TCC1223

Highway 30 landslide illustrates Oregon danger

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Work continues this week at the side of a massive landslide along Highway 30 just north of Clatskanie.

“We expect to keep scaling rock into the holidays, and getting more lanes open is the goal, but we don’t have an estimated date for that,” Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) representative David House said. “There is so much work that it will continue even after lanes are open to traffic.”

“This was a large landslide compared to other landslides that we get in the coast range,” ODOT District 1 Maintenance Manager Mark Buffington said. “The rock was definitely larger than what we are used to. We usually just get mud and trees.”

ODOT opened one lane with flaggers at nights only Dec. 4-11 to allow rock scaling during the daytime.

“We needed to remove large sections of rock on the verge of falling before it was safe for traffic or crews at the highway level,” the release states.

Since Dec. 11, ODOT has been able to keep the flagged lane open 24/7 while scaling of smaller sections of loose rock continues above the highway.

“We have been using two scaling crews instead of just one,” Buffington said. “The loose rock is much higher than the slides that we are used to having.”

The event

The highway has been open to a single flagged lane since early December following a massive landslide.

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The slide started at approximately 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29, about 100 feet above the

roadway, according to House. It was about 110-feet wide and sent at least 1,800 cubic yards of mostly rock onto the highway.

Large road equipment has been brought to the site to move the debris from the roadway. Specially trained crews propelled down the side of the steep cliff to help remove rocks, trees and other debris to stabilize the hillside.

The landslide was likely due to rain and strong winds on trees with roots deep in rocky hillside.

“This section of US Highway 30 crosses an area where landslides have long been part of the geology,

often triggered by heavy rainfall,” ODOT stated earlier. “So, this part of the road has long had landslide warning signs.”

Long-term fix

House added that in general, there is no permanent way to prevent landslides.

“Western Oregon is geologically active – it’s always on the move, gradually eroding toward the ocean, which moves the land and causes erosion and occasional landslides,” he said. “We adapt the highways as the land moves, and

the work we do buys more time between events.”

Geologists with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral and Industries (DOGAMI) caution that landslides are most common in the following areas:

• Canyon bottoms, stream channels, channel outlets

• Steep slopes and bases of steep hillsides

• Areas where slopes of hills

Council looks for long-term Fox Creek solution

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

The Rainier City Council continues to look for short and longterm alternatives for the Fox Creek flooding challenges.

During the December 5 city council meeting the Rainier Fox Creek Feasibility Study presentation was conducted. The following is a summary of the minutes concerning the presentation from the city council session.

Creek history

Sandrine Ganry from the Lake Oswego based water engineering firm West Yost said that parts of the culvert are owned by the city, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and private entities. The area has local businesses adjacent to it. Heavy rains and flooding in 2015 caused a sinkhole. An emergency repair was done on the culvert in 2016-17.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) gave authorization for it but also provided notice that it is a fish passage barrier. There was also flooding in

2019. An evaluation was conducted in 2020 and found that the culvert is undersized.

West Yost has developed three alternatives and five options. The first alternative is a hydraulic design approach. It may not meet future fish passage requirements. The second alternative is preferred by state and federal agencies and the third alternative maximizes daylighting.

By the numbers

Alternative 1a is a large arch culvert with an open channel, with an estimated cost of around $6.5 million. Alternative 1b would cost $7 million but may not meet future fish passage requirements. Alternative 2a would cost $7.5 million and is likely to meet fish passage requirements. Alternative 2b would cost $8.9 million and likely meet fish passage requirements. Alternative 3 is an open channel that would cost $6.7 million. But it would impact Don Pedro’s and the estimated cost does not include the acquisition of that property, according to West Yost.

Ganry said the first alternatives have the lowest cost but are not the

best for fish passage. The second al ternatives are higher cost but better for permitting and maintenance and the third alternative would impact a local business. Alternatives 2a and 3 are recommended, according to Ganry.

The next steps will be to identify funding sources and grant applications, environmental and Geotech studies, coordinating with ODOT

sions with local businesses about potential impacts to them. Alternative 2a has no impact to businesses and has an open channel in the middle.

City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said that an alternative had previously been described to him as “high-risk, high-maintenance.”

