Author: KTVZ

Barney Lerten

(Update: More comments from Bend Airport Manager Tracy Williams)

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) – Oregon lawmakers announced Wednesday that seven Oregon airports, including the Bend Municipal Airport, have secured about $22.7 million combined in federal grants for infrastructure improvements to taxiways, drainage, snow removal equipment and more.

“These federal investments to modernize and improve airports large and small throughout our state benefit Oregonians relying on these facilities for their communities’ economic health and for everybody’s safety during wildfires and other emergencies,” Senator Ron Wyden said. “I’m gratified these resources are heading to Oregon, and I’ll keep battling to provide similar funds for airports all across our state.”

“Oregon’s regional airports serve as vital hubs for our communities, including supporting local businesses and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters,” Senator Jeff Merkley said. “This federal funding will allow several Oregon regional airports to tackle important projects like expanding taxiways, construction projects, and new equipment. I’ll continue to fight to ensure Oregon has the resources for safe and efficient travels for the folks who rely on Oregon’s airports.” 

“I’m pleased to see that airports in NW Oregon and across the state are receiving federal investments to improve the reliability of our transportation system,” said Rep. Bonamici. “Because of these modernization projects, Oregonians and anyone traveling to our beautiful state for business or pleasure will be safer. I will continue to advocate for other important transportation and infrastructure projects that will help Oregonians and the Oregon economy thrive.”

“Airports are vital infrastructure for our communities—supporting local economies, emergency response, and everyday travel for Oregonians,” said Rep. Val Hoyle. “I’m proud to see federal investments coming to Eugene and Corvallis to improve safety, modernize facilities, and prepare these airports for future growth. These upgrades will make a real difference for our region, and I’ll keep fighting for resources that strengthen our transportation and infrastructure.”

“I’m glad to see these federal investments coming to airports across Oregon,” said Rep. Salinas. “Modernizing and improving Oregon’s airport infrastructure is critical to the safety and economic growth of communities both large and small. I’ll keep fighting to deliver the resources that Oregonians need and deserve.”

“It’s important to me that as people come in and out of our beautiful state that we give them the best possible experience,” said Rep. Janelle Bynum. “This funding provides the resources to do just that, improving safety and reliability and helping Oregon airports modernize and grow. I was ecstatic to see this announcement, and I’ll always fight for projects that improve Oregonians’ quality of life.”

“Investing in our airports means investing in the safety, connectivity, and economic strength of our communities,” said Rep. Dexter. “I’m thrilled that more than $15 million is headed to PDX. This funding—fueled by the Biden Administration’s historic infrastructure investments—is a clear example of what it looks like when the federal government shows up for local communities.” 

The $22.7 million in airport improvement grants from the Federal Aviation Administration will be distributed as follows:

$15.22 million to the Port of Portland for Portland International Airport to rebuild 2,700 feet of the existing paved taxiway A pavement that’s reached the end of its useful life.

$3.14 million to the Port of Portland for Hillsboro Airport to build a new 1,300-foot taxiway K to reduce delays and accommodate more aircraft operations.

$2.14 million to Bend Municipal Airport to rehabilitate 12,000 feet of the existing southwest, northwest, and west taxi lanes pavement to extend their useful lives.

$1.66 million for Eugene’s Mahlon Sweet Airport to build new airfield drainage for wetland mitigation to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.

$261,938 for Corvallis Municipal Airport to build a new 1,100-foot taxi lane to provide airfield access to a non-exclusive hangar development area to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.

$215,000 for Burns Municipal Airport to acquire snow removal equipment.

$76,000 to Joseph State Airport to reseal 5,210 feet of existing Runway 15/33 pavement and joints to extend its useful life. This project reseals 6,990 feet of the existing Taxiway A pavement and joints to extend its useful life.

“Reconstructing and adding taxiways at PDX and Hillsboro Airport is vital to maintaining the transportation system that our region relies on,” said Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director of the Port of Portland. “We appreciate the continued support of Senators Wyden and Merkley on projects that help to ensure safe and efficient operations at our airports.”

“Funding for this important airport capital improvement project will support asphalt patching, crack sealing and repair, surface sealing, and new painted striping on paved surfaces at the Bend Municipal Airport,” said Airport Manager Tracy Williams.

Williams told KTVZ News on Wednesday that the funds were anticipated.

“Each July, I travel to Washington D.C., meet with the Representatives on the Hill,  thank them for their support, provide an update on projects they supported, and make any ask if necessary. Merkley, Wyden, and Chavez-DeRemer have always been strong advocates.  I put in a call, but have not met Bynum yet. She’s on my radar!

