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News Release
Road Name: Wendling Road (Wendling Covered Bridge)
Location: Wendling Covered Bridge at milepost 3.5 near Marcola
Dates and times: Complete closure now through Wednesday, July 29
Alternate routes: BLM Road 16-1-10 can be used to access beyond Wendling Covered Bridge
Reason for closure: Bridge approach repair
Road Name: Wendling Road (Wendling Covered Bridge)
Location: Wendling Covered Bridge at milepost 3.5 near Marcola
Dates and times: Complete closure now through Wednesday, July 29
Alternate routes: BLM Road 16-1-10 can be used to access beyond Wendling Covered Bridge
Reason for closure: Bridge approach repair
Lane County Parks will begin construction on parking lot improvements at Howard Buford Recreation Area's Arboretum/Main Summit Trail parking lot on Wednesday, July 22. Construction is anticipated to continue through October.
The project is funded by the voter-supported 2022 Parks Levy and was identified though community feedback gathered during the Parks levy outreach process.
Planned improvements include:
"This project responds directly to community feedback gathered during Parks levy outreach," said Brett Henry, Lane County Parks division manager. "Howard Buford Recreation Area is one of our most visited parks, and these improvements will create a safer and more accessible experience for visitors."
Visitor Access During Construction
The Arboretum/Main Summit Trail parking lot is expected to remain open, although visitors should anticipate limited parking and periodic closures during construction. Lane County Parks is working closely with the Mount Pisgah Arboretum to help maintain access for scheduled programs and events.
Construction activities will occur Monday through Friday. Visitors should expect construction noise, heavy equipment, flaggers directing traffic, and temporary work area closures. Parking on weekends may be limited depending on the stage of construction.
All trails, including Summit Trail #1, will remain open throughout the project. However, access from the Main Summit Trailhead may be limited. Visitors planning to hike are encouraged to use the North Bottomlands Trailhead or the East Trailhead for easier access during construction.
Visitors can access the summit from the following trailheads:
Staying Informed
Questions can be directed to Lane County Parks at 541-682-2000 or LaneParks@LaneCountyOR.gov.
To stay updated on the project, visit the:
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Lane County Parks will begin construction on parking lot improvements at Howard Buford Recreation Area's Arboretum/Main Summit Trail parking lot on Wednesday, July 22. Construction is anticipated to continue through October.
The project is funded by the voter-supported 2022 Parks Levy and was identified though community feedback gathered during the Parks levy outreach process.
Planned improvements include:
"This project responds directly to community feedback gathered during Parks levy outreach," said Brett Henry, Lane County Parks division manager. "Howard Buford Recreation Area is one of our most visited parks, and these improvements will create a safer and more accessible experience for visitors."
Visitor Access During Construction
The Arboretum/Main Summit Trail parking lot is expected to remain open, although visitors should anticipate limited parking and periodic closures during construction. Lane County Parks is working closely with the Mount Pisgah Arboretum to help maintain access for scheduled programs and events.
Construction activities will occur Monday through Friday. Visitors should expect construction noise, heavy equipment, flaggers directing traffic, and temporary work area closures. Parking on weekends may be limited depending on the stage of construction.
All trails, including Summit Trail #1, will remain open throughout the project. However, access from the Main Summit Trailhead may be limited. Visitors planning to hike are encouraged to use the North Bottomlands Trailhead or the East Trailhead for easier access during construction.
Visitors can access the summit from the following trailheads:
Staying Informed
Questions can be directed to Lane County Parks at 541-682-2000 or LaneParks@LaneCountyOR.gov.
To stay updated on the project, visit the:
###
It’s summer, which means it’s repair season again.
Lane County residents with broken or damaged household items can once again take advantage of free repair services this summer and early fall through the Fix-It Booth program, sponsored by Waste Wise Lane County, a part of Lane County Waste Management.
Now in its second season, the Fix-It Booth program offers repair opportunities in Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge. The program launched last year to expand access to repair services in rural communities.
“Folks can bring in a wide variety of household items for repair,” said Mitra Gruwell, Lane County Fix-It Fair coordinator. “Bring bikes with flat tires, leather accessories, power tools, ripped pants, jewelry, small appliances, phones, and much more.”