Ganry said that is Alternatives 1a

expressed

4 Oregon destinations top holiday locations

Most will travel by car

The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects 112.7 million Americans, 33.8% of the population, will travel for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

This is up 3.3% from 2021 and closing in on pre-pandemic numbers. About 1.6 million Oregonians will pack their sleighs for a holiday trip. 2022 is expected to be the third-busiest year for holiday travel since AAA began tracking in 2000, only trailing 2019 and 2018.

Bend, Lincoln City, Newport and the Medford area are among the top 10 regional holiday destinations, according to the AAA.

While about 90% of travelers will drive to their holiday destinations, air travel is seeing a jump this year, up 14% compared to 2021. The holiday travel period is defined as Friday, December. 23 through Monday, January 2.

AAA projects nearly 102 million Americans (90.4% of travelers) will drive to their holiday destination. This is up 2% compared to 2021. Travel by car this year is on par with 2018 but shy of 2019 when 108 million Americans drove out of town for the holidays, the highest year on record.

In Oregon, roughly 1.4 million

Air travel increases despite higher ticket prices

Holiday air travel will rise by 14% this year with nearly 7.2 million Americans flying to their holiday destinations. AAA expects the number of people taking holiday flights this year will come close to matching 2019 when 7.3 million Americans traveled by air.

Courtesy from ODOT

The massive slide occurred Nov. 29 just north of Clatskanie along Highway 30.

There is so much work that it will continue even after lanes are open to traffic.

David House, ODOT

his preference for Alternative 2a. Cole said he disliked Alternative 3 because he doesn’t want to displace a business. Councilors Cooper and Budge both agreed with Cole.

Councilor Robert duPlessis said

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

In 2016 the City of Rainier brought in heavy equipment to repair a sinkhole along Fox Creek that heightened the risk of flooding.

“With Christmas Day and New Year’s Day falling on Sundays, many are taking long weekends to celebrate the holidays,” AAA Oregon/Idaho Senior Vice President of Travel Doreen Loofburrow said. “And with hybrid work schedules, we’re seeing more flexibility with the days people are traveling because they can work remotely at their destinations.”

“Despite roller coaster gas prices and a bumpy year for flights, people are ready to wrap up the year with a holiday trip,” AAA Oregon/Idho Public Affairs Director Marie Dodds said. “This will be one of the busiest times for holiday travel in the last two decades. Travelers should expect busy roads and crowded airports this holiday season.”

will drive.

Metro

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Oregon to receive $698M in pollution lawsuit

Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum has announced a historic $698 million settlement with the Monsanto Company for its role in polluting Oregon with PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) for the past 90 + years.

The Oregon Department of Justice will be working with the Oregon Legislature, Oregon Governor, and state agencies to put the funds to use for statewide remediation and clean-up.

Monsanto was the only manufacturer, seller, and distributor of PCBs. PCBs are toxic compounds formerly used in coolants, electrical equipment (such as fluorescent lighting fixtures), and devices, as well as hydraulic oils. They were also previously used in products,

including paint, caulking, and copy paper.

“This is a huge win for our state,” Rosenblum said. “PCBs are still present throughout Oregon — especially in our landfills and riverbeds — and they are exceedingly difficult to remove, because they ‘bioaccumulate’ in fish and wildlife. Cleaning up our state from this horrific environmental degradation will be as costly and timeconsuming as it sounds, but this settlement means we now will have resources to help tackle this problem.”

Monsanto is owned by Bayer AG, a massive German pharmaceutical and biotechnology company.

Today’s settlement stems from a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Rosenblum against Monsanto in 2018.

The Complaint in the case alleged Monsanto was aware as early as 1937 of the highly toxic nature of PCBs. Even with that knowledge, Oregon asserted, Monsanto continued to produce and promote the compounds for decades — until they were finally banned in 1977. The lawsuit

DEQ fines City of Clatskanie, Astoria Pacific Seafoods

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued 17 penalties totaling $182,505 in No vember for environmental violations.

The list of violators includes the City of Clats kanie and Astoria Pacific Seafoods LLC.

A detailed list of viola tions and resulting penal ties is at https://ordeq.org/ enforcement.

Fines ranged from $400 to $38,505. Alleged violations include sea food processors and cities discharging more pollution than allowed by their wastewater permits, industrial facilities operating without required air quality permits, and construction companies starting projects without meeting requirements that protect local waterways.

