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News Release

Community Celebrates Fungi And Fall At Mushroom Day 2025 (Photo) - 11/10/25

Families and fungi fans gathered at Beazell Memorial Forest on Sunday, Nov. 9, for Mushroom Day 2025, a celebration of the fascinating world of fungi. The annual event, hosted by Corvallis Parks and Recreation, brought together partners from Benton County, Oregon State University, the Corvallis Environmental Center and The Mushroomery. Visitors explored mushroom identification, cooking demonstrations, forest walks, crafts and family-friendly activities at the Beazell Memorial Forest Education Center. 

“Mushroom Day is a great way to celebrate the season and discover the hidden life of our forests,” said Jesse Ott, Benton County Natural Areas, Parks and Events Director. “Beazell Memorial Forest is a really special place. We learn together here, from looking at mushrooms under a microscope to going on hikes and getting people familiar with what to look for and how to enjoy fall mushrooming.” 

Ott said the Beazell Education Center is a unique part of Benton County’s natural spaces. The timber used to build it was harvested and refurbished from the same site. 

“We offer educational events, weddings, parties and conferences here,” he said. “It’s a really unique spot.” 

Lacey Moore, recreation coordinator for environmental health, education and creative programs with Corvallis Parks and Recreation, said this year marked the sixth annual Mushroom Day. 

“It started during the pandemic. People in Oregon love mushrooms, and we love mushrooms, so we made it an annual thing,” said Moore. “Now we have more partners like The Mushroomery, Oregon State and Benton County. I love this day. It’s a fun event, people are stoked to be out in the forest looking at mushrooms, and we’ve tried to make it more family friendly as time goes on. Now we have some mini-mycologists.” 

Joey Spatafora, department head of Botany and Plant Pathology at Oregon State University and a mycologist, said the event is one of OSU’s most important outreach efforts each year. 

“A big part of what we do at the university is outreach, and this is one of our major outreach programs of the year with respect to mycology,” Spatafora said. “I have a number of students here participating, and we just really enjoy interacting with the public, especially kids, getting them excited about fungi and mycology.” 

Vendors and educators also shared their passion for mushrooms.  

Jennifer Macome, owner of The Mushroomery, said she enjoys connecting with the community. 

“I love supporting local events, especially educational ones,” said Macome. “We’re bringing the public in, getting them excited about mushrooms, taking them for walks in the woods, and showing them different wild mushrooms.” 

At the Corvallis Environmental Center activity table, Evelia Verburg, Nature Programs and Camp Coordinator, said she loves helping kids get hands-on with learning. 

“This is my second year coming to Mushroom Day, and I enjoy helping kids learn about mushrooms with fun activities like the one we have here today,” Verburg said. 

Community members also came to learn. Danielle Silver, a Corvallis resident, said the event was a great way to start her foraging journey. 

“I am a beginner forager, still learning how to identify mushrooms,” said Silver. “I just want to learn more.” 

Organizers said this year’s event was another example of strong community collaboration.  

“This event is a lot of teamwork,” Ott said. “We all just come together and make it happen.” 

As mushroom hunting continues this fall, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office does remind everyone to be prepared before heading outdoors. The American Hiking Society recommends carrying ten essential items to help ensure your safety on the trail. Learn more about the essentials: https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/ 

Mushroom Day was sponsored by Oregon State University, The Mushroomery, Corvallis Environmental Center, Benton County, and Corvallis Parks and Recreation. 

View downloadable photos from the event on the Benton County Flickr page. 

Attached Media Files: 7O2A4291.jpg, 7O2A4292.jpg, 7O2A4308.jpg, 7O2A4316.jpg, 7O2A4323.jpg, 7O2A4371.jpg, 7O2A4377.jpg,

Community Celebrates Fungi And Fall At Mushroom Day 2025 (Photo) - 11/10/25

Families and fungi fans gathered at Beazell Memorial Forest on Sunday, Nov. 9, for Mushroom Day 2025, a celebration of the fascinating world of fungi. The annual event, hosted by Corvallis Parks and Recreation, brought together partners from Benton County, Oregon State University, the Corvallis Environmental Center and The Mushroomery. Visitors explored mushroom identification, cooking demonstrations, forest walks, crafts and family-friendly activities at the Beazell Memorial Forest Education Center. 