Because each fixer specializes in different types of repairs, residents are encouraged to check the repair calendar before attending. Current schedules, locations, and repair specifics are available at fixitlanecounty.org/calendar.
Last year, approximately 100 residents—across Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge—received free repair services from 16 specialized fixers. Nearly 90 items were successfully repaired, meaning they were diverted from the trash, and put back into use.
“Every item we repair is one less item sent to the landfill and one more opportunity to conserve resources, reduce waste, and save residents money,” said Angie Marzano, Waste Reduction supervisor for Lane County Waste Management. “Repairing what we already own is one of the simplest and most effective ways to build a more sustainable community, and we're excited to continue expanding these opportunities throughout Lane County.”
The program is made possible through partnerships with community organizations, including Shift Community Cycles, Lane Council of Governments, Florence Habitat for Humanity, Florence Farmers Market, Westfir-Oakridge Community Farmers Market, Upper Willamette Soil and Water Conservation District, and the South Valley Farmers Market, which provide operational, venue, and financial support.
In addition to the Fix-It Booths, Waste Wise Lane County will host its annual Fix-It Fair on Saturday, September 20, at BRING in Springfield. The City of Eugene is also offering Fix-It Booths throughout the season at the Lane County Farmers Market.
For more information, visit FixItLaneCounty.org/calendar or follow Waste Wise Lane County on social media.
About Waste Wise Lane County
Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit LaneCountyOR.gov/wastewise.
Multimedia
Video and photos available at: https://laneco.sharefile.com/i/ibfb558b57854aa5a
NOTE: To access this shared folder, you must create an account. (1) Click the above link. (2) Fill out the form to send an activation email to your account. (3) Click on the activation email “Go to Folder” link. (4) Fill in the email and proceed to the page with the password. Click on the “Forgot password?” link. Send yourself a link. (5) In the inbox, click on the “Reset your password” link. (6) Create a new password. (7) Login.
It’s summer, which means it’s repair season again.
Lane County residents with broken or damaged household items can once again take advantage of free repair services this summer and early fall through the Fix-It Booth program, sponsored by Waste Wise Lane County, a part of Lane County Waste Management.
Now in its second season, the Fix-It Booth program offers repair opportunities in Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge. The program launched last year to expand access to repair services in rural communities.
“Folks can bring in a wide variety of household items for repair,” said Mitra Gruwell, Lane County Fix-It Fair coordinator. “Bring bikes with flat tires, leather accessories, power tools, ripped pants, jewelry, small appliances, phones, and much more.”
Because each fixer specializes in different types of repairs, residents are encouraged to check the repair calendar before attending. Current schedules, locations, and repair specifics are available at fixitlanecounty.org/calendar.
Last year, approximately 100 residents—across Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge—received free repair services from 16 specialized fixers. Nearly 90 items were successfully repaired, meaning they were diverted from the trash, and put back into use.
“Every item we repair is one less item sent to the landfill and one more opportunity to conserve resources, reduce waste, and save residents money,” said Angie Marzano, Waste Reduction supervisor for Lane County Waste Management. “Repairing what we already own is one of the simplest and most effective ways to build a more sustainable community, and we're excited to continue expanding these opportunities throughout Lane County.”
The program is made possible through partnerships with community organizations, including Shift Community Cycles, Lane Council of Governments, Florence Habitat for Humanity, Florence Farmers Market, Westfir-Oakridge Community Farmers Market, Upper Willamette Soil and Water Conservation District, and the South Valley Farmers Market, which provide operational, venue, and financial support.
In addition to the Fix-It Booths, Waste Wise Lane County will host its annual Fix-It Fair on Saturday, September 20, at BRING in Springfield. The City of Eugene is also offering Fix-It Booths throughout the season at the Lane County Farmers Market.
For more information, visit FixItLaneCounty.org/calendar or follow Waste Wise Lane County on social media.
About Waste Wise Lane County
Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit LaneCountyOR.gov/wastewise.