DEQ issued civil penalties to the following organizations:

• Astoria Pacific Seafoods LLC, $10,200, Astoria, wastewater

• Balzer Painting,

$1,500, Tualatin, air quality

• Bornstein Seafoods, Inc., $32,000, Astoria, wastewater

• City of Bend, $30,333, Bend, wastewater

• City of Clatskanie, $2,800, Clatskanie, wastewater (Read the story about this fine at thechiefnews.com)

• City of Dayton, $3,475, Dayton, wastewater

• City of Yoncalla, $16,042, Yoncalla, wastewater

• Even Better Homes, Inc., $2,250, Estacada,

stormwater

• Kraft Heinz, $9,600, Ontario, wastewater

• Oak Lodge Water Services, $26,700, Milwaukie, wastewater

• Orchid Orthopedic Solutions, $1,500, Oregon City, air quality

• Permapost Products Inc., $600, Hillsboro, air quality

• Stack Infrastructure, $1,500, Hillsboro, air quality

• Turner Lumber $1,200, Turner, air quality

• Vander Pol Investments, LLC, $38,505, Port -

land, stormwater

• Wanita Parson, $400, Coos Bay, water quality

• Waste Management Disposal Services of Oregon Inc., $3,900, Arlington, solid waste

Organizations or individuals must either pay the fines or file an appeal within 20 days of receiving notice of the penalty. They may be able to offset a portion of a penalty by funding a supplemental environmental project that improves Oregon’s environment. Learn more about these projects at https:// ordeq.org/sep.

Penalties may also include orders requiring specific tasks to prevent ongoing violations or additional environmental harm.

DEQ works with thousands of organizations and individuals to help them comply with laws that protect Oregon’s air, land and water. DEQ uses education, technical assistance, warnings and penalties to change behavior and deter future violations.

First Day Hikes offered Jan. 1

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks on New Year’s Day, Sunday, Jan. 1. Information about the hike at Fort Stevens State Park is below:

• This is a 45-minute hike at the Historic Military Site and on the Jetty Trail. Views of the Columbia River and passing cargo ships, plus an occasional eagle, elk or winter birds are possible.

• Meet at 10 a.m. at the main parking lot next to the museum.

• The trail is dirt, gravel and sand.

• Leashed dogs are welcome.

• Dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

• For more information, call 503-861-3170.

asked for damages for the extensive harm to Oregon from PCB contamination, as well as clean-up costs.

“Monsanto’s toxic legacy unfortunately lives on in our lands, rivers and other waterways – and poses ongoing risks to the health of our people and our environment,” Rosenblum said. “This is all the more reason why this settlement is so vitally important. Oregon and Oregonians will be the better for it.”

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ), which AG Rosenblum leads, will be

working with the Oregon Legislature, Oregon Governor, and state agencies to put the funds to use for statewide remediation and clean-up.

“This settlement is a major step in beginning to reverse the harmful effects of PCBs on Oregon’s environment,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said. “I’d like to thank the DOJ staff and attorneys who worked diligently to get us to this point. While it will take some time, I am pleased we can now move forward toward a healthier Oregon.”

Courtesy photo

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

The $5 day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open.

Share photos of First

Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the

outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

Metro Creative Connection

The hikes will be available at a variety of Oregon state parks on Jan. 1.

Oregon to ban sale of gas-powered vehicles

air quality and enhance the health of all Oregonians, the DEQ states in a release.

The Environmental Quality Commission has adopted rules to require all new passenger cars, trucks and SUVs sold in Oregon to be zero emissions by 2035.

The commission is the policy and rulemaking board for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

Known as Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII), the set of rules builds on regulations in place since 2005 that have laid the groundwork for the increase in automakers providing zero emission vehicles - full battery electric, plug-in hybrid electric or fuel cell - to the market. Oregon has been a national leader in zero emission vehicle sales over the past several years.

Reducing emissions from gas cars is imperative to meeting Oregon’s climate and air quality goals. This action will provide better

“With today’s adoption of the ACC II Rule, all those living in Oregon will benefit from the cleaner air and improved public health outcomes achieved by reducing pollution from transportation,” DEQ’s Interim Director Leah Feldon said.

“This is especially true for low-income and underrepresented communities across the state who live closest to roadways and have been most often impacted by poor air quality. The commission’s action puts the state in a position to expand our charging infrastructure and ensure grid reliability. It also incentivizes auto manufacturers to send all electric model options to Oregon.”

