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Displaying blog entries 21-30 of 354

Hydro Express Coming to Mt. Hood!

Thursday, November 3, 2022
by Liz Warren

Direct From NOAA, Batten down the hatches and get the raincoat ready for Friday and Saturday!

Mt. Hood Hydrologic Outlook

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More Housing Blows from DLCD

Wednesday, September 14, 2022
by Liz Warren

More Blows to Housing from DLCD

Take Action by Friday, September 16th

Less than two months after the Oregon Land Conservation and Development Commission adopted the well-intentioned but ill-advised “Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities” rules that will increase the costs and complications of developing housing in Oregon, DLCD is at it again.

This time, in the name of “Wildfire Adapted Communities” DLCD is again proposing regulations that would dampen Oregon’s housing supply and choice at a time when we face the worst housing crisis in our state’s history, and in the nation.

The draft recommendations include items such as limiting where housing and commercial development can be located, requiring fire breaks in addition to the defensible space requirements for individual lots, and limiting where critical facilities such as schools, hospitals, and community lifelines can be sited.

The Legislature directed DLCD to report back by October 1, 2022 regarding “updates to the statewide land use planning program and local comprehensive plans and zoning codes that are needed in order to incorporate wildfire risk maps and minimize wildfire risk.”

The problem is, there are no maps.  The Wildfire Risk Maps were pulled last month after major errors were identified and after strong public and community backlash. 

Yet despite the fact that we don’t know where the regulations will apply, DLCD is charging ahead with them.  That’s nonsensical.  And now DLCD is using undefined terms like "areas of greatest wildfire risk” that, if interpreted broadly, could affect vast portions of the state.

To make matters worse, DLCD’s proposed requirements would apply above and beyond the new defensible space and home hardening regulations that are already being developed by other state agencies.

It’s important to protect our communities from wildfire risks.  But we can’t develop regulations when we don’t know where they will apply.  And any new regulations must not exacerbate Oregon’s housing crisis.

This is unjustifiable, and we must act now to stop it. Please email LCDC through the link below by Friday night and tell them not to advance their recommendation on new development considerations.

Written public comments delivered to the Commission Assistant at least 10 days prior to the meeting can be copied and distributed to the commission.

To submit comments electronically, please email the Commission Assistant at: est​[email protected]​

To mail in comments, please use this address:

Land Conservation and Development Commission
Attn: Esther Johnson, Commission Assistant
Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development
635 Capitol Street NE, Ste. 150
Salem, OR 97301

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Mt. Hood Power Shut Down

Friday, September 9, 2022
by Liz Warren

Here is the latest from PGE:

PGE SHUTS POWER OFF TO HELP KEEP CUSTOMERS, COMMUNITIES SAFE


News Release from PGE
Posted on FlashAlert: September 9th, 2022 4:10 PM
 

Dangerous conditions, extreme fire danger expected to prolong outage 

PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 9, 2022 — As of 1 p.m. today, PGE turned off power to approximately 30,000 customer homes and businesses located in 10 designated PSPS areas and two additional areas with high fire risk as a safety measure to help protect people, property and the environment.

The 10 designated PSPS areas are as follows: Mt. Hood Corridor and Foothills (Area 1); Columbia River Gorge (Area 2); Oregon City (Area 3); Estacada (Area 4); Scotts Mills (Area 5); Portland West Hills (Area 6); Tualatin Mountains (Area 7); Northwest Hills (Area 8); Central West Hills (Area 9); and Southern West Hills (Area 10). 

In partnership with local officials, PGE also implemented preventive outages in two additional areas: Silverdale/Corbett and Silver Falls. PGE turned off power in these limited areas with higher risk of fire in response to unique and extreme weather conditions. If there is need identified by PGE and emergency responders to proactively shut off power in other areas to protect people and property, we will do so. 

If the event duration is as anticipated and assuming there is no damage to our system, power restoration could begin as early as Saturday evening. Damage to our equipment and/or system could create delays in restoration timing. To help reduce the impact on affected customers and communities, PGE will provide updates at least every 24 hours until power is fully restored.

PGE Community Resource Centers are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day, until power is fully restored to the areas. Information, bottled water, ice, access to charging for personal devices and Wi-Fi will be available. More information can be found on portlandgeneral.com/psps; locations include:

  • Area 1: Welches Elementary School, 24901 E Salmon River Rd, Welches
  • Area 1, 2, 3, 4: Estacada Baptist Church, 29101 SE Eagle Creek Rd, Estacada
  • Area 5:  Silverton Safeway, 301 Westfield St, Silverton
  • Area 7,8, 9: Banks Jim’s Thriftway, 12350 NW Main St, Banks
  • Area 9,10: Sheridan High School, 433 S Bridge St., Sheridan

The State of Oregon and several counties are also providing resources. Call 2-1-1 or 1-866-698-6155 for a complete list of resources in your area.

