Jefferson County residents who suffered losses from this year's wildfires have an opportunity to connect with recovery resources face to face. OSU Extension Service is coordinating a Multi-Agency Wildfire Recovery Resource Event on Tuesday, November 10, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Central Oregon Agricultural Research and Extension Center, located at 850 NW Dogwood Lane in Madras.
The event brings together representatives from local, state, and federal agencies under one roof to help Jefferson County landowners, ranchers, and homeowners navigate the assistance programs available in the wake of wildfire damage.
Resources Available at the Event
Agency representatives will be on hand to assist with questions and applications related to:
- Natural resources recovery — reseeding, erosion control, and land stabilization
- Agriculture and livestock recovery assistance — USDA emergency programs including ELAP and LFP
- Insurance questions — help interpreting policies and understanding the claims process
- Financial and community assistance programs — grants, low-interest loans, and emergency funds
- Connecting residents with the right agency — local, state, and federal programs explained in plain language
Who Should Attend
The event is open to any Jefferson County resident who experienced wildfire impacts in 2026 — whether that means scorched rangeland, destroyed fencing, lost livestock, or damaged structures. Even residents who are unsure whether they qualify for any programs are encouraged to attend and ask questions. Agency representatives are there to help determine eligibility, not simply hand out brochures.
Why It Matters for Jefferson County
Jefferson County and the broader Central Oregon high desert saw significant wildfire activity in 2026, with rangeland, timber, and structures affected across the region. Wildfire recovery is rarely a quick process — damaged fencing, lost forage, and soil erosion can affect agricultural operations for years after a fire moves through. Events like this one are designed to cut through bureaucratic complexity and connect affected residents with real, practical help.
OSU Extension has been a consistent partner for local ranchers and farmers, providing on-the-ground expertise in areas from rangeland management to livestock health. Their coordination of this event reflects the ongoing commitment to supporting Jefferson County agriculture through difficult seasons.
The event is free and no appointment is required. The Central Oregon Agricultural Research and Extension Center is located off Highway 26 in Madras. For more information, contact the OSU Extension Jefferson County office.