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Winter Steelhead Run on the North Umpqua Surpasses Last Year's Total

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Ryan Finlay

The winter steelhead run on the North Umpqua River is off to a strong year, already exceeding last season's full total with roughly two months still remaining.

As of March 2, a total of 6,951 winter ...

The winter steelhead run on the North Umpqua River is off to a strong year, already exceeding last season's full total with roughly two months still remaining.

As of March 2, a total of 6,951 winter steelhead had passed over Winchester Dam. That surpasses the entire 2024/2025 run of 6,221 fish. The current run continues through April 30.

Watch live here: 

https://live.umpquafish.com/

or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWreIhLdNag

The winter steelhead run on the North Umpqua River is off to a strong year, already exceeding last season's full total with roughly two months still remaining.As of March 2, a total of 6,951 winter steelhead had passed over Winchester Dam. That surpasses the entire 2024/2025 run of 6,221 fish. The current run continues through April 30.Watch live here: <a rel="noopener noreferrer" class="!text-blue-600 !cursor-pointer hover:!underline" href="https://live.umpquafish.com/">https://live.umpquafish.com/</a>or <a rel="noopener noreferrer" class="!text-blue-600 !cursor-pointer hover:!underline" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWreIhLdNag">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWreIhLdNag</a>

Hannah Finlay

Esther Finlay

Steffanie Moore

Kathy Guentner

Moses Finlay

Nearly 7,000 fish counted at Winchester Dam with two months left in the season

The winter steelhead run on the North Umpqua River is off to a strong year, already exceeding last season's full total with roughly two months still remaining.

As of March 2, a total of 6,951 winter steelhead had passed over Winchester Dam. That surpasses the entire 2024/2025 run of 6,221 fish. The current run continues through April 30.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWreIhLdNag

Goodwill will relocate its Roseburg retail store to 1430 Northwest Garden Valley Boulevard, the former Rite Aid building, with plans to open the renovated space in early 2027, the organization announced April 13.

The new location is about three minutes from the current store. The existing shop and its donation services will remain open throughout the transition, according to the announcement.

The move will give Goodwill a larger building with more parking and easier donation drop-off access. It will also provide significantly more room for the organization's Job Connection and Learning Lab, which offers job readiness services, career navigation, and digital literacy programs. Goodwill said the expanded workforce programs will be integrated directly into the retail space to make them more visible to shoppers and donors.

"This move is about staying rooted in the community while creating a space that allows us to do more," said Shae Johns, president and CEO of Southern Oregon Goodwill.

Goodwill has operated in Roseburg since 2003. The nonprofit is headquartered in Medford and serves Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, and Siskiyou counties. In 2025, the organization provided services to more than 2,700 people through its GoodWorks programs, according to the release. Revenue from donated goods sales funds local employment and training programs.

The organization, founded in 1967, will mark its 60th anniversary in 2027, the same year the new Roseburg store is expected to open. Additional details will be shared as the relocation progresses, Goodwill said.

Community members can continue shopping and donating at the current Roseburg store while the new location is being prepared, and Goodwill said they will share updates as the move gets closer.

Goodwill will relocate its Roseburg retail store to 1430 Northwest Garden Valley Boulevard, the former Rite Aid building, with plans to open the renovated space in early 2027, the organization announced April 13.The new location is about three minutes from the current store. The existing shop and its donation services will remain open throughout the transition, according to the announcement.The move will give Goodwill a larger building with more parking and easier donation drop-off access. It will also provide significantly more room for the organization's Job Connection and Learning Lab, which offers job readiness services, career navigation, and digital literacy programs. Goodwill said the expanded workforce programs will be integrated directly into the retail space to make them more visible to shoppers and donors."This move is about staying rooted in the community while creating a space that allows us to do more," said Shae Johns, president and CEO of Southern Oregon Goodwill.Goodwill has operated in Roseburg since 2003. The nonprofit is headquartered in Medford and serves Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, and Siskiyou counties. In 2025, the organization provided services to more than 2,700 people through its GoodWorks programs, according to the release. Revenue from donated goods sales funds local employment and training programs.The organization, founded in 1967, will mark its 60th anniversary in 2027, the same year the new Roseburg store is expected to open. Additional details will be shared as the relocation progresses, Goodwill said.Community members can continue shopping and donating at the current Roseburg store while the new location is being prepared, and Goodwill said they will share updates as the move gets closer.

Candace Wene

Elijah Finlay

lisa hunter

Sophia Gardin

Goodwill relocating to bigger space on Garden Valley Boulevard in early 2027

Goodwill will relocate its Roseburg retail store to 1430 Northwest Garden Valley Boulevard, the former Rite Aid building, with plans to open the renovated space in early 2027, the organization announced April 13.

