ATV Grant Subcommittee To Meet June 16 In Salem To Review Grants (Photo) -06/04/25

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s All-Terrain Vehicle Grant Subcommittee will meet noon on June 16 in Salem to discuss changes to ATV grant scoring criteria.

The hybrid meeting is open to the public. The public can attend via Zoom or in person at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, 725 Summer St NE, Room 124A&B

Meeting details, including zoom link and agenda, are available online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/Pages/GRA-atv.aspx#2

The grant scoring criteria discussion will help inform the Oregon Statewide Trails Plan, which provides guidance to land managers and partners in Oregon and includes updated grant scoring criteria for ATV Grant Program. Learn more about the Statewide Trails Plan on our website.

The ATV Grant Program provides funding statewide for All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) recreation. Grant funds come from ATV user permit sales and a percentage of gasoline tax money.

More information about the state ATV program is available at www.OregonATV.gov

Special accommodations may be arranged up to 72 hours in advance to improve accessibility by emailing ian.caldwell@oprd.oregon.gov.

Oregon State Parks And Recreation Commission Meets June 17-18 In Independence -06/04/25

INDEPENDENCE, Oregon — The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will convene June 17 and 18 in Independence, Oregon to discuss rulemaking, small land purchases and legislative updates.

On June 17, commissioners will take a water trail boat tour and then conduct a work session on the Salmonberry Trail and Central Business Services from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Independence Event Center, 555 South Main Street.

On June 18, commissioners will convene an executive session at 8:30 a.m. at Independence Event Center, 555 South Main Street to discuss real estate and legal issues. Executive sessions are closed to the public. A business meeting will begin at 9:45 a.m. and will be open to the public.

Anyone may attend or listen to the business meeting; instructions on how to listen will be posted on the commission web page prior to the meeting. The business meeting includes time for informal public comment related to any items not on the agenda. Registration is required to speak at the meeting if attending online, and is available online at https://bit.ly/registerjuncommission. The deadline to register to speak at the meeting virtually is 5 p.m., June 16. No advance registration is required to speak in person at the meeting. Time per speaker is limited to three minutes. Please submit written public comments by 5 p.m. June 16 to OPRCpubliccomment@oprd.oregon.gov.

The full agenda and supporting documents will be posted on the commission web page. Notable requests:

• Request to adopt a proposed rule change (OAR 736-024-0015) to prohibit driving on the ocean shore in Manzanita as requested by the Manzanita City Council due to safety concerns.
• Request to adopt a proposed rule update (OAR 736-015-0030) to expand the 25% out-of-state surcharge to parking permit fees for visitors who do not live in Oregon, which would increase daily parking permit fees by $2 for out-of-state visitors.
• Request to open rulemaking for implementation prior to House Bill 3190, which reauthorizes the Special Assessment of Historic Properties program as a 10-year benefit for commercial, income-producing historic properties.
• Request to open rulemaking contingent on the passage of Senate Bill 838B, which would provide OPRD a limited exemption from the state’s Public Contracting Code— to better serve park visitors and support local businesses based on the agency’s 24/7 operations schedule. The exemption does not apply to surplus property, information technology, photogrammetric mapping or telecommunications.
• Request to purchase a 37-acre parcel of property next to Silver Falls State Park for $960,000. The land could provide needed staff housing, emergency response access and is located near the future Visitor Center near North Falls, which would provide easy access for staff.

Anyone needing special accommodations to attend the meeting should contact Denise Warburton, commission assistant, at least three days in advance: denise.warburton@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-779-9729.

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission promotes outdoor recreation and heritage by establishing policies, adopting rules and setting the budget for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The seven members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and meet several times a year at locations across the state.

Historic Cemeteries Commission Awards Grants To Multiple Projects -06/04/25

Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) has awarded $62,500 in grants to 11 historic cemetery projects throughout the state through the Historic Cemeteries Grant program. The funds will help support preservation efforts, tree care and survey. Individual award amounts ranged from $3,500 - $8,405.
 

