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ROSEBURG, Ore. – The City of Roseburg is proud to invite the community to celebrate the ceremonial ribbon cutting of Brown Park, a long-anticipated neighborhood park expansion project that will provide a welcoming gathering space for residents of all ages.

The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on Wednesday, July 8, at 3:30 p.m. at Brown Park, located at the corner of Harvard Boulevard and Francis Street in southwest Roseburg.

Brown Park spans just under one acre and features modern, inclusive playground equipment designed for children of all abilities, accessible pathways, ADA-compliant parking, open green space, and other amenities that encourage recreation and community connection.

The project was made possible through years of planning, community collaboration, generous local donors, grant funding, and the dedication of City staff. A local family donated $150,000 to help the City purchase the property, which also provided a portion of the required local match for funding through the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department's Local Government Grant Program.

The City will also recognize the lasting contributions of those who helped make Brown Park possible. A memorial bench honoring the former property owner, whose vision of expanding Brown Park helped make the project possible, has been installed in the park. Additional improvements are still to come. The City has purchased a pavilion that is scheduled to be installed later this summer.

"This project is the result of strong community partnerships and a shared commitment to expanding recreational opportunities in Roseburg," said Velorie Ligon, Parks and Recreation Program Manager. "Brown Park provides a welcoming space that will serve neighborhood residents and visitors for generations."

The public is invited to attend the ceremony and celebrate the opening of Brown Park with City officials, project partners, donors, and community members.

Via City of Roseburg.

ROSEBURG, Ore. – The City of Roseburg is proud to invite the community to celebrate the ceremonial ribbon cutting of Brown Park, a long-anticipated neighborhood park expansion project that will provide a welcoming gathering space for residents of all ages.The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on Wednesday, July 8, at 3:30 p.m. at Brown Park, located at the corner of Harvard Boulevard and Francis Street in southwest Roseburg.Brown Park spans just under one acre and features modern, inclusive playground equipment designed for children of all abilities, accessible pathways, ADA-compliant parking, open green space, and other amenities that encourage recreation and community connection.The project was made possible through years of planning, community collaboration, generous local donors, grant funding, and the dedication of City staff. A local family donated $150,000 to help the City purchase the property, which also provided a portion of the required local match for funding through the Oregon Parks &amp; Recreation Department's Local Government Grant Program.The City will also recognize the lasting contributions of those who helped make Brown Park possible. A memorial bench honoring the former property owner, whose vision of expanding Brown Park helped make the project possible, has been installed in the park. Additional improvements are still to come. The City has purchased a pavilion that is scheduled to be installed later this summer."This project is the result of strong community partnerships and a shared commitment to expanding recreational opportunities in Roseburg," said Velorie Ligon, Parks and Recreation Program Manager. "Brown Park provides a welcoming space that will serve neighborhood residents and visitors for generations."The public is invited to attend the ceremony and celebrate the opening of Brown Park with City officials, project partners, donors, and community members.Via City of Roseburg.

Elijah Finlay

Ryan Finlay

Esther Finlay

Ribbon cutting ceremony set for Wednesday, July 8

ROSEBURG, Ore. – The City of Roseburg is proud to invite the community to celebrate the ceremonial ribbon cutting of Brown Park, a long-anticipated neighborhood park expansion project that will provide a welcoming gathering space for residents of all ages.

The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on Wednesday, July 8, at 3:30 p.m. at Brown Park, located at the corner of Harvard Boulevard and Francis Street in southwest Roseburg.

Brown Park spans just under one acre and features modern, inclusive playground equipment designed for children of all abilities, accessible pathways, ADA-compliant parking, open green space, and other amenities that encourage recreation and community connection.

The project was made possible through years of planning, community collaboration, generous local donors, grant funding, and the dedication of City staff. A local family donated $150,000 to help the City purchase the property, which also provided a portion of the required local match for funding through the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department's Local Government Grant Program.

The City will also recognize the lasting contributions of those who helped make Brown Park possible. A memorial bench honoring the former property owner, whose vision of expanding Brown Park helped make the project possible, has been installed in the park. Additional improvements are still to come. The City has purchased a pavilion that is scheduled to be installed later this summer.

"This project is the result of strong community partnerships and a shared commitment to expanding recreational opportunities in Roseburg," said Velorie Ligon, Parks and Recreation Program Manager. "Brown Park provides a welcoming space that will serve neighborhood residents and visitors for generations."

The public is invited to attend the ceremony and celebrate the opening of Brown Park with City officials, project partners, donors, and community members.

