Environment

Roseburg Disposal is encouraging residents to use Oregon’s new RecycleOn Oregon guide as the state works to simplify recycling rules, reduce contamination and expand access under the Recycling Modernization Act.

The road to Umpqua Hot Springs has reopened after a winter closure, but visitors are being reminded the site is day-use only. Camping, overnight use and improper parking are prohibited, and the trailhead will switch to cashless fee collection beginning April 1.

PacifiCorp agreed to pay $575 million to settle federal claims tied to six wildfires in Oregon and California. The funds will reimburse suppression costs and support land restoration. The settlement resolves allegations only, and the company continues to deny liability.

The U.S. Forest Service and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians signed a shared stewardship agreement to expand forest restoration across the Umpqua and Rogue River–Siskiyou national forests, focusing on wildfire risk reduction, forest health and protecting nearby communities.

Oregon’s Free Fishing Weekend is Feb. 14–15, allowing anyone to fish, crab or clam without a license. Families are encouraged to get outside, try fishing and submit photos from their outings while following all statewide regulations.

Umpqua National Forest will switch to cashless fee collection at developed recreation sites beginning April 1, 2026. Visitors will need to use Scan & Pay or Recreation.gov, with cash and checks no longer accepted at Forest Service sites.