Every year many Oregonians are unnecessarily hurt or injured while enjoying the outdoors because they fail to follow some basic fire and life safety rules. Common sense and taking a few simple precautions can keep a fun experience from turning into a tragedy. The Office of State Fire Marshal recommends following these outdoor fire safety rules. When tent camping always avoid open flame of any kind in or near the tent or canopy and never cook ... [full story]

State and federal wildlife biologists will be testing wild birds in Oregon this summer and fall as part of a nationwide effort aimed at the early detection of HPAI H5N1 “bird flu” virus in North America. Sampling will focus on several species of migratory shorebirds and waterfowl that are most likely to have interacted with birds from Asia, where the disease has been established, while in the Arctic this summer. Oregon and other states cooperating ... [full story]

GreatOutdoors.com, a leading online website for outdoor gear, clothing, and information, today announced its plans to expand operations into Redmond, OR, just 15 miles from the outdoor mecca that is Bend, OR. GreatOutdoors.com has experienced rapid growth in online sales and as a result has outgrown its existing facilities in Washington State. The decision to expand into Central Oregon reflects the attractiveness of both the quality of life in the region and business environment of ... [full story]

To recognize National HIV Testing Day next Tuesday, the Deschutes County Health Department will offer free rapid HIV testing on a walk-in basis at the Downtown Health Center on June 27. An HIV rapid test allows for quick results in 20 minutes. To recognize National HIV Testing Day next Tuesday, the Deschutes County Health Department will offer free rapid HIV testing on a walk-in basis at the Downtown Health Center on June 27. An HIV ... [full story]