“Mushroom Day is a great way to celebrate the season and discover the hidden life of our forests,” said Jesse Ott, Benton County Natural Areas, Parks and Events Director. “Beazell Memorial Forest is a really special place. We learn together here, from looking at mushrooms under a microscope to going on hikes and getting people familiar with what to look for and how to enjoy fall mushrooming.” 

Ott said the Beazell Education Center is a unique part of Benton County’s natural spaces. The timber used to build it was harvested and refurbished from the same site. 

“We offer educational events, weddings, parties and conferences here,” he said. “It’s a really unique spot.” 

Lacey Moore, recreation coordinator for environmental health, education and creative programs with Corvallis Parks and Recreation, said this year marked the sixth annual Mushroom Day. 

“It started during the pandemic. People in Oregon love mushrooms, and we love mushrooms, so we made it an annual thing,” said Moore. “Now we have more partners like The Mushroomery, Oregon State and Benton County. I love this day. It’s a fun event, people are stoked to be out in the forest looking at mushrooms, and we’ve tried to make it more family friendly as time goes on. Now we have some mini-mycologists.” 

Joey Spatafora, department head of Botany and Plant Pathology at Oregon State University and a mycologist, said the event is one of OSU’s most important outreach efforts each year. 

“A big part of what we do at the university is outreach, and this is one of our major outreach programs of the year with respect to mycology,” Spatafora said. “I have a number of students here participating, and we just really enjoy interacting with the public, especially kids, getting them excited about fungi and mycology.” 

Vendors and educators also shared their passion for mushrooms.  

Jennifer Macome, owner of The Mushroomery, said she enjoys connecting with the community. 

“I love supporting local events, especially educational ones,” said Macome. “We’re bringing the public in, getting them excited about mushrooms, taking them for walks in the woods, and showing them different wild mushrooms.” 

At the Corvallis Environmental Center activity table, Evelia Verburg, Nature Programs and Camp Coordinator, said she loves helping kids get hands-on with learning. 

“This is my second year coming to Mushroom Day, and I enjoy helping kids learn about mushrooms with fun activities like the one we have here today,” Verburg said. 

Community members also came to learn. Danielle Silver, a Corvallis resident, said the event was a great way to start her foraging journey. 

“I am a beginner forager, still learning how to identify mushrooms,” said Silver. “I just want to learn more.” 

Organizers said this year’s event was another example of strong community collaboration.  

“This event is a lot of teamwork,” Ott said. “We all just come together and make it happen.” 

As mushroom hunting continues this fall, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office does remind everyone to be prepared before heading outdoors. The American Hiking Society recommends carrying ten essential items to help ensure your safety on the trail. Learn more about the essentials: https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/ 

Mushroom Day was sponsored by Oregon State University, The Mushroomery, Corvallis Environmental Center, Benton County, and Corvallis Parks and Recreation. 

View downloadable photos from the event on the Benton County Flickr page. 

Attached Media Files: 7O2A4291.jpg, 7O2A4292.jpg, 7O2A4308.jpg, 7O2A4316.jpg, 7O2A4323.jpg, 7O2A4371.jpg, 7O2A4377.jpg,

Benton County To Host Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony (Photo) - 11/06/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County will honor local veterans during a Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony on Monday, Nov. 10, at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis. The event will include the reading of a Veterans Day proclamation during the Board of Commissioners meeting followed by remarks by County leaders and special guests honoring veterans for their service and sacrifice.

Benton County will also receive two national awards from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR):

  • County Administrator Rachel McEneny will receive the Patriot Award for her outstanding support of a recently deployed employee who serves in the Oregon National Guard.
  • Board Chair Nancy Wyse will accept the Seven Seals Award on behalf of Benton County, recognizing the County’s strong commitment to service members and their families.

Event Details

When: 9 – 9:30 a.m. – Board of Commissioners Meeting, Proclamation Reading, Award Presentation

Where: Kalapuya Building, 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis

Who:

  • Benton County Board of Commissioners
  • COL Paul Dyer, Commander, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oregon National Guard
  • Mark Lapinskas, Benton County Lead Veterans Service Officer
  • Cecil Owens, ESGR State Chair
  • Kenzie Singiser, OSU Music Program, National Anthem

Benton County has a history of supporting military veterans and families, including many who are part of the County’s workforce. The Board of Commissioners continues this tradition each year by recognizing Veterans Day and Military Appreciation Month in Benton County.

