Category: ktvz-local-news

Barney Lerten

PRINEVILLE, Ore. KTVZ) — The Bureau of Land Management’s Prineville District is seeking public input on a revised environmental assessment for an invasive plant management project in Central Oregon.

“This is a critical opportunity for the public to help shape how we manage invasive plants across the Prineville District,” said Amanda S. Roberts, Prineville District manager. “We’re looking for feedback that reflects community values while also helping us meet land-use needs.”

Invasive plant species threaten the health of Central Oregon’s landscapes, impacting native vegetation and wildlife habitat, as well as quality and recreation. The BLM is proposing updates to its existing management plan to better address these challenges using a broader set of tools and technologies.

“More than 75 invasive plant species grow in the Prineville District,” said Ian Grinter, project lead. “This updated plan will help us respond more effectively to the growing threat of invasive species and protect the ecological integrity of public lands.”

The proposed updates include:

Adding 10 new herbicide active ingredients to improve treatment options for a wider variety of invasive plants, including annual and perennial grasses.

Incorporating new technologies such as drones for aerial herbicide application and monitoring.

Expanding treatment areas to include lands where new herbicides would be used alongside existing methods.

The BLM team will analyze potential environmental effects of these updates, including impacts to:

Soil health and water quality

Riparian habitats and aquatic species

Wildlife and migratory birds, including greater sage-grouse

Livestock forage and grazing

Recreation values and fire risk

The BLM encourages public comments to help identify issues, concerns, and opportunities for improvement. Comments can be submitted online through the project’s ePlanning page at: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2041738/510.

The scoping period runs through Jan. 8.

 Written comments may also be mailed or hand-delivered to:

BLM Prineville District Office

Attn: Integrated Invasive Plant Management EA3050 NE 3rd StreetPrineville, OR 97754 

Please include “Invasive Plant EA” in the subject line or on the envelope. Comments must be received by Jan. 8, 2026. 

For questions or more information about the project, contact Ian Grinter at igrinter@blm.gov or call (541) 416- 6714.

-BLM-

The BLM manages roughly 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A brand-new arts and culture festival is coming to the heart of Bend. The inaugural BCD Block Party will take over the Bend Central District on Friday and Saturday, July 10–11, 2026, bringing together local artists, performers, makers, and community members for a two-day celebration of creativity in all its forms.

Designed to highlight the vibrant energy of the Bend Central District, Bend Block Party blends live music, visual art, fashion, theater, comedy, and interactive experiences into a walkable, community-focused festival.

The event kicks off Friday, July 10, with music-only sets hosted across local venues throughout the district, showcasing a range of regional talent and setting the tone for a weekend of creative connection.

On Saturday, July 11, the Bend Central District will transform into an open-street festival, featuring hands-on art activities, chalk art and mural installations, a fashion show, artist booths, games, a dedicated kids zone, and more. The celebration continues into the evening with theater and comedy performances hosted at district venues.

Artists and creatives are encouraged to get involved, artist applications are open now.

Additional details, including schedules, performers, and participating venues, will be announced in the coming months.

For updates, artist applications, and more information, visit bendblockparty.com and follow along on social media.

Event DetailsWhat: Bend Block PartyWhen: July 10–11, 2026Where: Bend Central District, Bend, Oregon

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Barney Lerten

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Whether you prefer a moderate hike through a desert landscape or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, Oregon State Parks has a First Day Hike for you on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. And four of the 25 outings are in your backyard, here in Central Oregon.

Rangers and volunteers will lead guided First Day Hikes at 25 parks around the state, with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, but a day-use parking permit is required at some parks. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold online or at park offices.

America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.

“Across Oregon, First Day Hikes have grown into a beloved New Year’s tradition for visitors and staff alike. On January 1st, park rangers and volunteers share stories of park history, geology, wildlife, and plants, as families and friends kick off the year together with an engaging outdoor adventure,” said Lisa Sumption, director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Deschutes River, Elijah Bristow, Emigrant Springs, La Pine, Lukiamute, Oswald West, Sitka Sedge, and Smith Rock.

The First Day hikes include offerings at four state parks around the High Desert: La Pine, Smith Rock, Tumalo and The Cove Palisades.

