Backers of commercial air service out of Salem Airport push city leaders to help resume flights by June

January 1, 2023

By WHITNEY WOODWORTH/Salem Statesman Journal SALEM — Commercial air service at Salem Airport is closer to becoming a reality for the first time in more than a decade. But much remains up in the air. Several key fixes need to be done before residents can book a flight out of McNary Field. The location currently serves as a general aviation

Oregon considers designating six rocky shoreline areas for marine conservation and long-term management

January 1, 2023

By DANA TIMS/YachatsNews Oregon’s beaches are enjoyed by countless tourists and locals every year, drawn by soft sand and seemingly endless vistas. Far less accessible, however, are the rocky crags and outcroppings that make up more than 40 percent of the state’s 363 miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline. Now, propelled by years of volunteer effort and planning, the state is

As Oregon’s population declines for first time in 30 years, state economist warns of revenue loss

January 1, 2023

By APRIL EHRLICH/Oregon Public Broadcasting New national estimates show Oregon is losing population, as deaths outpace births and fewer people move here from other states. The preliminary estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, released Thursday, are alarming state economists. “There’s not a single silver lining in the numbers …,” said Josh Lehner, an economist with the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis. “I’m

32-year-old raptor rehabilitation center in Eugene taking off again after pandemic setbacks

January 1, 2023

A barred owl designated 22-68 because it’s the 68th bird admitted to the Cascades Raptor Center in 2022, is held by volunteer Briana Deyling, before being examined ahead of its release earlier this year at Campbell Park. Brain Bull / KLCC Rehabilitator and trainer Victoria Willson (left) hold barred owl 22-68 scheduled for release as volunteer Briana Deyling (right) readies