Brown Park Ribbon Cutting Set for July 8 in Southwest Roseburg

The Douglas County Parks Department, in partnership with the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) announce upcoming temporary staggered closures of the East and West Boat Docks, Ramps and associated parking areas at Cooper Creek County Park to accommodate a much-anticipated marine infrastructure improvement project. The project includes replacement of both boat docks and parking lot paving designed to improve public access, safety, and recreational boating opportunities.

The East Boat Ramp, Dock and Parking Lot, located on the east end of the reservoir off Cooper Creek Road, will be closed beginning June 17, 2026, for construction activities, including boarding dock replacement, parking lot resurfacing, and related site accessibility improvements. During construction, the East Boat Ramp area will be fully closed to the public, and no vehicle, pedestrian, or boating access will be available. Contractors anticipate completing work and reopening the facility by June 22, 2026; however, construction schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change. Throughout this phase of the project, the West Boat Ramp will remain open and available for public boat launching and recreational use.

The West Boat Ramp, Dock and Parking Lot, located off Edgewater Drive adjacent to the front entrance of the park and the dam, will close beginning July 5, 2026, to allow for similar improvements, including Boarding dock replacement, parking lot resurfacing, and related site accessibility improvements. The site will be fully closed to the public during construction, with no vehicle, pedestrian, or boating access available. The Contractor anticipates completing work and reopening the facility on or before September 4, 2026; although weather conditions may affect the project timeline. During this phase, visitors will be directed to use the East Boat Ramp for boating access and recreational activities.

The project will modernize both launch facilities by replacing aging boat docks and upgrading adjacent parking areas. These upgrades are intended to enhance public safety, increase accessibility, and provide an improved recreational experience for boaters and park visitors. Through a request for bids process, Topper Industries I, LLC, was awarded the dock replacement contract, and local contractor JRT Construction, LLC, was awarded the paving contract.

Project funding is being provided through OSMB 2025-2027 Cycle One and Cycle Two Facility Grant award #1743 ($561,736), federal pass thru U.S. Fish and Wildlife Sport Fish Restoration funds via Sub-Award Grant #293-25 from ODFW ($485,209), Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby ($3,500), Sutherlin Rotary Club ($1,000), and $403,150 in matching Douglas County Park revenue funds. The OSMB grant funding program uses revenue generated from motorized boater fees and taxes to support the development and improvement of boating facilities statewide. The ODFW grant is from the Sport Fish Restoration federal program with revenue generated from user excise taxes on fishing gear and boat fuel that is passed through to states to support recreational boating access projects.

Douglas County appreciates the public's patience and cooperation during construction as these important and exciting improvements are completed. Again, at least one ramp/dock will remain open during the construction process. Please use extra caution and follow construction, detour, and warning signs posted at the park. The project is expected to be completed by Labor Day Weekend 2026.

Cooper Creek County Park is located approximately three miles southeast of Sutherlin and provides recreational access to the 166-acre Cooper Creek Reservoir. The Douglas County Parks Department was established in 1949 and was the first County Park system in Oregon. From the Pacific Ocean to the Cascades and throughout the 100 Valleys of the Umpqua, the Park system now encompasses 70 properties, including 23 boat ramps, 11 campgrounds and 42-day use parks. For more information about Douglas County Parks visit https://www.douglascountyor.gov/802/Parks.

The OSMB was established in 1959 by the Oregon Legislature in response to the federal Boating Safety Act of 1958. It is Oregon's recreational boating agency, dedicated to promoting safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible boating throughout the state. The agency provides boating education and safety programs, manages boating access and facility grants, registers and titles boats, and works with local governments and partners to improve and maintain public boating facilities. For more information about the OSMB visit https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/pages/index.aspx.

ODFW is the state agency responsible for protecting and enhancing Oregon's fish and wildlife resources and the habitats upon which they depend. Guided by its mission to conserve fish, wildlife, and their habitats for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations, ODFW manages wildlife populations, fisheries, hatcheries, wildlife areas, and public access opportunities across the state. The agency works collaboratively with local communities, landowners, tribes, conservation organizations, and government partners to promote science-based stewardship, habitat restoration, outdoor recreation, and sustainable resource management throughout Oregon. For more information about ODFW visit https://www.dfw.state.or.us/ or email Holly Huchko at holly.a.huchko@odfw.oregon.gov.