“The grant will cover 95% of the total project,” Williams said. “Some of the work will begin late summer 2025.”

Williams also told us that the airport’s new control tower “is coming along nicely (slight delays outside our control) and should be substantially complete by the end of this year.”

“On behalf of the City of Burns and the Burns Municipal Airport, we sincerely appreciate the recent grant awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration for the acquisition of essential snow removal equipment,” said City Manager Judy Erwin. “This funding will significantly enhance our operational capabilities during the winter season, ensuring safer and more reliable service for all airport users. The support from the FAA continues to be instrumental in maintaining and improving the safety and efficiency of our airport infrastructure. This equipment will allow us to better serve general aviation, emergency services, and regional operations, especially during severe weather conditions.

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Isabella Warren

(Update: Adding video, comments from shelter)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — It’s been two weeks since the closure of the Bend area’s largest homeless camp, off China Hat Road. Homeless advocates in Central Oregon are now navigating an increase in demand for services.

“We’ve certainly had people from the camps come into our services throughout the time that we’ve existed,” Lighthouse Navigation Center Director Naomi Blair said Wednesday. “And there are extra layers of challenges in learning how to adapt to community living situations and adapting to kind of our rules and guidelines, to keep our safety intact. “

According to City Manager Eric King, since last week, Bend’s shelters are at 98% capacity. 59 people were placed in permanent housing, 11 others in temporary housing. An estimated 30 new camps have also popped up in Juniper Ridge on Bend’s north side.

The Lighthouse Navigation Center says it’s remained at full capacity, but only recorded three new visitors from China Hat Road: “I think there was that initial anxiety with the magnitude of the numbers and what that might look for us, but, we we have been able to wrap our arms around the one that had the ones that have come our way.”

The Forest Service first announced the planned closure of 30,000 acres south of Bend nearly four years ago, citing the need to reduce wildfire risk and increase prevention. 

Since then, the population in the area boomed, with some estimating more than 100 people were camped in the area. It’s been the center of crime, drugs, and large amounts of garbage in the city. Much of the garbage remains, with many having to leave their belongings behind when the May 1 deadline to leave arrived.

“The larger discussions that are happening certainly trickle down and impact us, but we don’t know what to expect,” Blair said. “We’re just working with what we’ve got, and we really stay focused on what we’re able to do.”

The shelter says that with the warmer temperatures in the area, fewer people will be using the facility, and more will be around the streets. This week, they reported 10 open beds.

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Barney Lerten

(Update: Four prescribed burns conducted Thursday)

 BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes National Forest was conducting more than 250 acres of prescribed burn operations Thursday on the Bend-Fort Rock, Crescent and Sisters ranger districts, as well as a cross-boundary burn with partners on the Metolius Basin.

Officials said Thursday afternoon that test fire ignitions were favorable and the burns were underway.

Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District firefighters plan to conduct up to 111 acres of ignitions on the Odin North Block 7 Prescribed Burn, located approximately four miles northeast of La Pine, east of Newberry Estates and south of Paulina Lake Road.

Ignitions will be continuing on Friday, if conditions remain favorable. No road or trail closures are anticipated.

Smoke will be visible from La Pine, Sunriver, Highway 97, and the surrounding area. Residents in La Pine and Newberry Estates are encouraged to keep doors and windows closed to minimize smoke impacts. Smoke impacts are most likely overnight and in the early morning hours. Smoke impacts are also possible across Highway 97 during ignitions and overnight and in the early morning hours.

Firefighters on the Cresent Ranger District plan to conduct up to 96 acres of ignitions on the DMR 11 Prescribed Burn located approximately five miles southeast of Crescent, east of Highway 97 and south of Boundary Springs Campground.

Smoke will be visible from Highway 97 and 58, Crescent and the surrounding area. Residents in Crescent are encouraged to keep doors and windows closed to minimize smoke impacts. Smoke impacts are most likely overnight and in the early morning hours.

Also on Thursday, the Sisters Ranger District plans 30 acres of prescribed burning on the SAFR Unit 34 Prescribed Burn three miles south of Sisters and east of Forest Service Road 16 near the PRT – Whychus Horse Ford Tie Trail.

While no road or trail closures are anticipated, the public is asked to avoid recreating in the vicinity of the prescribed burn. Residents in Sisters and the surrounding area are encouraged to keep doors and windows closed to minimize smoke impacts. Smoke impacts are most likely overnight and in the early morning hours.