“From the support I received from our Finance Department, Human Resources, and County Commissioners and Administrator before I left, to the send-off my coworkers organized, I always felt cared for,” said Cory Grogan, Benton County Public Information Officer and Oregon National Guard member who returned in September from a year-long deployment in Kosovo. “Knowing my job was secure while I was away allowed me to focus fully on my mission and serve more effectively. Benton County truly shows what it means to value service and stand behind those who serve.”

In 2023, the County hosted a Veterans Day gathering and proclamation reading at the Kalapuya Building to honor employees who served in the Armed Forces. Watch the video from that event here: Veterans Day 2023 — Benton County, Oregon.

###

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Attached Media Files: Military Appreciation Month in Benton County - 2023, Military Appreciation Month in Benton County - 2023,

Benton County To Host Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony (Photo) - 11/06/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County will honor local veterans during a Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony on Monday, Nov. 10, at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis. The event will include the reading of a Veterans Day proclamation during the Board of Commissioners meeting followed by remarks by County leaders and special guests honoring veterans for their service and sacrifice.

Benton County will also receive two national awards from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR):

  • County Administrator Rachel McEneny will receive the Patriot Award for her outstanding support of a recently deployed employee who serves in the Oregon National Guard.
  • Board Chair Nancy Wyse will accept the Seven Seals Award on behalf of Benton County, recognizing the County’s strong commitment to service members and their families.

Event Details

When: 9 – 9:30 a.m. – Board of Commissioners Meeting, Proclamation Reading, Award Presentation

Where: Kalapuya Building, 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis

Who:

  • Benton County Board of Commissioners
  • COL Paul Dyer, Commander, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Oregon National Guard
  • Mark Lapinskas, Benton County Lead Veterans Service Officer
  • Cecil Owens, ESGR State Chair
  • Kenzie Singiser, OSU Music Program, National Anthem

Benton County has a history of supporting military veterans and families, including many who are part of the County’s workforce. The Board of Commissioners continues this tradition each year by recognizing Veterans Day and Military Appreciation Month in Benton County.

“From the support I received from our Finance Department, Human Resources, and County Commissioners and Administrator before I left, to the send-off my coworkers organized, I always felt cared for,” said Cory Grogan, Benton County Public Information Officer and Oregon National Guard member who returned in September from a year-long deployment in Kosovo. “Knowing my job was secure while I was away allowed me to focus fully on my mission and serve more effectively. Benton County truly shows what it means to value service and stand behind those who serve.”

In 2023, the County hosted a Veterans Day gathering and proclamation reading at the Kalapuya Building to honor employees who served in the Armed Forces. Watch the video from that event here: Veterans Day 2023 — Benton County, Oregon.

###

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Attached Media Files: Military Appreciation Month in Benton County - 2023, Military Appreciation Month in Benton County - 2023,

Board Of Commissioners To Adopt Landfill Expansion Decision On Nov. 17 - 11/05/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Board of Commissioners will finalize their decision and adopt findings to approve the proposed expansion of the Coffin Butte Landfill on Monday, Nov. 17 at 9 a.m. Community members can attend the meeting in the Holmes & Shipley meeting room of the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis.

Because the record of the hearing is closed, no public testimony will be taken.

The application for the proposed expansion came before the Board of Commissioners after Republic Services appealed the County Planning Commission’s decision to deny the application. In a public hearing held October 22-23, the Board considered evidence from the Planning Commission hearing and new evidence submitted since the appeal was filed on Aug. 12.

The Board met on Nov. 4 for deliberations. In a meeting lasting just over an hour, they voted two to one to approve the application with some modifications to the conditions of approval outlined in the staff report published Oct. 15.

County staff are creating a final written decision document which will include findings and justification for the decision. The decision will be final once the decision document is adopted on Nov. 17.

Adoption of the decision will take place in a regular Board of Commissioners meeting. It will be one item on a full agenda of Board business. The meeting is being held on a Monday rather than the usual Tuesday to accommodate the schedule of the annual Oregon Association of Counties conference.