Via Douglas County Parks, Oregon State Marine Board, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The Douglas County Parks Department, in partnership with the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Fish &amp; Wildlife (ODFW) announce upcoming temporary staggered closures of the East and West Boat Docks, Ramps and associated parking areas at Cooper Creek County Park to accommodate a much-anticipated marine infrastructure improvement project. The project includes replacement of both boat docks and parking lot paving designed to improve public access, safety, and recreational boating opportunities.The East Boat Ramp, Dock and Parking Lot, located on the east end of the reservoir off Cooper Creek Road, will be closed beginning June 17, 2026, for construction activities, including boarding dock replacement, parking lot resurfacing, and related site accessibility improvements. During construction, the East Boat Ramp area will be fully closed to the public, and no vehicle, pedestrian, or boating access will be available. Contractors anticipate completing work and reopening the facility by June 22, 2026; however, construction schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change. Throughout this phase of the project, the West Boat Ramp will remain open and available for public boat launching and recreational use.The West Boat Ramp, Dock and Parking Lot, located off Edgewater Drive adjacent to the front entrance of the park and the dam, will close beginning July 5, 2026, to allow for similar improvements, including Boarding dock replacement, parking lot resurfacing, and related site accessibility improvements. The site will be fully closed to the public during construction, with no vehicle, pedestrian, or boating access available. The Contractor anticipates completing work and reopening the facility on or before September 4, 2026; although weather conditions may affect the project timeline. During this phase, visitors will be directed to use the East Boat Ramp for boating access and recreational activities.The project will modernize both launch facilities by replacing aging boat docks and upgrading adjacent parking areas. These upgrades are intended to enhance public safety, increase accessibility, and provide an improved recreational experience for boaters and park visitors. Through a request for bids process, Topper Industries I, LLC, was awarded the dock replacement contract, and local contractor JRT Construction, LLC, was awarded the paving contract.Project funding is being provided through OSMB 2025-2027 Cycle One and Cycle Two Facility Grant award #1743 ($561,736), federal pass thru U.S. Fish and Wildlife Sport Fish Restoration funds via Sub-Award Grant #293-25 from ODFW ($485,209), Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby ($3,500), Sutherlin Rotary Club ($1,000), and $403,150 in matching Douglas County Park revenue funds. The OSMB grant funding program uses revenue generated from motorized boater fees and taxes to support the development and improvement of boating facilities statewide. The ODFW grant is from the Sport Fish Restoration federal program with revenue generated from user excise taxes on fishing gear and boat fuel that is passed through to states to support recreational boating access projects.Douglas County appreciates the public's patience and cooperation during construction as these important and exciting improvements are completed. Again, at least one ramp/dock will remain open during the construction process. Please use extra caution and follow construction, detour, and warning signs posted at the park. The project is expected to be completed by Labor Day Weekend 2026.Cooper Creek County Park is located approximately three miles southeast of Sutherlin and provides recreational access to the 166-acre Cooper Creek Reservoir. The Douglas County Parks Department was established in 1949 and was the first County Park system in Oregon. From the Pacific Ocean to the Cascades and throughout the 100 Valleys of the Umpqua, the Park system now encompasses 70 properties, including 23 boat ramps, 11 campgrounds and 42-day use parks. For more information about Douglas County Parks visit https://www.douglascountyor.gov/802/Parks.The OSMB was established in 1959 by the Oregon Legislature in response to the federal Boating Safety Act of 1958. It is Oregon's recreational boating agency, dedicated to promoting safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible boating throughout the state. The agency provides boating education and safety programs, manages boating access and facility grants, registers and titles boats, and works with local governments and partners to improve and maintain public boating facilities. For more information about the OSMB visit https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/pages/index.aspx.ODFW is the state agency responsible for protecting and enhancing Oregon's fish and wildlife resources and the habitats upon which they depend. Guided by its mission to conserve fish, wildlife, and their habitats for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations, ODFW manages wildlife populations, fisheries, hatcheries, wildlife areas, and public access opportunities across the state. The agency works collaboratively with local communities, landowners, tribes, conservation organizations, and government partners to promote science-based stewardship, habitat restoration, outdoor recreation, and sustainable resource management throughout Oregon. For more information about ODFW visit https://www.dfw.state.or.us/ or email Holly Huchko at holly.a.huchko@odfw.oregon.gov.Via Douglas County Parks, Oregon State Marine Board, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Moses Finlay

Steffanie Moore

A serene lake reflects a dense, evergreen forest that covers a rolling hillside under a partly cloudy sky.

