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River Otters on the North Umpqua River

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Ryan Finlay

Incredible photos captured yesterday of three river otters catching crawdads on the North Umpqua River in the Glide area! 

Photos by Scott Finlay

The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) is lowering fire restrictions for both the public and industry, effective 12:01 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2026.

Recent precipitation across DFPA-protected lands has improved fuel moisture conditions, prompting the agency to drop Public Use Restriction Levels to LOW for all private, county, state, and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands within the Douglas District.

Despite the reduction, DFPA reminds residents that fire season remains in effect and that caution should still be used when handling fire or equipment outdoors. Debris burning, including debris piles and burn barrels, remains prohibited at all times.

Under the LOW restriction level, non-industrial power saw usage, cutting, grinding, or welding of metal, cutting, trimming, or mowing of dried, cured grass, and power-driven machinery for non-industrial improvement or development on private property is allowed all day.

Off-road driving is allowed with landowner permission for motor vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, but only on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except for cultivating and harvesting agricultural crops. Each passenger vehicle traveling on forestlands, except on state highways, county roads, and driveways, must carry an axe, a shovel, and one gallon of water or a 2½-pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher. ATVs must carry a 2½-pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher.

The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) also decreases to Level 1 at the same time, within the Douglas Forest Protection District, all regulated use areas, and all forestlands within one-eighth mile of those areas, including lands managed by the Roseburg District Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The change applies to regulated use areas DG-1, DG-2, UA-1, and UA-2, and all forestland within one-eighth mile thereof.

Under IFPL Level 1, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless it complies with all applicable fire prevention requirements of ORS Chapter 477 and OAR Chapter 629 Divisions 41 to 43.

For more information, visit www.dfpa.net or call the office at (541) 672-6507.

The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) is lowering fire restrictions for both the public and industry, effective 12:01 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2026.Recent precipitation across DFPA-protected lands has improved fuel moisture conditions, prompting the agency to drop Public Use Restriction Levels to LOW for all private, county, state, and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands within the Douglas District.Despite the reduction, DFPA reminds residents that fire season remains in effect and that caution should still be used when handling fire or equipment outdoors. Debris burning, including debris piles and burn barrels, remains prohibited at all times.Under the LOW restriction level, non-industrial power saw usage, cutting, grinding, or welding of metal, cutting, trimming, or mowing of dried, cured grass, and power-driven machinery for non-industrial improvement or development on private property is allowed all day.Off-road driving is allowed with landowner permission for motor vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, but only on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except for cultivating and harvesting agricultural crops. Each passenger vehicle traveling on forestlands, except on state highways, county roads, and driveways, must carry an axe, a shovel, and one gallon of water or a 2½-pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher. ATVs must carry a 2½-pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher.The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) also decreases to Level 1 at the same time, within the Douglas Forest Protection District, all regulated use areas, and all forestlands within one-eighth mile of those areas, including lands managed by the Roseburg District Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The change applies to regulated use areas DG-1, DG-2, UA-1, and UA-2, and all forestland within one-eighth mile thereof.Under IFPL Level 1, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless it complies with all applicable fire prevention requirements of ORS Chapter 477 and OAR Chapter 629 Divisions 41 to 43.For more information, visit www.dfpa.net or call the office at <a rel="noopener noreferrer" class="!text-blue-600 !cursor-pointer hover:!underline" href="tel:(541) 672-6507">(541) 672-6507</a>.

Steffanie Moore

Elijah Finlay

DFPA lowers fire restrictions effective Friday, June 26

The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) is lowering fire restrictions for both the public and industry, effective 12:01 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2026.

Recent precipitation across DFPA-protected lands has improved fuel moisture conditions, prompting the agency to drop Public Use Restriction Levels to LOW for all private, county, state, and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands within the Douglas District.

Despite the reduction, DFPA reminds residents that fire season remains in effect and that caution should still be used when handling fire or equipment outdoors. Debris burning, including debris piles and burn barrels, remains prohibited at all times.

Under the LOW restriction level, non-industrial power saw usage, cutting, grinding, or welding of metal, cutting, trimming, or mowing of dried, cured grass, and power-driven machinery for non-industrial improvement or development on private property is allowed all day.