Multimedia
Video and photos available at: https://laneco.sharefile.com/i/ibfb558b57854aa5a
NOTE: To access this shared folder, you must create an account. (1) Click the above link. (2) Fill out the form to send an activation email to your account. (3) Click on the activation email “Go to Folder” link. (4) Fill in the email and proceed to the page with the password. Click on the “Forgot password?” link. Send yourself a link. (5) In the inbox, click on the “Reset your password” link. (6) Create a new password. (7) Login.
Lane County Public Health (LCPH) today announced laboratory confirmation from the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University of a rabies-infected bat found in Lane County. This is the third bat found in Lane County which has tested positive for rabies in 2026.
"All pet owners should make certain their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies. When our pets are protected from rabies, it provides a buffer zone of immune animals between humans and rabid wild animals, such as bats," says Dr. Emilio DeBess, State Public Health Veterinarian.
While bats help control insect populations, including mosquitoes, they are the primary reservoir of rabies in our wild animal communities. Thus far this year in Oregon 13 bats have tested positive for rabies.
Lane County residents and veterinarians should be aware that other animals could be exposed to the rabies virus and should, therefore, be alert to potential signs of the disease. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of humans and mammals. It is almost 100 percent fatal once symptoms begin. The virus is carried in the saliva of an infected animal; transmission can occur when that animal bites, or in rare instances, scratches another animal or person. If bitten by a bat the wound should be immediately and thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. In addition, medical attention should be sought. Finally, if easily accomplished, the bat should be captured and the event reported to the Lane County Public Health.
There are several strains of rabies found in the U.S. (e.g., bat, skunk, fox, raccoon) but only bat rabies is found in Oregon. Other animals that have tested positive for rabies in Oregon have contracted it from bats. People should stay away from bats and not handle them.
LCPH recommends the following:
· Vaccinate your pets (dogs and cats) against rabies
· Do not handle bats with bare hands
· Watch wildlife from a distance. Do not approach or attempt to handle wild animals.
· Do not feed wild animals
· Keep garbage in secure containers and away from wildlife
· Feed pets indoors
· Seal openings in attics, basements, porches, sheds, barns and screen chimneys that might provide access to bats and other wildlife
· If your pet has contact with a bat, contact your veterinarian
For a statewide map showing the distribution of rabies in bats for 2026, please visit:https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/RABIES/Documents/rabiesmap26.pdf
Lane County Public Health is a division of Lane County Health & Human Services is a department of Lane County. Their programs and services create a healthier and safer community through disease prevention, health promotion, and protection from environmental threats. Learn more about the work of Lane County Health and Human Services at: http://www.lanecountyor.gov/HHS
Lane County Public Health (LCPH) today announced laboratory confirmation from the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University of a rabies-infected bat found in Lane County. This is the third bat found in Lane County which has tested positive for rabies in 2026.
"All pet owners should make certain their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies. When our pets are protected from rabies, it provides a buffer zone of immune animals between humans and rabid wild animals, such as bats," says Dr. Emilio DeBess, State Public Health Veterinarian.
While bats help control insect populations, including mosquitoes, they are the primary reservoir of rabies in our wild animal communities. Thus far this year in Oregon 13 bats have tested positive for rabies.
Lane County residents and veterinarians should be aware that other animals could be exposed to the rabies virus and should, therefore, be alert to potential signs of the disease. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of humans and mammals. It is almost 100 percent fatal once symptoms begin. The virus is carried in the saliva of an infected animal; transmission can occur when that animal bites, or in rare instances, scratches another animal or person. If bitten by a bat the wound should be immediately and thoroughly cleaned with soap and water. In addition, medical attention should be sought. Finally, if easily accomplished, the bat should be captured and the event reported to the Lane County Public Health.
There are several strains of rabies found in the U.S. (e.g., bat, skunk, fox, raccoon) but only bat rabies is found in Oregon. Other animals that have tested positive for rabies in Oregon have contracted it from bats. People should stay away from bats and not handle them.
LCPH recommends the following:
· Vaccinate your pets (dogs and cats) against rabies
· Do not handle bats with bare hands
· Watch wildlife from a distance. Do not approach or attempt to handle wild animals.
