Fire Outlook Points to Elevated Summer Risk
The National Interagency Fire Center’s June outlook shows above-normal significant wildland fire potential across Northern California and parts of the Northwest, with the risk expanding across Oregon as summer progresses. The forecast does not predict specific fires, but it signals a greater-than-usual likelihood of significant wildfires during the June through September outlook period.
In Photos: Wildflowers Return to the Klamath
A spring wildflower bloom is spreading across the former Iron Gate and Copco reservoir footprints, where the Yurok Tribe says crews have planted millions of native seeds since the removal of four Klamath River dams in 2024. The returning plants are helping stabilize soil, support wildlife and rebuild habitat along the river.
Drought Relief Workshop Set for Klamath Project Irrigators
Klamath Project irrigators have an upcoming opportunity to learn more about 2026 drought relief programs during a Friday workshop at the Klamath Water Users Association office in Klamath Falls. Applications for the programs are due by 5 p.m. June 15.
Cal-Ore Plans Fiber Expansion in Weed
Cal-Ore Communications has announced plans to expand broadband service in Siskiyou County with a fiber-optic overlay of the City of Weed. The company says large-scale engineering is already underway, with the goal of beginning customer connections in fall 2026.
Klamath River Dam Removal Project Earns International Award
The Klamath River Renewal Project has received international recognition for its role in restoring fish passage and river connectivity following the removal of four hydroelectric dams. Project partners say the effort reopened more than 400 miles of historic habitat for salmon, steelhead and lamprey.
Siskiyou Sheriff Holds Dorris Town Hall on Wolf Concerns
Siskiyou County officials held a town hall in Dorris this week to discuss public safety concerns with Butte Valley residents, including ongoing issues involving gray wolves, livestock depredation and reported wolf habituation. The Sheriff’s Office says additional town halls are planned this month in Quartz Valley, Happy Camp, Tulelake and Hornbrook.
Charges Recommended After Dorris Paraquat Spill
CHP has recommended possible charges after a paraquat spill in Dorris shut down Highway 97 and triggered a shelter-in-place order. Investigators say the tank came loose from a truck headed to a spraying job in the Shasta Valley.
Klamath Basin Agriculture Faces Severe Irrigation Shortfall
The initial irrigation water allocation for the Klamath Project in 2026 is expected to fall significantly short of agricultural needs, according to the Klamath Water Users Association. The Bureau of Reclamation announced 221,000 acre-feet from Upper Klamath Lake, just over half of what is typically required. Officials say drought conditions, minimal snowpack, and regulatory constraints are contributing factors, and more than 40,000 acres may need to be idled this season.
Wolf Sightings Near Homes Raise Concerns in Siskiyou County
The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office is reporting an increase in gray wolf sightings near homes and a rise in livestock depredations this spring. Officials say at least 16 confirmed depredations have occurred since early February, including a recent incident in Butte Valley where two wolves were reported stalking dogs near a residence. Sheriff Jeremiah LaRue is calling for changes to California’s gray wolf management plan and urging residents to take precautions.
Suspect Shot, Killed After Pulling Gun During I-5 Traffic Stop
A suspect was shot and killed after allegedly pulling a firearm on officers during a traffic stop on Interstate 5 in Weed, California. Authorities say suspected methamphetamine was discovered in the vehicle before the officer-involved shooting occurred.
Toxic Chemical Spill Triggers Shelter-in-Place in Dorris
A toxic chemical spill in Dorris, California triggered a shelter-in-place order, highway closure, and emergency response as crews worked to neutralize paraquat, a highly dangerous herbicide. Officials say the scene is now safe, but caution remains in effect.
Teen Driver Dies in Early Morning Siskiyou County Crash
An 18-year-old Etna driver died early Friday morning after a single-vehicle crash on Oberlin Road east of Yreka. Authorities say the vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree, while a teenage passenger was transported to the hospital with injuries.
Pedestrian Injured in Mount Shasta Hit-and-Run; Driver Arrested
An elderly woman was seriously injured in a hit-and-run collision Saturday afternoon in Mount Shasta. Police say the driver, later identified as a 45-year-old man, was located, arrested, and booked on felony DUI and hit-and-run charges.
Weed Lumber Mill Closing; 140 Workers Jobless
Roseburg Forest Products has closed its Weed, Calif., veneer plant as it consolidates production at upgraded Oregon facilities. The company says the move strengthens long-term competitiveness and affects about 140 employees.