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Gas prices

Smoke invades

still falling Page A3

Columbia County Page A6

FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2020

The Chief

$1

VOL. 128, NO. 49

Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Ignoring the order

Reopening Oregon Governor outlines framework JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Even though Oregon’s Stay Home Save Lives order is still in place, people are out enjoying the sunny warm weather along the Columbia River.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

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Even though Oregon’s Stay Home Save Lives order is still in place until Governor Brown’s reopening plan is finalized, state officials say improving weather has triggered a return to the outdoors for many.

You’ll likely see more people out boating and participating in recreation events this weekend along the Columbia River from Scappoose to Clatskanie, similar to what happened last weekend.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) officials said people have removed park barriers, torn down signs and have trespassed onto park property despite the current closure under Oregon’s Stay Home order.

OPRD spokesman Chris Havel said while he hasn’t yet received reports of people moving barricades or signs being taken at state parks in Columbia County, rangers are finding people entering the BanksVernonia Trail.

“We are ushering them back out,” Havel said. “Some may think the trail isn’t a park, like Stub Stewart is, but it is.”

Havel said many people don’t understand the importance of staying close to home.

“It doesn’t appear to make sense that someone can transmit a virus while outside,” he said. “If we’ve learned anything from this, though, it’s that caution comes with rewards. The more careful we are now, even outdoors, the faster we’ll get through this. Some tantalizing research shows the heavier you breathe, the further you need to be from other people to avoid exposing them.”

Havel said violators of the closed state parks can face stiff penalties.

“Entering a closed park will earn you a talking to, then a warning, then possibly a citation that can vary from a few hundred dollars to more than a thousand,” Havel said. “It can also get you barred from a park for a time, meaning that even after it opens, everyone will be able to visit except for you.”

Havel offers this advice while the Stay Home Save Lives order is place.

“Stay home,” he said. “If you need to get out, do it around your home. Avoid crowds. Gardening, outdoor yoga, washing your car. You

See ORDER Page A3

Wildfire Season Preparation Photo courtesy of the Oregon Forestry Department

The intensity of wildfires can be seen in this photo from a previous Oregon wildfire.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Clatskanie Rural Fire Protection District (CRFPD) is preparing for what officials said could be a dangerous wildfire season ahead this summer.

CRFPD Chief Steve Sharek said the weather now and into late summer and early fall will be a key factor in the 2020 wildfire season in Clatskanie and Columbia County.

“Currently we are about 6-8”

inches below normal rain for our area,” Sharek said. “We have had enough rain although to allow for vegetation to grow and as it dries out this will be the fuel load.”

Sharek said the sunny and warm conditions over the past two weeks has produced periods of very low humidity, which will allow for non-green materials to actively burn.

The National Interagency Fire Center’s (NIFC) National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook, states that March was a month of drought development

and expansion in the West. By mid-month, most of Oregon and California were experiencing abnormally dry or moderate drought conditions.

“Normal significant large fire potential is expected during the outlook period through June followed by above normal significant large fire potential for central through eastern Washington and most of Oregon excluding extreme

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See FIRE Page A6

Birthday processions for kids

“We have to be careful,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown cautioned as she outlined the state’s framework for reopening Oregon following the initial impact of the coronavirus.”

“We have to be cautious or it will backfire,” she said.

During a morning news conference in Portland on April 14, Brown said there was no set time for the reopening the state’s society and economy and that it will be based on several factors.

“If we move too quickly, we will see a spike in cases and that could lead to an overwhelmed hospital system and unnecessary deaths,” Brown said. “We all want to get back to work and return to life as normal and as quickly as possible, but the truth is the best path forward is a cautious one. A path that proceeds gradually and incrementally and carefully. This is not like turning on a light.”

Brown said the decision to reopen would be based on a path based on a science that accounts for the need of Oregon’s economy and communities.

“First, we need to slow the growth,” Brown said. “We need to see fewer and fewer cases of COVID-19.

Second, we need adequate PPE (personal protection equipment), masks, gloves and gowns. Third, we have to establish a best public heath framework to support the reopening effort.”

Brown said that will include ramping up testing capacities in every region of the state. The increased testing will help the state identify specifically where the virus is and to stop it from spreading, she said.

“This will take really strong partnerships between the private sector and the public sector,” Brown said.

“We also need to develop a system for contract tracing to identify those who might have been exposed to the virus and to stop further transmissions,” she said.

Brown said the state needs to develop a quarantine process for those who test position for COVID-19 that includes strategies for nursing home residents.

Next steps

Photo courtesy of Jessica Pomazal

Tristan Pomazal looks out and waves at CCSO officers during a procession for his 10th birthday.

CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net

In light of Gov. Kate Brown’s social distancing order due to the novel coronavirus, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has begun a new program to hold birthday processions for children ages 3-13 in Columbia County.

Sheriff Brian Pixley said the CCSO has done approximately 50 processions since the program

“I knew we had to do this.” ~ Brian Pixley, Columbia County Sheriff began April 6.

“It has been difficult sometimes because we do these in between calls for service,” Pixley said. “If it gets busy, we aren’t able to do the processions. But we try to fit in as many as we can.

The birthday procession is

what it sounds like: CCSO officers, which are usually however many Pixley can summon from the office, will drive by the birthday child’s home. They will sounds the siren a few times and wish the child a happy birthday. One of the officers will then get out and give the child a gift bag with some CCSO stickers and swag.

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See BIRTHDAY Page A3

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Brown said she will continue to meet with state and local health officials and reach out to industry, business and retail to help determine the reopening process.

“We cannot stand still,” Brown said. “We can, and we will, get through this together.”

Brown, California Governor Gavin Newsom and Washington Governor Jay Inslee announced Monday.

April 13, that they have reached an agreement about reopening the three states’ economies and controlling COVID-19 into the future, but they say such a decision will be guided by data.

