If you want to understand what actually makes Jefferson County's economy run, the 2026 Made in Jefferson County Tour is your best chance to see it up close.

Organized by the Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) in partnership with Jefferson County, the City of Madras, the City of Metolius, and the City of Culver, the tour takes place on Thursday, June 18, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

This Year's Stops

The 2026 tour will feature visits to three Jefferson County businesses that represent different sectors of the local economy:

  • Central Oregon Seed, Inc. — A leading player in the region's robust grass seed industry, which has long been a backbone of Jefferson County agriculture.
  • Keith Manufacturing — An industrial manufacturer with a significant footprint in the county and a long track record of local employment.
  • Poland Organic Dairy — Representing Jefferson County's agricultural heritage and the growing market for organic and specialty dairy products.

Each stop gives participants a behind-the-scenes look at operations — the kind of access rarely available to the general public.

Why This Tour Matters

Jefferson County's economy is more diverse than many outside the region realize. Between agriculture (grass seed, mint, grain, dairy), manufacturing, tribal enterprises on the Warm Springs Reservation, and a growing services sector, the county has real economic depth.

"If you want to better understand what's driving Jefferson County's economy, the Made in Jefferson County Tour is a good place to start," the Madras Pioneer noted in earlier coverage.

The tour is also an important networking and awareness opportunity. Connecting business leaders, elected officials, workforce development professionals, and community stakeholders with the companies that employ local residents helps build a stronger economic ecosystem — and it helps those companies be seen as the community assets they are.

Tickets and Information

Tickets for the June 18 tour are available through Eventbrite. Search "2026 Made in Jefferson County Tour" or visit edcoinfo.com/events for registration and more details. The tour starts at 8:30 a.m. and concludes around noon.

Space on the bus is limited, so interested participants are encouraged to register soon.