Adoption of the ACC II Rule marks the latest action by the commission to combat climate change by putting Oregon on target to achieve its 2035 greenhouse gas re-

duction goals. Over the past 13 months, it has adopted the following:

• Advanced Clean Trucks Rule - Begins to transition Oregon’s medium- and heavy-duty trucks to zero emission technologies

• Climate Protection

Program - Sets limits on greenhouse gas emissions • Clean Fuels Program Expansion - Reduces emissions from transportation fuels

The new rule goes into effect immediately, building on a previous rule scheduled

to end in 2025. Automakers will have two years to plan for the first compliance step that comes with model year 2026 passenger vehicles. Many major manufacturers have already announced significant increases in the number of electric vehicles they intend to produce to meet this new demand. DEQ expects more automakers to make ZEV commitments before 2035.

“Oregon continues to see the consequences of greenhouse gas emissions across the state -- with extreme heat, more severe wildfires, winter storms and flooding and prolonged drought -- and I am committed to addressing the climate crisis with urgency,” Gov. Kate Brown said. “Reducing emissions from the transportation sector is a significant part of Oregon’s comprehensive plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the ACC II Rule is a major step towards meeting our goals, while also

advancing equitable access to electric vehicles for all Oregonians by supporting the development of a robust used zero-emission vehicle market.”

DEQ is working with several state agencies, local governments, electric utilities and private businesses to develop a phased approach for a successful ZEV future. The Oregon Department of Transportation has committed to investing $100 million to build more electric vehicle charging stations along major transportation corridors and in rural and underserved areas of the state over the next five years. Educating the public about the benefits of ZEVs is also a priority.

The DEQ adopted the new rules Dec. 19.

Find more information about the ACC II Rule at the Oregon Clean Car Standards web page, https://www.oregon.gov/deq/aq/programs/ Pages/ORLEV.aspx.

State offers wildfire prevention grant

The Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has opened the application period for a new $18 million grant fund geared toward helping communities be better prepared for wildfire.

The Community Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant is a competitive opportunity open to local governments, special districts, structural fire service agencies, and non-governmental organizations that can use the funds to support individ -

ual community members. Those eligible can apply for funding for wildfire risk reduction projects, equipment, and staff to support local efforts.

The funds will enable local organizations to create and/or support existing programs that reduce wildfire risk. These projects may include yard debris recycling days, curbside chipping programs, community education, equipment purchases, Firewise

community support, and staffing to support local efforts.

“This grant fund is a major step forward in giving communities the tools they need to be better adapted to living with wildfire,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana RuizTemple said. “These funds

will empower communities to create solutions that work best for them. They also embody the essence of our mission of protecting people, property, and communities from wildfire.”

The OSFM will host

two virtual educational webinars for those interested in learning more about the grant. Links to attend can be found on the OSFM’s website. The webinars will be held at 9:30 a.m. December 22 and 2 p.m. January 12.

The application period is open until January 31, 2023. To learn more about the Community Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant and to apply, visit: www.oregon. gov/osp/programs/sfm/Pag-

es/OSFM-Grants.aspx.

About Fire Adapted Oregon

Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Fire Adapted Oregon initiative was created to help prepare communities for wildfire and reduce its impacts. Fire Adapted Oregon offers education and training to empower communities to protect themselves and their property from wildfire.

Volunteers sought for burn management committee

Volunteers sought for new advisory committee

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is seeking members for an advisory committee for its new Certified Burn Manager (CBM) Program.

This is one of many new programs established under Senate Bill 762 (2021) to help address Oregon’s wildfire crisis.

“The Certified Burn Manager Program is the first of its kind in Oregon,” ODF’s Fire Protection Division Deputy Chief of Policy and Planning Tim Holschbach said. “The intent of the CBM program is to provide oversight of training and certification for the safe and effective use of prescribed burning and to promote its use.”

The department is accepting applications to serve on the CBM Advisory Committee through Jan. 31, 2023. The

committee will advise ODF on program implementation and help provide oversight.

Applications are available on ODF’s website

“ODF is seeking individuals with experience or expertise with prescribed fire planning, implementation, and regulation to serve on the committee,” Holschbach said. “The goal is to convene a diverse group representative of the full suite of interests in prescribed fire and its impacts to communities across Oregon.”

The committee will meet at least twice a year but will likely meet more frequently the first year as needed. The main duties for committee members will be to advise the State Forester on administration of the program and conduct reviews of proposed certification revocations when requested. The committee positions are unpaid, but

members may be reimbursed for travel expenses.