“We need to see a decline in the rate of spread of the virus before large-scale reopening,” the governors said in a joint release issued Monday, April 13.

The three governors said through quick and decisive action, each of the states has made significant progress in flattening the curve and slowing the spread of COVID-19 among the broader public.

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See REOPENING Page A5

A2

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Friday, April 17, 2020

OSHA safety spot checks

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

The Oregon Employment Department expects the April data, published on May 19, to show the early effects on employment and the unemployment rate in Oregon.

Record level jobless claims STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

During the week of April 5 to April 11, the Oregon Employment Department received 53,800 initial claims for unemployment benefits.

That’s in addition to a revised total of 243,000 initial claims filed during the prior three weeks.

During the week of March 29 to April 4, the Employment Department paid $23 million in benefits to Oregonians. During the week of April 5 to April 11, that more than quadrupled to $97 million in benefits paid.

The Employment Department has detailed information for 47,700 of the initial claims processed during the week starting April 5.

The leisure and hospitality sector, which includes hotels and restaurants, continued to see the greatest number of initial claims for unemployment benefits (12,300). This reflects ongoing impacts of public health and safety measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since March 15, there have been about 52,900 initial claims filed in the leisure and hospitality sector. Health care and social assistance (25,800) and retail trade (19,700) are other sectors with large totals of initial weekly claims in the past four weeks, but every sector has seen additional claims activity.

Multnomah (10,200), Washington (6,000), and Lane (4,600) also continued to be

the counties with the largest number of claims. More initial claims data by industry and area can be found on the QualityInfo.org COVID-19 page.

The Oregon Employment Department continues to prioritize efforts that can get the most benefits to the greatest number of affected Oregonians the fastest. With the first CARES Act payments on April 10, Oregon is among the early states getting an extra $600 per week to those out of work due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unemployment Insurance claims can only be filed using our online system or by calling 1-877-FILE-4-UI. The Oregon Employment Department encourages everyone who can to file online and help keep wait times down on the phone.

Unemployment rate The latest Oregon Employment Department jobless report shows the unemployment rate remaining at record low levels, however the March 3.3 percent rate doesn’t reflect the total impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The March unemployment figure is consistent with the January and February rates.

COVID-19 impact The U.S. unemployment rate rose from 3.5 percent in February to 4.4 percent in March, showing the leading edge of job losses related to the pandemic as closures began to

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Oregon’s labor force data for March showed little impact from the spread of the coronavirus, since the March unemployment rate is based on people’s activity during the week that included Sunday, March 8 through Saturday, March 14.

The March data from Oregon’s establishment and household surveys do not reflect the early effects of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on the labor market. Oregon Employment Department officials said the report was collected prior to public health measures related to social distancing began on March 17.

The Oregon Employment Department expects the April data, published on May 19, to show the early effects on employment and the unemployment rate in Oregon.

The latest Oregon unemployment claims are now being posted on the department’s website at Weekly New Unemployment Insurance Claims.

By the numbers Total nonfarm payroll employment declined by 4,800 jobs in March, following a gain of 2,000 jobs in February.

Three major industries lost at least 1,000 jobs in March: leisure and hospitality (-2,000 jobs), retail trade (-1,700), and private educational services (-1,000). Only one industry gained a substantial number of jobs in March: construction (+900 jobs).

We are also available for faxes or copies, and notary services by appointment only.

Focus enforcement Those complaints include allegations of failures to heed the requirements included in Gov. Kate Brown’s executive order, including certain businesses that must close to the public and others that are required to implement proper social-distancing practices.

As Oregon OSHA moves forward, agents will also focus enforcement activity on more recent complaints, and on those that provide specific allegations, as well as include contact information for the complainant. The division can protect a complainant’s confidentiality on request – a legal shield against an employer obtaining a complainant’s identity – while still being able to engage with the complainant.

“This approach will allow us to verify the responses to complaints that we’ve received so far from employers while focusing our enforcement resources on those employers most likely to be in continued non-compliance,” Oregon OSHA administrator Michael Wood said.

Social distancing impact Recent analysis suggests Oregon’s collective efforts to fight the spread of the coronavirus are working.

As reported by the Oregon Health Authority, new projections from health researchers estimate that Oregon’s aggressive social distancing measures have prevented as many as 18,000 cases of COVID-19 and 500 hospitalizations. However, these restrictions must be maintained into May to prevent new cases from rising above current daily levels of active coronavirus cases.

The responsibility for prevention includes certain employers staying closed to the public, and employers who remain open maintaining social-distancing and other safe practices.

Tasked with enforcing the order with respect to employers and worker exposure, Oregon OSHA continues to screen complaints, initiate inspections, and consider additional inspection candidates.

The complaints From March 2 through April 12, the division received 2,887 complaints related to the coronavirus. More than 1,200 of those came during the week of March 23, when the governor’s executive order was issued.

Since April 6, the number of complaints has noticeably tapered off. The division typically receives just over 2,000 complaints per year.

In screening complaints, Oregon OSHA’s work has included clarifying employers’ responsibilities under the governor’s order and asking employers to specifically respond to the allegations

outlined in complaints.

So far, the division has opened a dozen on-site inspections. The opening and closing of an inspection – and a decision whether to issue a citation – can take several weeks, depending on the specifics of a case. The division is working to accelerate that process.

The division may conduct on-site inspections for a variety of reasons, including whether it determines an employer’s response to the complaints may not be credible. Responses include phone calls and written documentation.

The formal introduction of systematic spot checks – about two dozen of which have been conducted previously on a less formal basis – is aimed at verifying what employers are telling the division about their actions without requiring the more resource-intensive formal inspection process.

Resources For more information about Oregon OSHA workplace guidance and resources related to the coronavirus outbreak, visit https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/re/covid-19. aspx To understand Oregon OSHA’s scope of activity in relation to the governor’s order, the order’s requirements in that context, and a list of the types of businesses that must close to the public, visit: https://osha.oregon.gov/Documents/COVID-19-scope-forOregon-OSHA.pdf In Spanish: https://osha. oregon.gov/Documents/ COVID-19-Spanish-scopeOregon-OSHA.pdf Oregon OSHA, a division of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. For more information, go to osha. oregon.gov.