See the Board of Commissioners Meeting Portal for the meeting agenda (to be published by close of business on Thursday, Nov. 13) and a link for remote viewing.

For more information about the land use decision process and the application for landfill expansion, visit bentoncountyor.gov/coffin-butte-landfill/.

###

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Board Of Commissioners To Adopt Landfill Expansion Decision On Nov. 17 - 11/05/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Board of Commissioners will finalize their decision and adopt findings to approve the proposed expansion of the Coffin Butte Landfill on Monday, Nov. 17 at 9 a.m. Community members can attend the meeting in the Holmes & Shipley meeting room of the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis.

Because the record of the hearing is closed, no public testimony will be taken.

The application for the proposed expansion came before the Board of Commissioners after Republic Services appealed the County Planning Commission’s decision to deny the application. In a public hearing held October 22-23, the Board considered evidence from the Planning Commission hearing and new evidence submitted since the appeal was filed on Aug. 12.

The Board met on Nov. 4 for deliberations. In a meeting lasting just over an hour, they voted two to one to approve the application with some modifications to the conditions of approval outlined in the staff report published Oct. 15.

County staff are creating a final written decision document which will include findings and justification for the decision. The decision will be final once the decision document is adopted on Nov. 17.

Adoption of the decision will take place in a regular Board of Commissioners meeting. It will be one item on a full agenda of Board business. The meeting is being held on a Monday rather than the usual Tuesday to accommodate the schedule of the annual Oregon Association of Counties conference.

See the Board of Commissioners Meeting Portal for the meeting agenda (to be published by close of business on Thursday, Nov. 13) and a link for remote viewing.

For more information about the land use decision process and the application for landfill expansion, visit bentoncountyor.gov/coffin-butte-landfill/.

###

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Find Food Help In Benton County (Photo) - 11/03/25

* Español a continuación *

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The current federal government shutdown and recent federal changes to food benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are affecting people in our community. 

Nearly 13,000 people in Benton County (about 13% of the total population) get SNAP food benefits through the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). This includes more than 2,600 children and 1,100+ older adults.  

The federal government shutdown interferes with the distribution of SNAP funds. On October 31 a federal judge ruled that SNAP funds must be reinstated, but it’s still unclear how quickly that will happen. 

Because of this, Benton County is sharing information about where to find food help and what to do if you receive SNAP benefits. If you are able to give, scroll down to find out how you can help.  

Where to find food in Benton County:  

  • Contact 211info by dialing 2-1-1, texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or visiting 211info.org.  
  • Older adults and people with disabilities: Call the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC) at 1-855-673-2372 or visit ocwcog.org/seniors-disability/adrc for help finding local resources. 

For people getting SNAP benefits, ODHS recommends: 

  • Check your EBT card balance often.  
  • Keep following SNAP rules and reporting requirements.  
  • Sign up for an ONE Online account and download the Oregon ONE Mobile app at benefits.oregon.gov to get updates about your SNAP case. 

How to help feed our community: 

  • Donate nonperishable food at one of the local food banks listed here. There are food banks in Adair Village, Albany, Alsea, Blodgett, Corvallis, Monroe and Philomath. 
  • Volunteer at a food bank or meal site. There are many volunteer opportunities at local soup kitchens and food pantries. In addition, Linn Benton Food Share needs volunteers to repackage food, glean surplus food from farmers and grocers, host or participate in a food drive/fundraiser, help with special events and more.   

###

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Español 

Encuentre dónde conseguir comida en el Condado de Benton

El cierre del gobierno federal y los recientes cambios en los beneficios de comida del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP por sus siglas en inglés), también conocido como “estampillas de comida” están afectando a las personas de nuestra comunidad. 

Casi 13 000 personas en el condado de Benton (aproximadamente el 13 % de la población total) reciben beneficios de comida del SNAP a través del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregón (ODHS por sus siglas en inglés). Esto incluye a más de 2600 niños y más de 1100 adultos mayores. 

El cierre del gobierno federal interfiere con la distribución de los fondos del programa SNAP. El 31 de octubre, un juez federal dictaminó que se deben restablecer dichos fondos, pero aún no se sabe con certeza cuándo sucederá. 

Por este motivo, queremos compartir información sobre dónde conseguir comida en el Condado de Benton. Si puede donar, lea a continuación para saber cómo puede ayudar. 