East and West boat ramps closing on staggered schedules

The Douglas County Parks Department, in partnership with the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) announce upcoming temporary staggered closures of the East and West Boat Docks, Ramps and associated parking areas at Cooper Creek County Park to accommodate a much-anticipated marine infrastructure improvement project. The project includes replacement of both boat docks and parking lot paving designed to improve public access, safety, and recreational boating opportunities.

The East Boat Ramp, Dock and Parking Lot, located on the east end of the reservoir off Cooper Creek Road, will be closed beginning June 17, 2026, for construction activities, including boarding dock replacement, parking lot resurfacing, and related site accessibility improvements. During construction, the East Boat Ramp area will be fully closed to the public, and no vehicle, pedestrian, or boating access will be available. Contractors anticipate completing work and reopening the facility by June 22, 2026; however, construction schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change. Throughout this phase of the project, the West Boat Ramp will remain open and available for public boat launching and recreational use.

The West Boat Ramp, Dock and Parking Lot, located off Edgewater Drive adjacent to the front entrance of the park and the dam, will close beginning July 5, 2026, to allow for similar improvements, including Boarding dock replacement, parking lot resurfacing, and related site accessibility improvements. The site will be fully closed to the public during construction, with no vehicle, pedestrian, or boating access available. The Contractor anticipates completing work and reopening the facility on or before September 4, 2026; although weather conditions may affect the project timeline. During this phase, visitors will be directed to use the East Boat Ramp for boating access and recreational activities.

The project will modernize both launch facilities by replacing aging boat docks and upgrading adjacent parking areas. These upgrades are intended to enhance public safety, increase accessibility, and provide an improved recreational experience for boaters and park visitors. Through a request for bids process, Topper Industries I, LLC, was awarded the dock replacement contract, and local contractor JRT Construction, LLC, was awarded the paving contract.

Project funding is being provided through OSMB 2025-2027 Cycle One and Cycle Two Facility Grant award #1743 ($561,736), federal pass thru U.S. Fish and Wildlife Sport Fish Restoration funds via Sub-Award Grant #293-25 from ODFW ($485,209), Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby ($3,500), Sutherlin Rotary Club ($1,000), and $403,150 in matching Douglas County Park revenue funds. The OSMB grant funding program uses revenue generated from motorized boater fees and taxes to support the development and improvement of boating facilities statewide. The ODFW grant is from the Sport Fish Restoration federal program with revenue generated from user excise taxes on fishing gear and boat fuel that is passed through to states to support recreational boating access projects.

Douglas County appreciates the public's patience and cooperation during construction as these important and exciting improvements are completed. Again, at least one ramp/dock will remain open during the construction process. Please use extra caution and follow construction, detour, and warning signs posted at the park. The project is expected to be completed by Labor Day Weekend 2026.

Cooper Creek County Park is located approximately three miles southeast of Sutherlin and provides recreational access to the 166-acre Cooper Creek Reservoir. The Douglas County Parks Department was established in 1949 and was the first County Park system in Oregon. From the Pacific Ocean to the Cascades and throughout the 100 Valleys of the Umpqua, the Park system now encompasses 70 properties, including 23 boat ramps, 11 campgrounds and 42-day use parks. For more information about Douglas County Parks visit https://www.douglascountyor.gov/802/Parks.

The OSMB was established in 1959 by the Oregon Legislature in response to the federal Boating Safety Act of 1958. It is Oregon's recreational boating agency, dedicated to promoting safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible boating throughout the state. The agency provides boating education and safety programs, manages boating access and facility grants, registers and titles boats, and works with local governments and partners to improve and maintain public boating facilities. For more information about the OSMB visit https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/pages/index.aspx.

ODFW is the state agency responsible for protecting and enhancing Oregon's fish and wildlife resources and the habitats upon which they depend. Guided by its mission to conserve fish, wildlife, and their habitats for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations, ODFW manages wildlife populations, fisheries, hatcheries, wildlife areas, and public access opportunities across the state. The agency works collaboratively with local communities, landowners, tribes, conservation organizations, and government partners to promote science-based stewardship, habitat restoration, outdoor recreation, and sustainable resource management throughout Oregon. For more information about ODFW visit https://www.dfw.state.or.us/ or email Holly Huchko at holly.a.huchko@odfw.oregon.gov.

Via Douglas County Parks, Oregon State Marine Board, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Boat Dock Improvements Coming to Cooper Creek

The splash pad at Fir Grove Park will open for the season on Saturday, May 23, the City of Roseburg announced. The free attraction will operate daily from 10 a.m. to dusk through Labor Day.