Funded projects:

• Fence repair at the Adams Cemetery in Clackamas County and the Clatsop Plains Cemetery in Clatsop County.
• Marker repair at Hillsboro Pioneer Cemetery, Eastwood IOOF Cemetery in Medford, Clatsop Plains Pioneer Cemetery, Greenwood Hills Cemetery in Portland, Kings Valley Cemetery in Benton County, Riverside Cemetery in Albany, and twin Oaks Cemetery in Marion County.
• Tree work at Dallas Cemetery in Polk County.
• Shed construction at Burch Family Pioneer Cemetery in Polk County.
• Complete survey, geophysical survey and install an information kiosk at the Lower Cove Cemetery in Union County.

Historic cemeteries are documented by OCHC and must include the burial of at least one person who died 75 years before the current date.
 

The historic cemetery grant program is offered annually by the OCHC, part of the Oregon Heritage Program at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The grant program is supported by lottery and other funds.
 

OCHC maintains a list of all pioneer and historic cemeteries in the state. The seven-member appointed commission helps people and organizations document, preserve and promote designated historic cemeteries statewide.
 

For more information about the grant program or the OCHC, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

National Park Service Lists Mingus Park Community Building In Coos Bay, Coos County In The National Register Of Historic Places (Photo) -06/02/25

COOS BAY, Ore. – The Mingus Park Community Building (850 W Park Roadway) in Coos Bay, popularly known as the “Scout Cabin,” is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) reviewed the nomination at their February 2025 meeting, recognizing the building’s significance as a rare example of Work Progress Administration (WPA)-constructed Rustic architecture in Coos Bay. The National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places, accepted the nomination in May 2025.
 

Located along the northwest edge of Mingus Park in Coos Bay, the Mingus Park Community Building was designed by local teacher Clarence E. Landes and constructed by WPA workers between December 1939 and July 1940. The building’s construction was part of a broader initiative by the United States government to create infrastructure that provided both employment and lasting public benefits during the Great Depression. The WPA, one of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs, was responsible for building thousands of recreational spaces, roads, bridges, and civic buildings across the country.
 

Like many of the recreational buildings and structures constructed by the WPA, the Mingus Park Community Building exhibits a Rustic style characterized by the use of local materials, hand construction techniques, and rugged finishes. WPA workers used locally sourced timber and quarry stone to craft the one-story building, which is clad in vertically-oriented half-log siding and features a Dutch gable roof. The interior features and finishes, which include a high post-and-beam ceiling, a double-sided stone fireplace, and hanging log benches, maintain the Rustic style of the exterior. The building has experienced only minor modifications in the 85 years since its construction, and it remains one of the only surviving WPA projects in Coos Bay.
 

Beyond its architectural importance and notable association with New Deal programs, the Mingus Park Community Building has also been an integral part of Coos Bay’s recreational and social life since its completion in 1940. Its original, primary purpose was to serve the local Boy Scouts of America program, which used the space for meetings, skill-building workshops, and overnight training exercises; the building’s nickname, “the Scout Cabin,” reflects this longstanding role in fostering leadership and outdoor education among local youth. In addition to scouting programs, the space has also hosted civic events and strengthened community ties for generations. Throughout the decades, local organizations and volunteers have worked tirelessly to maintain and preserve the building in the face of challenges such as vandalism and budget constraints. The site remains a valued historic and cultural resource in Coos Bay, preserving a tradition of shared experiences and community connection.
 

To celebrate the building’s recent listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the City of Coos Bay welcomes the community to the Mingus Park Community Building (850 W Park Roadway) for a Cabin Celebration Day on June 28th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Join generations of those who have cherished this building in honoring its long-standing community legacy!
 

