Source Warmup

Comment Period Opens for Proposal Allowing E-bikes on Select Trails

The Deschutes National Forest is seeking input on a proposed project that would allow class 1, pedal-assist e-bikes on existing, select trails and paved paths located near Bend, Sisters and Sunriver.

The Forest Service is considering the use of e-bikes on select trails to create equitable opportunities for use and reduce potential conflict between user groups. Trails designed for pedestrian or equestrian uses are not included in the proposal. The 30-day comment period began July 2 and closes July 31. Comments can be submitted at: https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=66475.

— Julianna LaFollette

[page]

Oregon Governor Declares Drought in Jefferson County

Gov. Tina Kotek declared a drought emergency in Jefferson County on June 27, directing state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the region. Jefferson County has been drought free since March 2024, according to a press release, but the effects of a multi-year drought have yet to improve throughout the Deschutes River Basin.

Precipitation has been below average in Jefferson County since 2018, resulting in less recharge to groundwater systems. Water supply conditions and precipitation levels are not expected to improve.

— Julianna LaFollette

[page]

Redmond Airport Adjusts Parking Fees

The Redmond Municipal Airport announced that it implemented complimentary parking for the first 20 minutes in the main parking lot, starting July 1. The complimentary parking, which applies for all spots in the main lot, is meant to help reduce road and curbside congestion, providing convenient options for passengers getting picked up and dropped off. The airport raised its daily parking fees last year from $15 to $24 per day.

“We are excited to offer free 30-minute parking in our main lot to help reduce curb congestion. It also allows customers to greet friends and family when they arrive and accompany those travelers who may need a little extra assistance to the terminal,” said Airport Director Zachary Bass.

— Julianna LaFollette

[page]

3,889

— The acreage of the Darlene 3 Fire by the time it was 100% contained. From the News story, “La Pine Threatened by Large Fire”

“If you move to the Pacific Northwest, you have to do your defensible space. It is just one of those things. Changing that culture in the prevention world has been a little bit of a struggle.”

— Melissa Steele, a Bend Fire and Rescue inspector, from the Feature story, “Into the Wildlands”

This article appears in Source Weekly July 4, 2024.