Here’s the details on each:

Information about the hike hosted at The Cove Palisades State Park is below:

Join a park ranger for a beautiful 2-mile hike through the Crooked River Wetlands, then continue up the Rim Trail where you will be treated to stunning views of Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters. Along the way, we’ll discuss some of The Cove’s fascinating geological history and keep an eye out for any winter wildlife. Refreshments will be served at the overlook.

The hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet at the top of the hill and turn into the Crooked River Campground overflow parking lot. Look for signs.

The hike may not be suitable for people with breathing difficulties, trouble with uneven terrain or with strollers. Restrooms will be located in the parking lot and in the camp only.

Friendly dogs are always welcome on six-foot leashes.

Participants are encouraged to dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots that can handle getting wet. It is important to bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Some visitors may also find it helpful to bring a walking stick or pole if there is snow. Additionally, sunglasses may be advisable.

For more information, call 541-546-3412.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Erin Bennet, 541-977-5759. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

Information about the hike hosted at La Pine State Park:

The approximately 1.5-mile round-trip hike offers scenic views of an oxbow lake and a chance to see the largest ponderosa pine in the world. Beautiful winter conditions.

Registration is required. 

The hike starts at 1 p.m. at the Cougar Woods Day-Use Parking Area. 15800 State Recreation Rd.

The hike is on a dirt trail with 80 feet of elevation gain. Possible ice and snow may limit accessibility on the day of the hike.

Children’s strollers are not recommended because of the possibility of snow or ice. Dogs are welcome on six-foot leashes. 

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Snowshoes may be needed depending on conditions.

For more information, call 541-536-2428.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please get in touch with Park Manager Scott Bown, 541-280-4953. Requests must be submitted at least three days before January 1.

Information about the hike hosted at Smith Rock State Park:

The approximately 1-mile round trip hike highlights all the unique wonders of Smith Rock and the surrounding ecosystem. Be prepared to learn all about the geology, animals, and plants that make this park truly special.

Registration is required.

The hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet in the day-use lawn next to the Welcome Center. 10260 NE Crooked River Drive, Terrebonne, OR 97760.

The hiking trail is gravel and compacted soil with no elevation gain.

Friendly dogs are always welcome on six-foot leashes. No drones allowed.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes appropriate for ice and snow, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

For more information, call 541-548-7501.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Alexis Ober, 541-548-7501. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

Information about the hike hosted at Tumalo State Park:

A 2-mile round-trip hike along the Deschutes River Trail features easy to medium terrain, with little to no elevation gain and scenic views, providing many photo opportunities.

The hike begins at 1 p.m. Please meet in the back of the day-use parking lot. 64125 OB Reily Road, Bend, OR 97703.

The trail is narrow, has a dirt surface with occasional protruding rocks, and is not ADA accessible.

Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please carry bags to pick up pet waste. Bicycles are prohibited on this portion of the Deschutes River Trail.

Participants should prepare for cold weather and snow, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. A portable toilet is available.

For more information, call 541-388-6055.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Brian Vaughan, 541-388-6055. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

For any questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed to participate in a hike, please see the contact information on each hike’s webpage.

Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via X and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

About America’s State ParksAmerica’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With collectively more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 900 million people annually, state park systems across the country are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural resources while providing guests amazing access to the outdoors. Learn more about America’s State Parks at stateparks.org.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) As part of the City of Bend Public Works Department’s recent move into the new Public Works Campus, the city’s water lab successfully transferred its Oregon laboratory accreditation from its former location at the city’s Water Reclamation Facility.

City officials said in Thursday’s announcement that “the water lab ensures the city provides safe drinking water to our community. The newly accredited Water Quality Laboratory ensures accurate testing of drinking water and wastewater, protecting public health and the environment.”

Here’s the rest of the city’s announcement:

The new Water Quality Laboratory accreditation is necessary to show the new environment will still provide accurate and reliable testing.  

Accreditation from the Oregon Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ORELAP) ensures that laboratories meet rigorous standards for testing under federal and state regulations, including the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act.  