Members serve a threeyear term and can serve two consecutive terms. Appointments will be made by the State Forester in early February with the first CBM Advisory Committee meeting in late February or early March.

“This is a great opportunity to help shape a new program that promotes consistent standards and fair and equitable administration of the CBM program,” Holschbach said.

With the CBM rules developed and the advisory committee forming, ODF plans to launch the program in late spring of 2023. Although the certification is voluntary, Holschbach expects many forestland owners and fire professionals will seek certification.

“The certification process is thorough but straightfor-

ward,” Holschbach said. “You will need to complete the classroom training curriculum, pass a test, and demonstrate field proficiency.”

There are also streamlined requirements to become certified in Oregon for those that currently hold:

• A Burn Boss certification

• A comparable CBM certification in another state or have other professional experience as burners The cost of certification is $50; however, third party training providers may charge fees for the training that they offer. The certification is good for five years and there are no costs for recertification.

“The CBM is a win-win program,” Holschbach said. “It’s a win for the person getting the certification because now in addition to robust classroom training and super-

vised field experience, they also get certain civil liability protections if a prescribed fire results in unintended impacts. Then, it is a win for every Oregonian to have certified professionals using prescribed fire as a tool in a consistent and safe manner to reduce the risks of wildfire throughout the state. We are literally saving lives, protecting property, and minimizing adverse impacts to the environment by treating large landscapes using prescribed fire.”

Recognizing the importance of prescribed fire, the Legislature directed ODF to create a Certified Burn Manager Program for lands under ODF protection. The program was one of several included in SB 762 to address Oregon’s wildfire crisis. The Board of Forestry approved the administrative rules establishing the program during their November meeting.

Prescribed fire, also known as controlled burning, is the planned and controlled use of fire by a team of experts under specific conditions such as favorable temperature, wind, and humidity. Prescribed fire is used to help reduce the risk of wildfire, restore ecosystems that depend on fire, increase wildlife habitat, and increase community and firefighter safety.

“Prescribed fire is a costeffective tool that can reduce fuels and wildfire risks on large landscapes,” Holschbach said. “Tree thinning, mastication and creating fire breaks are all good tools but we can’t treat the hundreds of thousands to millions of acres necessary to reduce risk without the use of prescribed fire.”

Visit the ODF prescribed fire website this spring to find out more about becoming a certified burn manager.

Courtesy from the Oregon Department of Transportation Oregon’s Zero Emission rule will ban gas-powered vehicle sales in favor of electrical and hybrid vehicles.

Report shows Oregon wages, inflation increasing

Oregon and the counties in Northwest Oregon saw increases in their annual average wages from 2020 to 2021.

Overall, the average wage for the entire state increased by $4,097 (6.8%) over the year. The increases in the average wages in the five counties of Northwest Oregon ranged from 5.8% in Tillamook County to 8.7% in Lincoln County.

Increases in wages of this much are unusual. From 2010 through 2020 wages increased by an average of 3.7% per year for all of Oregon. The average annual increases in Northwest Oregon ranged from 3.0% in Benton County to 3.7% in Tillamook County over the same time.

The table below shows the 2021 annual average wage in Oregon and Northwest Oregon, and the change from 2020. The wages are for workers covered by unemployment insurance, which excludes self-employed

CREEK

From Page A1

he likes the idea of having a pocket park around the open channel. Councilor Levi Richardson said he also doesn’t want to displace a business. Mark Barker asked what the lowest risk, lowest maintenance alternative would be. Ganry said that would be Alternatives

workers and a few others such as real estate brokers who are paid by commission. Although wages were increasing in 2021, inflation also increased rapidly for many workers. The U.S. Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners rose by 5.3% in 2021. This means that the increase in real wages (what workers can buy) increased by only the annual change minus the rate of inflation.

In 2022 the situation for workers is not looking as rosy.

and 3. Council action

Cooper moved to have the city move forward with Alternative 2a. That motion was seconded by Councilor Denise Watson. duPlessis asked if the culverts under Alternative 2a would be large enough to handle flood flows. Ganry said they would. There was a discussion about the easements under the vacant

Data are available for only part of the year, but for the first half of 2022 wages were on trend to increase 1.9% over the year statewide. Un fortunately, inflation seems to be on a trend to increase between 7.5% and 8.0% for 2022. It seems likely that real wages are falling in Oregon in 2022.

