heatherroberts
Bee License Plate Gaining Traction In Oregon
A proposed “Pollinator Paradise” license plate appears well on its way to becoming reality, thanks to the efforts of Oregon State University. The proposal has created a lot of buzz across the state, as pre-sale vouchers are flying off shelves; and the “Pollinator Paradise'' plate could soon be available at a DMV near you. OSU Associate Professor o...
Central Oregon Continues To Face Extreme Drought
Central Oregon’s Crook County remains the only place in the western United States under a D-4, or Exceptional Drought, designation. And again, county leaders have asked for a state drought declaration. County Judge Seth Crawford says he’s also talked with the Governor about funding a biomass plant that would use juniper trees to create power, but more studies are needed.
“Then we can go to dif
Deschutes County Creating Wolf Depredation Committee
In central Oregon, planning is underway for a new Deschutes County Committee, to address potential conflicts between wolves and livestock. County Commissioner Phil Chang said other counties have had Wolf Depredation Committees for years, but only recently was Deschutes County declared “an area of known wolf activity” or AKA.
“We’ve had w...
When Buying Cheese What Do Consumers Want?
New research from Oregon State University sheds light on consumer habits and food labels, specifically with cheese.
“Well, cheese is interesting and Oregon has a lot of great cheeses, with a lot of small producers," noted OSU Assistant Professor of Applied Economics Nadia Streletskaya. "And for...
Help Available As You Prepare Your Taxes
Tax season is officially here. The IRS and state departments of revenue started processing tax returns last week. Robin Maxey, with the Oregon Department of Revenue said it's best to file electronically.
“More Than 90% of taxpayers file their return electronically. It creates a more accurate r...
Fagan: Oregon Must Address Water Insecurities
A new report from the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office reveals big gaps in the state’s management of water resources. Secretary Shemia Fagan said this basic human need is at risk.
"Our federally recognized tribes are unable to ensure that their people have access to clean water, and across the state we are not immune to the mega-drought that is incapacitating other parts of the western U
Proposal Looks To Expand Opportunities For Small Food Companies In Oregon
State lawmakers in Oregon are considering changes to rules governing home-based food businesses. Bend State Senator Tim Knopp is chief sponsor of the bill he said opens up opportunities for more small food-based businesses.
“Baked goods, confectionary items, coffee beans, teas, popcorn, jams, jellies, honey, syrup, fruit butters, mixed nuts, freeze-dried foods, dried and dehydrated foods.”
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Efforts Underway To Amend Oregon’s Ag OT
A year after the legislature mandated overtime pay for farm workers, an effort is underway in Salem to make changes to the law. State Representative Shelly Boshart Davis said since taking effect in June, the rules have created hardships for family farms and resulted in lower pay for ag workers. She’s lookin...
Forest Service Looking To Fill Positions Across Oregon
The U.S. Forest Service needs to fill a wide range of temporary positions in Oregon for the spring and summer. The Forest Service’s Catherine Caruso said they started looking for summer workers back in September because hiring for a federal job is time consuming. But despite m...
Oregon To Receive Millions To Expand Broadband
Oregon is expected to get between $400 million and $1 billion dollars from the federal government over several years to expand broadband access. Secretary of State Shemia Fagan said an audit of the Oregon Broadband Office finds it needs funding to add staff, to administer and distribute the funds.
“...