The new Water Quality Lab represents a major investment in public health and environmental protection. Nearly twice the size of the previous facility, the lab features advanced safety systems, expanded testing capabilities and capacity for future growth.

These improvements allow the City to deliver faster, more reliable data to support water, wastewater and engineering operations, which are critical for everything from routine compliance monitoring to emergency response.  

“I am excited that we have enough capacity, flexibility and resilience built into this lab that we can meet future demands for data while maintaining our existing regulatory obligations to wastewater, drinking water and more,” said Cally Whitman, Laboratory Program Manager. “Water quality is about protecting public health and the environment.”  

Key enhancements at the new lab include:  

Expanded capacity for more than 20,000 tests of drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, biosolids and river samples annually.  

Advanced safety systems, including a biosafety cabinet to protect samples from contamination, and state-of-the-art chemical hoods to protect staff.  

Enhanced water deionization system to produce ultra-pure water needed for conducting tests.  

Improved turnaround times for critical water and wastewater data.  

The Water Quality Lab operates 365 days a year, ensuring rapid response to emergencies like water main breaks and supporting the City’s commitment to public health and environmental stewardship. It is one of only 10 municipal labs of the 48 total accredited labs in Oregon. 

For more information, visit bendoregon.gov/water-services.  

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Barney Lerten

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) — The U.S. House voted mostly along party lines Thursday to approve a bill that would remove Endangered Species Act protections for the gray wolf, a goal of Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ore., who has called the animals “killing machines” that threaten rural ranchers’ livelihoods.

Rep. Janelle Bynum, D-Ore., along with four fellow Oregon Democrats voted no as the House approved the Pet and Livestock Protection Act on a 211-204 vote. Five House Democrats voted for the bill, while four Republicans were opposed. It now goes to the Senate.

The bill directs the Interior secretary to reinstate a 2020 delisting rule and would return wolf management to the states, while also blocking future court challenges.

In his recent Problem Solvers report , Harley Coldiron spoke with Bentz and a Southern Oregon rancher as he looked into the nationwide debate. He noted that the Trump administration move to delist the wolf has brought praise from ranchers and Republicans, while sparking outrage from conservation groups.

Here’s Bentz’s full news release Thursday explaining his vote, with supportive comments from others, and a statement from the Western Environmental Law Center critical of the bill and urging the Senate to reject it.

Congressman Bentz Applauds the Advancement to Delist the Gray Wolf

WASHINGTON, D.C.– Following Congressman Bentz (R-OR) House floor speech last week outlining the dangers posed by the unchecked growth of gray wolf populations, the U.S. House of Representatives voted in favor of delisting the gray wolf. The passage of H.R. 845, The Pet and Livestock Protection Act is an important step toward restoring common sense wildlife management and returning authority to state agencies.

“Today’s vote is a long-overdue acknowledgment that the federal government’s approach to gray wolf management has failed,” said Congressman Bentz. “From my first days in Congress, I have pushed to delist the gray wolf because the consequences of inaction are being felt every day in Oregon’s Second Congressional District. Ranching families are paying the price for policies made in Washington that ignore conditions on the ground. Delisting the gray wolf is a necessary first step toward restoring balance, protecting livestock, driving down the cost of beef prices, and returning wildlife management to the state agencies best equipped to do the job. I strongly urge the Senators of Oregon and the rest of their chamber to pass this legislation.”

Tammy Dennee of the Oregon Cattleman’s Association: “Oregon’s livestock producers have been hard hit economically due to predator activity. It is for this reason, the Oregon Cattleman’s Association supports the passage of HR845, The Pet and Livestock Protection Act, by the house of representatives which is the first step toward the delisting of the wolf. In Oregon, delisting will be a welcome relief to producers in ¾ of the state allowing for long overdue management options under the Oregon Wolf Conservation and Management Plan. The assurances this bill offers will allow for quality wolf management and protection of private property.”

Dr. Elise Flynn, Valley Falls, OR: “Our most basic human and American rights are denied when we can’t legally take action to protect our own livestock from being harassed and killed right in front of our eyes. The current law is a form of entrapment that turns law abiding citizens into felons just for following their innate instinct to protect their home, family and livelihood. Humans and wolves are both apex predators, so protection laws must go both ways to maintain balance.”