Recognition of the Mingus Park Community Building in the National Register of Historic Places aligns with the goals of the 2024-2033 Oregon Preservation Plan, which encourages the preservation and documentation of historically significant places that contribute to Oregon's cultural and architectural history. The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally-assisted projects;
• Eligible for federal tax benefits;
• Qualified for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

State law in Oregon requires local governments to offer a minimal level of protection for properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places; the decisions about how to accomplish that goal reside with local governments, which also have the authority to create and regulate local historic districts and landmarks.
 

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings are online at oregonheritage.org (under the heading “Designate”).

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Oregon Heritage Commission Awards Grants To Museum Projects (Photo) -06/02/25

The Oregon Heritage Commission has awarded $75,000 in grants to 12 museums throughout the state as part of the Oregon Museum Grant program. The grants will help fund a variety of projects including collection preservation, interpretation, and heritage tourism. Award amounts ranged from $4,259 - $8,329.
 

Funded projects:

• Co-create three programs with Native educators, culture-bearers, and community members at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum at The Dalles.
• Complete a comprehensive Market Research Study for the National Historic Baker Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker County.
• Digitize 92 years of historic Elgin Recorder newspapers, through the Elgin Museum & Historical Society.
• Complete conservation work on 27 cultural objects from the Indigenous Plateau at the High Desert Museum in Deschutes County.
• Complete an exhibit about the logging industry and its role in shaping the Parkdale area at the Hutson Museum.
• Enlarge the Oregon Fire Services Museum mezzanine at the Powerland Heritage Park in Marion County.
• Provide wheelchairs, portable gallery chairs, walkers, sensory bags, and luminated magnifiers for visitors at the Oregon Military Museum in Clackamas County.
• Present a hybrid program exploring Oregon’s Chinese American past through the Portland Chinatown Museum in Portland.
• Purchase equipment and furnishings for the Rainier Oregon Historical Museum.
• Develop and implement a K-12 student curriculum around a series of portraits as part of the Re-Imagining Bush House Museum Project.
• Develop walking tours and outdoor photos to enhance the visitor experience at the Seaside Museum.
• Revitalize and landscape the area that surrounds the 1909 Southern Pacific Caboose #507 and Rail Heritage Exhibits at the Willamette Heritage Center in Salem.

The museum grant program is offered annually by the Oregon Heritage Commission, part of the Oregon Heritage program at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The grant program began in 1965 when only 24 organizations were eligible for the program. The grant is funded OPRD lottery dollars.
 

The Oregon Heritage Commission works to secure, sustain and enhance Oregon’s heritage. The Commission sponsors heritage initiatives that educate the public about the value of heritage and celebrate the state’s diversity.
 

The Oregon Heritage Commission consists of nine members appointed by the governor and nine agency advisors. Members are chosen from state agencies and statewide organizations, and represent a diverse geographical and heritage background.
 

To learn more about the Oregon Museum Grant or the Oregon Heritage Commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

National Park Service Lists Owyhee Grocery In The National Register Of Historic Places (Photo) -05/30/25

MALHEUR COUNTY - Owyhee Grocery (now known as The Rock Store) near Nyssa in Malheur County is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. The State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) recommended the nomination at their February 2025 meeting, recognizing the building’s role in regional commerce and as an outstanding example of 1930s roadside commercial architecture. The National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places, accepted the nomination in May 2025.
 

Constructed in 1933 at the intersection of OR-201 and Owyhee Avenue, Owyhee Grocery has long served as a key commercial hub for travelers between Nyssa, Adrian, and the Owyhee Dam. Originally established as a service station, the store evolved into a convenience shop, self-service fuel station, and restaurant, continuing its role as a vital gathering place for the community. Architecturally, the building exemplifies 1930s roadside commercial design, with its deep setback from the roadway, ample pull-in parking, and distinctive façade featuring a parapeted gable clad in petrified wood and volcanic rock. It is recognized as locally significant for its contributions to regional commerce between 1933 and 1937 and as an excellent example of roadside commercial architecture unique to Malheur County.
 