Meanwhile, the Deschutes Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy, and the Deschutes National Forest plan a cross-boundary prescribed burn Thursday on 50 acres of the Deschutes Land Trust’s Metolius Preserve and five acres of Forest Service land. Firefighters attempted to conduct this prescribed burn last week; however, upon conducting a test ignition, firefighters determined that conditions were not favorable to proceed with operations.

Smoke will be visible from the Metolius Basin and surrounding areas. Residents in the Metolius Basin are encouraged to keep doors and windows closed to minimize smoke impacts. Smoke impacts are most likely overnight and in the early morning hours.

The Metolius Preserve will remain open during the burn period. The public is encouraged to avoid the Lake Creek Trail and other trails in the northern section of the Preserve due to operations and smoke impacts.

This cross-boundary prescribed burn is being conducted through a formal agreement between the Deschutes Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy, and the Forest Service. Implementation of the prescribed burn will include support from federal, state, and municipal firefighting resources.

Fire management officials work with Oregon Department of Forestry smoke specialists to plan prescribed burns. Prescribed burns are conducted when weather is most likely to move smoke up and away from our communities. While prescribed fire managers take significant preventive measures, it’s likely that communities may experience some smoke during or immediately after a prescribed burn. 

Firefighters implement understory prescribed burning to reduce wildfire risk to communities. Prescribed burning reintroduces and maintains fire within our fire-dependent ecosystem by removing concentrations of vegetation and restoring forest health while increasing public and firefighter safety.

What does this mean for you? 

During prescribed burns, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight and in the early morning hours.  

All residents are encouraged to close doors and windows at night to avoid smoke impacts. 

If available, use a portable air cleaner. Air cleaners work best running with doors and windows closed. You can also create a DIY air cleaner. 

If you have a central air system, use it to filter air. Use high-efficiency filters if possible. 

When driving in smoky areas, drivers should slow down, turn on headlights and turn air to recirculating. 

If you have heart or lung disease, asthma, or other chronic conditions, pay attention to how you feel and if symptoms of heart or lung disease worsen, consider contacting your health care professional. 

Go to centraloregonfire.org to learn more about smoke safety and prescribed burning in Central Oregon and visit When Smoke is in the Air for more smoke preparedness resources. 

For more information on prescribed burning in Central Oregon, visit centraloregonfire.org/ and for information specific to the Deschutes National Forest visit fs.usda.gov/r06/deschutes. Follow us on X/Twitter @CentralORFire. Text “COFIRE” to 888-777 to receive wildfire and prescribed fire text alerts. 

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Jillian Fortner

(Update: Adding video)

Jillian Fortner has a report on KTVZ News at 6:00 p.m.

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Triathlete Andy Krueger is gearing up to defend his title at this year’s Pole Pedal Paddle, a race he’s been familiar with since childhood.

“I grew up watching my parents compete in it,” Krueger said.

The SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle, a multi-sport race that starts at Mt. Bachelor and ends at Riverbend Park. Participants must ski, bike, run and paddle their way to the finish line.

Krueger finished last year’s race in under 1 hour and 45 minutes.

He claimed first place in the male elite individual category, while Grace Perkins won the female elite title in 2024.

“I think running through the woods, realizing you were just skiing a few minutes before, is pretty cool,” he said.

The event, which began in the 1970s with just 16 participants, has grown significantly. This year, more than 1,900 competitors are signed up to race.

Race Director Marieka Greene said, “It’s the longest-running multi-sport event in Oregon, and those of us who call Central Oregon home really value what it means to our community.”

Organizers say the event will follow a similar format to last year, but will feature new categories.

“We have a family pairs division, mostly for parents and their kids, as well as a military division for active or veteran military and their family and friends,” Greene said.

Krueger is looking forward to competing again this weekend, though he expects tough competition.

“There are some new names, some returning names. Some people who were injured last year are now back,” Krueger said. “It’s going to be a hard race to win this year, but I’m excited to do my best and hopefully come out the two-time champion.”

Krueger shared some advice for racers competing for the first time.

“I’d say check the weather for the weekend. It’s going to be cooler, so make sure to layer up. If you can, take a moment to enjoy the views. It’s a part of history that you get to be a part of,” Krueger said.

The PPP is the largest fundraiser for the Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation. Funds generated from the event allow MBSEF to make program fees affordable for youth athletes in Central Oregon. 