PGE will monitor conditions and as soon as weather conditions return to normal, will begin inspecting all power lines and equipment to make necessary repairs so lines and equipment can be safely re-energized. PGE, contract and mutual assistance crews are preparing the system for restoration and responding to unplanned outages caused by high gusty winds, and when weather normalizes, will work as quickly as safety allows to restore power. 

PGE will continue communicating directly with customers in the impacted areas and will share information with news media, social media and other channels. Customers can find the latest information on portlandgeneral.com/psps, by following PGE on social media -- @PortlandGeneral on Twitter and @PortlandGeneralElectric on Facebook or by calling customer service at 503-228-6322. Our advisors can provide assistance in more than 200 languages.

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About Portland General Electric Company: Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) is a fully integrated energy company based in Portland, Oregon. The company serves approximately 900,000 customers with a service area population of 2 million Oregonians in 51 cities. PGE owns 16 generation plants across Oregon and other Northwestern states and maintains and operates 14 public parks and recreation areas. For more than 130 years, PGE has powered the advancement of society, delivering safe, affordable, and reliable energy to Oregonians. PGE and its approximately 3,000 employees are working with customers to build a clean energy future. Together with its customers, PGE has the No. 1 voluntary renewable energy program in the U.S. PGE is committed to achieving at least an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from power served to customers by 2030 and 100% reduction by 2040. In 2021, PGE became the first U.S. utility to join The Climate Pledge. For the eighth year in a row PGE achieved a perfect score on the 2021 Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Corporate Equality Index, a national benchmarking survey and report on corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ workplace equality. In 2021, PGE, employees, retirees, and the PGE Foundation donated $4.8 million and volunteered 15,760 hours with more than 300 nonprofits across Oregon. For more information visit www.PortlandGeneral.com/news.

Contact Info:

PGE Communications, [email protected]; 503-464-2067

 

 

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Fire Restrictions on the Mt. Hood National Forest

Monday, August 8, 2022
by Liz Warren
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
Forest Service News Release
 
Fire Restrictions on Mt. Hood National Forest
 
 
Due to dry and hot conditions, campfires are prohibited across the Mt. Hood National Forest, beginning Wednesday, August 10, 2022.
 
All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires are prohibited under a Forest Order, including in developed campgrounds. Portable cooking stoves, lanterns, and heating devices using liquefied or bottled fuel, such as propane, are still allowed as they can be instantly switched off. Additionally, target shooting is temporarily prohibited because of the risk of wildfire.
 
While the Forest enjoyed a wet and cool spring, dry July and August conditions have resulted in low moisture levels in vegetation, increasing the risk of wildfire. With the current dry and warm long-range forecast, any wildfire start poses a greater threat to firefighter safety, public safety, and personal property. 
 
“The Forest has recently seen an uptick in wildfires, many of which are human caused,” said Dirk Shupe, Fire Management Staff Officer for the Mt. Hood National Forest. “With a dry August ahead, we want to limit the unnecessary risk caused by abandoned or escaped campfires to our local communities, and the recreating public.”
 
More wildfire information can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/mthood/fire
 
For more information about the local and regional fire outlook, visit: https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/predict/outlook.aspx
 
And remember, fireworks are always prohibited on national forests.

 

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Sandy Mountain Festival Parade

Wednesday, July 6, 2022
by Liz Warren

Sandy Mountain Festival Parade 2022

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Steiner Log Home Tour

Friday, July 1, 2022
by Liz Warren

 

Mt. Hood Steiner Cabin Tour Poster 2022

 

Direct from the Mt. Hood Museum Website:

St. John Catholic Church to be Featured on Steiner Cabin Tour This Year

     Something very special awaits Steiner Cabin Tour participants this year. On August 13, 2022, in addition to seeing inside the Welches homes included, participants will also tour through the St. John Catholic Church, built in 1937, by Henry Steiner. This is the first time the Church will be on the tour since recent restoration work has been completed. “We’re very excited to include the Church this year; it is spectacular!”, said Lloyd Musser, Museum Curator.  
     
