Category: ktvz-local-news

Kelsey Merison

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) issued a joint safety warning to recreational boaters in Oregon as warmer weather returns. The agencies highlighted the persistent danger of cold water and increased navigation hazards due to anticipated record-breaking low water levels this season.

Oregon’s waterways are expected to experience lower than normal levels because of limited snowpack and emerging drought conditions.

The warning emphasizes that even with warm air temperatures, the water in most Oregon waterways remains under 70 degrees year-round, allowing hypothermia to set in quickly. The expected record-breaking dry season will lead to changing conditions and a concentration of recreationists in popular waterbodies.

Officials advise boaters to dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature and to consult the OEM Blog for tips on cold water exposure. Falls overboard are the leading cause of accidental drowning. Most fatalities from drowning are due to cold water shock, which is sudden immersion into cold water. Data from the 2019-2024 U.S. Coast Guard Accident Statistics shows that roughly 84-87% of fatal boating incident victims were not wearing a life jacket.

Lower water levels can expose hazards that were not visible in prior years. Ashley Massey, Public Information Officer for the Marine Board, explained, “Low water can expose submerged rocks, stumps, sand or gravel bars and other hazards to navigation that may not have been visible in previous years.” Massey added that even familiar lakes and rivers can look and behave differently during drought, with river currents potentially becoming stronger in some areas and stalling in others. She advises boaters to prepare for any situation, allow ample time for launching and taking out and boat with others who can provide aid if necessary.

To help recreational boaters stay safe, the OSMB and OEM offer specific guidance. All boaters should wear a life jacket, choose waterways that match their skill level to avoid becoming stranded and carry all required equipment in good working order. It is also recommended to share a float plan, including destination, boat type and expected return time, with a trusted person. Boaters should operate slowly, stay alert for quickly changing conditions and monitor water levels closely. Motorized boaters should check local regulations and review the boat ramp status map for low-water ramps, while paddlers should operate closer to shore.

Motorized boaters need deeper water to operate safely and must watch their wake, operating at slow-no wake speeds in narrow and shallow areas. Both types of boat users should avoid unfamiliar or narrow channels during low-water conditions. Using a depth finder, setting shallow-water alarms and monitoring depth are also recommended. All boaters should monitor weather forecasts, tides and changing water conditions and be courteous to other boaters by keeping launching areas clear.

In Oregon, children 12 and younger must wear a life jacket when underway on any boat and life jackets are required for all boaters on Class III whitewater rivers. Operators of motorboats more than 10 horsepower must carry a boating safety education card. Additionally, paddlers operating non-motorized boats are required to have a waterway access permit. More information on safe boating practices and legal requirements can be found at Boat.Oregon.gov.

Erin Zysett, an OEM spokesperson, reiterated the agencies’ commitment to safety. “Safety is always our top priority,” Zysett said. “We want all people in Oregon to enjoy time on the water responsibly. Stay informed. Respect the unique hazards water presents. Be prepared. And help protect our waterways and communities.”

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Bend Handmade Market will return to downtown Bend on Saturday, June 6th, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. More than 100 independent makers and artisans will showcase their crafts. It’s free to attend and all-ages are welcome.

Produced by Urban Craft Uprising, the market offers a curated selection of ceramics, clothing, jewelry, fine art, and home decor. This event has become a beloved community gathering, providing shoppers with unique, quality pieces while supporting independent artists and small businesses.

Lindsey Ross of Urban Craft Uprising emphasized the market’s mission. “The Bend Handmade Market celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of our regional maker community,” Ross said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for both locals and visitors to discover unique, quality pieces while supporting independent artists and small businesses.”

The market adds to downtown Bend’s lively atmosphere. Attendees are encouraged to explore local restaurants, cafes, and businesses throughout the day. Each vendor is carefully selected to ensure a high-quality, diverse mix of handmade goods. These selections reflect the creativity and spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

The event offers attendees direct access to artists and makers. They can learn about their processes and purchase one-of-a-kind items directly from the artists. The market is known for its carefully selected vendors and community atmosphere.

The Bend Handmade Market has been a staple of Bend’s cultural calendar for the past 3 years.