· Do not feed wild animals
· Keep garbage in secure containers and away from wildlife
· Feed pets indoors
· Seal openings in attics, basements, porches, sheds, barns and screen chimneys that might provide access to bats and other wildlife
· If your pet has contact with a bat, contact your veterinarian
For a statewide map showing the distribution of rabies in bats for 2026, please visit:https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/RABIES/Documents/rabiesmap26.pdf
Lane County Public Health is a division of Lane County Health & Human Services is a department of Lane County. Their programs and services create a healthier and safer community through disease prevention, health promotion, and protection from environmental threats. Learn more about the work of Lane County Health and Human Services at: http://www.lanecountyor.gov/HHS
--Corrects the earlier version that stated the budget gap was $3. It's $3 million. Apologies. --
Following a robust discussion, the Board of County Commissioners voted to close a $3 million budget gap in Lane County’s Waste Management Division by increasing fees and reducing some services.
“Our community values rural transfer sites, and they are an important part of our solid waste system,” said Waste Management Division Manager Jeff Orlandini. “We rely on the fees people and haulers pay when they bring us materials to fund our transfer sites and other services, but those revenues have declined sharply in recent years. These changes will allow us to balance our budget while preserving as many of our services as possible.”
The budget gap is the result of several years of waste exportation by Waste Connections, which owns Sanipac, EcoSort, and County Waste & Transfer. Historically, communities and solid waste haulers have helped fund transfer sites and other services, such as household hazardous waste collection and recycling programs, by paying a fee when they bring garbage to Lane County sites. By taking waste out of Lane County to a site owned by Waste Connections near Medford, Ore. Lane County is unable to collect enough fees to keep services at the current level and the Waste Management Division does not receive tax funding.
While haulers in unincorporated Lane County and the cities of Eugene, Florence and Oakridge are required to bring their waste to Lane County to support our local system, other cities have refused to require their haulers to do the same, including Cottage Grove, Creswell, Springfield, and Veneta.
The changes adopted by the Board of Commissioners will take effect on Monday, August 10, 2026 and include three components: a fee increase, reduced hours at multiple locations, and closure of the Walton Transfer Site. After August 10, Lane County will still operate 14 solid waste transfer sites—more than any other county in Western Oregon—and the new minimum fee remains lower than Lane County’s five comparator counties, where minimum disposal fees range between $28 and $53.63.
Summary of changes that take effect on Monday, August 10:
###
--Corrects the earlier version that stated the budget gap was $3. It's $3 million. Apologies. --
Following a robust discussion, the Board of County Commissioners voted to close a $3 million budget gap in Lane County’s Waste Management Division by increasing fees and reducing some services.
“Our community values rural transfer sites, and they are an important part of our solid waste system,” said Waste Management Division Manager Jeff Orlandini. “We rely on the fees people and haulers pay when they bring us materials to fund our transfer sites and other services, but those revenues have declined sharply in recent years. These changes will allow us to balance our budget while preserving as many of our services as possible.”
The budget gap is the result of several years of waste exportation by Waste Connections, which owns Sanipac, EcoSort, and County Waste & Transfer. Historically, communities and solid waste haulers have helped fund transfer sites and other services, such as household hazardous waste collection and recycling programs, by paying a fee when they bring garbage to Lane County sites. By taking waste out of Lane County to a site owned by Waste Connections near Medford, Ore. Lane County is unable to collect enough fees to keep services at the current level and the Waste Management Division does not receive tax funding.
While haulers in unincorporated Lane County and the cities of Eugene, Florence and Oakridge are required to bring their waste to Lane County to support our local system, other cities have refused to require their haulers to do the same, including Cottage Grove, Creswell, Springfield, and Veneta.
The changes adopted by the Board of Commissioners will take effect on Monday, August 10, 2026 and include three components: a fee increase, reduced hours at multiple locations, and closure of the Walton Transfer Site. After August 10, Lane County will still operate 14 solid waste transfer sites—more than any other county in Western Oregon—and the new minimum fee remains lower than Lane County’s five comparator counties, where minimum disposal fees range between $28 and $53.63.
Summary of changes that take effect on Monday, August 10:
###