Recognition of the Owyhee Grocery in the National Register of Historic Places aligns with the goals of the 2024-2033 Oregon Preservation Plan, which encourages the preservation and documentation of historically significant places that contribute to Oregon's cultural and architectural history.
 

The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally-assisted projects;
• Eligible for federal tax benefits;
• Qualify for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

State law in Oregon requires local governments to offer a minimal level of protection for properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places; the decisions about how to accomplish that goal reside with local governments, which also have the authority to create and regulate local historic districts and landmarks.
 

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings are online at oregonheritage.org (under the heading “Designate”).

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Statewide Trails Advisory Committee Seeks New Member For Three-year Term (Photo) -05/30/25

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking a volunteer to serve a three-year term as the Equestrian Representative on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee starting in 2026.

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.

Ideal candidates representing the interest of equestrian trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Recreation related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs, other broad recreational issues and the importance of providing equitable, inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities.

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2025. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.

Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency To Meet May 27 -05/19/25

SALEM, Oregon— The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will meet 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, May 27 to discuss governance structure and trail segment agreements.

The virtual meeting is open to the public and attendees can online via Microsoft Teams or by phone.

STIA was established to plan the development and maintenance of the proposed Salmonberry Trail.

The proposed tail is an 86-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway and terminates in Banks. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range. More information is at salmonberrytrail.org.

Join Online:

Platform: Microsoft Teams
Meeting ID: 274 742 371 743 9
Passcode: WK2So668
Phone conference ID: 503-446-4954, 887422481# (if dialing in)

To submit public comments for board members to review during the meeting, please send comments to Mike Cafferata at mike.j.cafferata@odf.oregon.gov at least three days prior to the meeting.

State Parks Shares Seven Campfire Safety Tips For Wildfire Awareness Month (Photo) -05/19/25

Salem, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) joins Oregon Department of Forestry and other local, statewide and national partners in recognizing May as Wildfire Awareness Month.

Campfires are a beloved tradition when visiting Oregon State Parks, and staff encourage visitors to enjoy them safely when and where permitted.

The first step is to check campfire restrictions before you head out. If campfires are allowed, please follow these safety tips and rangers’ instructions to reduce the risk of wildfires where campfires are allowed.

Seven tips for safe and enjoyable campfires:

1. Check campfire restrictions at Oregon State Parks as well as public fire restrictions statewide.
2. Only build campfires in the existing fire ring in your campsite. Fire rings are placed in areas with buffer zones and away from vegetation.
3. Maintain campfire flames at or below knee height (about 2 feet high) to reduce the risk of ash and embers drifting into the trees or dry vegetation.
4. Always keep water close by to safely put out campfires. Douse the flames with water and stir the embers to make sure everything is wet. The stirring step is important: ash and wood debris often maintain heat.
5. Build beach campfires only where permitted on open sand and away from driftwood or vegetation. Slowly pour water on your beach fire to put it out. Pouring water too quickly can cause hot sand to fly. Don’t use sand to put out a beach fire, which insulates the coals and keeps them hot enough to burn someone even days later. Learn more at beach fire rules at Oregon State Parks website.
6. For propane fire rings, use in areas without vegetation or overhanging branches. Rules for propane fire rings may vary depending on local conditions. Check with park staff.
7. Make sure everyone in your campsite is familiar with campfire safety, including children. Always keep an eye on your campfire; accidental fires can start even when campers leave their fire unattended for “just a minute.”

Campfire regulations are outlined in Oregon Administrative Rules: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/viewSingleRule.action?ruleVrsnRsn=322968

Education is the top priority for rule enforcement, but rangers also have the option of issuing a Class A violation for significant violations or for multiple violations with a presumptive fine of up to $400.

In addition, explosives and fireworks are not allowed in state parks or the ocean shore because they pose a danger to visitors, wildlife and the landscape. High winds, flammable vegetation and the unpredictability of fireworks create a unique hazard particularly in crowded areas.