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Matthew Draxton

CROOK COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) — Crook County Fire and Rescue and St. Charles Prineville are collaborating to offer a free “Stop the Bleed” class on Monday, May 18. The course will teach participants how to manage life-threatening bleeding emergencies before professional first responders can arrive. The session is scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

This community initiative is being held during May, which is designated as “Stop the Bleed” Month. The class provides essential skills that could be critical in saving a life during a severe bleeding incident.

The training is designed to be hands-on, providing practical experience for attendees. Interested individuals must register in advance due to limited space in the course. Further information and the registration link are available on the Crook County Fire and Rescue website.

Those interested in attending the free class on May 18, should register promptly due to the limited availability.

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Stroke Awareness Oregon will host the “Leading With a Purpose” event on May 5th, 2026, at the Tetherow Pavilion in Bend. The evening is dedicated to exploring how leadership creates meaningful impact and supports the organization’s mission to provide stroke education and resources.

The event, centered on the theme “Impact Through Leadership,” will bring together a panel of respected leaders. They will share real-world insights on building influence, driving change, and leading with intention. Proceeds from the event will directly benefit Stroke Awareness Oregon’s mission to provide stroke education, prevention resources, and support programs for stroke warriors and their families.

The panel is made up of five leaders:

• Deborah Flagan, Vice President of Community Engagement & Giving at Hayden Homes (Moderator)

• Patrick Bailey, Area Director, Willamette Valley Fellowship of Christian Athletes; Former Oregon State University Baseball Coach

• Michelle Mitchell, Co-Founder of Humm Kombucha; COO, Design Bar Interiors

• Tia Lewis, Shareholder & Land Use Attorney, Schwabe Williamson & Wyatt

• Jo Wells, Facilities Architect & Project Manager, City of Bend

The event schedule includes a networking cocktail hour from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Following this, a moderated panel discussion will take place from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. Community members interested in attending or learning more about the event can visit LWAP.eventbrite.com. Additional information is available by contacting Taylor Laidlaw at tlaidlaw@strokeawarenessoregon.org or 541-350-8117.

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Triton Notary

Editor’s Note: A video previously attached to this article incorrectly showed a City of Bend logo. The Downtown Bend Business Association is conducting this survey.

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) The Downtown Bend Business Association has developed a Draft Downtown Parking Management Plan and is seeking community input. The organization emphasizes that the plan is not finalized and no new policies are currently being implemented.

The City of Bend is responsible for making all parking decisions and setting policy. The Downtown Bend Business Association serves as a guide in this process, working to define challenges and ensure community voices are represented in conversations about parking.

The Downtown Bend Business Association is asking the public to provide feedback through several steps. Community members can watch a short video to understand the background of the draft plan and what the association has heard so far. They can also review the draft plan to see the ideas being explored to address parking challenges. Finally, residents can complete a community survey to share their experiences, concerns and priorities regarding downtown parking.

The association states that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for parking. It acknowledges that what works for a business owner may differ from a visitor’s needs and an employee’s perspective might vary from a resident’s. The Downtown Bend Business Association is taking time to listen to ensure any future direction reflects the community’s actual needs.

The Downtown Bend Business Association will continue gathering feedback and listening to the community. This input will help shape what comes next for downtown parking, ensuring future directions reflect real community needs.

Editor’s Note: A video previously attached to this article incorrectly showed a City of Bend logo. The Downtown Bend Business Association is conducting this survey.

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Campbell Porter

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A brush fire erupted along Tumalo Road between Valeview and 92nd today, prompting a swift response from Bend and Redmond Fire Departments. The fire, which likely originated from hot debris from a passing vehicle, was quickly contained and prevented from spreading to homes or vehicles, though several fences sustained damage.

The fire stretched for hundreds of yards along the north side of Tumalo Road and burned less than an acre. The first fire engine from the Tumalo fire station arrived to find neighbors and passersby actively attempting to stop the fire with shovels and hoses. Three brush engines from Bend and one from Redmond completed the extinguishment.

Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki of Bend Fire & Rescue indicated that hot debris from a failing brake or catalytic converter was the likely cause, as the vehicle traveled west on Tumalo Road toward Old Bend Redmond Highway.