The new location is about three minutes from the current store. The existing shop and its donation services will remain open throughout the transition, according to the announcement.

The move will give Goodwill a larger building with more parking and easier donation drop-off access. It will also provide significantly more room for the organization's Job Connection and Learning Lab, which offers job readiness services, career navigation, and digital literacy programs. Goodwill said the expanded workforce programs will be integrated directly into the retail space to make them more visible to shoppers and donors.

"This move is about staying rooted in the community while creating a space that allows us to do more," said Shae Johns, president and CEO of Southern Oregon Goodwill.

Goodwill has operated in Roseburg since 2003. The nonprofit is headquartered in Medford and serves Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, and Siskiyou counties. In 2025, the organization provided services to more than 2,700 people through its GoodWorks programs, according to the release. Revenue from donated goods sales funds local employment and training programs.

The organization, founded in 1967, will mark its 60th anniversary in 2027, the same year the new Roseburg store is expected to open. Additional details will be shared as the relocation progresses, Goodwill said.

Community members can continue shopping and donating at the current Roseburg store while the new location is being prepared, and Goodwill said they will share updates as the move gets closer.

Goodwill to Move Roseburg Store to Former Rite Aid Building

Rusty Mentes with Country Financial is organizing a cleanup along Diamond Lake Boulevard on Saturday, May 16, from 9 to 11 a.m. Volunteers will meet at his office at 2776 NE Diamond Lake Blvd to get assignments, and everyone heads to Backside Brewery afterward.

Rusty Mentes with Country Financial is organizing a cleanup along Diamond Lake Boulevard on Saturday, May 16, from 9 to 11 a.m. Volunteers will meet at his office at 2776 NE Diamond Lake Blvd to get assignments, and everyone heads to Backside Brewery afterward.

Katy Hogan

RuthAnn Stanley

A group of people wearing bright orange safety vests are gathered around a white tent with green trim. Some are listening to a man speaking, while others stand in lines. Tools are laid out on the ground near the tent.

Rusty with Country Financial Leads Community Cleanup Effort

Community Cleanup on Diamond Lake Boulevard Set for Saturday May 16

Aviva Health has appointed Patrick Hull as its interim chief executive officer, effective immediately, the organization's board of directors announced.

Hull brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience to the role. He most recently served as executive director and CEO of VA Roseburg Health Care.

The organization said its clinics, programs and services continue to operate normally. No information was provided about the circumstances of the leadership change or the timeline for a permanent appointment.

Aviva Health has appointed Patrick Hull as its interim chief executive officer, effective immediately, the organization's board of directors announced.Hull brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience to the role. He most recently served as executive director and CEO of VA Roseburg Health Care.The organization said its clinics, programs and services continue to operate normally. No information was provided about the circumstances of the leadership change or the timeline for a permanent appointment.

Former VA healthcare executive takes over with three decades of experience

Aviva Health has appointed Patrick Hull as its interim chief executive officer, effective immediately, the organization's board of directors announced.

Hull brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience to the role. He most recently served as executive director and CEO of VA Roseburg Health Care.

The organization said its clinics, programs and services continue to operate normally. No information was provided about the circumstances of the leadership change or the timeline for a permanent appointment.

Aviva Health Names Patrick Hull as Interim CEO

Firefighters across Douglas County responded to three separate fires on Thursday, April 9, according to the Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA). The incidents — near Umpqua, Roseburg, and Myrtle Creek — highlight what DFPA officials say are drier-than-normal conditions raising fire danger earlier in the season.

Tyee Road Fire — Umpqua

At approximately 1:30 p.m., firefighters from Kellogg Rural Fire Department responded to a natural cover fire near the 8000 block of Tyee Road in Umpqua. Upon arrival, they found an estimated two-acre fire burning uphill through steep terrain. DFPA engines arrived on scene at 2:13 p.m. and assumed incident command. The confirmed 1.8-acre fire was fully trailed, plumbed, and mopped up before being returned to the landowners.

Baby Bear Fire — Roseburg

At approximately 2:23 p.m., DFPA and private landowner resources responded to an estimated 15- to 20-acre industrial operator fire near Bear Creek Road in Roseburg. Crews found the fire mostly contained within the active operation, with no spread into adjacent timber stands. Additional resources were requested and provided by the Coos Forest Protective Association (CFPA).