     Event tickets go on sale July 1, at 8:00 A.M., online at www.mthoodmuseum.org. Tickets are $35 each for museum members and $40 for non-members. The website shopping cart will encourage paying for tickets with a PayPal account, but purchasers may pay with a credit card by following the instructions.
 
     All ticket sales will be final, no refunds will be offered. However, ticket holders may transfer their tickets if they’re unable to attend. Tour guests should bring their printed receipt and claim their eligibility wristband within the first hour of their chosen start time. 
 
     The tour will begin at the Hoodland Senior Center, Mount Hood RV Village, 65000 E. Hwy 26, Welches, approximately 15 miles east of Sandy, OR. A map for the tour route will be provided; participants are expected to follow the route.
 
     A limited number of 300 tickets will be sold for three starting times: 9:00 A.M., 11:00 A.M., and 1:00 P.M. The tour can be finished in 2-3 hours and will conclude at 4:00 P.M. To prevent traffic back-ups and allow for parking on this self-guided, driving tour, 100 tickets will be sold for each time slot.
 
     The cabin owners will graciously share the history and unique features of their treasured Steiner cabin. The tour is like a typical home tour except it features all log cabins hand built in the 1930’s. The usual etiquette rules apply: no pets, no high heels, no strollers in the homes, small children are not recommended, wear booties if requested. 
 
     Proceeds from the event will benefit the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum in Government Camp.
 
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Forest Service News Release for Mt Hood Area and Independence Day

Tuesday, June 28, 2022
by Liz Warren
Forest Service News Release
 
Celebrate Safely this Independence Day
 
Summer has finally arrived, and Mt. Hood National Forest officials remind all those headed to public lands this Fourth of July weekend to take precautions to prevent wildfires and natural resource damage. While there are currently no campfire restrictions on Mt. Hood National Forest, campers and picnickers are encouraged to always plan carefully before starting a campfire.
 
Fireworks and explosives are never allowed on national forests, regardless of weather or conditions. Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device is prohibited; this includes smaller consumer fireworks such as sparklers, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and smoke balls. Violators can be subject to a maximum penalty of a $5,000 fine and/or up to six months in jail (36 CFR 261.52). Fireworks are also prohibited on other public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and Oregon State Parks, as well as most county and city parks.
 
Abandoned or unattended campfires are the number one source of wildfires on public lands. If you are planning to have a campfire, please remember:
  • Keep your campfire small and away from flammable material.
  • Use a designated campfire ring when available.
  • Keep water and shovel nearby, and never leave a campfire unattended.
  • Completely extinguish your campfire by drowning your fire with water and stirring with a shovel.
  • Make sure your campfire is cold to the touch before leaving it – if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
  • Portable fire pits and propane-fueled stoves with an “off” switch are a good alternative to campfires as they can be extinguished quickly.
 
More information about recreation sites, seasonal road closures, and areas impacted by wildfire damage is available on our website: www.fs.usda.gov/mthood.
 
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
 
 
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
 
 
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Bear Issues on Mt. Hood

Monday, June 27, 2022
by Liz Warren

It appears there are increasing problems not only in the Mt. Hood area but in Hood River also. This information recently appeared concerning bears in the Hood River area and some tips from ODFW

Oregon Fish and Wildlife ODFW responds to garbage bear problems in Hood River area; Residents reminded it is against the law to feed wildlife in Oregon Black bears June 24, 2022 HOOD RIVER, Ore. – ODFW is urging residents in the Hood River area and other towns along the Cascades to take steps to prevent bear problems. The bears have torn down bird feeders, gotten into trash cans and a smoker, damaged fences and dug up gardens. The bears have been repeatedly seen around homes during the day and appear undeterred by efforts to haze them such as setting off car alarms or using other noise-making techniques. "Black bears are moving through neighborhoods in the Hood River area looking for a free meal," said Jeremy Thompson, ODFW district wildlife biologist based in The Dalles. "Garbage cans left unsecured and bird feeders are the main attractants that we’ve seen this spring." Once a bear gains access to human food or garbage and becomes habituated it can lose its natural fear of humans, which can lead to a variety of safety problems for both people and bears.

ODFW will not relocate bears it considers habituated, because these bears simply return or repeat the behavior elsewhere. "It’s unfortunate to have to put down a bear that is a public safety risk simply because it got easy access to food from people," added Thompson. It is illegal to either directly or indirectly feed bears (ORS 496.730) and can result in a criminal citation (Class A misdemeanor) by Oregon State Police.

