From local cattle ranches and eco-forward breweries to hyper-local cuisine and low-impact adventures, Central Oregon invites travelers to tread lightly with an uncompromising experience. Central Oregon has long been rich in both agricultural experiences and outdoor adventure, so it is natural that the region has also embraced sustainable practices. From high desert farms and family-owned […]
Central Oregon Invites Visitors To Experience the Areaโs Bounty and in a Fun & Sustainable Way
More Businesses Focused on Employeesโ Health and Wellness
In a bid to help staff members improve their good health and well-being so they can become more effective employees, more businesses make group health and wellness benefits available to their workers. Ninety-four percent of large firms (5000 or more employees) and 70 percent of small businesses (50 to 199 employees) provide some kind of […]
The Cram Fire Explodes in Size
The Cram Fire exploded in size to 64,296 acres. Windy conditions continue posing challenges for firefighters. Today Governor Tina Kotek declared a State of Emergency for Oregon’s wildfires lasting through the end of the year. “Oregon is already experiencing a devastating wildfire season that will have lasting consequences. The summer is only gettin hotter, drier […]
Interim Deschutes County Sheriff Candidate List
Five candidates officially applied for and met the July 11 deadline for the position of interim Deschutes County Sheriff. The applicants include Deputy Chief of Bend Police Paul Kansky, DCSO Detective Lieutenant James McLaughlin, former DCSO Captain Deron McMaster, DCSO Detective and Special Services Commander Ty Rupert and current DCSO Undersheriff Aaron Wells. Applicants filed […]
The Cram Fire Rapidly Doubles in Size Closing Highway 97
The Cram Fire burning north of Madras blew up to 28,635 acres with 0% containment as of Tuesday, July 15. Changing wind directions and rugged, steep terrain are challenging firefighters. The fire advanced southeast, jumping Trout Creek and heading up Ranger Butte Monday night reaching the community of Ashwood. Highway 97 closed Tuesday north of Madras […]
The Source Wins First Place for Cover Design at National AAN Awards
The Source has received national recognition for its cover art, earning First Place in Cover Design at the 2025 Association of Alternative Newsmedia (AAN) Awards. The winning entry, which included three individual covers, were created by art director Jennifer Galler and illustrator Adrian Galler. Judges praised the designs for its bold visual storytelling, clever wordplay […]
Governor Kotek Invokes Conflagration Act for the Highland Fire
Salem, OR โ On the evening of July 12, 2025, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the Highland Fire in Crook County. The Crook County Fire Defense Board Chief requested assistance with life, safety, and structural fire protection, and the state fire marshal concurred with that request. Following ORS 476.510-476.610, Governor Kotek […]
County Transitions Online Dog Licensing Program
Deschutes County is moving its online dog licensing program to DocuPet, simplifying the process for owners to license their dogs, comply with state regulations, and ensure a quick reunion if their dogs go missing. Under Oregon law, all dog owners are required to vaccinate their pets against rabies and obtain a license in the county […]
Central Oregon Health Council Launches โBe Well Central Oregonโ Campaign
The Central Oregon Health Council (COHC) is pleased to introduce a bold new campaignโBe Well Central Oregonโto mark the launch of the 2025โ2029 Regional Health Improvement Plan (RHIP). This initiative represents a transformative shift in how partners work together to build a healthier, more connected region. โBe Well Central Oregon is more than a sloganโitโs a community […]
As Kotek Scrambles to Save ODOT Union Jobs, Here Are Positions Being Cut and Vacated
ODOT cut 22 jobs in Deschutes County including Transportation Maintenance Specialist, Professional Engineer, and Heavy Equipment Technicians to name a few. Read more about it below: As Gov. Tina Kotek works the phones in an effort to stave off hundreds of layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation July 31, the lists of proposed layoffs […]