The opening coincides with Memorial Day Weekend, giving families an early start to summer recreation. There is no cost to use the splash pad.

"The Splash Pad at Fir Grove Park is a perfect summer stop for families with little ones," said Tracy David, the city's Parks and Recreation Program Coordinator. "Running through the cool water is a great way to stay active and cool during the summer."

The city noted that shade at the site is limited and encouraged visitors to bring sunscreen.

Residents with questions can contact the Public Works Department at 541-492-6730 or visit www.roseburgor.gov for more information.

The splash pad at Fir Grove Park will open for the season on Saturday, May 23, the City of Roseburg announced. The free attraction will operate daily from 10 a.m. to dusk through Labor Day.The opening coincides with Memorial Day Weekend, giving families an early start to summer recreation. There is no cost to use the splash pad."The Splash Pad at Fir Grove Park is a perfect summer stop for families with little ones," said Tracy David, the city's Parks and Recreation Program Coordinator. "Running through the cool water is a great way to stay active and cool during the summer."The city noted that shade at the site is limited and encouraged visitors to bring sunscreen.Residents with questions can contact the Public Works Department at 541-492-6730 or visit <a rel="noopener noreferrer" class="!text-blue-600 !cursor-pointer hover:!underline" href="http://www.roseburgor.gov">www.roseburgor.gov</a> for more information.

Kathy Guentner

Roseburg water feature runs daily through Labor Day

The splash pad at Fir Grove Park will open for the season on Saturday, May 23, the City of Roseburg announced. The free attraction will operate daily from 10 a.m. to dusk through Labor Day.

The opening coincides with Memorial Day Weekend, giving families an early start to summer recreation. There is no cost to use the splash pad.

"The Splash Pad at Fir Grove Park is a perfect summer stop for families with little ones," said Tracy David, the city's Parks and Recreation Program Coordinator. "Running through the cool water is a great way to stay active and cool during the summer."

The city noted that shade at the site is limited and encouraged visitors to bring sunscreen.

Residents with questions can contact the Public Works Department at 541-492-6730 or visit 

Fir Grove Splash Pad Set to Open May 23

The new shade structure and drinking fountain have been installed at the Roseburg Skate Park next to the Duck Pond! This was a project I started working on several years ago, so it's really cool to see it come to completion. Nikki Messenger, (Roseburg City Manager) and I met several years ago at the skate park and talked with several kids about possible improvements to the park. A drinking fountain and shade structure were among the suggestions. 

So we worked with our Envision Roseburg group and got plans drawn up by Emily Brandt of IE Engineering. Then when Umpqua Health Alliance had a grant opportunity we worked with Thrive Umpqua to obtain a grant which was received by the City of Roseburg. Big thank you to Umpqua Health Alliance, Envision Roseburg Group, Liz Hill and Emily Brandt, Thrive Umpqua, Public Works Director Ryan Herinckx  and the City of Roseburg Parks Department for getting these installed! Also, big shoutout to Romtec out of Glide for building the shade structure! The drinking fountain is out in front of the skate park along the path that walkers/joggers use, and it has a water bottle filling station as well as a dog bowl feature at the bottom of the unit.

The new shade structure and drinking fountain have been installed at the Roseburg Skate Park next to the Duck Pond! This was a project I started working on several years ago, so it's really cool to see it come to completion. Nikki Messenger, (Roseburg City Manager) and I met several years ago at the skate park and talked with several kids about possible improvements to the park. A drinking fountain and shade structure were among the suggestions. So we worked with our Envision Roseburg group and got plans drawn up by Emily Brandt of IE Engineering. Then when Umpqua Health Alliance had a grant opportunity we worked with Thrive Umpqua to obtain a grant which was received by the City of Roseburg. Big thank you to Umpqua Health Alliance, Envision Roseburg Group, Liz Hill and Emily Brandt, Thrive Umpqua, Public Works Director Ryan Herinckx and the City of Roseburg Parks Department for getting these installed! Also, big shoutout to Romtec out of Glide for building the shade structure! The drinking fountain is out in front of the skate park along the path that walkers/joggers use, and it has a water bottle filling station as well as a dog bowl feature at the bottom of the unit.

Hopefully people will appreciate it enough not to vandalize it.