Cool temperatures and precipitation aided suppression efforts. Crews working Thursday completed fire line around approximately 60 percent of the perimeter before securing for the evening. Crews returned Friday to continue progress toward full containment before transitioning the fire back to the landowner.

Morgan Creek Fire — Myrtle Creek

At approximately 3:21 p.m., DFPA crews responded to a single lightning-struck tree near the intersection of Morgan Creek and Gazley Road in Myrtle Creek. A fire measuring one-tenth of an acre was found and quickly extinguished and contained.

DFPA Urges Caution Amid Drought Conditions

DFPA issued a safety message alongside the fire reports, warning that southwest Oregon is currently experiencing drought conditions that are resulting in drier brush earlier in the season than normal. These factors significantly increase the potential for fire spread, even during spring months.

The agency reminded residents to check local regulations and ensure burning is allowed before igniting any fires. Key safety guidelines include:





Burning of logging slash is allowed by permit only.



Burn only in safe weather conditions — avoid windy or dry days.



Create a clear space around burn piles, free of flammable materials.



Keep water and tools on-site and ready for immediate use.



Never leave a fire unattended — stay with it until it is completely out.



Drown, stir, and feel — ensure ashes are cold to the touch before leaving.



Even small burns can escape quickly under dry conditions. Taking a few extra steps now can prevent a wildfire.

For more information, contact DFPA Public Information Officer Rachael Pope at 541-672-6507 ext. 120 or visit www.dfpa.net.

Firefighters across Douglas County responded to three separate fires on Thursday, April 9, according to the Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA). The incidents — near Umpqua, Roseburg, and Myrtle Creek — highlight what DFPA officials say are drier-than-normal conditions raising fire danger earlier in the season.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">Tyee Road Fire — Umpqua</h2>At approximately 1:30 p.m., firefighters from Kellogg Rural Fire Department responded to a natural cover fire near the 8000 block of Tyee Road in Umpqua. Upon arrival, they found an estimated two-acre fire burning uphill through steep terrain. DFPA engines arrived on scene at 2:13 p.m. and assumed incident command. The confirmed 1.8-acre fire was fully trailed, plumbed, and mopped up before being returned to the landowners.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">Baby Bear Fire — Roseburg</h2>At approximately 2:23 p.m., DFPA and private landowner resources responded to an estimated 15- to 20-acre industrial operator fire near Bear Creek Road in Roseburg. Crews found the fire mostly contained within the active operation, with no spread into adjacent timber stands. Additional resources were requested and provided by the Coos Forest Protective Association (CFPA).Cool temperatures and precipitation aided suppression efforts. Crews working Thursday completed fire line around approximately 60 percent of the perimeter before securing for the evening. Crews returned Friday to continue progress toward full containment before transitioning the fire back to the landowner.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">Morgan Creek Fire — Myrtle Creek</h2>At approximately 3:21 p.m., DFPA crews responded to a single lightning-struck tree near the intersection of Morgan Creek and Gazley Road in Myrtle Creek. A fire measuring one-tenth of an acre was found and quickly extinguished and contained.<h2 class="!font-semibold tracking-tight">DFPA Urges Caution Amid Drought Conditions</h2>DFPA issued a safety message alongside the fire reports, warning that southwest Oregon is currently experiencing drought conditions that are resulting in drier brush earlier in the season than normal. These factors significantly increase the potential for fire spread, even during spring months.The agency reminded residents to check local regulations and ensure burning is allowed before igniting any fires. Key safety guidelines include:<ul class="!mt-4 !mb-6"><li class="!-my-2">Burning of logging slash is allowed by permit only.</li><li class="!-my-2">Burn only in safe weather conditions — avoid windy or dry days.</li><li class="!-my-2">Create a clear space around burn piles, free of flammable materials.</li><li class="!-my-2">Keep water and tools on-site and ready for immediate use.</li><li class="!-my-2">Never leave a fire unattended — stay with it until it is completely out.</li><li class="!-my-2">Drown, stir, and feel — ensure ashes are cold to the touch before leaving.</li></ul><blockquote class="!border-l-4 !border-gray-300 !pl-4 !italic !text-gray-700">Even small burns can escape quickly under dry conditions. Taking a few extra steps now can prevent a wildfire.</blockquote>For more information, contact DFPA Public Information Officer Rachael Pope at 541-672-6507 ext. 120 or visit <a rel="noopener noreferrer" class="!text-blue-600 !cursor-pointer hover:!underline" href="http://www.dfpa.net">www.dfpa.net</a>.

