National Weather Service Continues Flood Potential Outlook for SW Oregon Region

The National Weather Service has continued its Flood Potential Outlook for southwest Oregon and northern California. The Flood Potential Outlook calls for significant rises on rivers, creeks and streams, with possible main stem river flooding due to moderate to heavy rain in Coos, Curry, Douglas, Josephine and Jackson counties in Oregon as well as Siskiyou County in California. A series of wet frontal systems will produce moderate to heavy precipitation through this coming weekend. Significant rises are expected late this week, but especially Saturday night into early next week. Forecast precipitation totals through Sunday could reach two to three inches over west side valleys, with five to ten inches possible in the mountains and along the coast. More than a foot of rain could fall in the Curry coastal mountain ranges. This rainfall will increase the risk for both flash flooding over area burn scars as well as small stream and river flooding. The Rogue River near Agness is forecast to reach minor flood stage Saturday night and rise to flood stage Sunday morning. The Coquille River at Coquille is forecast to reach action flood stage Sunday afternoon with minor flood stage Sunday night. A Flood Potential Outlook is issued when there is the potential for significant rises or flooding along rivers and streams. Flood watches and warnings may be issued by the National Weather Service if the situation worsens. ...Read more

State Marine Board Seeks Additional Public Comment on Proposed Upper Rogue Rules

The Oregon State Marine Board opened a public comment period last month on proposed rule language for boat operations on the Upper Rogue River in Jackson County, with a comment deadline of December 20th. During that timeframe, the agency learned more about issues related to boating in this area that have led to proposing further revisions to the rule language.. To be thorough and transparent, the agency is opting to reopen the public comment step in the rulemaking process to ensure time for comments on the proposed updates. The agency has filed a Notice of Rulemaking with the Oregon Secretary of State that will be published in the January 1st Oregon Bulletin to modify the language on the proposed new rule for the Upper Rogue. In short, it says "all boating activities on the river shall be restricted until the three-day average flow increases above 1,350 cubic feet per second at Dodge Bridge near Eagle Point." The rule aims to preserve traditional boating uses along the Upper Rogue while also aiming to reduce conflicts and enhance safety between other river recreators. The horsepower restrictions will limit the size and speed in which boats may operate on sections of the river to preserve habitat. Written comments will now be accepted until January 21st by 11:55 p.m.. ...Read more

Marine Board Recognized Pair from Jackson County SO at Annual Conference in Bend

The Oregon State Marine Board recognized two members of the Jackson County Sheriff's Office during its annual postseason marine law enforcement conference in Bend this month. Jackson County Sheriff's Sergeant Shawn Richards was honored with a Service Recognition Award. Sergeant Richards has dedicated his career to public safety and has decided to retire in 2025. He started his career with the Klamath County Sheriff's Office in 1998 and achieved the rank of Corporal before he moved to the Jackson County Sheriff's Office in 2012. He has managed a multitude of field service contracts, including the Bureau of Land Management and US Forest Service in addition to the Marine Board. He has also managed Jackson County Search and Rescue. Jackson County Sheriff's Deputy Jason Denton was honored with the Service Excellence Award. Deputy Denton was recognized for his commitment to the training program, with amazing drift and jet boat skills so he can safely and efficiently operate in any conditions. ...Read more