Hannah Finlay

lisa hunter

Pamela J McEwen

RuthAnn Stanley

Sophia Gardin

The new shade structure and drinking fountain have been installed at the Roseburg Skate Park next to the Duck Pond! This was a project I started working on several years ago, so it's really cool to see it come to completion. Nikki Messenger, (Roseburg City Manager) and I met several years ago at the skate park and talked with several kids about possible improvements to the park. A drinking fountain and shade structure were among the suggestions. 

So we worked with our Envision Roseburg group and got plans drawn up by Emily Brandt of IE Engineering. Then when Umpqua Health Alliance had a grant opportunity we worked with Thrive Umpqua to obtain a grant which was received by the City of Roseburg. Big thank you to Umpqua Health Alliance, Envision Roseburg Group, Liz Hill and Emily Brandt, Thrive Umpqua, Public Works Director Ryan Herinckx  and the City of Roseburg Parks Department for getting these installed! Also, big shoutout to Romtec out of Glide for building the shade structure! The drinking fountain is out in front of the skate park along the path that walkers/joggers use, and it has a water bottle filling station as well as a dog bowl feature at the bottom of the unit.

New Shade Structure and Drinking Fountain Installed at Roseburg Skate Park

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Roseburg’s flood-damaged dog park will reopen this summer after fencing is replaced.

A contractor is scheduled to start work in about two weeks to replace 730 feet of fencing that was mangled at Happy Tails Dog Park, a one-acre space next to Templin Beach Park, 100 SE Templin St.

The dog park was temporarily closed after suffering severe damage from flooding by the South Umpqua River during record rainfall on Sunday, March 16. The fencing around the park was completely destroyed and the flood left water and debris in the park.

“That park got hit pretty hard,” said Roseburg Public Works Director Ryan Herinckx, noting the storm hit just as Parks staff needed to get baseball and softball fields ready for spring games.

Since the storm, Public Works and Parks crews have been working throughout the community to first assess damage, then determine priorities and either perform repairs or hire contractors.

Roseburg Public Works recovery priorities began with ensuring the integrity and safety of roads, intersections and culverts; maintaining or repairing damaged sections of the public storm drainage system; and removing debris and sand left in several parks and across the multiuse Umpqua River Trail.

Contractors, including fence installation companies, have been in high demand following the flooding as government agencies, businesses and local residents work to recover from the storms.

At the dog park, staff have removed debris, trimmed trees and cut down two trees whose root structures were undermined by the flood. Parks staff have been making landscape improvements and have cleaned up the park entryway, whose sign and gate posts survived the flood. Staff also set a table and two benches upright and put them back into place.

“We’ve been over there doing cleanup before the fence goes in,” said Parks Superintendent Shanna Epperson.

A local company used a chainsaw to cut up a large tree that fell across the multiuse trail. Heartwood ReSources, a building materials salvage company opened by nonprofit NeighborWorks Umpqua, is picking up the wood rounds produced from the tree.

A Parks crew will continue to clean Templin Beach Park’s parking lot next week before new fencing is installed. The work should start by Monday, July 21, and be finished by Thursday, July 31. The dog park would open immediately after.

Park repairs, including new fencing installation, will cost $15,000.

For more information, contact Roseburg Parks and Recreation at 541-492-6899 or parks@roseburgor.gov.

Via City of Roseburg

Cathy

Candice Finlay

Lucy Abrao

Beverly Baker

Roseburg's Happy Tails Dog Park to Get New Fencing, Reopen

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Templin Beach Park will close temporarily on Tuesday, July 8, for additional flood cleanup.

The five-acre park providing access to the South Umpqua River will be closed from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, said Roseburg Public Works Director Ryan Herinckx.

Roseburg Parks and Recreation staff will continue cleaning the park following Sunday, March 16, flooding.

On Tuesday, Public Works and Parks staff will be using a backhoe, skid steer and mini-excavator at the park.

Parks crews will trim trees and weeds, redo landscape planters and provide general cleanup. In addition, nonprofit Heartwood ReSources will pick up wood rounds produced after a large tree that fell across a multi-use path during the storm was cut up.

Sitting in Southeast Roseburg at Templin and Arizona streets, Templin Beach Park contains a boat launch ramp, restrooms and parking. The adjacent Happy Tails Dog Park will be closed until late July so a contractor can replace 730 feet of fencing that was destroyed during the flood.

For more information, contact Roseburg Parks and Recreation at 541-492-6899 or parks@roseburgor.gov.