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The state’s workplace watchdog, Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration, (Oregon OSHA) is launching spot checks following a sharp jump in complaints about businesses not complying with the state’s social distancing requirements.

In a release, Oregon OSHA said it is ramping up its enforcement activity and will begin systematically conducting spot checks to verify that employers are complying with requirements – including closures to the public – aimed at curbing the coronavirus pandemic.

The spot checks – which are in addition to more timeintensive, on-site inspections initiated by the division – are intended to confirm whether employers are actually doing what they are telling the division they are doing in response to complaints.

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Friday, April 17, 2020

A3

Local food bank relief

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Turning Point is a social service agency in Clatskanie that relies on the Oregon Food Bank and community donations for assists to families in need.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Local food bank officials said they are encouraged with the announcement from Gov. Brown that the Oregon Food Bank will receive $8 million to fill an urgent need for Oregon families seeking food assistance during the COVID-19 public health crisis.

The state will pay Oregon Food Bank weekly, as needed over the next eight weeks, to meet the increased demand.

The state expects to receive a 75% reimbursement from FEMA, in accordance with the federal emergency declaration.

“In times of crisis, no Oregonian should need to wonder where they can find food for their family,” Brown said. “I know many Oregonians, through no fault of their own, have lost their jobs and incomes due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Oregon Food Bank Network

ORDER From Page A1 have options.”

Some areas remain open in Columbia County, such as the Scappoose Bay Marine Park, 57420 Old Portland Road in Warren, but with social distancing recommendations.

The Bay Marine Park is operated by the Port of Columbia County.

According to the Port’s website, Scappoose Bay Marine Park and Bayport RV Park, including the boat ramp, will remain open as long as people can continue to maintain the 6-foot social distancing requirements. The public restrooms by the picnic gazebo are currently closed, but there are portable toilets down by the boat ramp. Our business tenant, Scappoose Bay Paddling Center, is closed, but the public can use

is a vital resource for families in need.

“The organization is facing an increase in demand while they also address a significant decrease in food donations from commercial sources. This funding supports Oregon Food Bank’s efforts to ensure resources remain available to Oregonians facing food insecurity — bridging the gap until additional food and funds from the federal CARES Act reach Oregon.”

Columbia Pacific Food Bank helps fill the pantries of food banks across Columbia County, including Clatskanie, struggling to meet sharply higher demands form low income residents following the outbreak of COVID-19.

“We are pleased with the Governor’s action on this issue,” Columbia Pacific Food Bank development director Megan Fawcett said. “We have seen an increase of 65% in demand for food and this will provide much needed the kayak dock as usual.

Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley said his deputies are not taking enforcement action on people not following the Stay Home order.

“We look at this as an opportunity to educate people,” Pixley said. “My advice would be to follow the Governor’s Stay at Home order. That way we can help our community remain safe and protect the vulnerable population in Columbia County as well as Oregon.”

Oregon State Police (OSP) Capt. Timothy Fox said troopers are also reacting to people violating the Stay Home order.

“Troopers are educating the public found in violation of the Governor’s Executive Order,” Fox said. “There is possibility for a citation, which is a Class C misdemeanor. We prefer education and voluntary compliance, but it would be the last resort.”

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shelf stable food which was in very short supply prior to the pandemic.”

The Oregon Food Bank Network – which includes 21 regional food banks and more than 1,400 food assistance sites around the state – has seen a dramatic increase in demand since March. At the same time, donations from food producers, manufacturers, and grocers – which typically represent a majority of the Oregon Food Bank’s in-kind donations – have decreased dramatically due to high demand, creating a significant strain on their ability to support some of Oregon’s most vulnerable populations.

“Hunger was a crisis before the pandemic – especially for communities of color, migrant and immigrant communities, trans communities, and single moms,” Oregon Food Bank CEO Susannah Morgan said. “We’re grateful for the continued leadership of Governor Brown and our partnership with the state’s emergency coordination center as we work together to address this crisis head-on.”

Though this investment strongly positions the state’s Food Bank Network to increase food availability in the coming weeks, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (often referred to as SNAP or food stamps) remains the state’s first line of defense against hunger, according to a release from Brown’s office.

Recent state and federal action eliminates many restrictions on SNAP eligibility and expands coverage. Application information and additional resources are available through the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Fox said while OSP has seen a decrease in calls for service during the coronavirus pandemic, troopers are seeing an increase in traffic high speeds and a rise in firearm purchasing investigations and assisting local agencies.

Fox said it is important for everyone to follow the Stay Home order.

• Enjoy the outdoor areas of your home. Enjoy physical activities solo or with members of your household (walking, biking). Have a virtual picnic with friends.

Open doors and windows to get fresh air. Get things done at home (gardening, car washing).

• Don’t participate in group sports. Don’t visit crowded or closed parks.

Don’t attend social gatherings. Don’t go out if you are sick. Don’t travel.

• Remember: Keep a safe physical distance of at least six feet from people you do not live with and wash your hands regularly.

• Keep your distance, do your part.

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Gas prices at the pumps continue to fall during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prices in Columbia County range from $2.37 to $2.49 for a gallon of unleaded regular.

Still going down!

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Demand for gasoline in the U.S. has fallen to its lowest level since 1993 as Americans are urged to stay at home because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Pump prices are falling in all 50 states, according to the latest American Automobile Association (AAA) Oregon/ Idaho price survey. For the week, the national average for regular unleaded loses eight cents to $1.92 a gallon.

The Oregon average also falls eight cents to $2.62. The national average is at its lowest price since January 2016, and the Oregon average is at its lowest price since March 2017.