Resources:

• Oregon Department of Forestry’s wildfire information website: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/firestats.aspx.
• Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/education/pages/prevent-wildfires.aspx.
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery: https://wildfire.oregon.gov/
• Department of Environmental Quality Oregon Smoke Information: https://www.oregonsmoke.org/
• Oregon Department of Transportation Tripcheck for road conditions: https://tripcheck.com/
• For breaking news and information, follow the Twitter accounts and Facebook pages for Oregon State Parks, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Transportation, and Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

Committees To Review Historic Property And Archaeology Grant Applications -05/19/25

Two separate committees will meet to score and rank applications for the Preserving Oregon and Diamonds in the Rough Grant programs. The recommendations from the committees will be forwarded to the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation for final review and approval June 27, 2025.

Both meetings will be online via Zoom.

The Diamonds in the Rough Grant Review Committee will meet May 28, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.

The Preserving Oregon Grant Review Committee will meet June 3, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

Festival Of The Land Celebrates Diverse History, Food & Culture At The Cove June 7 (Photo) -05/16/25

CULVER, Oregon— Celebrate the third annual Festival of the Land, a free event with food, culture and history, at The Cove Palisades State Park on the banks of Lake Billy Chinook 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 7 as part of State Parks Day.

“Immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of nature at the Festival of The Land and discover how the land and water sustain us through past, present, and future uses around three iconic Oregon rivers,” said Park Ranger Erin Bennett.

Activities include:

• History, culture and wildlife displays
• Live music
• Dutch oven cooking demonstrations
• Kids’ games and activities
• Petting “zoo”
• Farmers market with handmade goods, produce and food including fry bread and BBQ
• Sustainable gardening including attracting pollinators & protecting against wildfires

Visitors have an opportunity to listen to the vibrant stories of the region’s history from the daily lives of native peoples to the travelers who navigated in covered wagons. Learn more about important structures through interactive displays including a teepee and chuck wagon.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department hosts the event in collaboration with Portland General Electric.  All activities will be held in the Crooked River Day Use Area.

For more information, visit the event page at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=things-to-do.event&eventId=48567

This festival is part of State Parks Day, an annual celebration that offers free camping and day-use the first Saturday in June at Oregon State Parks. It is one of many events on June 7 this year in addition to free camping and day use. Learn more at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=363

Free Camping, Day-use Parking & Activities On State Parks Day June 7 (Photo) -05/16/25

SALEM, Oregon—Every year Oregon State Parks begins the busier season with a small thank you to its visitors — free camping and day-use parking on State Parks Day.

State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to thank Oregonians for their long-standing support of the state park system. It falls on the first Saturday of June, which is June 7 this year.

“We are honored to steward and share these places with Oregonians and all our visitors. We appreciate their commitment to preserving and maintaining Oregon’s special places. We would not have the park system that we have today without their support,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will waive day-use parking fees at the 25 parks that charge them and camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites on June 7. State Parks Day also includes free events at many state parks.

Park staff have worked hard over the last few months getting parks ready for the busier season and State Parks Day. The list of projects includes everything from clearing storm damage, with as many as 180 downed trees near Nehalem, to moving mountains of muck or sand to re-open camp loops. Now parks are ready to welcome visitors for State Parks Day and the busier season.

State Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades will host a free festival that celebrates the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Festival of the Land, includes Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ games and activities, petting zoo, educational displays, mini farmers market and more.
• L.L. Stub Stewart will host a star party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI's website on the day of the party for possible weather-related cancellations: https://omsi.edu/whats-on/
• Carl G. Washburne will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.
• Spring Valley Access will host a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon. The event includes clearing brush, raking debris and picking up trash.  
• Tryon Creek State Natural Area invites visitors to explore its Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system and attend a guided hike.
• Prineville Reservoir will host a free State Parks Day BBQ from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. near the Dark Sky Observatory.
• Silver Falls will host an exhibit about the emerald ash borer (EAB) and its role as a threat to Oregon's ash trees 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to share information about the importance of ash trees and this destructive invasive beetle.
• Collier: will offer a guided tour through Collier Logging Museum 11 a.m. to noon so visitors can learn about old logging camps and what machines they used to make life easier.
• Fort Stevens will host disc golf lessons 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fort Stevens State Park-Historic Area Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.
• Harris Beach we have a multi-park scavenger hunt where visitors can seek natural formations, unique flora and historical locations. Pick up scavenger hunt cards at Harris Beach registration booth or from ranger or host at Alred Loeb.

For a list of events, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/

For camping availability, please check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=reserve.first-come

About State Parks Day

State Parks Day began in 1998 to celebrate the support of visitors around the state. It’s one of three days a year that Oregon State Parks waives the day-use parking fees. Other days include Green Friday the day after Thanksgiving and First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day.

About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

The mission of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

National Park Service Lists Port Orford City Jail In Port Orford, Curry County In The National Register Of Historic Places (Photo) -05/15/25

PORT ORFORD – The Port Orford City Jail is among Oregon’s latest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) recommended the nomination at their February 2025 meeting for its significant connections to Port Orford’s early city governance and its first mayor Gilbert E. Gable. The National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places, accepted this nomination in late April 2025.

Located near Seventh and Jefferson Street in Port Orford, the Port Orford City Jail was constructed in 1939 as the first and only all-new governmental building constructed during the Gable administration. The charismatic Gilbert E. Gable (1886-1941) arrived in Port Orford in 1934. As the head of several commercial ventures, including the port facility in Port Orford, a sawmill, and mining properties, Gable spearheaded Depression-era development in the community. When residents voted to incorporate Port Orford in 1935, Gable was elected mayor and continued in that role until his unexpected death in early December 1941. During his tenure in office, Gable worked constantly to draw attention to the economic needs of Southwestern Oregon. He provided support to the town of Bandon after it was destroyed by fire in 1936. He also tried, but failed, to connect the region to the inland valleys of Oregon through the Gold Coast Railroad, a project that brought Gable attention throughout southern Oregon and northern California. Gable’s work undoubtedly benefited his own companies, but it also made him a popular political figure and by 1941, he was actively touting the frustrations of residents in Curry County and beyond. That fall he began suggesting that Curry County could secede from Oregon, a movement that quickly became known as the State of Jefferson. Within a week of Gable’s death a few months later, the State of Jefferson as an active movement came to a halt, but the ideas behind it remain well into the 21st century.

The Port Orford City Jail was used from 1939 until around 1965, after which time it was sold to a private party. It was later occupied by a novelty shop and then a fish market, before standing unused for many years. The City of Port Orford reacquired the building property in 2007. Although surrounding properties have been redeveloped, the Port Orford City Jail retains its historic appearance that is reflective of the building’s original purpose.

The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally-assisted projects;
• Eligible for federal tax benefits;
• Qualify for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

State law in Oregon requires local governments to offer a minimal level of protection for properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places; the decisions about how to accomplish that goal reside with local governments, which also have the authority to create and regulate local historic districts and landmarks.

More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings are online at oregonheritage.org (under the heading “Designate”).

Nehalem Bay State Park To Open Day-use Areas May 23, Campground Remains Closed (Photo) -05/14/25

MANZANITA, Oregon— Nehalem Bay State Park will reopen day-use areas including trails and the boat launch on May 23, but the campground will remain closed through at least June due to ongoing construction.

“We’re excited to welcome visitors back to the park, and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to improve the park experience,” said Park Manger Ben Cox.

The day-use areas opening include the boat ramp, the south day-use parking area, the airport and the multi-use path east of the main entrance road. The main entrance from Garey Street will be reopened to the public at the same time to serve the day-use areas. 