Via City of Roseburg

Susan Piekarski

Roseburg's Templin Beach Park Closed For Cleanup on July 8

ROSEBURG, Ore. – A small downtown park is getting a big upgrade thanks to the donation of concrete games designed to bring more life and activity to the area.

On May 28, Roseburg-based Stone Age Concrete Games installed a 2,400-pound concrete pingpong table and two 400-pound cornhole boards at Eagles Park, located at the end of Southeast Jackson Street. The donation was made in memory of the late Bobby Troup, a former tennis pro and local table tennis enthusiast.

The donation was coordinated in partnership with nonprofit Thrive Umpqua and its Built Environment Committee, who helped connect the James family—owners of Stone Age Concrete Games—with city officials and Roseburg Parks and Recreation staff.

Eagles Park already features two picnic tables with inlaid chess and checkerboards, but until recently, the quarter-acre space had largely gone unnoticed by people shopping, working, or dining downtown. That’s starting to change with the arrival of students living across the street in Umpqua Community College’s new downtown dorm, Hawk’s Hideaway.

“We’ve been working to do something at Eagles Park for quite a while,” said Lance Colley, retired city manager and current chair of Thrive Umpqua’s Steering Committee. “When the college started moving kids in here, the question became, ‘How do we involve the students and make the park what it was meant to be—a community gathering space?’”

The idea for the pingpong table started nearly two decades ago. Josh James, now operations manager at Stone Age, was still in high school when he and his dad, Lem James, attended a party where a pingpong table was the center of attention. Lem, who had been thinking about starting a business, saw potential. Josh sketched a design in a drafting class the following week, and Lem poured their first concrete table within two weeks.

What started as a local idea grew into Stone Age Concrete Games, the first company in North America to specialize in concrete tables and lawn games. Today, their work can be found across the country—from San Francisco’s United Nations Plaza to parks in Texas, Florida, and Alaska. Local installations include the Parrott House and Backside Brewing.

The company now makes concrete game tables for pingpong, chess, foosball, shuffleboard, and more—including newer additions like Connect 4 and Ladder Ball.

The Eagles Park table includes a plaque honoring Troup, who ran a casual but competitive underground pingpong club in a warehouse-style room known as “the Pit,” just a block from the park. Josh James met Troup shortly before his passing last fall, and they played many games together.

To keep that energy going, James has organized casual pingpong nights at the park on Thursdays at 6 p.m. Locals are invited to bring their own paddles and join the fun. Stone Age Concrete has also created a Facebook page where players can connect, post updates, and share photos.

“We’re so grateful to have the new additions donated to the park and hope to see more of the community using Eagles Park for recreation,” said Tracy David, Roseburg Parks and Recreation coordinator. “It’s a great location—right downtown and close to businesses.”

Like other park amenities, the pingpong table and cornhole boards are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Players are encouraged to be courteous and rotate games when others are waiting. One informal method: form a line, let the winners stay on, and rotate in new challengers to keep the games moving.

CarolAnn Leguee

John Evans

Laurie Johnson

Loraine Fitzpatrick

Isaac Guastaferro

Melanie Smith

Fran Schaefle

Downtown Roseburg Park Gets Concrete Game Donations

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Roseburg Parks and Recreation on Friday, May 2, revealed the upcoming “Movies in the Park” lineup.

Prepare to relax under the stars with free, family friendly entertainment at the Stewart Park Nichols Band Shell -- aka the “Half Shell” -- every Friday evening in June.

Bring a blanket and enjoy a fun-filled evening with friends and family. Roseburg Parks and Recreation cosponsors the free series with Rogue Credit Union.

This summer’s PG-rated movies will be:

• Friday, June 6: “Mufasa: The Lion King”

• Friday, June 13: “Dog Man”

• Friday, June 20: “Moana 2”

• Friday, June 28: “Inside Out 2”

Each week, pre-movie entertainment is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Past entertainment has varied from music and kids’ crafts to wild animal meet-and-greets. Entertainment is followed by a movie starting at dusk, or about 9 p.m. Snacks, including popcorn and cotton candy, will be available to purchase. Guests can bring their own food and drinks. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed.

“We have a fantastic lineup of movies this year, and I feel like this would be the perfect way to kick off your weekends in June,” said Roseburg Parks and Recreation Coordinator Tracy David.

All movies and activities are weather-permitting and subject to change. Children under 13 years old must be accompanied by an adult. As a reminder, smoking is not allowed in the park. In addition, pets are not allowed at “Movies in the Park” to help keep the event enjoyable for all.