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Tracee Tuesday

REDMOND, Ore. [KTVZ] — One of the main agenda items in Tuesday’s Redmond City Council meeting, was the approval of ordinance 2025-09; the Antelope Flats Master Plan Development. 

“I’m struggling with, why we wouldn’t have that access to Antelope, like, with a speed bump or something, because it is narrow., but it does take a lot of pressure off the neighborhoods to the north,” said Mayor Ed Fitch. 

City Planner: “Yeah. Our partial roadway standards require a 25ft width and pavement width, and we just don’t have it at this point.” 

Clearly, Mayor Fitch needed additional information from a City Planner as to why access and a road are limited on southwest Antelope Avenue as a new development means more traffic for residents.  

Nevertheless, in a significant move aligning with the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan, the Redmond City Council has approved the Antelope Flats Master Development Plan and tentative subdivision.  

Assistant City Engineer, Lindsey Cromsigt talks about the new development. 

“The Antelope Flats Master Plan was brought to council tonight. It’s a 32-home subdivision in the southwest part of Redmond, located along Helmholtz, just south of Wickiup Avenue.”  

There are some residents that reside in that area, don’t believe the city has taken the necessary steps for exit routes since more housing will be added to the area. 

“We are soon to have well over 200 houses with only one viable exit out of our community in case of a fire. And since we are up against the urban growth boundary, we are surrounded by trees and vegetation, so the fire is very real,” said Redmond resident, Ed Hughes. 

The Assistant City Engineer, Cromsigt says, they have done their due-diligence for this project. 

“Typically, city staff reviews any subdivision. We begin with a transportation impact analysis review to look at the number of vehicles being added on the system, due to the development, and we look at safety and congestion related to that request. We also work with the Redmond Fire & Rescue District to review primary and emergency access requirements for all ofs our development code requirements and fire code requirements. And, Antelope Flats brought to Council tonight, does meet all of those requirements.” 

Now that the Antelope Flats Master Plan Development has been approved, Redmond will break ground between 6 months to a year. After that, it’ll take an additional 2 years to complete construction. 

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Barney Lerten

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon Business & Industry, in partnership with Here is Oregon, is excited to announce the third annual Coolest Thing Made in Oregon contest, in which Oregonians will vote for the coolest thing manufactured in the Beaver State.

Finalists will be chosen from a list of products nominated by the public. They will participate in a bracket-style tournament, and four rounds of voting will produce a winner. The winning manufacturer will receive formal recognition and, more importantly, enjoy bragging rights for producing Oregon’s coolest thing.   

The window to nominate products will remain open until July 10. The 16 finalists will be announced in September, and the winner will be revealed at OBI’s Vision Oregon Event on Oct. 22. Nominations can be made at Here is Oregon’s Coolest Thing Made in Oregon page. 

Developing a list of only 16 finalists won’t be easy. Oregon’s manufacturing sector employs more than 200,000 people and contributes more than $36 billion annually to the state’s gross domestic product, according to a 2024 ECONorthwest study funded by OBI. You don’t get numbers like this without manufacturing a lot of things, in terms of both volume and variety.  

Oregon’s manufacturing sector has helped make the state an export powerhouse. As noted in OBI’s 2025 Oregon Competitiveness Book, the per-capita value of Oregon’s exports was the nation’s ninth highest in 2023. Oregon exports more than $6,500 in goods for every one of the state’s residents. The value of Oregon’s exports topped $27 billion in 2023.  

Manufacturing pays well, too. On a per-hour basis, Oregon’s median manufacturing income exceeds those in all other industries by almost 17%. 

Freres Engineered Wood’s Mass Ply Panels won the inaugural Coolest Thing Made in Oregon contest in 2023. And Epic Aircraft’s E1000 GX won in 2024. 

More information about the contest is available on OBI’s Coolest Thing Made in Oregon web page,  which will feature all updates. 

To qualify for the contest, products must be manufactured substantially within Oregon and be legal to buy in all 50 states. Anyone can nominate a product, and manufacturers are encouraged to do so. Nobody knows how cool a product is more than the people who make it.  

### 

OBI is a statewide association representing businesses from a wide variety of industries and from each of Oregon’s 36 counties. In addition to being the statewide chamber of commerce, OBI is the state affiliate for the National Association of Manufacturers and the National Retail Federation. Our 1,600 member companies, more than 75% of which are small businesses, employ more than 250,000 Oregonians. Oregon’s private sector businesses help drive a healthy, prosperous economy for the benefit of everyone.  