Earl M. McCormack

DFPA responds to blazes near Roseburg, Umpqua, and Myrtle Creek

Firefighters across Douglas County responded to three separate fires on Thursday, April 9, according to the Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA). The incidents — near Umpqua, Roseburg, and Myrtle Creek — highlight what DFPA officials say are drier-than-normal conditions raising fire danger earlier in the season.

At approximately 1:30 p.m., firefighters from Kellogg Rural Fire Department responded to a natural cover fire near the 8000 block of Tyee Road in Umpqua. Upon arrival, they found an estimated two-acre fire burning uphill through steep terrain. DFPA engines arrived on scene at 2:13 p.m. and assumed incident command. The confirmed 1.8-acre fire was fully trailed, plumbed, and mopped up before being returned to the landowners.

At approximately 2:23 p.m., DFPA and private landowner resources responded to an estimated 15- to 20-acre industrial operator fire near Bear Creek Road in Roseburg. Crews found the fire mostly contained within the active operation, with no spread into adjacent timber stands. Additional resources were requested and provided by the Coos Forest Protective Association (CFPA).

Cool temperatures and precipitation aided suppression efforts. Crews working Thursday completed fire line around approximately 60 percent of the perimeter before securing for the evening. Crews returned Friday to continue progress toward full containment before transitioning the fire back to the landowner.

At approximately 3:21 p.m., DFPA crews responded to a single lightning-struck tree near the intersection of Morgan Creek and Gazley Road in Myrtle Creek. A fire measuring one-tenth of an acre was found and quickly extinguished and contained.

DFPA Urges Caution Amid Drought Conditions

DFPA issued a safety message alongside the fire reports, warning that southwest Oregon is currently experiencing 

 that are resulting in drier brush earlier in the season than normal. These factors significantly increase the potential for fire spread, even during spring months.

The agency reminded residents to check local regulations and ensure burning is allowed before igniting any fires. Key safety guidelines include:

For more information, contact DFPA Public Information Officer Rachael Pope at 541-672-6507 ext. 120 or visit 

Three Fires Reported Across Douglas County on Thursday

Douglas County residents and small businesses can dispose of unwanted electronics for free at the Roseburg Transfer Station on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event, organized by the Douglas County Solid Waste Department in partnership with St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County and Oregon E-Cycles, will accept a wide range of household electronics at 165 West McLain Avenue. Accepted items include computers, televisions, printers, cell phones, video game systems, power tools, and dozens of other devices. Those planning to bring more than seven items should contact St. Vincent de Paul in advance at (541) 513-4288.

Several categories of items will not be accepted: loose batteries, hazardous waste, vacuum cleaners, gas-powered tools, large kitchen appliances, glass-containing items such as microwaves, light bulbs, and lighting ballasts. Organizers reserve the right to turn away anything deemed hazardous, unsafe, or unsanitary.

According to the press release, the world generates roughly 50 million tons of electronic waste annually, with only about 20 percent recycled properly. Improperly handled e-waste can leach heavy metals and toxins into soil and water and is a leading cause of landfill fires.

Questions can be directed to Daven Stetson at St. Vincent de Paul at (541) 513-4288 or daven.stetson@svdp.us.

Douglas County residents and small businesses can dispose of unwanted electronics for free at the Roseburg Transfer Station on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.The event, organized by the Douglas County Solid Waste Department in partnership with St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County and Oregon E-Cycles, will accept a wide range of household electronics at 165 West McLain Avenue. Accepted items include computers, televisions, printers, cell phones, video game systems, power tools, and dozens of other devices. Those planning to bring more than seven items should contact St. Vincent de Paul in advance at (541) 513-4288.Several categories of items will not be accepted: loose batteries, hazardous waste, vacuum cleaners, gas-powered tools, large kitchen appliances, glass-containing items such as microwaves, light bulbs, and lighting ballasts. Organizers reserve the right to turn away anything deemed hazardous, unsafe, or unsanitary.According to the press release, the world generates roughly 50 million tons of electronic waste annually, with only about 20 percent recycled properly. Improperly handled e-waste can leach heavy metals and toxins into soil and water and is a leading cause of landfill fires.Questions can be directed to Daven Stetson at St. Vincent de Paul at (541) 513-4288 or <a rel="noopener noreferrer" class="!text-blue-600 !cursor-pointer hover:!underline" href="mailto:daven.stetson@svdp.us">daven.stetson@svdp.us</a>.