The Chief has spotted prices this week in Columbia County ranging from $2.37 to $2.49 per gallon of unleaded regular. The prices were as low as $2.15 in the Willamette Valley as of April 15.

Demand for gas in the U.S. has fallen to a 27-year low.

“Gasoline demand is expected to remain low as the majority of states have stay-at-home orders,” Oregon/Idaho public affairs director Marie Dodds said. “This will continue to

BIRTHDAY From Page A1 Requests for the processions have been in the hundreds, Pixley said. While the CCSO can’t always honor every single request, Pixley said they try to honor as many as possible.

Pixley got the idea from an article he read on Facebook about an agency offering birthday processions on the East Coast of the United States.

“It resonated with me,” Pixley said. “I knew we had to do this.”

put downward pressure on pump prices.”

Crude oil prices started to increase at the end of last week; however this is not expected to have a major impact on gas prices in the short term because of the very low demand. Market analysts are also keeping an eye on refinery rates. The U.S. refinery utilization average is down to 82%, a low not seen since September 2017 in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

Given the drop in crude oil and gasoline demand, which is expected to push even lower, refineries are reducing production in hopes this could help to balance the amount of gasoline supply in the country.

Pump prices are lower this week in Oregon and all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Idaho (-15 cents) has the largest weekly drop while the District of Columbia (-2 cents) has the smallest.

This week there’s only one state, Hawaii, with an average at or above $3 a gallon.

California has dropped below the $3 mark.

The cheapest gas in the nation can be found in Wisconsin ($1.42) and Oklahoma ($1.47). This is the fourth week in a row that one or

more states has an average below $2 a gallon. In all, 33 states are below that benchmark.

Oregon is one of all 50 states and the District of Columbia with lower prices now than a month ago. The national average is 48 cents less and the Oregon average is 36 cents less than a month ago. Wisconsin (-86 cents) has the largest month-overmonth decline. Hawaii (-25 cents) has the smallest.

Oregon is one of 50 states and the District of Columbia where drivers are paying less than a year ago. The national average is 82 cents less and the Oregon average is 54 cents less than a year ago.

Wisconsin (-$1.32) has the largest year-over-year drop.

Hawaii (-20 cents) has the smallest.

Under temporary rules announced by the Oregon Fire Marshal in March, Oregonians can temporarily pump their own gas due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Stations aren’t required to offer self-serve gas, but it is allowed until April 11 in order to reduce contact that could spread COVID-19, and ensure essential workers have access to fuel during potential staffing shortages at gas stations.

The very first procession set the tone for the whole program, Pixley said.

“It was for a young boy and as we drove by he was smiling and dancing, then he began crying because he was so happy. I knew right then, in that moment, this was the absolute right thing for us to be doing,” Pixley said.

While the birthday processions are a good way for children to celebrate their birthday in a time where they can’t have a birthday party, they can also be a good way for the community to positively interact with the sheriff’s office, according to Pixley.

“I ran my campaign with the slogan ‘The People’s Sheriff’ because I am invested and active in our community and wanted to bring that culture to the sheriff’s office,” Pixley said.

“I have always believed that the community needs to know they can trust us and that we sincerely care about their wellbeing. This is just another example of that promise in action.”

To schedule a birthday procession, a parent or guardian can email Pixley at Brian.Pixley@columbiacountyor.gov, ideally a few weeks in advance of the birthday.

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Friday, April 17, 2020

•V iewpoints • •

Oregon and COVID-19 BRAD WITT Chief Guest Column

The Oregon Health Authority reports that the Stay Home, Save Lives order is working, and we have slowed the rate of disease transmission and our hospitals remain below capacity in handling COVID-19 patients.

We need to continue our commitment to social distancing to keep this virus from spreading throughout our population.

Distance Learning Because we cannot maintain proper social distancing within our schools, Governor Brown made the decision last week that schools will not reopen this school year, instead schools will be implementing “Distance Learning” to complete the educational instruction. Distance learning comes with challenges for schools, students and their families, but it is necessary to protect the health of our students, school staff and our communities.

The Oregon Department of Education has issued guidance for the “Distance Learning for All” programs that districts are already implementing. Teachers are getting in touch with students so education can continue.

If you have a child in grades K-12 and you have not heard from your school, please reach out to them.

Another educational concern is for those students in the Class of 2020, who

are hoping to graduate this spring. The Department of Education has released Graduation Pathways 2020 to ensure that seniors are able to receive their diplomas and keep their careers and higher education plans on track.

This is going to be a difficult and disappointing time for high school seniors, who have reached a tremendous educational milestone, and now won’t be able to celebrate it with friends in a traditional manner. If you know a senior, acknowledge their achievement and celebrate their educational success.

Reopening Framework This week the Governor described the steps needed to reopen Oregon’s economy.

They include slowing the infection rate of the novel coronavirus, obtaining adequate personal protection equipment for medical staff and first responders, increasing Oregon’s testing capacity and the ability to contact trace for disease transmission, and developing a quarantine and isolation program. The Governor and health officials are urging caution, and say they don’t want to take any action that causes a spike in coronavirus transmission.

When the state begins to lift restrictions, it will be done carefully, with different economic sectors, and in an appropriate manner. There is no timeline set for reopening the economy, and when questioned about timing, Governor Brown quoted Dr.

Anthony Fauci, the director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases who said: “We don’t control the timing, the disease controls the timing.”

Governor Brown will be working with the governors of our neighboring West Coast states, to coordinate plans to reopen their states’ economies. This is an approach similar to the Northeast states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island and Pennsylvania who are also coordinating efforts to keep the virus from spreading widely in their communities.

It is a trying time for everyone as we try to figure things out, and keep people safe.

As is the case with many public spaces, the Capitol Building remains closed to the public, but we monitor our email and phone daily, and we are working to assist constituents. If you need help or have an issue or concern regarding a state agency, contact my office and we’ll see what can be done.