Dónde conseguir ayuda de comida en su comunidad:

Para las personas que reciben beneficios del SNAP y ODHS se recomienda:

  • Revise con frecuencia el saldo de su tarjeta EBT.
  • Siga cumpliendo con las reglas y los requisitos de reporte del SNAP.
  • Manténgase informado siguiendo las actualizaciones de comunicación del ODHS. Suscríbase aquí: Canales de comunicación del ODHS (folleto en inglés).
  • Regístrese para obtener una cuenta en línea de ONE y descargue la aplicación móvil Oregon ONE en benefits.oregon.gov para recibir actualizaciones sobre su caso del SNAP.

Cómo puede ayudar a alimentar a nuestra comunidad:

  • Done alimentos no perecederos en uno de los bancos de alimentos locales que aparecen aquí. Hay bancos de alimentos en Adair Village, Albany, Alsea, Blodgett, Corvallis, Monroe y Philomath.
  • Done fondos a Linn Benton Food Share para proporcionar el equivalente a seis comidas por cada dólar donado.
  • Sea voluntario en un banco de alimentos o comedor social. Hay muchas oportunidades de voluntariado en comedores sociales y despensas de alimentos locales. Además, Linn Benton Food Share necesita voluntarios para reempacar alimentos, recoger excedentes de alimentos de agricultores y tiendas de comestibles, organizar o participar en una colecta de alimentos o una recaudación de fondos, ayudar con eventos especiales y mucho más.

###

El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Attached Media Files: Food resources in Benton County ESP.png, Food resources in Benton County.png,

Find Food Help In Benton County (Photo) - 11/03/25

* Español a continuación *

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The current federal government shutdown and recent federal changes to food benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are affecting people in our community. 

Nearly 13,000 people in Benton County (about 13% of the total population) get SNAP food benefits through the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). This includes more than 2,600 children and 1,100+ older adults.  

The federal government shutdown interferes with the distribution of SNAP funds. On October 31 a federal judge ruled that SNAP funds must be reinstated, but it’s still unclear how quickly that will happen. 

Because of this, Benton County is sharing information about where to find food help and what to do if you receive SNAP benefits. If you are able to give, scroll down to find out how you can help.  

Where to find food in Benton County:  

  • Contact 211info by dialing 2-1-1, texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or visiting 211info.org.  
  • Older adults and people with disabilities: Call the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC) at 1-855-673-2372 or visit ocwcog.org/seniors-disability/adrc for help finding local resources. 

For people getting SNAP benefits, ODHS recommends: 

  • Check your EBT card balance often.  
  • Keep following SNAP rules and reporting requirements.  
  • Sign up for an ONE Online account and download the Oregon ONE Mobile app at benefits.oregon.gov to get updates about your SNAP case. 

How to help feed our community: 

  • Donate nonperishable food at one of the local food banks listed here. There are food banks in Adair Village, Albany, Alsea, Blodgett, Corvallis, Monroe and Philomath. 
  • Volunteer at a food bank or meal site. There are many volunteer opportunities at local soup kitchens and food pantries. In addition, Linn Benton Food Share needs volunteers to repackage food, glean surplus food from farmers and grocers, host or participate in a food drive/fundraiser, help with special events and more.   

###

Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Español 

Encuentre dónde conseguir comida en el Condado de Benton

El cierre del gobierno federal y los recientes cambios en los beneficios de comida del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP por sus siglas en inglés), también conocido como “estampillas de comida” están afectando a las personas de nuestra comunidad. 

Casi 13 000 personas en el condado de Benton (aproximadamente el 13 % de la población total) reciben beneficios de comida del SNAP a través del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregón (ODHS por sus siglas en inglés). Esto incluye a más de 2600 niños y más de 1100 adultos mayores. 

El cierre del gobierno federal interfiere con la distribución de los fondos del programa SNAP. El 31 de octubre, un juez federal dictaminó que se deben restablecer dichos fondos, pero aún no se sabe con certeza cuándo sucederá. 

Por este motivo, queremos compartir información sobre dónde conseguir comida en el Condado de Benton. Si puede donar, lea a continuación para saber cómo puede ayudar. 