Off-road driving is allowed with landowner permission for motor vehicles, including motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, but only on improved roads free of flammable vegetation, except for cultivating and harvesting agricultural crops. Each passenger vehicle traveling on forestlands, except on state highways, county roads, and driveways, must carry an axe, a shovel, and one gallon of water or a 2½-pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher. ATVs must carry a 2½-pound or larger ABC fire extinguisher.

The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) also decreases to Level 1 at the same time, within the Douglas Forest Protection District, all regulated use areas, and all forestlands within one-eighth mile of those areas, including lands managed by the Roseburg District Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The change applies to regulated use areas DG-1, DG-2, UA-1, and UA-2, and all forestland within one-eighth mile thereof.

Under IFPL Level 1, the use of fire or power-driven machinery in any operation area is unlawful unless it complies with all applicable fire prevention requirements of ORS Chapter 477 and OAR Chapter 629 Divisions 41 to 43.

For more information, visit www.dfpa.net or call the office at 

DFPA Lowers Fire Restrictions for Public and Industry Starting June 26

Rusty Mentes with Country Financial will host his second annual mini car show in Roseburg on Tuesday, July 7. The event runs from 6 to 8pm at 2776 NE Diamond Lake Blvd., and free desserts!

Bring a hot rod or custom build, or just come check out the cars and grab a dessert. Awards will be handed out during the evening.

The event is called Sweet Rides & Sweet Treats, and it is the second one Rusty Mentes has held.

Rusty Mentes with Country Financial will host his second annual mini car show in Roseburg on Tuesday, July 7. The event runs from 6 to 8pm at 2776 NE Diamond Lake Blvd., and free desserts!Bring a hot rod or custom build, or just come check out the cars and grab a dessert. Awards will be handed out during the evening.The event is called Sweet Rides &amp; Sweet Treats, and it is the second one Rusty Mentes has held.

Shelley

John Evans

Free desserts and classic cars come to Roseburg July 7

Rusty Mentes with Country Financial will host his second annual mini car show in Roseburg on Tuesday, July 7. The event runs from 6 to 8pm at 2776 NE Diamond Lake Blvd., and free desserts!

Bring a hot rod or custom build, or just come check out the cars and grab a dessert. Awards will be handed out during the evening.

The event is called Sweet Rides & Sweet Treats, and it is the second one Rusty Mentes has held.

Rusty Mentes Agency to Host Second Annual Mini Car Show

Floated the river yesterday from Amacher Park to Hestness Landing! The weather was beautiful and the river felt so nice. Perfect temp!

When the weather warms, the boat landing at Amacher Park becomes a launch point for floating the North Umpqua River. Our favorite float ends  at Hestness Landing and takes about two hours. Paddling a kayak shortens the trip, while a slow drift can stretch it longer.

Floaters who want a longer day on the water continue past Hestness to River Forks Park, a route that runs closer to four to six hours depending on the pace. 

Amacher Park sits on the North Umpqua about six miles north of Roseburg, near Winchester. The 15.5-acre county park offers day-use areas, picnic spots, seasonal swimming, fishing, and a campground, along with the developed boat ramp and river access.

Floated the river yesterday from Amacher Park to Hestness Landing! The weather was beautiful and the river felt so nice. Perfect temp!When the weather warms, the boat landing at Amacher Park becomes a launch point for floating the North Umpqua River. Our favorite float ends at Hestness Landing and takes about two hours. Paddling a kayak shortens the trip, while a slow drift can stretch it longer.Floaters who want a longer day on the water continue past Hestness to River Forks Park, a route that runs closer to four to six hours depending on the pace. Amacher Park sits on the North Umpqua about six miles north of Roseburg, near Winchester. The 15.5-acre county park offers day-use areas, picnic spots, seasonal swimming, fishing, and a campground, along with the developed boat ramp and river access.

A popular two-hour summer float launches from the park's landing

Floated the river yesterday from Amacher Park to Hestness Landing! The weather was beautiful and the river felt so nice. Perfect temp!

When the weather warms, the boat landing at Amacher Park becomes a launch point for floating the North Umpqua River. Our favorite float ends  at Hestness Landing and takes about two hours. Paddling a kayak shortens the trip, while a slow drift can stretch it longer.

Floaters who want a longer day on the water continue past Hestness to River Forks Park, a route that runs closer to four to six hours depending on the pace. 

