Regional Partners Encourage Safer Choices And Open Conversations For Alcohol Awareness Month - 04/09/26

Astoria, OR — In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, Alcohol and Drug Prevention Education Programs (ADPEP) in Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties are encouraging residents to reflect on their relationship with alcohol and learn about the impact alcohol can have on individual health, families, and the community. 

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance in Oregon and across the United States. While many people drink socially, excessive or underage alcohol use can increase the risk of injuries, chronic disease, mental health challenges, and substance use disorder. Alcohol use is also linked to increased rates of motor vehicle crashes, violence, and academic/workplace problems. 

“Alcohol Awareness Month is an opportunity to pause and have honest, non-judgmental conversations about alcohol,” said Stephanie Michael, ADPEP Coordinator. “We want people to have the information they need to make informed choices and to know that support is available if they or someone they care about needs help.” 

Throughout April, Clatsop, Columbia, and Tillamook counties will share resources focused on: 

• Understanding lower-risk drinking guidelines 

• Preventing underage drinking 

• Reducing alcohol-related harms 

• Supporting individuals and families affected by alcohol misuse 

Parents and caregivers are also reminded that setting clear expectations and open communication can significantly reduce youth alcohol use.  

If you or someone you know is concerned about alcohol use, confidential help is available. Call or text the 988 lifeline for mental health and substance use support, or visit www.findtreatment.gov to find local treatment resources. 

For more information about Alcohol Awareness Month activities or available resources, visit www.rethinkthedrink.com or contact Clatsop County Public Health.  

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Clatsop County Invites Public Input On Carnahan Park Boating Facilities Improvements - 04/08/26

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County Parks is inviting community members to help shape the future of Carnahan County Park with an Open House and Walk & Talk on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Parks Staff will present draft design concepts for boating facility improvements at Carnahan Park, developed in coordination with the Oregon State Marine Board. Community feedback will play a key role in refining the plan and guiding next steps.

“This is a chance for the community to see how their earlier feedback has been incorporated and to help us fine-tune improvements,” said Clatsop County Parks Supervisor Corey Johnson.  “We’re focused on practical, small-scale upgrades that make the park safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for everyone.”

Open House and Walk & Talk
Join us from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Pacific Grange Hall, 90475 US-101, Warrenton to view draft design plans, share your feedback, and attend a short presentation about proposed improvements to Carnahan County Park. Then, continue the conversation by joining us for a Walk & Talk at Carnahan County Park.

Attendees can also enter a drawing for a Clatsop County Parks Annual Pass. Light refreshments will be provided.

“We’d love to hear from community members,” said Johnson. “Whether you live nearby, use the park regularly, or are part of a recreation group, come share your perspective.”

Input gathered will help inform recommendations to the Oregon State Marine Board and the County’s Recreation Lands Planning Advisory Committee.

Can’t attend? Take the digital survey.

Clatsop County Seeks Public Input For Fair & Expo Strategic Plan Update (Photo) - 03/26/26

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County is inviting the public to help shape the future of the Fair & Expo by participating in a community survey and attending an upcoming open house on Saturday, April 18.

The County, in partnership with the Fair Board, has begun updating the Fair & Expo Strategic Plan. This will be the first comprehensive update since 2009 and will guide future decisions related to fairgrounds facilities, programming, and community use.

Community input is a key part of the planning process.

Residents, exhibitors, vendors, and event organizers are encouraged to share their ideas and priorities through a short online survey and by attending a public open house.

“The Fair & Expo brings people together, and this is a chance for the community to help shape its future," said Fair Board Chair, Abigale Goodman. “We hope people will take a few minutes to complete the survey or join us at the open house and share their ideas.”

Community Open House

When: Saturday, April 18, Noon–2 p.m.

Where: Clatsop County Fairgrounds

The open house will introduce the strategic planning process, provide an opportunity to learn more about the Fair & Expo, and gather feedback on facilities, events, and programming. Attendees may drop in at any time during the event. Snack will be provided.

In addition to the open house, community members can complete an online survey to share input. The survey takes just a few minutes and will remain open through April 30.

Take the survey: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/ajRKBQ5nf1

A second public open house will take place on May 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., where community members can review draft recommendations and provide feedback before the Strategic Plan is finalized. The strategic planning process includes data review, community partner engagement, and public input, and is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2026.

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