For more information and details about the pre-movie entertainment, call 541-492-6730 or visit the Roseburg Parks and Recreation Facebook page or www.cityofroseburg.org/parks-and-recreation.

 Via City of Roseburg

Oh my goodness, is this an old picture? Like 2009? I ask because I'm 99% sure that's me in front of the screen in that dreadful pink tie-dye haha! 😆 Looks like my cohort of the umpqua singers setting up to sing before the movie started. Such a wild, unexpected flashback haha! 😅

That’s funny. It is an older photo that they sent out with a press release a few years ago. 😃

Carter Clark

Isabella Gardin

Ward Fong

Katy Hogan

City of Roseburg Offers Family Movies in the Park Every Friday Night in June

After a decade of community-driven efforts, Ford's Pond Community Park in Sutherlin is set to celebrate its grand opening on September 6th. The event marks a significant milestone in the transformation of this 202-acre former logging pond into a vibrant public space.

Grand Opening Event Details

Date: September 6th, 2024
Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: 382 Church Road, Sutherlin, OR 97479
Activities: Ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by refreshments

A Decade of Transformation

Since 2014, the Friends of Ford's Pond, in partnership with the City of Sutherlin, have dedicated countless hours to transforming the former logging pond into a community park. Beth Houseman of Friends of Ford's Pond shares their vision:

"We envisioned Ford's Pond as a place for everyone to observe wildlife, exercise, connect, play or enjoy some quiet time," Houseman said. "The design was guided by the park master plan which relied on extensive public outreach. We wanted the park design to be inclusive to all ages and abilities using the Universal Design principles, to have a unique playground, amenities and to create educational opportunities."

Recent Developments

As the park prepares for its official opening, the City of Sutherlin reports that construction is 99% complete. Recent additions include:

- An additional 0.9-mile ADA accessible path was added, bringing the total path around the pond to 2 miles from Church Rd Parking lot
- Play safety surfacing around all playground equipment
- Boardwalk (part of the path)
- Ping pong table by Stone Age Concrete Table Tennis
- Freshly seeded lawn areas. The remaining open areas will be seeded this fall.
- Benches, picnic tables, and trash receptacles as well as bathrooms
- Paved and striped RV parking area

Kristi Gilbert, Community Development Director for the City of Sutherlin, expressed her enthusiasm: "This is an exciting project to see come to fruition. Ford's Pond Community Park will be a great asset to the community and those who visit our area. It has been wonderful to be a part of the project."
Park Features

Visitors to Ford's Pond Community Park can enjoy a range of activities, including:

Hiking trails
Fishing spots
Kayaking opportunities
Bird watching areas
All-inclusive playground with swings, slides, and merry-go-round
Musical instruments
Picnic areas with pond views

The park's design preserves 197 acres as an open space park, with only 5 acres developed as a community park. This decision aligns with the community's desire to maintain the area's natural beauty and wildlife habitats.
The grand opening on September 6th will offer the public their first opportunity to experience all that Ford's Pond Community Park has to offer. Community members and visitors alike are invited to join in the celebration of this long-awaited addition to Sutherlin's recreational landscape.

For more information about the grand opening event or Ford's Pond Community Park, please contact the City of Sutherlin Community Development Department.

Josh Gaunt

Ford's Pond Community Park Set for Grand Opening on September 6th

Update from Oregon Health Authority at 5:16 pm June 26th:

Recreational use advisory issued for Galesville Reservoir June 26
Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Galesville Reservoir due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom. The reservoir is in Douglas County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Galesville Reservoir and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water
Drinking water directly from areas of the reservoir affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. OHA advises people to use an alternative water source if they do not use a well or public water system, and draw in-home water directly from an affected area.

Children and pets
Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Be aware that dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms
Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention. Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. Pet owners should seek veterinary treatment as quickly as possible if their dog exhibits any of those symptoms.

Fishing
Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those sites. Anyone who decides to eat the fish should remove its fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482.

Via OHA release

(Original article posted ~5pm June 26th)
(Douglas County, Ore.) The Douglas County Parks Department would like to inform the public that an anomaly was reported in the water near the upper inlet of Galesville Reservoir on Sunday, June 25, 2023. Galesville Reservoir is located at 8399 Upper Cow Creek Road near the community of Azalea, Oregon. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has been notified about the situation. DEQ officials collected samples of the anomaly this afternoon and have sent them in for testing. 

We will provide more information to the public about the situation immediately upon receiving the test results from DEQ.

The reservoir remains open to the public at this time. 

Via Douglas County Government