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — There were 737,157 Oregon households unable to afford the state’s cost of living in 2023, according to the ALICE Report released Monday by United Way of Central Oregon and United Ways of the Pacific Northwest.

The report was released in partnership with United For ALICE, a U.S. research organization driving innovation, research and action to improve life across the country for people in financial hardship.

ALICE in Oregon: A Study of Financial Hardship places a spotlight on what United For ALICE calls the ALICE population — households earning more than the official Federal Poverty Level, but less than the cost of basics such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, health care, technology, and taxes in their local community. 

ALICE® stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — a large population of hardworking residents who work at low-paying jobs, have little or no savings and are one emergency away from falling into poverty.

The report is the most comprehensive depiction of financial need in the state to date, using the latest data from a variety of sources, including the U.S. Census. The Report unveils new measures, based on 2023 income levels and expenses, that quantify how many Oregon households are struggling financially, and why.  

In 2023, out of Oregon’s total 1.7 million households, a total of 528,716 households fell into the ALICE population. This number was more than double the official poverty rate, which accounted for another 208,441 households in the state.

Combined, ALICE households and households in poverty made up the population below the ALICE Threshold of Financial Survival and accounted for 42% of all households in Oregon. Details about Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson counties are below:

      Crook: 34% ALICE & 9% below the Federal Poverty Line (FPL)

      Deschutes: 23% ALICE & 9% below the FPL

      Jefferson: 28% ALICE & 14% below the FPL

“We all know ALICE,” said Diana Fischetti, Regional Executive Director of United Way of Central Oregon. “ALICE is the young family squeezed by the cost of child care, the recent college graduate living with roommates because rent is out of reach, and the mid-career professional underemployed despite doing everything ‘right.’ These are the people who teach our kids, care for our elders, and keep our economy running — and yet they’re struggling to afford the basics. That’s not a personal failure; it’s a sign of systems that no longer work for working people.”

The report is a project of United For ALICE, which leads a grassroots movement of United Ways, corporations, nonprofits and foundations in more than half the United States, all using the same methodology to document financial need. ALICE Reports provide county-by-county data and analysis of how many households are struggling, including the obstacles ALICE households face on the road to financial independence.

“This Report provides the objective data that explains why so many residents are struggling to survive and the challenges they face in attempting to make ends meet,” said the Report’s lead researcher, United For ALICE National Director Stephanie Hoopes, Ph.D. “Until now, the true picture of need in local communities and states has been understated and obscured by misleading averages and outdated poverty statistics.”

The ALICE Report reveals:

▪    Between 2010 and 2023, the total number of households in Oregon increased by 15%, the number of households in poverty decreased by 4%, and the number of ALICE households increased by 27%.

▪    Single-female-headed households are especially impacted by the harsh realities of our economic systems, with nearly 40% living under the federal poverty line and an additional 32% ALICE.

▪    Households below the ALICE Threshold span all races, ages and genders, closely mirroring the state’s basic demographic make-up. Yet for certain groups, the struggle is disproportionate. For example, 61% of Black and 50% of Hispanic households in Oregon were below the ALICE Threshold in 2023, compared to 41% of white households.

“ALICE often is forced to make choices that compromise health and safety in order to make ends meet,” Fischetti said, “putting both ALICE and the wider community at risk of long-term societal and economic repercussions.”

“This data confirms what we see every day: that far too many families are stuck making impossible choices — between childcare and health care, or between food and rent,” Fischetti continued. “At United Way, we’re using the ALICE data to drive real solutions — by convening cross-sector partners, informing smarter investments, and advocating for systems that help families not just survive, but truly thrive.”

United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity and financial security, United Way works towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential.

For more information or to find data about ALICE in local communities, visit www.UnitedForALICE.org.

About United Way of Central OregonUnited Way of Central Oregon envisions a community where every person can meet their basic needs, every child thrives, every family has a stable home, and neighbors unite to recover stronger from disasters. Through initiatives focusing on financial security, community resilience, youth opportunities and healthy communities, UWCO is building a stronger, healthier Central Oregon. For more information, please visit https://www.unitedwaycentraloregon.org or contact Diana Fischetti at diana@uwco.org.

About United Ways of the Pacific NorthwestUWPNW is the regional trade association for 30 local United Ways in Washington, Oregon and Idaho. United Ways in the Pacific Northwest are committed to improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good in the areas of education, income and health.