Fire officials noted that fire season has arrived earlier than usual, making roadside vegetation dry enough for hot vehicle parts to ignite fires. Residents are reminded to check their vehicles and trailers before traveling to prevent similar incidents. This includes ensuring catalytic converters and brakes are in good condition and that no chains or metal drag from vehicles or trailers, which can spread sparks into dry brush.

Bend Fire & Rescue emphasizes the importance of vehicle maintenance as summer approaches and vegetation becomes even drier. Drivers should continue to ensure their vehicles are in proper working order to prevent brush fires.

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Tyson Beauchemin

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — David Clyne, interim city administrator for Madras, is prioritizing clear financial preparation and up-to-date budgets in time for a new, permanent city administrator.

Clyne, who serves as interim city administrator for the city of Madras, has nearly 40 years of combined experience acting as a city administrator or manager in Oregon and Colorado He has been contracted by Madras to serve in this capacity until October.

In an interview with KTVZ, he expressed optimism about the city’s fiscal health, despite the city being behind on preparing for upcoming audits and budgets.

Regarding the city’s financial standing, Clyne said, “I’m pretty confident we’re not where people thought we were. I think people were using the, you know, the ‘bankruptcy’ word that was getting tossed around here. That’s not the case.”

“Oregon has a really tough situation with measures five and 50 that were passed in the 90s.” Said Clyne, referring to legislation which capped property taxes. He also cited Oregon’s absence of a sales tax as another potential revenue stream the city didn’t have access to. “So we’re severely limited on the typical public revenues that are available in a lot of other places.”

Clyne also aims to inspire the next city administrator to develop a unified, long-term plan for Madras. He believes this vision should be shared between the city and the community, rather than being a simple list of projects. In previous roles in other cities, Clyne often met with the public to ensure their goals aligned with community needs.

Another pressing issue for Clyne is the strain being placed on the Madras police department. He expressed a need for a permeant police chief, and hiring more officers. The search for a new police chief is on pause till the city recruits a city administrator

Clyne was also impressed by the warm welcome he’s received in Madras. He expressed an appreciation for the natural beauty in the area, saying “The climate’s incredible, but it’s also a city that is really postured itself in a way that it can really do something very special going forward.”

Currently, the city is considering pre-finalists for the permanent city administrator position.

Next week, the city will select finalists for interviews. Officials hope to hire the permanent city administrator by June 9.

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Campbell Porter

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — St. Charles Health System’s Trauma Program will honor former trauma patients Wednesday, May 20, at St. Charles Bend. The event will feature 17-year-old Paige Wood, a local teen who will share her recovery story after surviving a traumatic car crash last summer.

Wood’s crash occurred when she fell asleep while driving and her presentation aims to highlight the importance of avoiding tired driving.

The event will provide a space for survivors to connect with St. Charles caregivers, first responders and fellow medical trauma patients. Attendees can also visit therapy dogs, explore a resource fair and enjoy a free lunch. Speaking about her experience is a healing process for Wood and she seeks to spread a vital message about road safety.

Heidi Wood, Wood’s mother, expressed her pride in her daughter’s efforts. “I’m so proud of Paige. She’s really trying to raise awareness,” Wood said. “And as parents, we realized that in all our years of parenting, we had never talked to our kids about what to do if you’re tired when you’re driving.”

Trauma survivors are invited to begin connecting with care teams and other survivors starting at 10:30 a.m. May 20. Lunch and speakers are scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Conference Rooms A and B and the outside patio at St. Charles Bend, weather permitting.

St. Charles Trauma and Emergency Services cared for more than 2,700 traumatically injured patients in 2025. This figure represents nearly three times the number of patients the department treated a decade ago. Falls account for the most common injury, followed by motor vehicle crashes, ATV/snowmobile/dirt bike crashes, motorcycle crashes and bike crashes.

Jeremy Buller, trauma program coordinator in Bend, highlighted the significance of the event for those involved in patient care. “We often see these patients on the worst day of their life,” Buller said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to also see them healing and recovering.”

St. Charles Health System, Inc., headquartered in Bend, Ore., operates St. Charles Bend, Madras, Prineville and Redmond. It also manages family care and specialty clinics in Bend, La Pine, Madras, Prineville, Redmond and Sisters. The private, nonprofit Oregon corporation is Central Oregon’s largest employer with more than 5,000 caregivers. Additionally, more than 400 active medical staff members and nearly 200 visiting medical staff members collaborate with the system to provide community care.