The campground and the Horizon Street entrance will remain closed to the public through June while work continues in the campground. The campground is slated to reopen as soon as July 1 depending on the construction schedule. The park will open campground reservations in the next few weeks for dates starting in July.

Check the webpage for updates.

The construction work at Nehalem Bay includes:

• Upgrading water and electrical lines within the camp loops
• Adding a restroom/shower building to serve increasing visitation and provide more accessible facilities (accessible features include adult changing table for visitors with disabilities)
• Adding an accessible restroom and accessible campsites to the horse camp
• Adding hose bibs to horse camp sites
• Renovating and adding additional accessible campsites and paths
• Repaving the main entrance road
• Adding traffic calming features park entry road from the Garey Street entrance to the airport intersection
• Adding a new day-use fee station near the airport intersection

The work at Nehalem Bay was made possible by GO Bonds, a $50 million investment approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2021. It’s one of nine projects at eight parks focused on building capacity, increasing accessibility and maintaining aging park infrastructure. Visit the Go Bond website for a complete list of projects.

Seeking Volunteers To Serve On Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee -05/13/25

SALEM, Ore ­— The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting applications to fill two positions on the Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee.

The dealine to apply is May 31, 2025. The 10-member committee allocates funding to public park and recreation projects throughout the state. OPRD is seeking one representative from a city with a population of less than 15,000 people, and a representative of the public who represents an historically under-represented community. Public-at-large positions may be held by a recreation professional or any citizen with an interest or background in outdoor recreation.

The main function of the committee is to read, assess and score grant applications submitted to the Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee and attend a three-day grant application presentation meeting to be held in Salem July 29, 30 & 31.  Committee members can attend the meetings in person or via Zoom.  

Expectations and responsibilities are listed on the program webpage: oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/pages/GRA-lggp.aspx. Interested applicants should submit a Committee Interest Form by May 31, 2025.

Committee members serve up to two consecutive four-year terms.  Members represent the following categories:

• Counties east and west of the Cascade Range
• Cities under 15,000 people
• Cities over 15,000 people
• Park and recreation districts, metropolitan service districts or port districts
• People with disabilities
• Three members of the public including at least one person who represents an historically under-represented community.

If travel is involved, OPRD will reimburse all travel, meals and lodging expenses associated with committee meetings.

The Local Government Grant Program is funded by the Oregon Lottery and currently awards about $14 million annually to outdoor park and recreation projects throughout the state. Eligible applicants to the program are cities, counties, parks and recreation districts, port districts and metropolitan service districts.

OPRD is committed to ensuring that all committees represent the growing age, ethnic and gender diversity of the state. New committee members will ultimately be appointed by the OPRD Director.

For information, contact Mark Cowan at 503-951-1317 or mark.cowan@oprd.oregon.gov.

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Oregon Heritage Commission To Meet Online May 27 -05/12/25

SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet via online meeting on May 27. The meeting will include approval of the 2025 Oregon Museum Grant recommendations. To view the full agenda and/or to register for the virtual meeting visit here.
 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 or Mary.Newcomb@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting.
 

The Heritage Commission’s nine members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary celebrations.
 

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission Coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov.  
 

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Historic Cemeteries Commission To Meet May 27 -05/12/25

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet via online meeting on May 27 at 1:00 p.m. The primary agenda item is approval of the 2025 Oregon Historic Cemeteries grants. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Register for the meeting to receive online access information.

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting.

For call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

Road Repair Work At Cape Blanco To Some Cause Traffic Delays May 13 - 15 (Photo) -05/10/25

PORT ORFORD, Oregon—The entrance road to Cape Blanco State Park will undergo repairs May 13-15, and visitors should expect traffic delays.

Flaggers will direct traffic where the road narrows to one lane to accommodate road work. Please use caution and follow all road signs and speed limits for safety. Park staff appreciate visitors’ patience during repairs.