Some basic safety tips include: Never feed bears. Store garbage cans in a garage or shed or purchase bear-resistant garbage cans if possible. Put garbage cans out just before pick-up. Keep pet food inside. Remove bird feeders. Keep BBQ grills and smokers clean or in garage. Clean up fruit under fruit trees. Keep all food stored outdoors (patio refrigerators, etc.) locked As bears are in the area,

ODFW also shares advice for what to do if you encounter a bear: STOP: Never approach a bear at any time for any reason. If you see bear cubs, leave the area. GIVE IT SPACE: Give any bear you encounter a way to escape. STAY CALM: Do not run or make sudden movements. Face the bear and slowly back away. AVOID EYE CONTACT: Don't make eye contact with the bear. DON'T RUN: It may encourage the bear to chase you. FIGHT BACK: In the unlikely event you are attacked, fight back, shout, be aggressive, use rocks, sticks and hands.

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June 4th Free Family Fishing Event on Mt. Hood!

Thursday, May 26, 2022
by Liz Warren
 
Mt. Hood National Forest
Forest Service News Release
 
Free family fishing event June 4 east of Estacada
 
 
Join Mt. Hood National Forest for a day of fishing and family fun. This outdoor event will take place on Saturday, June 4 from 10:00- 3:00 at Small Fry Lake in Promontory Park, just east of Estacada. 
 
Fishing clinic participants can enjoy free fishing lessons, casting competitions, a contest for the largest fish, and other games. Loaner fishing poles and bait are available. Children 13 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. This is a great opportunity for families to learn how to fish together and spend time in the outdoors!
 
June 4-5 is a Free Fishing Weekend in Oregon, meaning no license or tag is necessary to fish these two days. For more information about state fishing licenses visit the OR Department of Fish and Wildlife.
 
Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear if possible. Loaner fishing gear and bait will be available during the event. Please bring snacks and water and wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Bringing a cooler for hauling home your catch of the day is recommended.
 
This event is held in cooperation with the OR Department of Fish and Wildlife, PGE, US Fish & Wildlife Service, Trout Unlimited, and Timber Lake Job Corps.
 
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
 
 
Photo: Fishing clinic at Small Fry Lake at Promontory Park
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National Wildfire Awareness Month

Thursday, May 12, 2022
by Liz Warren

Although it's hard to believe as we sit under storm clouds and record breaking rain we are approaching our fire season on Mt. Hood. After power shut downs from past fires locals are way more prepared for what will come our way. I don't know any one who doesn't own a generator. This article from Fox 12 details new rules for power shut down notifications during wildfires. 

Here are tips directly from the FEMA website:

The United States Fire Administration promotes simple ways to prevent a fire from affecting your home and community, including:

  • Reduce amount of flammable materials and brush that can burn around your home by removing pine needles, dry leaves or other highly flammable materials.
  • Protect your roof: Trim branches that overhang your home and remove any leaves, needles, and sticks from your roof and gutters. 
  • Move wood piles and small propane tanks away from your (and your neighbor’s) home, 30 feet or more is best.
  • Embers from a burning fire can get under an unprotected porch or through vents. To prevent this, install a wire mesh screen with openings no larger than 1/8th inch.  

Be prepared in case you need to evacuate:

  • Keep important documents in a fireproof safe, on a USB drive, or store password protected documents online.
  • Check your home insurance to make sure your policy protects your current home value and includes wildfires.
  • Give yourself time and evacuate early if possible. If you can’t leave, designate a room that can be closed off from outside air in case air conditions become hazardous.
  • Make your household emergency plan and go-kit.  When making plans, don’t forget the needs of pets.  Make sure that you know more than one way out of your neighborhood.
  • Sign up to receive emergency alerts and notices for your community.
  • Ready.gov offers vital safety tips on what to do before, during, and after a wildfire.

Another important thing to consider is buying flood insurance. After a wildfire, flood risk increases due to the inability of charred vegetation and soil to absorb water. Rainstorms after a wildfire lead to increased runoff down slopes and into channels, streams, and rivers.  Flooding after fire can be fast, severe, and include mudflows as runoff picks up debris, ash, and sediment from the burn scar. Flood insurance can protect property owners from catastrophic financial impacts of flooding following a wildfire.

Wildfires can develop and spread quickly, leaving little time to get somewhere safe. Know what to do to keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe and take steps now to protect your future.

Last updated March 17, 2021

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Liz Warren
Merit Properties Group - Keller Williams Realty PDX Central
Box 131
Welches OR 97067
Direct: 503-705-3090
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