Erik Knoder is a regional economist with the Oregon Employment Department. He may be reached at 541-3515595.

lot that would be daylighted under Alternative 2a.

Richardson asked how many there are. City Recorder Sarah Blodgett said there are four.

The council voted unanimously to approve the motion.

Follow this developing story at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

• •C ommunity E v E nts

Ongoing Events

Caples Evening Programs

The cost for this evening and all our Fireside Chats will be only $5. Caples will be offering a different program the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 1925 First Street in Columbia City. For more information, call 503-3975390.

Lower Columbia River Watershed Council

Meets at 7 p.m. every other second Tuesday. Meetings are currently held electronically by Zoom. For more information, contact Council Coordinator Allan Whiting at

E-mail: allan@whitingenv. com, or call 503-7899240. Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www. lowercolumbiariver.org/ events-page.

The Rainier Oregon Historical Museum (ROHM) is open from noon - 4 p.m. Saturday (except major holidays weekends). ROHM is located inside Rainier City Hall at 106 W B Street. For more information, call 360-7517039.

The Rainier Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thurs -

days, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. It will be closed Sundays and Mondays.

Avamere at St. Helens hosts a Virtual Dementia Support Group – 3rd Wednesday of each month from 2 to 3 p.m. For more details, contact Jenny Hicks/Avamere at St. Helens at 503-3668070.

To list an event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published, to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net, or call 503-397-0116.

have been altered by excavated or steepened or recently burned.

• Places where slides or debris flows have occurred in the past.

Storms that have caused landslides in the past and are of concern create unstable soils, according to DOGAMI. The soils can’t drain fast enough, and the combination of too much water too fast, steep slopes, and weak geology all contribute to the potential for landslides.

DOGAMI geologist Bill Burns told County Media, Inc. in a published interview in 2021, that certain types of landslides, notably debris flows, can move rapidly (10s of miles per hour).

“These types of landslides tend to start in the upper portions of a drain-

age and can accelerate and grow as they flow down the channel,” Burns said. “When they reach the mouth of the channel they tend to fan out and inundate the areas at the mouth of the channel.

“Unfortunately, the channel outlets are sometimes where people and infrastructure are located. These types of areas are the most concerning. People that live or are traveling in these areas should be extra cautious and be prepared to evacuate. These types of landslides are common in post-fire areas. The combination of the potential long distance from where they start to where they end up and the speed they move is why they are of extra concern and can be life threatening.”

Since the 2020 Labor Day fires, DOGAMI’s landslide team has focused on the potential post-fire debris flow hazard using a large multiyear, multiagency FEMA grant to work on

understanding the post-fire debris flow risk and identify areas of risk throughout many of these recent fires in western Oregon. The end goal of these projects, Burns said, is to use science to understand the post-fire debris flow landslide risk and collaborate with the communities in these wildfire areas to reduce the landslide risk.

House said that overall, no matter where you travel, the advice to motorists is to prepare for winter travel conditions and expect delays and longer travel times especially with holiday traffic and severe weather on the way later this week.

House urges travelers to always check TripCheck. com just before you leave for your journey to find out the latest highway conditions.

Follow this developing story at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief

Joe Warren Publisher

Jeremy C. Ruark

Jon Campbell Advertising Sales

Kelli Nicholson Office Manager

James Yang Creative

Jon Lowrance Driver

Metro Creative Connection

Data is available for only part of the year, but for the first half of 2022 wages were on trend to increase 1.9% over the year statewide.

Courtesy from ODOT

Limited lane travel will continue at the landslide site through the holidays.

Pool Manager

Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications and resumes for a Pool Manager. Responsibilities: Train, manage and evaluate approximately 20 lifeguards; beginning in February and continuing into September. Plan, organize and

schedule programs offered at our seasonal outdoor pool. Be responsible for scheduling adequate staff for the safety, supervision, cleanliness, water chemistry and mechanical operation of the pool for youth and families in our District. Maintain pool and employee records. Perform

such other duties as assigned by the District Manager and/or Board of Directors from time to time. Knowledge and Skills: Strong administrative skills, recreational aquatic programming skills, leadership and managerial skills, pool maintenance and water chemistry

skills and good public relation skills are a must. Thorough knowledge of policies, procedures and equipment used in daily outdoor pool operations helpful. Work with pool related chemicals and be familiar with State and Federal regulations regarding outdoor pool oper-

ations. Experience and Training: Experience preferred. Or the willingness to work within an agreed upon time frame between applicant and Board of Directors to obtain the required and suggested certifications for the position; FirstAid, CPR, AED certifications, Life-

guard Instructor and Training, Water Safety Instructor and CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certifications. You can request an application by phone at 503-728-2757, by email at csp@ cni.net or on our website www. clatskanieparksandrecreation.com. Applications and

resumes can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie OR 97016 or by email to csp@ cni.net. If you have any questions, please leave message at 503-7282757. Applications with resumes will be accepted through January 31, 2023.