About United For ALICE

United For ALICE is a U.S. research organization driving innovation, research and action to improve life across the country for ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and for all. Through the development of the ALICE measurements, a comprehensive, unbiased picture of financial hardship has emerged. Harnessing this data and research on the mismatch between low-paying jobs and the cost of survival, ALICE partners convene, advocate and collaborate on solutions that promote financial stability at local, state and national levels. This grassroots ALICE movement, led by United Way of Northern New Jersey, has spread to 31 states and the District of Columbia and includes United Ways, corporations, nonprofits and foundations in Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawai‘i, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Washington, D.C., West Virginia and Wisconsin; we are United For ALICE. For more information, visit: UnitedForALICE.org.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of Republic Services, will be providing a free shred event this Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon at their La Pine substation, 51340 Hwy 97.

This information can also be located on the DCSO website (sheriff.deschutes.org) under the Community/Public Notices tab.

This is a residential free shred event and is not intended for business/commercial shredding. We can accept paper clips and staples but cannot take plastic bags or three-ring binders. We are asking that people limit the number of documents to be shredded to no more than four boxes. If you have more than four boxes of material to be shredded, we are asking that you contact Republic Services at 541-352-2263 to determine how to dispose of your items.

Medications accepted are prescription, patches, ointments, over-the-counter, vitamins, samples, and medications for pets.

NO SHARPS, THERMOMETERS, INHALERS, ETC.

This event also provides an opportunity for flag disposal. If anyone has an old tattered American flag, they would like properly disposed of, it can be done at these events.  Food donations are also accepted during the event, which will go to a local food bank.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Bend Park and Recreation District is inviting community members to join its Natural Resources and Trails team and participate in any of a half-dozen upcoming volunteer project days, from May to October.

Volunteers are needed to pull weeds, remove trash, close off unofficial trails, and plant native vegetation at several volunteer projects scheduled throughout the summer.

The first event is this Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to noon on the Manzanita Trail that connects Discovery Park to Shevlin Park. Activities include litter pick up, raking, weed pulling, moving smaller rocks and sticks.

Tools and materials will be provided by BPRD; however, participants are encouraged to bring work or garden gloves, closed-toe shoes, refillable water bottle, sunscreen and clothes appropriate for the weather that day.

This opportunity is best for adults and children aged 14 and older. Advanced sign up is strongly encouraged.

Other upcoming volunteer events include:

Saturday, June 7 – Trail Improvement Project at Shevlin Park9:00 am – noonIn honor of National Trails Day. Volunteers will work with BPRD staff to trim back overgrown vegetation along the edge of the trail corridor to improve passage. Projects will be on multiple trails throughout the park on both flat and uneven terrain.

Saturday, June 28– Weed Pull at Drake Park, trail and boardwalk 8:00 – 11:00 amIn partnership with Upper Deschutes Watershed Council and Deschutes River Cleanup event. Volunteers will work with BPRD staff to hand pull thistles and remove other noxious weeds growing along the new boardwalk and trail area in Drake Park. Adult volunteers with kayaks or canoes may be able to help with removing weeds growing next to the river.

Saturday, July 19 – Weed Pull at Big Sky Park8:00 – 11:00 amVolunteers will work with BPRD staff to hand-pull noxious weeds.

Saturday, August 16 – Weed Pull at Discovery Park West, natural area8:00 – 11:00 amVolunteers will work with BPRD staff to hand-pull noxious weeds.

Saturday, October 18 – Pollinator Planting at Alpenglow Park9:00 am – 12:00 pmHelp plant native vegetation that will support area pollinators such as butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and moths.

Important information about volunteering with these projects is available on the SignUp Genius event webpage.

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Barney Lerten

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Gas prices are rising in Central Oregon, across the state and in other West Coast states after a fire last week at a refinery in Benicia, California in the Bay Area, AAA Oregon/Idaho reported Tuesday.

Here’s their full weekly report:

The Valero refinery produces 145,000 barrels per day. Any kind of disruption to a refinery or pipeline on the West Coast tends to send prices higher across the region due to reduced supplies.

Meanwhile, gas prices are showing smaller changes in most other states, but prices could climb due to Memorial Day travel. AAA projects record travel for the holiday weekend, with most going by car.

For the week, the national average for regular holds steady at $3.16 a gallon. The Oregon average gains three cents, to $3.93 a gallon, while the Bend average rose 3.5 cents, to nearly $3.83 a gallon – a dime below the statewide average.

The fire broke out at Valero’s refinery in Benicia, California on May 5. No injuries were reported and the cause is under investigation. The fire caused shelter in place orders for surrounding areas due to smoke from the fire.

