SUMMIT FIRE

The Forest Service is seeking information from the public as investigators work to determine the cause of three fires that started Friday, October 16, on the slopes of Three Fingered Jack.

“The public’s observations can make a critical difference in investigations like this,” said Felicia Sloan, patrol captain for the Willamette National Forest. “Any detail – unusual sounds, vehicle activity, smoke sightings or other observations – could help us understand how these fires began and prevent future incidents.”

Individuals who were in the area on Oct. 16 are encouraged to share any information that may be helpful.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Forest Service Law Enforcement tip line at SM.FS.R6TipHotLine@usda.gov. Tips may be submitted anonymously.

OPEN HOUSE

The McKenzie Community Land Trust (MCLT) will host an Open House & Annual Gathering at the Leaburg Fire Station on Tuesday, November 10th, at 6 pm.

It’s planned as a conversation and community connection with no formal presentation – just a relaxed space to mingle over hot bowls of homemade soup featuring Grandpa Dale’s Noodles (an Eck family tradition). The Rose Street’s success (and the 6 families now living in Blue River) will be noted, along with a sneak peek at upcoming CLT neighborhoods, and highlight community building initiatives.

The event is FREE and open to the public, but please register so we can make sure we have enough food for everyone! https://tinyurl.com/2hf49zbn Hope to see you there!

BEARS

The McKenzie Transfer Station reopened last Saturday after bear activity disrupted operations for two consecutive weekends. Lane County officials plan to maintain reduced Saturday hours of 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for at least several more weeks while working to discourage the animals from returning.

The shortened schedule will allow a specialized waste-hauling vehicle, known as a “wiggle wagon,” to collect and remove garbage from the site the same day, eliminating a potential food source for the bears.

County officials hope removing the waste promptly will encourage the animals to move elsewhere. Any changes will be posted on the County Waste Management’s Waste Wise Lane CountyFacebook page.