CLATSKANIE Mini Storage

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NOTICE TO INTERESTED

PERSONS NOTICE IS

HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the

estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain

additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published December 3, 2022. Mary Wise, Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C., Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of CARL LEUZINGER, Deceased. No. 2PB10406

NOTICE TO INTERESTED

PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims against

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the estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain

additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published December 9, 2022. Debra Jean Curtis, Personal Representative.

STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING

The Clatskanie Planning Commission will meet for a regular meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 28th, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, upstairs in the Clatskanie Cultural Center. Agenda items include

but are not limited to the following: Approval of the minutes of the Oct. 26th, 2022, regular meeting and a Public Hearing on an application for a conditional use permit to build a storage unit at 315 Columbia River Hwy. Clatskanie, and

a setback variance for 1499 Geraldine Dr. Clatskanie. An updated agenda will be available at City Hall by Dec. 22nd, 2022. Please visit our website, www. cityofclatskanie.com to access the link to attend the meeting on Zoom.

Late

Approximately 151,000 Oregonians will travel by air. In all, 6.4% of holiday travelers will fly to their destinations.

Air travel costs more this holiday season. AAA finds that the average lowest airfare during the week of Christmas is 6% more than last year coming in at $163 for major U.S. destinations.

Those wanting to book last-minute travel may find good fares, but availability will be limited.

Travel by bus, train and cruise rebound

Travel by other modes, including buses, trains, and cruises, will rise to nearly 3.7 million, an increase of 23% from 2021. This is nearly 94% of the volume in 2019. In all, about 3.2% of all travelers will go by these modes.

Roughly 47,000 Oregonians will travel by these modes this year.

AAA advice for air travelers:

Book the first flight of the day or early morning flights if you can. They are less likely to be cancelled or delayed.

Try not to book tight connecting flights – you’ll want enough time to change flights in case your originating flight is late.

If possible, avoid airports for connecting flights where winter weather can lead to delays, including Chicago O’Hare, Newark Liberty, LaGuardia, Denver, and JFK.

If you really need to be at your destination on a certain day, book flights a day or two early so that you have a buffer.

Download the airline’s app on your phone and set it up for push notifications so that you’ll be notified about departure and arrival information as well as any flight changes, delays or cancellations. FlightA-

ware and other sites let you track your incoming flight so you can find other options if that flight is late or cancelled.

Get to the airport early – at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. The increase in travelers along with potential staffing shortages can make for long wait times to get through security.

If you need to park at the airport, book a parking spot in advance or at least check on availability before you go. Better yet, take transit, use a ride sharing service, or get a ride from a friend to the airport.

Carry your bags on your flight instead of checking them. If you do need to check bags, bring medications, a change of clothes, comfortable shoes, and any other necessary items in your carry on bag. Make sure your bags have name tags, and also put your name and contact info inside each bag.

Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks since some

Reference is made to that certain Trust Deed made by, JENNIFER L ELWOOD as Grantor to CLEAR RECON CORP. as Trustee, in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. (“MERS”), as designated nominee for GUILD MORTGAGE COMPANY LLC, A CALIFORNIA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, Beneficiary of the security instrument, its successors and assigns, dated as of July 3, 2021 and recorded on July 9, 2021 as Instrument No. 2021-08107 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Columbia County, Oregon to-wit: APN: 17950 LOT 5, BLOCK 36, MOECKS ADDITION TO THE CITY OF RAINIER, IN THE CITY OF RAINIER, COUNTY OF COLUMBIA AND STATE OF OREGON. Commonly known as: 422 W C ST, RAINIER, OR 97048 Both the Beneficiary, Data Mortgage, Inc., and the Trustee, Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112, have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said Trust Deed and notice has been recorded pursuant to Section 86.735(3) of Oregon Revised Statutes. The default for which the foreclosure is made is the Grantor’s failure to pay: Failed to pay payments which became due Monthly Payment(s): 1 Monthly Payment(s) from 02/01/2022 to 11/01/2022 at $22,233.40 Monthly Late Charge(s): By this reason of said default the Beneficiary has declared all obligations secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and pay-

airports and flights still have reduced meal and beverage service. Many airlines allow you to pre-order food up to 24 hours before your flight. The TSA allows solid foods through screening but liquids or gels (such as yogurt) must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