Please take care of yourself and each other. Be Safe.

Rep. Brad Witt serves House District 31. He may be reached at: • Email: Rep.BradWitt@ oregonlegislature.gov • Telephone: 503-9861431 • Capitol Building: 900 Court St NE, H-382, Salem, OR, 97301 • Website: http://www. oregonlegislature.gov/witt

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Clatskanie Grows: The garden year has started CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column

The garden year has truly started Warm sunny days have lifted our spirits in these trying times. Soil is drying out and should be ready rototill. Fruit tree blossoms are pushing hard and bee activity has picked up noticeably.

Of course, it is a little early to plant corn and some of the other heat-loving plants outside unless you have good ways to keep the garden environment around them warm.

But, they can be started as transplants in your home.

Once seedlings emerge, start rotating them, outside in the day, inside at night. Start this rotation carefully until they are hardened off (it takes 3-4 days or so) by putting them out in an outside place with less direct sun at first and then increasing the sun exposure each day. After they are hardened off, they should get as much sun as possible each day and be back inside each night.

You should have the garden area you plan to plant them in prepped and, if rain is coming, covered with a tarp until you transplant.

Then, if the weather has turned cooler, protect them with row cover or some other type temporary protection to speed their growth. Clear plastic over garden beds warm soils fast. When that happens, seeds germinate faster.

Buying topsoil When you buy topsoil, make sure you know what you are buying. Since there’s

no legal definition of ‘topsoil,’ you could be getting just about anything. People think that ‘topsoil’ is better than other soil, because it contains more organic material. But it isn’t necessarily so. Topsoil is just surface soil. That’s all you can claim about it. It isn’t always good material for home gardens.

Don’t buy any loads of topsoil sight unseen. Go to the location where the topsoil is stored and investigate. If an on-site inspection isn’t possible, inspect the load in the truck before it is dumped into your yard.

Topsoil shoppers should keep the following information in mind: Just because something is sold as “topsoil,” it isn’t necessarily of desirable soil texture. Topsoil can range from clayey to sandy material. The best texture for gardening is loam, or sandy loam, with fairly equal proportions of sand, silt and clay.

To estimate the amount of sand or clay in a batch of top soil, take along a small container of water. Mix some of the soil you’re considering buying with water. Make a mixture with bread dough consistency. If the soil forms a sticky mass, there’s too much clay. If it feels gritty and watery, there’s too much sand. Good garden loam should not feel very sticky.

Take a handful of somewhat damp topsoil and squeeze it in your fist. If it is loam, it will form a ball that easily breaks apart.

If you do not find exactly the right soil, modify it with compost. Addition of organic material will increase its water holding capacity, make the soil easier to work up for

planting and make it more the material. If the material hospitable to plant roots. has completely composted, It is not unusual to bring there is almost no tie-up. in some nasty weeds in with If the material is mostly the topsoil. Of particular “raw”, the tie-up can be concern is horsetail or equisubstantial. setum. It is helpful to look The way around the at the soil prior to purchase problem is to add extra with an eye to the weeds that nitrogen to feed the decomare present at the time or the poser organisms. A standard remains of weeds from the recommendation is to add previous season.

3#s of actual nitrogen for Topsoil is usueach cubic yard of ally sold by organic matter. volume, in This is in cubic yard addition units. to the When fertilorderizer ing or needbuyed ing for topthe soil, crop a itself.

Clatskanie good So rule of how Grows thumb do you is to figure how remember much to that one cubic add? If you use yard of topsoil will a synthetic source of cover about 50 square feet nitrogen like urea (46-0-0) of garden to a depth of about or ammonium sulfate (21four to six inches. Adapted 0-0), calculate the extra N from an article by John based on the percent-ages in Hart, Emeritus OSU Soils the material. For ammonium specialist. sulfate that would be 3/.21 Organic matter is a valu= 14 pounds. Urea would be able addition to all gardens.

3/.46 = 6.5 pounds. If you It improves soil textures and use an organic fertilizer that adds nutrient holding capac- has about 7% N, you need ity to the soil. The stimula3/.07 = 43 pounds of the tion of biological life as the fertilizer. material breaks down can Remember, these reduce disease problems. amounts are in addition to However, adding organic the fertilizer you planned to matter can tie up nitrogen apply to feed your vegetafor a period of time. This bles or flowers. can hurt plant growth, esThe OSU Extension ofpecially annual flowers and fice is closed to face-to-face vegetables. The degree of public contact but you can tie-up relates to the relastill reach us. tive amounts of humus and However, all of us (facundecomposed residues in ulty and staff) will still be

The Chief

The Chief (USPS 116-360) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 148 N. Nehalem St., P.O. Box 8 Clatskanie, Oregon 97016 Periodicals postage paid at Clatskanie, OR 97016

working (mostly out of the office), answering phone calls left on our answering machines, email messages (chip.bubl@oregonstate. edu), writing newspaper columns and newsletters, and working to develop programs that can reach you online.

We are really committed to helping our communities in any way we can, especially in our areas of subject matter expertise (farming, gardening, forestry, food, food safety, and nutrition, healthy decision-making, and youth education) and any other way we can enrich your life and/or make you safer in these challenging times. Please do not hesitate to contact us. And please, take all steps necessary to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe.

OSU Master Gardener™ Spring Fair/Tomato Sale is canceled for 2020 I know many of you will be disappointed. But we promise to come roaring back next year with the best Spring Fair ever.

Free online OSU vegetable gardening class: https://workspace. oregonstate.edu/course/ master-gardener-seriesvegetable-gardening Free online beginning OSU/Food Bank vegetable gardening class (“Seed to Supper”: https://www. oregonfoodbank.org/ourwork/programs/education/ gardening.

We have a great publication called Fertilizing Your Garden: Vegetables, Fruit,

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chief PO Box 8 Clatskanie, OR 97016

and Ornamentals available free, online at https://catalog.extension.oregonstate. edu/ec1503. Check it out.