Former trauma patients who wish to attend the event and connect with their care teams can RSVP on the St. Charles webpage.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding comments from Rep. Bynum, Sisters Mayor, and Fire Defense Board member)

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — With wildfire risk no longer confined to a few months, local and federal leaders are urging Central Oregonians to prepare now, before the next fire sparks.

Oregon Representative, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum, met Monday with local leaders and fire officials, with a following press conference at the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District building to discuss wildfire readiness and prevention ahead of what could be another high-risk year.

“Wildfires are no longer seasonal,” Bynum said. “They are year-round threats that are growing more intense, more destructive, and more dangerous.”

Bynum emphasized the need for expanded training, stronger mitigation efforts, and increased public education. In addition, her push for federal funding to fill the gaps.

“This meeting today shows how coordinated our different agencies are and how willing they are to work together,” she said. “There was one central message — we need to be prepared.”

As fire seasons grow longer and more severe, the focus is shifting from reacting to fires to preventing damage before flames reach homes.

Bynum compared wildfire preparedness to a football game, with homeowners playing a key role early on.

“The first three quarters are what homeowners can do — home hardening and preparation,” she said. “When the fire department comes in, that’s the fourth quarter. They’re in defense mode.”

Fire officials echoed that message, stressing that the work done around homes can make all the difference.

“The front end of fighting any wildfire is really all the work people do around their homes,” said Bill Boos of the Fire Defense Board. “That’s what determines whether a home is savable or not.”

In Sisters, recent fires have served as a wake-up call, prompting more residents to take preparedness seriously.

“More people are getting interested in preparing their homes and having an evacuation plan ready,” said Sisters Mayor Jennifer Letz.

Still, challenges remain — especially when fires spread quickly.

“Making sure you have a go-bag and a plan, and thinking about neighbors who may need extra help, is critical,” Letz added.

Leaders say coordination between agencies is stronger than ever, but ultimately, protecting homes starts with individual action.

Officials urge residents to take steps now to prepare for wildfire season, including creating defensible space, hardening homes, and having evacuation plans in place.

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Matthew Draxton

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon trees are facing another challenging year as climate change continues to impact the state. This spring’s conditions are similar to those in 2015, a period marked by peak high temperatures and drought. These current conditions follow a winter that tied 1934 for the warmest since accurate records began in 1896.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported the record-tying warm winter, signaling continued stress for the region’s tree population.

For at least two decades, trees in Oregon have experienced chronic stress from hot droughts. The compounding effect of frequent or prolonged warm and dry conditions has taken a significant toll on many trees. These conditions include higher than average temperatures, inconsistent precipitation patterns where more rain falls than snow and earlier snow melt.

Christine Buhl, a Forest Entomologist with the Oregon Department of Forestry, explained that a warm or dry spring is particularly detrimental for trees. “A warm or dry spring is particularly harmful for trees as this is their most active growing period. This stress reduces growth, weakens defenses against opportunistic insects and diseases and can outright kill tissues or whole trees,” Buhl said.

Buhl also noted that warmer winters create more favorable conditions for tree pests. “Warm winters reduce pest deaths from cold, increasing their growth or number of pests. It also extends the range of less cold-tolerant pests and lengthens their feeding periods,” she stated.

To help landowners manage their trees amid these conditions, Buhl offered several recommendations. She advises planting species and seedlots only within their current and climate-projected range. When planting seedlings, it is best to avoid dry seasons and keep roots moist and out of direct sun to ensure proper establishment.

Landowners should also work to reduce competition for moisture by controlling weeds and decreasing stand density to match the carrying capacity for the specific tree species, site quality and climate. If currently adapted species or seedlots are struggling, Buhl suggests shifting toward a nearby, more drought-tolerant seedlot, or in extreme cases, a more drought-tolerant species.

Other practices include using native understory vegetation and mulch to help retain soil moisture. Landowners should avoid root compaction caused by heavy equipment when the soil is wet. Additionally, fertilizing should be avoided if a site is already drought-stressed, as fertilizer increases biomass and thus water requirements.

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