The increase in West Coast prices comes ahead of the Memorial Day travel weekend. AAA projects record travel for the holiday, with 45.1 million Americans, including 617,000 Oregonians traveling 50 miles or more from home. That’s an increase of 1.4 million travelers (3.1%) over 2024 and surpasses the previous record of 44 million travelers in 2005.

Find all the details, graphics, top destinations, best and worst times to drive, and advice for travelers in the AAA Memorial Day travel news release.

“Crude oil prices have jumped since last week, as markets digest news that the U.S. and China are easing tariffs. Higher crude prices and greater demand for gas over the Memorial Day holiday weekend could put upward pressure on pump prices,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.

The Oregon average began 2025 at $3.45 a gallon and is currently at $3.93. The highest price of the year so far is $4.01 on April 5. The lowest price of the year so far is just under $3.45 a gallon on January 2.  

The national average began 2025 at $3.06 a gallon and is currently at $3.16. The highest price of the year so far is $3.27 on April 4. The lowest price of the year so far is $3.06 on January 5.

This week eight Oregon counties have averages at or above $4, up from five a week ago.

Clackamas $4.02

Columbia $4.06

Harney $4.14

Jackson $4.05

Josephine $4.05

Lake $4.11

Multnomah $4.11

Washington $4.07

Gas prices typically rise starting in mid-to-late winter and early spring as refineries undergo maintenance ahead of the switch to summer-blend fuel, which is less likely to evaporate in warmer temperatures. The switch occurs first in California, which is why pump prices on the West Coast often rise before other parts of the country. The East Coast is the last major market to switch to summer-blend fuel. Most areas have a May 1 compliance date for refiners and terminals, while most gas stations have a June 1 deadline to switch to selling summer-blend until June 1. Switch-over dates are earlier in California with some areas in the state requiring summer-blend fuel by April 1. Some refineries will begin maintenance and the switchover in February.

Gas prices usually drop in the fall, due to the switch from summer-blend to winter-blend fuel, which costs less to produce. The switch starts in September. Many areas, including Oregon, can sell winter-blend fuel starting September 15. However, Northern and Southern California require summer-blend fuel through October 31. Prices usually decline to their lowest levels of the year in late fall and early winter before increasing again in the late winter and early spring.

Meanwhile, crude oil production in the U.S. remains near record highs. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that crude production in this country declined from 13.47 to 13.37 million barrels per day for the week ending May 2. The record high is 13.63 million barrels per day for the week of December 6. Production has been at 13.5 million barrels per day many times since October. The U.S. has been the top producer of crude oil in the world since 2018 and has been increasing its oil production since about 2009.

The U.S. price of crude oil (West Texas Intermediate) had been mostly in the upper $60s to mid-$70s since last September, but crude prices dropped in early April as markets reacted to President Trumps tariffs and the impact on U.S. and global markets. Additional downward pressure on crude prices came after the decision by OPEC+ to increase production. The lowest closing price since September was $57.13 on May 5, which was the lowest closing price since February 2021. The recent high price for crude was $80.04 per barrel on January 15, which was the highest price since last August.

Crude oil is trading around $63 today compared to $59 a week ago and $79 a year ago. In 2024, West Texas Intermediate ranged between $66 and $87 per barrel. In 2023, WTI ranged between $63 and $95 per barrel. WTI reached recent highs of $123.70 on March 8, 2022, shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and $122.11 per barrel on June 8, 2022. The all-time high for WTI crude oil is $147.27 in July 2008.

Crude prices are impacted by economic news as well as geopolitical events around the world including the current economic uncertainty, unrest in the Middle East, and the war between Russia and Ukraine. Russia is a top global oil producer, behind the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. Crude prices have been volatile after the attack on Israel by Hamas in October 2023. While Israel and the Palestinian territory are not oil producers, concerns remain that the conflict could spread in the Middle East, which could potentially impact crude production in other oil-producing nations in the region. In addition, production cuts by OPEC+ tightened global crude oil supplies, which continued to impact prices. But now the cartel is boosting production again, by 411,000 barrels in May and the same amount in June.

Crude oil is the main ingredient in gasoline and diesel, so pump prices are impacted by crude prices on the global markets. On average, about 54% of what we pay for in a gallon of gasoline is for the price of crude oil, 14% is refining, 16% distribution and marketing, and 17% are taxes, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Demand for gasoline in the U.S. decreased from 9.10 b/d last week to 8.71 for the week ending May 2, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). This compares to 8.80 million b/d a year ago. Meanwhile, total domestic gasoline supply slightly increased from 225.5 million barrels to 225.7. Gasoline production increased last week, averaging 9.7 million barrels per day, compared to 9.5 million barrels daily the previous week.