Consider a donation to the food bank.

Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) writ-ten/edited by yours truly. All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you.

Call 503 397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at http://extension.oregonstate. edu/columbia/ and click on newsletters.

Many Extension publications available online Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to https://catalog.extension. oregonstate.edu. Click on publications and start exploring.

The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people.

Contact information for the Extension office • Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County.

• Address: 505 N. Columbia River Highway, St. Helens, OR 97051.

• Phone: 503 397-3462.

Email: chip.bubl@oregonstate.edu.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: One Year Columbia County & Eastern Clatsop County: $52/year One Year Out of County: $72 $3 senior discount for yearly sub

Contact Us • Phone: (503) 728-3350 • Fax: (503) 308-6791 • Email: www.thechiefnews.com Editorial Email: chiefnews@countrymedia.net • Advertising Email: atrull@countrymedia.net

Editorial Policy: Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chief views and are solely those of the writers expressing them.

Letters Policy: The Chief welcomes letters of 250 words or fewer. Letters are subject to editing for length, clarity or grammar. They should be concise, to the point and original. Letters dealing with disputes or containing criticism of private individuals or businesses will not be published. All letters must be signed (unless emailed) and include the author’s full name, address and daytime telephone number (for verification purposes only).

Letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Letters also may be published on our website.

NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENT LIFELINE: 1-800-273-8255 • suicidepreventationlifeline.org Columbia County’s trusted local news source

OREGON YOUTH LINE: 877-968-8491 • Text “teen2teen” to 839863

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, April 17, 2020

A5

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Just call 503.728.3350

Listings are updated daily at www.thechiefnews.com

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Office SpecialistCommissioners Office Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 4/29/2020. Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov

Get your ad in The Chief. Contact Amy at atrull@countrymedia.net

•

NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING

CC20-1207

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the ______________________________ , _______________________, State of Oregon, to (District name)

(County)

(Location)

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Probate Department In against the estate are required additional information a.m. from p.m. _____________________________________. The meeting will take place on__________________________at __________________________. the Matter of the Estate to present their claims, with(Date) the records of the Court, the (Address) of ROBERT ALFRED vouchers attached, within personal representative or The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message and to receive comment from the public on the budget.

KEARSLEY, Deceased. No. four months after the date of the attorney for the personal This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place. Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss 20PB01973 NOTICE TO first publication of this notice representative. Dated and the proposed programs with the Budget Committee.

INTERESTED PERSONS to the personal representative first published April 17, NOTICE IS HEREBY at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 2020. Durell R. Kearsley, A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained __________________________at ______________________________, GIVEN that the undersigned 97048, or on theor after claims may(Date) be Personal Representative.

(Location) has been appointed personal barred.

STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, a.m. a.m. All persons whose p.m. p.m.may between the hours ______________________________ and ________________________________. representative ofofthis estate. rights be affected by L.L.C. Attorney at Law, P.O. All persons having claims the proceedings may obtain Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

150-504-073-1 (Rev. 10-01-19)

CC20-1187

B

Use this notice if public comment will be taken at a later meeting.

Visa/MC/Amex

NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING

950

Columbia Columbia SWCD A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the ____________________________ State of Oregon, , _________________________,

Real Estate Wanted

(District name)

March 21, 1948 ~ March 29, 2020 grandchildren.

Dale loved building train sets, working on his computers and spending time with family.

He is preceded in death by his father Melvin Shores Sr.; mother Patricia Kelly; sisters, Dorothy Escola, Teri Villarreal and Patricia Denison.

He is survived by his wife; three children; sister Kelli Harding; Dan Shores; many cousins; grandchildren; nieces; and nephews.

Funeral arrangements for Melvin will be made at a later time.

(County)

21 , will be held at ___________________________________________.

20 to June 30, 20_____ 35285 Millard Rd. St. Helens, OR on the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 20_____

I buy houses and land in any condition.

360-261-4700.

Melvin Dale Shores II

(Location)

a.m. p.m.

5:00 05/06/2020 The meeting will take place on ________________________________ at ____________________.

(Date)

The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place.

An additional, separate meeting of the Budget Committee will be held to take public comment. Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee. The meeting for public comment will be on a.m. p.m. held at___________________________________________________ 06/17/2020 35285 Millard Rd. St. Helens, OR 6:30 ________________________________ at ___________________________, (Date)

(Location)

05/07/2020 A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after __________________________________________________ (Date)

a.m. a.m. p.m. and __________________________. p.m.

4:30 8:30 35285 Millard Rd. St. Helens, OR at ____________________________________________, between the hours of ______________________ (Location)

150-504-073-1 (Rev. 10-01-19)

CC20-1208

Clatskanie School District 6J PO Box 678, Clatskanie OR 97016 NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING Clatskanie School District 6J. A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the Clatskanie School District 6J, Columbia County, Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, will be held via Zoom. Please go to the district website (www. csd.k12.or.us) main page to access the link to join

Keith Allen Sutfin

the meeting. The meeting will take place on Monday, May 4, 2020 at 5:30 pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message and to receive comment from the public on the budget. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place.

Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss the

proposed programs with the Budget Committee. A copy of the proposed budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after May 5, 2020 at the Clatskanie School District Office, 471 SW Bel Air Dr., between the hours of 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.

A copy of this notice is also posted on the Clatskanie School District website at www.csd.k12.or.us

CC20-1209

Jan. 9, 1931 ~ April 10, 2020 Keith Allen Sutfin, 89, of Clatskanie, Oregon passed away on April 10, 2020 at home in Clatskanie.

REOPENING From Page A1

The agreement states that public health leaders will focus on four goals that will be critical for controlling the virus in the future.

• Protecting vulnerable populations at risk for severe disease if infected. This includes a concerted effort to prevent and fight outbreaks in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.

