Fire Declared Out

Three Sisters Wilderness Fire Declared Out; Firefighters Remain Ready for New Starts

The U.S. Forest Service has declared Incident #241, a wildfire in the Three Sisters Wilderness on the McKenzie River Ranger District, officially out.

Following successful suppression efforts, crews based at the McKenzie Bridge Airport used a Black Hawk helicopterto backhaul equipment from the remote fire area, including hoses and other supplies used during firefighting operations.

The announcement comes as firefighters continue to respond quickly to new wildfire activity across the Willamette National Forest. Last Friday, U.S. Forest Service crews contained a new holdover fire on the Sweet Home Ranger District that was traced to lightning storms that moved through the area in mid-July. Firefighters continued mop-up operations at the site on Monday to ensure the fire was fully extinguished.

Forest officials said firefighting resources remain prepared to respond to any new fire starts as warm, dry weather continues across the region.

Visitors to the Willamette National Forest are urged to observe all current fire restrictions and to immediately report any signs of wildfire by calling 911.

Ice Dying

People will have an opportunity to create colorful, one-of-a-kind fabric art during an ice dyeing workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Upper McKenzie Community Center.

Unlike traditional tie-dyeing, ice dyeing uses ice cubes sprinkled with powdered fabric dye. Because of the unpredictable nature of the process, no two finished pieces are ever alike.

Participants are encouraged to bring a 100% cotton T-shirt, tea towel, or other cotton item to dye. T-shirts will also be available for those who do not have an item to bring. Children under 12 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

A suggested $5 donation and/or a donation of redeemable cans and bottles will help support the Bottle Boys.

Planning to attend? RSVP to umccevents@gmail.com with the participant’s age and T-shirt size.

Athletics

Hayward Field at the University of Oregon will take center stage as it hosts the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships from August 5–9, welcoming the world’s best athletes under the age of 20 for five days of elite competition.

Known as “Oregon 26,” the championship will bring together rising stars from around the globe to compete for world titles in one of the sport’s premier developmental events. Many athletes competing this week are expected to become future Olympic and world champions.

Hayward Field is no stranger to hosting the world’s top athletes. The iconic venue previously welcomed the event in 2014 and later hosted the 2022 World Athletics Championships, bringing global attention to Eugene as one of the sport’s premier destinations.