Section
Public Safety
Public Safety
Lake Billy Chinook Algae Advisory Downgraded — But Keep Your Pets Out of the Water
The Oregon Health Authority has downgraded its recreational use advisory for Lake Billy Chinook, saying cyanotoxin levels are now safe for human activities. However, a precaution remains in place for dogs and other pets, and county leaders are calling on OHA for better communication with local communities.
Public Safety
Seven Arrested in Madras Drug Bust After High-Speed Chase, PIT Maneuver
A months-long CODE and DEA investigation targeting two Madras residents accused of distributing commercial quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine across Central Oregon ended Wednesday with seven arrests, a high-speed chase, and a search warrant executed at a Southeast Grizzly Road home.
Public Safety
Fourth of July in Jefferson County: What You Need to Know About Fireworks and Fire Restrictions
Open burning is closed countywide. Fireworks are banned in Oregon State Parks and on all federal lands. Here’s what’s allowed — and what isn’t — as Jefferson County heads into a high-risk Independence Day weekend.
Public Safety
Seven Arrested in Madras Drug Bust After High-Speed Chase, Months-Long DEA Investigation
A joint CODE and DEA investigation targeting a SE Grizzly Road home culminated Wednesday night in a vehicle pursuit, a PIT maneuver, and two searches — leaving seven people facing charges ranging from fentanyl delivery to felon in possession of a firearm.
Public Safety
7 Arrested in Madras After Months-Long CODE and DEA Drug Investigation
A multi-agency drug investigation spanning months came to a dramatic close Wednesday night in Madras, ending in a high-speed chase, a PIT maneuver, and the arrest of seven people on charges ranging from drug delivery to felon in possession of a firearm.
Public Safety
Extreme Fire Danger in Effect: What Every Jefferson County Resident Needs to Know This Weekend
With fire danger at the extreme level, burn restrictions in place since May, and a long holiday weekend approaching, Jefferson County Fire & EMS and state forestry officials are urging residents to be especially vigilant. Here is a complete rundown of what is and is not allowed.
Public Safety
Swim Advisory Still in Effect at Lake Billy Chinook as Summer Weekend Arrives
With thousands of Central Oregon families expected to visit Lake Billy Chinook this weekend, state health officials are urging caution: toxic algae levels remain above safe limits, and the advisory now covers the entire lake.
Public Safety
Major Drug Bust Nets 7 Arrests in Jefferson County: Meth and Fentanyl Seized
A months-long investigation by the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement team and the DEA culminated Wednesday night in the arrest of seven people, including two Madras residents suspected of dealing commercial quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine throughout Central Oregon.
Public Safety
Fire Danger Is Extreme: What Jefferson County Residents Must Know Before July 4th
With Central Oregon fire danger rated EXTREME and a burn ban in effect since May, Jefferson County Fire & EMS is urging residents to take serious precautions heading into the Fourth of July holiday — even as fireworks remain legal.
Public Safety
Grassland Fire Burns Seven Acres South of Madras, Cause Under Investigation
Crews from four agencies knocked down a fast-moving grassland fire on the Crooked River National Grassland Tuesday afternoon, stopping its spread within an hour. The cause is still under investigation.
Public Safety
2026 Fire Season: Central Oregon Faces Elevated Wildfire Risk as Drought Deepens
Experts warn 2026 could be one of Central Oregon’s most dangerous fire seasons in years. A dry winter, persistent drought, and early heat have fuels primed across Jefferson County and the surrounding region. Here’s what residents need to know.
Public Safety
Health Advisory at Lake Billy Chinook: Toxic Algae Bloom Prompts Swimming Warning
Oregon Health Authority has issued a recreational use health advisory for Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County due to cyanotoxins above safe levels. Swimming and water contact are discouraged, but fishing, camping, and boating remain viable with precautions.