USDA Awards Grant, Loan for Gold Hill Infrastructure Improvements
The United States Department of Agriculture is investing $6.4 million in a loan and grant to Rogue Valley Sewer Services. Today, USDA Rural Development Oregon State Director Jim Carmack announced the agency is investing $6,237,000 in grant and $250,000 in loan to make improvements, including a critical sewer pipeline connection from Gold Hill to the Medford Regional Water Reclamation Facility. This project with Rogue Valley Sewer Services will ensure wastewater services comply with safety regulations and will replace the city’s treatment plant by transferring service to a more modern and capable facility. This project is funded through USDA Rural Development’s Water and Environmental Programs, which focus on rural water and waste infrastructure needs of rural communities with populations of 10,000 or less. ...Read more

Fire Season Regulations Remain despite Cool, Rainy Conditions in the Forecast
Despite cooler conditions and rain in the forecast, fire season regulations are still in effect.

The Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest District says debris burning of any kind remains illegal during fire season, and is incredibly dangerous when warm, windy weather returns to the forecast.

The US National Weather Service Medford office issued a wind advisory for the majority of Josephine County for winds gusting up to 45 miles per hour. Debris burns or any new fire start will grow in these conditions, even in cooler weather.

Not only is debris burning in piles and barrels banned during fire season for these risks, but also because piles can easily reignite days, weeks, or months later when the right conditions occur. Protect your home and neighborhood by waiting until fire season is over to burn.

Forest officers are ready to respond to calls of illegal burns or other violations as needed. Firefighters also remain ready to respond to any new fire starts across Josephine and Jackson counties.

Prevent fires now and in the future by following all current regulations. Learn more at www.swofire.com ...Read more

Josephine and Jackson Counties Air Quality Affected by Moon Complex Smoke

Air quality in Josephine and Jackson Counties has been negatively affected by the Moon Complex fire. Jackson County Public Health encourages everyone to protect themselves from wildfire smoke by being aware of smoke concentrations in your area and avoid places with the highest concentrations. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity in smoky conditions, stay indoors with doors and windows closed, use air conditioning, keep your car windows and vents closed with the air on recirculate, and drink plenty of water. If you have to be outside when air quality is poor, wearing a “particulate respirator” mask can also help protect your lungs from wildfire smoke. You can check the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Air Quality Index map to see real-time air monitoring data, or download their mobile app. ...Read more