The driver of a semi-truck pulling a 53-foot trailer, allegedly under the influence of drugs, crashed into a utility pole cutting off power to an east Bend home, then sped away, leading police on a chase and nearly colliding head-on with several vehicles when she turned into oncoming traffic. The incident began shortly after 10 p.m. Wednesday, December 6, when sheriff’s deputies, assisted by Bend Police, responded to a report of an accident at 61371 ... [full story]

MNI Report: Oregon Industrial Employment up 1.3% in ‘06; Plants up 3.5% Oregon saw a 1.3% gain in manufacturing employment and a 3.5% increase in manufacturers, according to the 2007 Oregon Manufacturers Directory, an industry guide published annually by Manufacturers’ News, Inc. (MNI) of Evanston, Illinois. MNI reports Oregon gained 2,884 manufacturing jobs and 211 plants since November 2005. “Oregon added more than 20,000 manufacturing jobs over the past few years, making it one of ... [full story]

The October 2005 eruption of Sierra Negra volcano in the Galapagos Islands was preceded by an extraordinary 5-meter uplift of the caldera floor in just a dozen years – the largest inflation scientists have recorded prior to the eruption of a basaltic volcano. The uplift was caused by magma accumulating beneath the volcano prior to the eruption, researchers say, and these kinds of measurable precursors can be used to forecast eruptions. This was the first time ... [full story]

Two volunteer members are needed for the Governor’s Advisory Committee on Motorcycle Safety, which advises the Governor and the Oregon Department of Transportation’s Safety Division on motorcycle safety issues. The committee focuses on rider education, prevention of drinking and riding, road hazards unique to motorcycles, motorist awareness of motorcycles, sharing the road and other safety issues.  The committee represents the voice of Oregon motorcyclists on safety-related issues. Committee members are appointed by the Governor and serve ... [full story]

Severe winter weather can make driving a challenge for even the most experienced drivers. Extreme cold temperatures make vehicles more likely to breakdown if proper maintenance has not been performed, and heavy snow falls and icy road conditions can cause vehicles to slide off the road and become stuck in the snow. This winter, AAA expects more than 100,000 stranded motorists to call for roadside assistance for vehicle extrication services. "Performing proper vehicle maintenance and good trip ... [full story]

OCHOCO DISTRICTPRINEVILLE RESERVOIR WMA:  The entry gates for the North Side Access Road have been shut closing the WMA to motorized access for the protection of wintering big game.  The area is open to foot traffic and other non-motorized access.   COUGAR: Cougar are reported regularly in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units, at all elevations and habitat types.  Areas to consider include the Alkali Butte and Sanford Creek (Maury WMU); Bridge Creek, Sunflower Creek, and ... [full story]

Some streams closed to trout fishing. Few new reports for the Central zone this week as conditions have not changed much; contact ODFW at the Deschutes Watershed Office (541) 388-6363 or Klamath Watershed Office (541) 883-5732 for more information on fishing opportunities. ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-14 inch rainbow trout are fair. Illegally introduced bullhead have had a negative impact on trout angling. Recent snows may limit access. Contact Ochoco National Forest @ 541-416-6500. CLEAR ... [full story]