• Ensuring an ability to care for those who may become sick with COVID-19 and other conditions. This will require adequate hospital surge capacity and supplies of personal protective equipment.

• Mitigating the non-direct COVID-19 health impacts, particularly on disadvantaged communities.

• Protecting the general public by ensuring any successful lifting of interventions includes the development of a system for testing, tracking and isolating. The states will work together to share best practices.

The three governors agreement does not put a specific date on the reopening efforts.

The governors said COVID-19 has preyed upon the state’s interconnectedness.

“In the coming weeks, the West Coast will flip the script on COVID-19 – with our states acting in close coordination and collaboration to ensure the virus can never spread wildly in our communities,” the statement reads.

The three governors said California, Oregon and Washington have agreed to work together on a shared approach for reopening the

Use this notice if public comment will be taken at this meeting.

discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 20_____ to June 30, 20_____, will be held at ________________________________________

•O bituaries • •

On the morning of March 29, 2020, Dale passed away at home with his wife and daughter by his side.

Dale served for the United States Marine Corps.

While he served, he spent most of his deployment in Vietnam from 1965-1969.

He moved to Clatskanie in 1969 with his parents and helped build their family home.

In 1978 he met Lorna and spent 42 years with her. They had three children, Dale Jr., Wendy and Sandra. They gained nine

A

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City of Clatskanie Notice of Budget Committee Meeting A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the City of Clatskanie, Columbia County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 will be held at City Hall, 75 S Nehalem St., Suite D. The meeting will take place on May7th, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. in the ballroom, observing social distancing protocol. The purpose of the meeting is to

receive the budget message and to receive comment from the public on the budget. A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after May 1, 2020 at 75 S Nehalem St., Suite D, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Please call 503-728-2622 beforehand so arrangements can be made. Due to social distancing the office is closed to the public. This

is a public meeting where deliberations of the Budget Committee will take place.

Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee.

Any person having special needs should contact the City Manager by May 7, 2020 to make arrangements.

For more information visit the city website at www. cityofclatskanie.com.

CC20-1188

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, the public meeting of the 2020-2021 MistBirkenfeld RFPD Budget Committee will be held via video-conference on Tuesday, April 28, 2020, at 7:00 PM. This video-conference is a meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place. Any person may attend this meeting and discuss the proposed Photo courtesy of the Oregon Health Authority

Governor Kate Brown outlines the framework for reopening Oregon’s society and economy during a news conference Tuesday, April 14.

Oregon Health Authority State Health Officer Dean Sidelinger, left, also participated in the news conference.

states’ economies – one that identifies clear indicators for communities to restart public life and business.

Each state will work with it’s local leaders and communities within its borders to understand what’s happening on the ground and adhere to the agreed approach.

“COVID-19 doesn’t follow state or national boundaries,” the governors’ agreement reads. “It will take every level of government working together and a full picture of what’s happening on the ground.”

The governors, said they, their staff and health officials

will continue conversations about the regional pact to recovery.

As of April 15, Columbia County Health officials reported 14 confirmed cases of COVID-19, no deaths, 396 people tested negative and five people have recovered. Statewide, as of April 15, COVID-19 has claimed three more lives in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 58, according to the Oregon Health Authority, which also reported 33 new cases of COVID-19.

Follow the latest developments at thechiefnews.com.

programs with the Budget Committee. To Join go to https://global.gotomeeting. com/join/481154997 or dial in using the toll-free number: 1-877-3092073 Access Code: 481154-997 BUSINESS TO BE CONDUCTED AT THIS MEETING WILL BE: - Election of Officers - Presentation of Budget Message - Presentation

of Budget Document Discussion of the Budget Document - Public Testimony - Scheduling of possible future meetings. The proposed budget document will be available for inspection on April 21, 2020 at the MistBirkenfeld Main Station at 12525 Hwy 202, Mist, Oregon, during the hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Joe Kaczenski, Budget Officer

CC20-1203

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LANDOWNERS OF THE CLATSKANIE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, INC. Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting for the landowners and Board of Directors of the Clatskanie Drainage Improvement Company, Columbia County, Oregon, will be held Tuesday, April 21, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. via a Zoom Conference Meeting due to shelter in

place restrictions. Please e-mail full name, tax lot number and acreage to Columbiadistricts5@yahoo. com for meeting ID and Password. Notice is further given that all proxies must be in writing and signed by the owner. The proxies need to be scanned and e-mailed to the address above prior

CC20-1210

Notice of Public Hearing

The Budget Committee of the City of Clatskanie will hold a Public Hearing at City Hall on May 7th 2020 at 7:00 p.m. in the ballroom, observing social distancing protocal, regarding the proposed use

of approximately $20,000 in State Revenue Sharing Funds in the fiscal year 2020-21 budget. Any person having special needs should contact the City Manager by May 7, 2020 to make arrangements.

to the meeting. The meeting is to elect a director, adopt a budget and any other business that comes before the landowners. Dated this 6th day of April, 2020. Richard G. Stonex, President Clatskanie Drainage Improvement Company, Inc. Board of Directors.

The Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon.

Late submissions may not make it into the paper.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

A6

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, April 17, 2020

Smoke invades Columbia County JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Smoke from fires in Washington state drifted into Columbia County on Sunday, April 12, leaving a noticeable smell and haze across the region.

The smoke cleared by Tuesday morning, April 14.

The first report of fire came at 2:37 p.m. on Easter Sunday, April 12, when a passerby called 911 to report a barkdust fire at Swanson Bark and Wood Products, at 240 Tennant Way, in Longview.

Swanson’s occupies an 80-acre site that sits off Highway 442. The plant specializes in taking wood waste and turning it into useful products, including firewood, mulch, barkdust, soils, and even biomass.