The House action follows Bentz’s recent floor remarks, where he highlighted the devastating impacts wolf depredation has had on livestock producers and rural economies, as well as the inability of states to effectively manage wolf populations under rigid federal control.

Listen to my remarks, here. 

Western Environmental Law Center

House passes, Senate must reject bill to remove endangered species protections for wolves in Lower 48

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass H.R. 845, a bill that disregards science and removes Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections for gray wolves across the Lower 48. Wolves remain far from being recovered and are depleted in or absent entirely from the vast majority of their historic range. The bill would restore a 2020 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service delisting rule rejected by the courts due to scientific evidence showing wolves are not yet recovered under the ESA. H.R. 845 would also prohibit any legal challenge to its removal of wolf protections. 

If passed by the Senate, this bill would congressionally delist all gray wolves in the lower 48 the same way wolves in the Northern Rockies were congressionally delisted in 2011, handing management authority over to states. The 2011 delisting marked the first ever delisting of a species from the Endangered Species Act by Congress—a decision that is otherwise authorized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through a multi-step process that involves scientific review and public participation. Regulations in Montana, for example, allow hunters and trappers to kill several hundred wolves per year—a 452-wolf quota was approved this year—with bait, traps, snares, night hunting, infrared and thermal imagery scopes, and artificial light.

The most recent data from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its state partners show an estimated 4,900 wolves inhabit the western Great Lakes states, but only 230 wolves are in Washington state, 204 in Oregon, 50 in California and a scant 20 in Colorado early on in its reintroduction. Nevada, and Utah have had a few wolf sightings over the past three years, but wolves remain functionally absent from their historical habitat in these states. There are only 2,700 wolves in the entire western United States.

“Wolves are a keystone species whose presence on landscapes regulates animal populations and improves ecosystem health – something the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has acknowledged for at least 44 years,” said Kelly Nokes, Western Environmental Law Center attorney. “Allowing people to kill wolves in Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana has already stunted recovery in those states. Applying this same death sentence to wolves throughout the contiguous U.S. would nationalize these negative effects, with potentially catastrophic ripple effects on ecosystems where wolves have yet to fully recover. The Senate must reject legislative wolf delisting as anti-science and purely political.”

###

The Western Environmental Law Center uses the power of the law to foster thriving, resilient western U.S. lands, waters, wildlife, and communities in the face of a changing climate.

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Barney Lerten

(Update: Video Added)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes National Forest said Thursday that it has chosen a preferred alternative for ia nearly seven-mile planned paved path that’s planned to extend from Bend south to the Lava Lands Visitor Center.

Bend-Fort Rock District Ranger Kevin Stock said in a final decision notice that they have decided to implement Alternative 2, allowing for construction of a 10-foot wide paved path with 2-foot shoulders.

The path will begin at Knott Road and parallel Highway 97 on the east side of the highway, connecting to the High Desert Museum; this segment is approximately 1.9 miles.

The path will then cross under Highway 97, using a pedestrian undercrossing, and continue on the west side of the highway connecting to National Forest System Lands, a segment that’s approximately 0.3 miles.

The path will then continue on the west side of Highway 97, connecting to Lava Butte. At Lava Butte, the path alignment will go through the lava flow, “creating a unique experience for trail users” in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Stock said. The path will then cross Lava Butte Road and connect to Lava Lands parking lot.

The segment of paved path on National Forest System roads is 4.5 miles. The forest’s decision is limited to actions on National Forest System Lands.

Project information and associated documents can be found on the Deschutes National Forest website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/deschutes/projects/57665. The final decision notice can be read in full below

For more information about the specific activities authorized with the decision, contact Alicia Bergschneider, Forest Environmental Coordinator of the Deschutes National Forest, by email at Alicia.Bergschneider@usda.gov or by phone at (541)647-8966.

2025_1217_BLLPP_Final_DNFONSIDownload

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Barney Lerten

 BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday that Lt. Nathan Garibay was formally recognized with a Lifetime Achievement award for his outstanding contributions to Emergency Management and Search and Rescue during the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association’s Winter Conference, held last week at The Riverhouse in Bend. 