Dónde conseguir ayuda de comida en su comunidad:

Para las personas que reciben beneficios del SNAP y ODHS se recomienda:

  • Revise con frecuencia el saldo de su tarjeta EBT.
  • Siga cumpliendo con las reglas y los requisitos de reporte del SNAP.
  • Manténgase informado siguiendo las actualizaciones de comunicación del ODHS. Suscríbase aquí: Canales de comunicación del ODHS (folleto en inglés).
  • Regístrese para obtener una cuenta en línea de ONE y descargue la aplicación móvil Oregon ONE en benefits.oregon.gov para recibir actualizaciones sobre su caso del SNAP.

Cómo puede ayudar a alimentar a nuestra comunidad:

  • Done alimentos no perecederos en uno de los bancos de alimentos locales que aparecen aquí. Hay bancos de alimentos en Adair Village, Albany, Alsea, Blodgett, Corvallis, Monroe y Philomath.
  • Done fondos a Linn Benton Food Share para proporcionar el equivalente a seis comidas por cada dólar donado.
  • Sea voluntario en un banco de alimentos o comedor social. Hay muchas oportunidades de voluntariado en comedores sociales y despensas de alimentos locales. Además, Linn Benton Food Share necesita voluntarios para reempacar alimentos, recoger excedentes de alimentos de agricultores y tiendas de comestibles, organizar o participar en una colecta de alimentos o una recaudación de fondos, ayudar con eventos especiales y mucho más.

###

El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Attached Media Files: Food resources in Benton County ESP.png, Food resources in Benton County.png,

Reminder: No Election In Benton County On November 4 (Photo) - 10/30/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Tuesday, Nov. 4 is election day in much of the United States, but not here in Benton County. Like 18 other Oregon counties, Benton County has nothing on the ballot this November.

Just 17 of Oregon’s 36 counties will hold November elections this year. This is not unusual for odd-numbered years, when special elections are held for local concerns like levies and bonds.

Special elections are being held on Nov. 4 in all the counties that border Benton: Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion and Polk. People living in Benton County will likely hear friends and coworkers talking about ballots and elections but will not receive a ballot themselves.

This includes people living in North Albany, which lies in Benton County. The rest of Albany – located in Linn County – will receive ballots for that county’s special election.

Attached Media Files: Ballot Box.jpg,

Reminder: No Election In Benton County On November 4 (Photo) - 10/30/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Tuesday, Nov. 4 is election day in much of the United States, but not here in Benton County. Like 18 other Oregon counties, Benton County has nothing on the ballot this November.

Just 17 of Oregon’s 36 counties will hold November elections this year. This is not unusual for odd-numbered years, when special elections are held for local concerns like levies and bonds.

Special elections are being held on Nov. 4 in all the counties that border Benton: Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion and Polk. People living in Benton County will likely hear friends and coworkers talking about ballots and elections but will not receive a ballot themselves.

This includes people living in North Albany, which lies in Benton County. The rest of Albany – located in Linn County – will receive ballots for that county’s special election.

Attached Media Files: Ballot Box.jpg,

Celebrate Mushroom Day At Beazell Memorial Forest Nov. 9 (Photo) - 10/28/25

The community is invited to explore the fascinating world of fungi at Mushroom Day on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at Beazell Memorial Forest.

This family-friendly event offers a chance to learn about mushrooms, enjoy the fall forest and connect with nature. Activities include basic mushroom identification and cooking tips at the Education Center, guided trail walks and kid-friendly crafts and games, with hot food and merchandise for purchase.

A free shuttle service with limited space will run from Avery Park and can be requested during registration.

Admission is $15 per person for in-city residents and $18 for out-of-city guests. Families receive a $5 discount for each additional member, and children under 12 attend free.

“Mushroom Day is a great way to celebrate the season and discover the hidden life of our forests,” said Jesse Ott, Benton County Natural Areas, Parks and Events Director. “Whether you’re a seasoned forager or just curious, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

The event is sponsored by Oregon State University, The Mushroomery, Corvallis Environmental Center, Benton County and Corvallis Parks & Recreation.

For more information or to register, visit the Corvallis Parks & Recreation website.