Pump prices are poised to rise ahead of Memorial Day travel due to higher crude oil prices and increased demand for gasoline.

Quick stats

Oregon is one of 13 states with higher prices now than a week ago. Nevada (+15 cents) and California (+13 cents) have the biggest week-over-week jumps in the nation. Indiana (-11 cents) has the largest week-over-week decline. The averages in Rhode Island, Kansas and Connecticut are flat.

California ($4.92) has the most expensive gas in the nation for the 13th week in a row. Hawaii ($4.50) is second, and Washington ($4.30) is third. These are the three states in the country with averages at or above $4 a gallon. This week 22 states and the District of Columbia have averages in the $3-range. There are 25 states with an average in the $2 range this week.

The cheapest gas in the nation is in Mississippi ($2.64) and Louisiana ($2.70). No state has had an average below $2 a gallon since January 7, 2021, when Mississippi and Texas were below that threshold. At the time, the COVID-19 pandemic drove significant declines in crude oil and gasoline demand in the U.S. and around the world.

The difference between the most expensive and least expensive states is $2.28 this week, compared to $2.14 a week ago.

Oregon is one of 35 states and the District of Columbia with lower prices now than a month ago. The national average is three cents less and the Oregon average is six cents less than a month ago. Minnesota (-22 cents) has the largest month-over-month drop in the nation. Colorado (+10 cents) has the largest month-over-month increase.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia have lower prices now than a year ago. The national average is 46 cents less and the Oregon average is 49 cents less than a year ago. Alaska (-79 cents) has the largest yearly drop. Colorado (-7 cents) has the smallest.

West Coast

The West Coast region continues to have the most expensive pump prices in the nation with all seven  states in the top 10. It’s typical for the West Coast to have six or seven states in the top 10 as this region tends to consistently have fairly tight supplies, consuming about as much gasoline as is produced. In addition, this region is located relatively far from parts of the country where oil drilling, production and refining occurs, so transportation costs are higher. And environmental programs in this region add to the cost of production, storage and distribution.

Rank
Region
Price on 5/13/2025

1
California
$4.92

2
Hawaii
$4.50

3
Washington
$4.30

4
Nevada
$3.96

5
Oregon
$3.93

6
Alaska
$3.60

7
Illinois
$3.40

8
Arizona
$3.31

9
Utah
$3.30

10
Idaho
$3.29

As mentioned above, California has the most expensive gas in the country for the 13th week in a row. Hawaii, Washington, Nevada, Oregon, and Alaska round out the top six. Arizona is 8th. Oregon slips to fifth most expensive after four weeks at fourth.

Six of the seven states in the West Coast region have week-over-week increases, and Nevada and California have the largest weekly jumps in the country due to the refinery fire in the Bay Area: Nevada (+15 cents), California (+13 cents), Washington (+4 cents), Oregon (+3 cents), Arizona (+2 cents), and

Hawaii (+1 cent). Alaska (-1 cent) is the only state in the region with a week-over-week decline.

The refinery utilization rate on the West Coast edged up from 76.0% to 76.3% for the week ending May 2. This rate has ranged between about 72% to 92% in the last year. The latest national refinery utilization rate ticked up from 88.7% to 89.0%.

The refinery utilization rate measures how much crude oil refineries are processing as a percentage of their maximum capacity. A low or declining rate can put upward pressure on pump prices, while a high or rising rate can put downward pressure on pump prices.

According to EIA’s latest weekly report, total gas stocks in the region increased from 26.10 million bbl. to 26.67 million bbl. An increase in gasoline stocks can put downward pressure on pump prices, while a decrease in gasoline stocks can put upward pressure on pump prices.

Oil market dynamics

Crude oil prices rose Monday and today, adding to increases last week, after a 90-day pause in tariffs between the U.S. and China. Crude prices had plunged on concerns that tariffs could lead to a global economic downturn.

Meanwhile, the EIA reports that crude oil inventories decreased by 2 million barrels from the previous week. At 438.4 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 7% below the five-year average for this time of year. 

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session, WTI jumped $1.11 to settle at $61.02. At the close of Monday’s formal trading session, WTI added 93 cents to settle at $61.95. Today crude is trading around $64 compared to $59 a week ago. Crude prices are about $15 less than a year ago. ($79.12 on May 13, 2024)

Drivers can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

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