“Lt. Garibay received this honor in front of law enforcement leaders and Emergency Managers from across Oregon —an acknowledgment of his reputation as one of the state’s most respected and forward-thinking professionals in the field,” the sheriff’s office said in a news release.

Here’s the rest of their announcement:

For over a decade, Lt. Garibay has served as a mentor, advisor, and a steady presence in times of crisis. His leadership has shaped emergency response efforts across the region, and his work as the inaugural Chair of the OSSA Emergency Management Command Council laid the groundwork for a successful statewide Incident Management Team (IMT) program.

“Lt. Garibay is the kind of leader every community hopes to have in times of crisis,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert. “He brings not only expertise, but compassion, humility, and a relentless drive to serve. His work has shaped the future of Emergency Management in Oregon, and we are proud to have him on our team.”

Whether responding to wildfires, floods, or large-scale search and rescue missions, Lt. Garibay consistently demonstrates professionalism, empathy, and a deep commitment to public service. His recognition at the OSSA Winter Conference is a testament to the respect he has earned from colleagues statewide.

Lt. Garibay began his law enforcement career in 1996. He has served as a cadet, police officer, sergeant, and lieutenant with the Redmond Police Department, and as a deputy sheriff, sergeant, and now lieutenant with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.

He was supported at the OSSA Winter Conference by Sheriff Ty Rupert, Cpt. Mike Sundberg, Cpt. Bryan Husband, and Cpt. Michael Shults.

All are incredibly proud of the leadership Lt. Garibay brings to the Sheriff’s Office and the example he sets for public service across Oregon.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity said Thursday it has officially closed on the purchase of surplus land from Bend-La Pine Schools for $20,000 for a new housing development that will give priority to school district staff..

The transaction was completed last week on the property, known as Stone Creek Commons, which will become a new homeownership community located next to Silver Rail Elementary School in southeast Bend 

Habitat was awarded the property through a competitive request for proposals (RFP) process in 2024. Over the past year, the organization says it’s worked closely with the school district and local jurisdictions to complete the required land-use process, allowing the property sale to move forward. 

Here’s the rest of Thursday’s announcement:

The land is the first of two surplus school district properties Habitat is moving forward on. A second site, located adjacent to Summit High School, was also awarded to Habitat through the same RFP process and is expected to be sold in early 2026. 

Bend-La Pine Schools declared the Stone Creek Commons site surplus after determining it would not be needed for future school use. At the same time, the district recognized ongoing challenges with hiring and retaining staff and chose to take action by making the land available for housing opportunities that would support school employees and the broader community. 

The Stone Creek Commons development will become a mixed-income neighborhood designed to support long-term stability for local residents, with priority for school district employees. The project reflects a collaborative approach to addressing Central Oregon’s housing challenges, where homeownership is increasingly out of reach for working class households.  

“This represents a major step forward for our community,” said Carly Colgan, CEO of Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity. “By securing this property, we’re opening the door for more local educators to put down roots near the schools where they support students every day. Bend-La Pine Schools chose to act rather than accept the status quo, and that leadership made this possible. This site next to Silver Rail Elementary is just the beginning. Together, we’re creating new pathways to homeownership and supporting the people who keep our community running.” 

About the Project 

Stone Creek Commons will include 18 energy-efficient townhomes designed to reduce long-term living costs and support households across a range of incomes. Planned features include: 

Two- to four-bedroom homes with attached garages and private backyards 

Goal net-zero energy design, lowering utility costs over time 

Priority for Bend-La Pine Schools employees during an initial application phase 

Mixed-income opportunities, including: 

10 homes for buyers earning up to 80% of Area Median Income 

8 homes for buyers earning up to 120% of Area Median Income 

This mixed-income approach reflects the reality of today’s market, where many middle-income households are priced out of homeownership despite steady employment. 

Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2026, with home sales expected in 2027–2028. 

Graphic courtesy Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity

Next Steps for Interested Buyers 

While official applications will open in fall 2026, interested future buyers are strongly encouraged to begin the process now by completing a pre-application and working with Habitat’s homeownership team on mortgage readiness goals. This includes improving credit, reducing debt, and building financial preparedness for purchasing a home. 

About Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity 

Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope across Central Oregon. Since 1989, Habitat has partnered with more than 250 families, revitalized 145 homes, and supported over 1,100 children and adults in achieving long-term stability through homeownership. 

Learn more at bendredmondhabitat.org. 

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Barney Lerten

(Update: Trees, lines knocked down; I-84 closure update)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The latest in a string of atmospheric rivers to sweep into the Northwest brought more rain and wind to the High Desert Thursday, sending high water across some Bend streets, knocking down some trees and power lines and raising flooding concerns along Whychus Creek in Sisters.

KTVZ News issued a Local Alert Weather Day for Thursday into Friday morning as moderate to heavy rain prompts flood concerns around the region.

KTVZ Meteorologist Shannon Brady said one to two inches of rain are expected for the Highway 97 corridor, but could exceed that in the Sisters and Sunriver areas and western Jefferson County.

The National Weather Service issued a flood watch across the area through late Friday night, as forecasters warned of 2-4 inches of rain and over a foot of snow at higher elevations that could send small creek and streams flowing out of the Cascades over their banks. They later issued a winter storm warning for the east slopes of the Cascades – including Sisters, Sunriver and La Pine – from 4 a.m. Friday to 10 a.m. Saturday for 6-10 inches of snow.

A wind advisory also was issued for the region, from 10 a.m. Thursday to 1 a.m. Friday, with forecasters expecting southwest to west winds 20-30 mph and possible gusts of 45-55 mph.

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to two reports of trees into power lines by Thursday afternoon, Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki said.

The first, in Deschutes River Woods at Riverwoods Drive and Kiowa Road, turned out to be communication lines and not power lines, he said.

The second was at Tyler and Kuhlman roads, northwest of Bend. A tree fell across a driveway and took down some local Central Electric Cooperative power lines, Derlacki said. CEC crews were called out for repairs. The co-op’s outage map indicated it was affecting 17 members.

Mt. Bachelor received another three inches of snow overnight, but it was followed by above-freezing temperatures that turned the snow to rain. Another cold turn is expected to bring lots of snow into the weekend.

Announcement Thursday from the city of Sisters:

Potential For Increased Water Levels Along Whychus Creek

The City of Sisters is advising residents to be aware of the potential for increased water levels and localized flooding along Whychus Creek this week. Rainfall today, with showers continuing through Friday, may contribute to rising creek levels, particularly where soils are already saturated or when snow-covered slopes upstream experience runoff.

While major, widespread flooding of Whychus Creek is uncommon, these conditions can cause water levels to rise quickly and may impact low-lying areas and infrastructure along the creek. Local conditions can change rapidly during storm events.

Residents living near Whychus Creek are encouraged to closely monitor creek flow levels and stay informed by checking forecasts and advisories issued by the National Weather Service over the coming days.

To help residents prepare, sandbags will be available behind City Hall on Main Avenue beginning Thursday, December 18.

Community members are encouraged to bring their own shovels and be prepared to fill and transport sandbags as needed to help protect homes and property along Whychus Creek. Sandbags will be available starting Wednesday and continue while supplies last.

The City of Sisters appreciates the community’s cooperation and preparedness and will continue to share updates as conditions evolve. 

For additional information and updates, residents should monitor official City communications and National Weather Service advisories.

Whychus Creek Flow

National Weather Service

Much of the state, especially Northwest Oregon, also were dealing with flooding threats and rain or snow.

In Eastern Oregon, ODOT said Interstate 84 eastbound was closed between La Grande and Baker City, milepost 265 to 304 Thursday morning due to several spun out semi-trucks. It was later extended to between Pendleton at milepost 216 and Baker City, milepost 304.

“Winter weather is occurring throughout the area,” they said, advising motorists to follow chain restrictions where posted. Follow traffic updates at www.tripcheck.com.

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Kelsey Merison

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — From adding traffic cameras to curb speeding drivers to the number of dispensaries allowed in town, Mayor Ed Fitch answers viewer-submitted questions for this month’s Ask the Mayor.

Viewers can submit questions for Mayor Fitch at any time as part of our monthly segment – just click here.

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