Amacher Park sits on the North Umpqua about six miles north of Roseburg, near Winchester. The 15.5-acre county park offers day-use areas, picnic spots, seasonal swimming, fishing, and a campground, along with the developed boat ramp and river access.

Floating the North Umpqua River From Amacher Park

This Saturday, June 20th, the Douglas County Association of REALTORS is hosting Open House Day across the county, and it's shaping up to be the easiest way all year to go house hunting.

Twenty-eight homes will be open in a single afternoon, spread across Roseburg, Winchester, Sutherlin, Oakland, Winston, Riddle, and Myrtle Creek. Roseburg alone has seventeen homes on the list, with showings starting as early as 10 a.m. and the last doors staying open until 4 p.m. Whether you're a first-time buyer just starting to look or someone who's been watching the market for a while, there's a good chance something on the list is worth a visit.

The day is built to be low-pressure and easy. Local agents will be on hand at each home to answer questions, talk through the neighborhood, and help you get a feel for what fits. No appointment needed, just show up and look around.

There's a little extra incentive, too. At every open house you visit, you can enter your name for a chance to win a Yeti Tundra 45 cooler. Each home is another entry, so the more you tour, the better your odds, a fun reason to make a full day of it and see a few more places than you planned.

So mark it on your calendar for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20th.

This Saturday, June 20th, the Douglas County Association of REALTORS is hosting Open House Day across the county, and it's shaping up to be the easiest way all year to go house hunting.Twenty-eight homes will be open in a single afternoon, spread across Roseburg, Winchester, Sutherlin, Oakland, Winston, Riddle, and Myrtle Creek. Roseburg alone has seventeen homes on the list, with showings starting as early as 10 a.m. and the last doors staying open until 4 p.m. Whether you're a first-time buyer just starting to look or someone who's been watching the market for a while, there's a good chance something on the list is worth a visit.The day is built to be low-pressure and easy. Local agents will be on hand at each home to answer questions, talk through the neighborhood, and help you get a feel for what fits. No appointment needed, just show up and look around.There's a little extra incentive, too. At every open house you visit, you can enter your name for a chance to win a Yeti Tundra 45 cooler. Each home is another entry, so the more you tour, the better your odds, a fun reason to make a full day of it and see a few more places than you planned.So mark it on your calendar for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20th.

Moses Finlay

Twenty-eight homes open across seven Douglas County towns

This Saturday, June 20th, the Douglas County Association of REALTORS is hosting Open House Day across the county, and it's shaping up to be the easiest way all year to go house hunting.

Twenty-eight homes will be open in a single afternoon, spread across Roseburg, Winchester, Sutherlin, Oakland, Winston, Riddle, and Myrtle Creek. Roseburg alone has seventeen homes on the list, with showings starting as early as 10 a.m. and the last doors staying open until 4 p.m. Whether you're a first-time buyer just starting to look or someone who's been watching the market for a while, there's a good chance something on the list is worth a visit.

The day is built to be low-pressure and easy. Local agents will be on hand at each home to answer questions, talk through the neighborhood, and help you get a feel for what fits. No appointment needed, just show up and look around.

There's a little extra incentive, too. At every open house you visit, you can enter your name for a chance to win a Yeti Tundra 45 cooler. Each home is another entry, so the more you tour, the better your odds, a fun reason to make a full day of it and see a few more places than you planned.

So mark it on your calendar for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20th.

Douglas County Open House Day Returns Saturday, June 20th

"With unseasonably hot and dry conditions, Umpqua National Forest officials will raise the fire danger level from 'low' to 'high' and Public Use Restrictions (PURs) will move to Stage 1 beginning at 12:01 a.m., Friday, June 19, 2026. In PURs Stage 1 all campfires are prohibited outside of Forest Service-constructed fire rings in designated recreation sites under a Forest Order.

Stage I PURs:

All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, and any other open fires are prohibited outside Forest Service-constructed fire rings within designated recreation areas. Campfires fueled by pressurized fuel/propane are allowed. Campfires in wilderness are not prohibited.

Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle, building or area cleared of flammable material at least three feet in diameter.

Internal Combustion Engine – Chainsaws – No chainsaw use is allowed from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a one-hour fire watch requirement at all other times.