Tricia P

Douglas County residents can drop off old devices at no cost on April 25

Douglas County residents and small businesses can dispose of unwanted electronics for free at the Roseburg Transfer Station on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event, organized by the Douglas County Solid Waste Department in partnership with St. Vincent de Paul of Lane County and Oregon E-Cycles, will accept a wide range of household electronics at 165 West McLain Avenue. Accepted items include computers, televisions, printers, cell phones, video game systems, power tools, and dozens of other devices. Those planning to bring more than seven items should contact St. Vincent de Paul in advance at (541) 513-4288.

Several categories of items will not be accepted: loose batteries, hazardous waste, vacuum cleaners, gas-powered tools, large kitchen appliances, glass-containing items such as microwaves, light bulbs, and lighting ballasts. Organizers reserve the right to turn away anything deemed hazardous, unsafe, or unsanitary.

According to the press release, the world generates roughly 50 million tons of electronic waste annually, with only about 20 percent recycled properly. Improperly handled e-waste can leach heavy metals and toxins into soil and water and is a leading cause of landfill fires.

Questions can be directed to Daven Stetson at St. Vincent de Paul at (541) 513-4288 or 

Free Electronics Recycling Event Set for Roseburg in April

Roseburg Disposal has started distributing more than 10,000 wheeled recycling carts to customers this month, with curbside collection starting the week of May 4.

The new carts replace the previous system and feature attached lids designed to keep contents dry. Each delivery includes a recycling guide and a collection calendar. Recycling pickup will occur every other week on customers' regular collection days.

Funding for the rollout came through Oregon's Extended Producer Responsibility program for packaging and paper. Circular Action Alliance Oregon, the nonprofit organization administering the program, provided nearly $2 million to Roseburg Disposal for the new carts, collection containers and two new recycling trucks, according to a company statement.

Oregon is the first state to implement an EPR law for packaging and paper, a framework that shifts recycling infrastructure costs partly onto the producers of packaging materials. The law, rooted in Oregon's 2021 Recycling Modernization Act, is intended to expand recycling access and help the state meet its recycling targets.

Roseburg Disposal owner Dori John urged customers to review the included recycling guide and place items "empty, dry, and loose" in the new carts to keep materials clean and collections on schedule.

Customers should watch for cart deliveries throughout April and can begin setting carts out for pickup starting the week of May 4.

Roseburg Disposal has started distributing more than 10,000 wheeled recycling carts to customers this month, with curbside collection starting the week of May 4.The new carts replace the previous system and feature attached lids designed to keep contents dry. Each delivery includes a recycling guide and a collection calendar. Recycling pickup will occur every other week on customers' regular collection days.Funding for the rollout came through Oregon's Extended Producer Responsibility program for packaging and paper. Circular Action Alliance Oregon, the nonprofit organization administering the program, provided nearly $2 million to Roseburg Disposal for the new carts, collection containers and two new recycling trucks, according to a company statement.Oregon is the first state to implement an EPR law for packaging and paper, a framework that shifts recycling infrastructure costs partly onto the producers of packaging materials. The law, rooted in Oregon's 2021 Recycling Modernization Act, is intended to expand recycling access and help the state meet its recycling targets.Roseburg Disposal owner Dori John urged customers to review the included recycling guide and place items "empty, dry, and loose" in the new carts to keep materials clean and collections on schedule.Customers should watch for cart deliveries throughout April and can begin setting carts out for pickup starting the week of May 4.

About time!  Excited we are getting this.

Updated carts and recycling guidance arriving for local customers

Roseburg Disposal has started distributing more than 10,000 wheeled recycling carts to customers this month, with curbside collection starting the week of May 4.

The new carts replace the previous system and feature attached lids designed to keep contents dry. Each delivery includes a recycling guide and a collection calendar. Recycling pickup will occur every other week on customers' regular collection days.

Funding for the rollout came through Oregon's Extended Producer Responsibility program for packaging and paper. Circular Action Alliance Oregon, the nonprofit organization administering the program, provided nearly $2 million to Roseburg Disposal for the new carts, collection containers and two new recycling trucks, according to a company statement.

Oregon is the first state to implement an EPR law for packaging and paper, a framework that shifts recycling infrastructure costs partly onto the producers of packaging materials. The law, rooted in Oregon's 2021 Recycling Modernization Act, is intended to expand recycling access and help the state meet its recycling targets.

Roseburg Disposal owner Dori John urged customers to review the included recycling guide and place items "empty, dry, and loose" in the new carts to keep materials clean and collections on schedule.

Customers should watch for cart deliveries throughout April and can begin setting carts out for pickup starting the week of May 4.

Winter Steelhead Run on the North Umpqua Surpasses Last Year's Total

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Goodwill to Move Roseburg Store to Former Rite Aid Building

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