Attached Media Files: Mushroom Day Flyer, A photo from 2024 Mushroom Day,

Celebrate Mushroom Day At Beazell Memorial Forest Nov. 9 (Photo) - 10/28/25

The community is invited to explore the fascinating world of fungi at Mushroom Day on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at Beazell Memorial Forest.

This family-friendly event offers a chance to learn about mushrooms, enjoy the fall forest and connect with nature. Activities include basic mushroom identification and cooking tips at the Education Center, guided trail walks and kid-friendly crafts and games, with hot food and merchandise for purchase.

A free shuttle service with limited space will run from Avery Park and can be requested during registration.

Admission is $15 per person for in-city residents and $18 for out-of-city guests. Families receive a $5 discount for each additional member, and children under 12 attend free.

“Mushroom Day is a great way to celebrate the season and discover the hidden life of our forests,” said Jesse Ott, Benton County Natural Areas, Parks and Events Director. “Whether you’re a seasoned forager or just curious, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

The event is sponsored by Oregon State University, The Mushroomery, Corvallis Environmental Center, Benton County and Corvallis Parks & Recreation.

For more information or to register, visit the Corvallis Parks & Recreation website.

Attached Media Files: Mushroom Day Flyer, A photo from 2024 Mushroom Day,

Board Of Commissioners Leaves Record Open For Responses To Evidence Presented In Landfill Appeal Hearing - 10/24/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Board of Commissioners has finished hearing testimony on the appeal of the Planning Commission decision to deny expansion of the Coffin Butte Landfill.

At the end of the second night of hearings on Oct. 23, 2025, pursuant to ORS 197.797(4)(b) the Board left the written record open until Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 4 p.m. for the limited purpose of responding to documents and evidence submitted during the two nights of hearings before the Board.

Responses to documents and evidence submitted during the two nights of hearings must be submitted in hard copy (physical copy) and received by the Board of Commissioners in the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way, Suite 100, Corvallis, OR 97333. Office hours are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Electronic submissions will not be accepted. Any submissions received after Oct. 29, 2025, at 4 p.m. will not be part of the record.

Next steps

Wednesday, Oct. 29, 4 p.m.
Deadline to submit written testimony responding to documents and evidence presented during the two nights of hearings before the Board of Commissioners

Tuesday, Nov. 4, 1 p.m.
Deliberations and decision by Board of Commissioners
Location: Kalapuya Building, 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis
Zoom registration

Monday, Nov. 17, 9 a.m.
Board of Commissioners adopts final written decision
Location: Kalapuya Building, 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis
Visit the Board of Commissioners Meeting Portal to access a live stream of the meeting.

Public record

The LU-24-027 Public Record is available on the County’s website.

Recordings of the two nights of hearings before the Board of Commissioners can be viewed on the County’s YouTube channel.

  • The Oct. 22 recording includes a presentation of the Planning Division Staff Report, a presentation by the applicant, verbal testimony by proponents of the expansion, testimony by government representatives and the beginning of testimony by opponents of the expansion.
  • The Oct. 23 recording includes the bulk of the testimony by opponents of the expansion. The meeting wrapped up with questions from the Commissioners to be addressed in the applicant's written rebuttal.

For more information about the appeal hearing visit bentoncountyor.gov/coffin-butte-landfill.

Board Of Commissioners Leaves Record Open For Responses To Evidence Presented In Landfill Appeal Hearing - 10/24/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Board of Commissioners has finished hearing testimony on the appeal of the Planning Commission decision to deny expansion of the Coffin Butte Landfill.

At the end of the second night of hearings on Oct. 23, 2025, pursuant to ORS 197.797(4)(b) the Board left the written record open until Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 4 p.m. for the limited purpose of responding to documents and evidence submitted during the two nights of hearings before the Board.

Responses to documents and evidence submitted during the two nights of hearings must be submitted in hard copy (physical copy) and received by the Board of Commissioners in the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way, Suite 100, Corvallis, OR 97333. Office hours are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Electronic submissions will not be accepted. Any submissions received after Oct. 29, 2025, at 4 p.m. will not be part of the record.

Next steps

Wednesday, Oct. 29, 4 p.m.
Deadline to submit written testimony responding to documents and evidence presented during the two nights of hearings before the Board of Commissioners

Tuesday, Nov. 4, 1 p.m.
Deliberations and decision by Board of Commissioners
Location: Kalapuya Building, 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis
Zoom registration

Monday, Nov. 17, 9 a.m.
Board of Commissioners adopts final written decision
Location: Kalapuya Building, 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis
Visit the Board of Commissioners Meeting Portal to access a live stream of the meeting.