Longview Fire officials said responding to 911 calls at Swanson Bark is not an unusual occurrence because the facility, with its large piles of barkdust and other products off-gas regularly as a natural part of the composting/ decomposition

FIRE From Page A1

northwestern Oregon and the Blue and Wallowa Mountains of northeastern Oregon in July where normal potential is expected,” the Outlook reads. “Overall, since Oct. 1, 2019, the region has been drier than average, except for western Washington and extreme northwestern Oregon. Drought designations are expanding across the region.”

The NIFC’s long range outlook forecasts warmer and drier than average conditions for Oregon and Washington through July.

“This would tend toward worsening the situation in the dead fuels where moisture levels are already low,” the Outlook states.

“Wildfire potential will rise above average in late June and July if the forecast for unusually warm and dry weather persists through spring and early summer.”

Pandemic impact Multiple fire districts in Columbia County are asking the public to refrain from outdoor burning while communities respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sharek said outdoor burning is allowed in the Clatskanie district on a day-today basis, but he cautioned property owners.

“Be conscious of your neighbors as to smoke travel,” Sharek said. “Call your local burn information number for daily burn day status prior to burning.

Burn only legal materials, wood yard debris or paper.

Is

Photo courtesy of Columbia River Fire and Rescue

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

The Longview industrial fire could be seen from across the river in Columbia County Sunday afternoon.

Smoke from fires in Washington State drifts over the Columbia River early Monday morning April 13.

process. Staff at Swanson use temperature probes to assess the risk, and small fires are not uncommon and are generally handled by onsite staff.

As fire units were dispatched to the scene, Cowlitz 911 called the facility and plant crews confirmed they had a surface fire that they were actively attempting to extinguish.

As the Longview Fire crews

arrived they encountered a large barkdust pile that was burning and spreading to adjacent piles.

Strong northwest winds coupled with access issues to the multiple piles of recyclables, smoke and visibility challenges, and the available water supply all created difficult tactics and strategies for firefighters, according to officials. With the other active fires, staffing was also

below normal.

As the fire continued to spread over the entire 80-acre site, buildings, machinery, vehicles, and conveyors were damaged and/or destroyed. Firefighters deployed multiple hand lines and two aerial ladder trucks, flowing in excess of 2.5 million gallons of water during the suppression efforts. The incident commander requested a firefight-

We usually close burning for the summer prior to July 1, but this could close earlier depending on the weather.”

In the no-burn advisory issue earlier this month, Columbia County fire districts listed the following smoke intrusion issues connected to the coronavirus pandemic.

• Smoke inhalation can cause upper respiratory symptoms, which cold be incorrectly attributed to COVID-19, leading to unnecessary testing or selfisolation.

• Exposure to smoke and other forms of air pollution can increase the risk of contracting infectious respiratory disease, such as COVID-19, increase the severity of existing respiratory infections and worsen underlying chronic respiratory conditions.

• There is a severe shortage of personal protective equipment to reduce smoke exposure at this time.

• First responders and other emergency services are operating at a reduced capacity and have limited resources to respond to outof-control burns.

damage may result in fines and individual financial responsibility for damages caused, according to Columbia River Fire and Rescue.

“Once burning is closed for the summer, we will respond to any burning that is occurring,” Sharek said.

Clatskanie and other fire protection districts urge property owners to develop defensible spaces around their homes and businesses now as a proactive protection against wildland fires.

Sharek lists a number of protection measures property owners should take now, including: • Post address clearly at your driveway and at the location of your home phone • Clear driveway to 13’6” high, and 12’ wide at minimum, more on corners.

• Bridges to house must be engineered, inspected, and have a load limit posted.

• Driveway has to accommodate large apparatus, and have a turnaround area.

• Driveways need to be less than 15% slope.

• Maintain access to ponds/swimming pools/ hydrants.

• Maintain mowed yard around house, 30’ minimum on flat ground.

• A yard with a 200’ defensible space on steep ground with heavy brush/ trees.

• Keep firewood/combustibles/chairs/tables/toys/ other away from home.

See the entire list of recommendations with this story at thechiefnews.com.

Sharek said he is also concerned about a possible wave of people heading into the forested areas for recreation once Oregon’s Stay Home restrictions are

lifted.

“Follow campsite rules and contact a private landowners prior to entry,” he advised. “Keep shovel, fire extinguisher, and water available.”

CRFP’s wildland fire fighting apparatus includes all structural fire engines equipped to protect homes from fires and two additional heavy brush units equipped specifically for wildland emergencies.

Wildfire trigger Sharek said it is often human actions that trigger wildfires.

“It is not uncommon to see wildland or grass fires starting in March and April,” he said. “Fires that we can easily prevent are the ones that start from unattended burning where embers or paper drift away into light fuels such as dry grass. Do not add to piles after dark.”

Escaped fires of any kind resulting in property

At thechiefnews.com, read what you need to know about levels of community evacuations when there are threatening wildfires in the area.

ing helicopter to assist, but none were locally available.

Fire suppression efforts were concluded at approximately 4 a.m. on Monday, however, dozens of bark and wood products piles were still smoldering, creating a smoke cloud that continued its wind-driven drift through the region and into Columbia County.

Swanson Bark and Wood Products took over the

overhaul phase of the suppression, utilizing loaders and excavators to move the product while extinguishing.

Swanson also contracted with two helicopter services to aid in full suppression.

Officials said they expected the fire would smolder for days, and if winds pick up fire could restart.

Firefighters from Longview, Kalama, Cowlitz Fire District 1, Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue, and Woodland were utilized to extinguish the blaze. Resources included pumping fire apparatus, ladder trucks, water tenders, and brush rigs.

Firefighters had not completed the investigation into the cause of the blaze and no damage estimates were available at press time. No Swanson staff or firefighters were injured, according to investigators.

During the same time of the Swanson plant fire, Cowlitz 2 Fire and Rescue battled a structure fire on Regland Road and other fire crews were sent to a brush fire on Astro Road in rural Kelso, further taxing the regional resources.

This map from the National Interagency Fire Center’s National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook shows the wildfire danger increasing by July in Oregon.

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