Motorized vehicles may operate only on designated trails and roads. Use of vehicles off National Forest system roads is prohibited except in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of roadway or minimal travel over bare mineral soil to access dispersed camping sites.

Welding and explosives are prohibited.

Prevention is our strongest defense against human-caused wildfires. Visitors and local communities are urged to take extra precautions. Remember that even fires in Forest-constructed fire rings within designated recreation sites need to be dead out before leaving your campsite. Drown, stir, and feel your campfire with the back of your hand. The fire should feel cold to the touch before leaving your campsite.

Fire danger may change quickly, and everyone is encouraged to "Know Before You Go" when planning a trip outdoors. Additional information is available on the Umpqua National Forest website."

Via Umpqua National Forest.

"With unseasonably hot and dry conditions, Umpqua National Forest officials will raise the fire danger level from 'low' to 'high' and Public Use Restrictions (PURs) will move to Stage 1 beginning at 12:01 a.m., Friday, June 19, 2026. In PURs Stage 1 all campfires are prohibited outside of Forest Service-constructed fire rings in designated recreation sites under a Forest Order.Stage I PURs:All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, and any other open fires are prohibited outside Forest Service-constructed fire rings within designated recreation areas. Campfires fueled by pressurized fuel/propane are allowed. Campfires in wilderness are not prohibited.Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle, building or area cleared of flammable material at least three feet in diameter.Internal Combustion Engine – Chainsaws – No chainsaw use is allowed from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a one-hour fire watch requirement at all other times.Motorized vehicles may operate only on designated trails and roads. Use of vehicles off National Forest system roads is prohibited except in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of roadway or minimal travel over bare mineral soil to access dispersed camping sites.Welding and explosives are prohibited.Prevention is our strongest defense against human-caused wildfires. Visitors and local communities are urged to take extra precautions. Remember that even fires in Forest-constructed fire rings within designated recreation sites need to be dead out before leaving your campsite. Drown, stir, and feel your campfire with the back of your hand. The fire should feel cold to the touch before leaving your campsite.Fire danger may change quickly, and everyone is encouraged to "Know Before You Go" when planning a trip outdoors. Additional information is available on the Umpqua National Forest website."Via Umpqua National Forest.

Fire danger rises from low to high Friday

"With unseasonably hot and dry conditions, Umpqua National Forest officials will raise the fire danger level from 'low' to 'high' and Public Use Restrictions (PURs) will move to Stage 1 beginning at 12:01 a.m., Friday, June 19, 2026. In PURs Stage 1 all campfires are prohibited outside of Forest Service-constructed fire rings in designated recreation sites under a Forest Order.

All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires, and any other open fires are prohibited outside Forest Service-constructed fire rings within designated recreation areas. Campfires fueled by pressurized fuel/propane are allowed. Campfires in wilderness are not prohibited.

Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle, building or area cleared of flammable material at least three feet in diameter.

Internal Combustion Engine – Chainsaws – No chainsaw use is allowed from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a one-hour fire watch requirement at all other times.

Motorized vehicles may operate only on designated trails and roads. Use of vehicles off National Forest system roads is prohibited except in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of roadway or minimal travel over bare mineral soil to access dispersed camping sites.

Prevention is our strongest defense against human-caused wildfires. Visitors and local communities are urged to take extra precautions. Remember that even fires in Forest-constructed fire rings within designated recreation sites need to be dead out before leaving your campsite. Drown, stir, and feel your campfire with the back of your hand. The fire should feel cold to the touch before leaving your campsite.

Fire danger may change quickly, and everyone is encouraged to "Know Before You Go" when planning a trip outdoors. Additional information is available on the Umpqua National Forest website."

Umpqua National Forest Moves to Stage 1 Public Use Restrictions and High Fire Danger

The City of Roseburg Fire Department, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, and Cow Creek Tribal Fire Management will be actively engaging in wildland fire training exercises on Reservoir Hill today, June 17, as well as June 19 and 20, 2026. During the training exercises, live burning will occur throughout the day. Training will take place between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day. Firefighters may remain at the training location for an extended period after training has concluded for site cleanup.

The wildland fire training exercises are being conducted under carefully planned and controlled conditions to reduce the amount of fuel available for future wildfires.  This training provides firefighters with valuable hands-on experience while helping create safer conditions that can slow the spread and intensity of potential wildfires in our community.