Public record

The LU-24-027 Public Record is available on the County’s website.

Recordings of the two nights of hearings before the Board of Commissioners can be viewed on the County’s YouTube channel.

  • The Oct. 22 recording includes a presentation of the Planning Division Staff Report, a presentation by the applicant, verbal testimony by proponents of the expansion, testimony by government representatives and the beginning of testimony by opponents of the expansion.
  • The Oct. 23 recording includes the bulk of the testimony by opponents of the expansion. The meeting wrapped up with questions from the Commissioners to be addressed in the applicant's written rebuttal.

For more information about the appeal hearing visit bentoncountyor.gov/coffin-butte-landfill.

Benton County Approves $100,000 Grant For Aquatic Center Improvements - 10/17/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Board of Commissioners has approved a grant of up to $100,000 to the Corvallis School District to support planned improvements to the Osborn Aquatic Center.

The City of Corvallis and Corvallis School District jointly operate and maintain the Osborn Aquatic Center, which serves as both a community recreation hub and a regional training and competition facility for students and swim teams. Swim meets and public programs hosted there contribute to local tourism and economic activity.

Providing financial support for a swimming pool is an unprecedented decision for Benton County leaders, but the Board of Commissioners recognizes how much recreation, youth development, training opportunities and tourism revenues have already been affected since Osborn closed in October 2024.

“Osborn Aquatic Center plays an important role in our community’s health and economy,” said Board Chair Nancy Wyse. “From hosting swim meets that draw visitors to supporting recreation opportunities for families, it’s a facility that benefits the entire County. This grant recognizes its value while being mindful of future funding needs.”

Wyse cited sizable budget cuts and the Board’s efforts to maintain current service levels across the County as funding sources are cut. “Even so, I’m proud that we were able to figure out a way to make a meaningful contribution to a project that benefits so many people across our community.”

County Administrator Rachel McEneny echoed the desire to support the aquatic center despite the challenges facing counties. “County governments in Oregon and across the country are facing draconian budget cuts that threaten basic public services our communities rely on, including rural health, mental health, veterans’ services and public safety. These services extend well beyond city limits.”

“While some fiscal realities of cities, school districts and counties are different, we share the same community,” McEneny continued. “Investing very constrained county resources shows that even in tight budget times, Benton County is committed to supporting partnerships that benefit our communities.”

Benton County Approves $100,000 Grant For Aquatic Center Improvements - 10/17/25

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Board of Commissioners has approved a grant of up to $100,000 to the Corvallis School District to support planned improvements to the Osborn Aquatic Center.

The City of Corvallis and Corvallis School District jointly operate and maintain the Osborn Aquatic Center, which serves as both a community recreation hub and a regional training and competition facility for students and swim teams. Swim meets and public programs hosted there contribute to local tourism and economic activity.

Providing financial support for a swimming pool is an unprecedented decision for Benton County leaders, but the Board of Commissioners recognizes how much recreation, youth development, training opportunities and tourism revenues have already been affected since Osborn closed in October 2024.

“Osborn Aquatic Center plays an important role in our community’s health and economy,” said Board Chair Nancy Wyse. “From hosting swim meets that draw visitors to supporting recreation opportunities for families, it’s a facility that benefits the entire County. This grant recognizes its value while being mindful of future funding needs.”

Wyse cited sizable budget cuts and the Board’s efforts to maintain current service levels across the County as funding sources are cut. “Even so, I’m proud that we were able to figure out a way to make a meaningful contribution to a project that benefits so many people across our community.”

County Administrator Rachel McEneny echoed the desire to support the aquatic center despite the challenges facing counties. “County governments in Oregon and across the country are facing draconian budget cuts that threaten basic public services our communities rely on, including rural health, mental health, veterans’ services and public safety. These services extend well beyond city limits.”

“While some fiscal realities of cities, school districts and counties are different, we share the same community,” McEneny continued. “Investing very constrained county resources shows that even in tight budget times, Benton County is committed to supporting partnerships that benefit our communities.”