Consider signing up for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and/or CLEAR to expedite the security screening process. Do make sure the airports you use offer CLEAR as it’s not available at all airports.

If your flight is canceled by the airline or there are significant delays, they will try to accommodate you on a later flight; however, you are entitled to a full refund under federal law.

Gas prices similar to last year

Those who hit the road for the holidays will find gas prices within about 20 cents a gallon of last year’s prices. For the week, the national

able, said sums being the following, to-wit: The sum of $350,858.38 together with interest thereon at the rate of 3.87500% per annum from January 1, 2022 until paid; plus all accrued late charges thereon; and all Trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs and any sums advanced by the Beneficiary pursuant to the terms of said Trust Deed. Wherefore, notice is hereby given that, the under-signed Trustee will on March 21, 2023 at the hour of 01:00 PM, Standard of Time, as established by Section 187.110, Oregon Revised Statues, Front Entrance, Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051 County of Columbia, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the Grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by him of the said Trust Deed, together with any interest which the Grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of said Trust Deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the Trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in Section 86.753 of Oregon Revised Statutes has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by payment to the Beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of said principal as would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the

average for regular drops 13 cents to $3.12 a gallon. The Oregon average slides 16 cents to $3.82. Find current prices at https://gasprices.aaa. com.

The first peak traffic was expected Dec. 23, the other peak travel days are Dec. 27, 28 and Jan. 2.

Travelers can expect the busiest roads on Dec. 23, 27 and 28 and on Jan. 2. Delays will be the longest in the afternoons and evenings, especially in urban areas, as travelers mix with commuters. Some metro areas across the U.S. could see more than double the delays versus typical drive times, and larger urban areas could experience three times the normal delays.

“Knowing the busiest drive times can help you avoid the stress of being stuck in stopand-go traffic,” Dodds said.

Top holiday destinations

These are the trending destinations for domestic and international travel for

costs, Trustee’s or attorney’s fees and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or Trust Deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the Trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the Trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a Trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the Trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “Grantor” includes any successor in interest to the Grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said Trust Deed, the words “Trustee” and “Beneficiary” includes their respective successors in interest, if any. Dated: 11/10/2022

By: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112

Successor Trustee Malcolm & Cisneros, A Law Corporation Attention: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 c/o TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300

Order Number 87215, Pub Dates: 12/2/2022, 12/9/2022, 12/16/2022, 12/23/2022,

THE CLATSKANIE CHIEF

members of AAA Oregon/ Idaho based on bookings by our AAA travel agents and at AAA.com.

• Maui, HI

• Anaheim, CA

• Oahu, HI

• Las Vegas, NV

• Phoenix, AZ

• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

• San Diego, CA

• Orlando, FL

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

• Cancun, Mexico

These are the top regional destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho based on bookings by our AAA travel agents and on AAA.com.

• Bend, OR

• Seattle, WA

• Lincoln City, OR

• Medford/Ashland/Central Point, OR

• Redding, CA

• San Francisco, CA

• Boise, ID

• Sacramento, CA

• Newport, OR

• Salt Lake City, UT

Hoarder’s Paradise! 20 sizes, Inexpensive RV Storage, Carports, Hand trucks, Locks, Fully-lined, Insulated, Condensation free, all units lit. On-site Manager

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of NADINE SHEPHERD, Deceased. No. 22PB10286

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA

Letters to Santa

Christmas is a special time for our children and The Chief is proud to partner with our advertisers to present the following Letters to Santa presentation.

The letters are from 3rd grade students coordinated by teachers Mr. Jones, Mrs. Bauman, and Ms. Reynolds at Clatskanie Elementary School.

Each letter is written by a local child, representing their wish for Christmas. Please join us to wish these kids, their families and our community a safe and happy holiday!

North Columbia County’s trusted local news source

Letters to Santa

North Columbia County’s