The City of Roseburg would like to thank Central Douglas Fire & Rescue and Cow Creek Tribal Fire Management for their assistance, support, and participation in the upcoming wildland fire training. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of inter-agency interoperability and provides critical benefits to all agencies involved by enhancing coordinated response capabilities and overall preparedness. The City of Roseburg Fire Department would also like to thank the City of Roseburg Police Department for providing additional assistance related to the training.

As always, safety will be the number one priority for personnel participating in the training. For everyone’s safety, we kindly ask photographers and the public to stay clear of the designated training burn site. Drone operators are reminded that flying drones over the prescribed burn site is prohibited for both safety reasons and potential interference with firefighting operations. Your cooperation helps ensure a secure environment for all fire personnel involved.

Via Roseburg Fire Department.

The City of Roseburg Fire Department, Central Douglas Fire &amp; Rescue, and Cow Creek Tribal Fire Management will be actively engaging in wildland fire training exercises on Reservoir Hill today, June 17, as well as June 19 and 20, 2026. During the training exercises, live burning will occur throughout the day. Training will take place between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day. Firefighters may remain at the training location for an extended period after training has concluded for site cleanup.The wildland fire training exercises are being conducted under carefully planned and controlled conditions to reduce the amount of fuel available for future wildfires. This training provides firefighters with valuable hands-on experience while helping create safer conditions that can slow the spread and intensity of potential wildfires in our community.The City of Roseburg would like to thank Central Douglas Fire &amp; Rescue and Cow Creek Tribal Fire Management for their assistance, support, and participation in the upcoming wildland fire training. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of inter-agency interoperability and provides critical benefits to all agencies involved by enhancing coordinated response capabilities and overall preparedness. The City of Roseburg Fire Department would also like to thank the City of Roseburg Police Department for providing additional assistance related to the training.As always, safety will be the number one priority for personnel participating in the training. For everyone’s safety, we kindly ask photographers and the public to stay clear of the designated training burn site. Drone operators are reminded that flying drones over the prescribed burn site is prohibited for both safety reasons and potential interference with firefighting operations. Your cooperation helps ensure a secure environment for all fire personnel involved.Via Roseburg Fire Department.

Live burning planned on Reservoir Hill June 17, 19, and 20

The City of Roseburg Fire Department, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, and Cow Creek Tribal Fire Management will be actively engaging in wildland fire training exercises on Reservoir Hill today, June 17, as well as June 19 and 20, 2026. During the training exercises, live burning will occur throughout the day. Training will take place between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day. Firefighters may remain at the training location for an extended period after training has concluded for site cleanup.

The wildland fire training exercises are being conducted under carefully planned and controlled conditions to reduce the amount of fuel available for future wildfires.  This training provides firefighters with valuable hands-on experience while helping create safer conditions that can slow the spread and intensity of potential wildfires in our community.

The City of Roseburg would like to thank Central Douglas Fire & Rescue and Cow Creek Tribal Fire Management for their assistance, support, and participation in the upcoming wildland fire training. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of inter-agency interoperability and provides critical benefits to all agencies involved by enhancing coordinated response capabilities and overall preparedness. The City of Roseburg Fire Department would also like to thank the City of Roseburg Police Department for providing additional assistance related to the training.

As always, safety will be the number one priority for personnel participating in the training. For everyone’s safety, we kindly ask photographers and the public to stay clear of the designated training burn site. Drone operators are reminded that flying drones over the prescribed burn site is prohibited for both safety reasons and potential interference with firefighting operations. Your cooperation helps ensure a secure environment for all fire personnel involved.

River Otters on the North Umpqua River

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DFPA Lowers Fire Restrictions for Public and Industry Starting June 26

Rusty Mentes Agency to Host Second Annual Mini Car Show

Floating the North Umpqua River From Amacher Park

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DFPA Lowers Fire Restrictions for Public and Industry Starting June 26

Rusty Mentes Agency to Host Second Annual Mini Car Show

Floating the North Umpqua River From Amacher Park

Douglas County Open House Day Returns Saturday, June 20th

Umpqua National Forest Moves to Stage 1 Public Use Restrictions and High Fire Danger

Wildland Fire Training With Live Burning Set for Reservoir Hill June 17, 19, and 20

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