Know Right Now
Oregon's 2026 fire season was declared on May 8 for the Central Oregon District, covering Jefferson, Deschutes, and Crook counties. That means burn permits are now required, and officials warn this year could be among the most dangerous on record.
Public Safety
No Campfires at Lake Billy Chinook or Along the Deschutes River Through October — BLM Restrictions Now in Effect
Annual BLM campfire restrictions went into effect May 13 along portions of the Crooked and Deschutes Rivers, Lake Billy Chinook, and Lake Simtustus — affecting recreation spots heavily used by Jefferson County residents all summer long.
Public Safety
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Hit Central Oregon Public Lands Starting Monday — Campfires Banned
Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 18, Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions take effect across the Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland, and Prineville BLM District — including areas popular with Jefferson County residents.
Public Safety
Seagull Fire Sparks Near Warm Springs as Jefferson County Enters Early Fire Season
A new wildfire ignited near Warm Springs on May 14, as Jefferson County and the broader Central Oregon region contend with fire restrictions already in place weeks ahead of summer — a sign of what state officials are calling a potentially severe and extended fire year.
Public Safety
Fire Season Is Here: BLM Campfire Ban Takes Effect Today on Central Oregon Rivers, Including Lake Billy Chinook
Starting today, May 14, campfires are prohibited along portions of the Crooked, Deschutes, John Day, and White Rivers, as well as on BLM lands bordering Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus. The restrictions run through October 15.
Public Safety
Cougar Spotted at Madras City Park; Resident Captured Earlier Sighting on Porch Camera
A mountain lion was reportedly seen entering City Park in Madras last week, days after a Madras woman captured dramatic security camera footage of a cougar pacing on her porch at 6 a.m. Oregon State Police and Fish and Wildlife have been notified, though no tracks have been confirmed.
Public Safety
Fire Season Officially Underway in Jefferson County: Open Burning Closed, Restrictions in Effect
Jefferson County Fire and EMS closed all open burning at sunset May 3 due to drying fuels and weather conditions. Summer burn restrictions are now in effect, and the 2026 Oregon fire season officially began May 8. Here is what residents need to know.
Public Safety
Cougar Spotted in Madras City Park; Multiple Sightings Reported Across County
A cougar was reported in Madras City Park on Oak Street on May 5, and additional sightings have been reported in Warm Springs. Residents are urged to be cautious, especially near wooded areas and parks.