Eugene’s Prefontaine Classic Designated An Oregon Heritage Tradition - 06/01/26

Eugene, Oregon – The Prefontaine Classic approaches its 51^st year with an Oregon Heritage Tradition designation by the Oregon Heritage Commission.

The Prefontaine Classic is the 29^th event in Oregon to be designed an Oregon Heritage Tradition. Other Oregon Heritage Traditions include the Great Oregon Steam-up in Brooks, Oregon State Fair, Medford’s Pear Blossom Festival, the Pendleton Round-Up, and the Woodburn Fiesta Mexicana.
 

“The designation recognizes those traditions that have been ongoing for 50 years or more, add to the livability and identity of the state, and has a public profile that distinguishes it from other events,” said Katie Henry, Oregon Heritage Commission Coordinator.
 

On June 7, 1975, the first annual Prefontaine Classic was held. The roots of the Prefontaine Classic began in 1973 as the Hayward Restoration Meet. Oregon track & field coach Bill Bowerman and the Oregon Track Club hosted the event to raise funds for the renovation of the West Grandstands at Historic Hayward Field. After the fundraising needs were met, the meet was set to be renamed to the Bowerman Classic to honor Bill Bowerman. Eight days before the inaugural Bowerman Classic, it was renamed the Prefontaine Classic following the loss of Steve Prefontaine — one of the State of Oregon’s most well-known and decorated athletes.
 

Today the Prefontaine Classic is organized by Track Town Events, LLC and the Oregon Track Club. The event stays true to the core of the Prefontaine Classic by hosting the best track & field athletes from around the globe every year for competition in sprint, distance, jumping, and throwing events. This competition continues to honor Steve Prefontaine and his competitive spirit.
 

“We are humbled and honored for The Prefontaine Classic to receive Oregon Heritage Tradition designation,” said Jody Smith, co-Meeting Director. “This recognition is a testament to the Oregon Track Club and all those who built the world's best track & field meet. As the current stewards of the event, we remain committed to upholding Pre’s spirit by bringing the world’s best athletes and performances to Hayward Field at the University of Oregon.”
 

The Prefontaine Classic hosts approximately 12,000 fans in person every year, with close to one-third of them traveling in from outside the state of Oregon for the event. In 2025, the estimated economic impact of the meet totaled $4.1 million.
 

The Commission will be presenting the Heritage Tradition Designation to Track Town Events, LLC and the Oregon Track Club at the 51^st annual Prefontaine Classic, July 3-4, at Hayward Field at the University of Oregon.
 

The application process along with a list of designated Traditions is available at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/pages/heritage-designations.aspx.
 

About the Oregon Heritage Commission (OHC)

The Heritage Commission’s nine Governor appointed members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission’s nine advisory members include representatives from the Oregon State Library, Oregon State Archives, State Historical Records Advisory Board, Higher Education Coordinating Committee, Travel Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, Department of Education, State Historic Preservation Office, and the Department of Land Conservation and Development.
 

The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary commemorations and other designations.
 

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 
 

About TrackTown USA, Inc. 

TrackTown USA, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to setting a standard of excellence in hosting premier track and field events, creating a supportive environment for elite athletic performances, being a leader in sustainable sport practices, and inspiring the next generation of track and field athletes and fans. The organization was responsible for organizing the 2014 IAAF World Junior Championships, the 2015, 2022, and 2023 USATF Outdoor Championships, the 2016 IAAF World Indoor Championships in Portland, and the 2016, 2020, and 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials—Track & Field. In partnership with USA Track & Field, the organization brought the 2022 World Athletics Championships to the United States for the first time. TrackTown delivers the Wanda Diamond League’s recurring Prefontaine Classic, recognized as one of the world’s best track and field meets.
 

About Oregon Track Club

Oregon Track Club’s mission is to grow the legacy the historic track and field community in the Eugene-Springfield region. OTC welcomes people of all ages — youth, elites, masters and other community members — to get involved in the area's track and field experiences, either by watching, volunteering, or participating in the events. The Oregon Track Club began The Prefontaine Classic in 1975 as a living memorial to Steve Prefontaine, and continues to bring fans to the sport’s most elite level by serving as the community connection to the meet today.

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Oregon State Parks And Recreation Commission To Meet June 9-10 Virtually - 05/28/26

State Parks Day Includes Free Parking For Oregon Residents On June 6 - 05/27/26

SALEM, Oregon—Every year, Oregon State Parks begins the busier season with a small thank you to Oregon residents — free day-use parking on State Parks Day.
 

State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 to celebrate Oregonians’ love for the state park system. On June 6, 2026, Oregon State Parks will waive the day-use parking fees on parks that typically require them for Oregon residents.
 

“State Parks Day is a commemoration of the places that connect us to Oregon’s natural beauty and to one another. We appreciate everyone who helps keep these spaces vibrant and welcoming,” said Oregon Parks and Recreation Interim Director, Stefanie Coons.
 

Park staff have worked hard over the last few months to get the parks ready for the summer season and State Parks Day. The list of projects includes everything from clearing storm damage and downed trees, to upgrades to electrical, water and sewage lines.
 

Below are some featured events and activities across the state to help celebrate this traditional day in Oregon.
 

State Parks Day Events

• The Cove Palisades
  The Cove Palisades’ annual Festival of The Land invites visitors to reflect on the question “What makes The Cove special to you?” through a celebration of the region’s natural, cultural, and historical richness. Community partners share hands-on learning experiences ranging from wildlife and fire education to farm games and a small farmers' market. New this year are the Pollination Patrol station and a community “quilt” project honoring what visitors value about the park. The day also features native flute music by award-winning musician James Greeley, along with food and drink vendors.
   
• L.L. Stub Stewart State Park
  At L.L. Stub Stewart, the summer star party series returns with an evening of stargazing hosted by OMSI, Rose City Astronomers, and Oregon State Parks. Visitors of all ages can explore the night sky through telescopes, enjoy an OMSI presentation, and join a park ranger-led nighttime hike that reveals the park’s after-dark wildlife. Held at the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Guests are encouraged to bring warm layers, flashlights (to use only in red-light mode), and even their own telescopes. Pets on leash are welcome, and accessibility accommodations are available with advance notice.
   
• Shore Acres State Park
  Shore Acres State Park transforms its botanical gardens into a hub for plant lovers, with local gardening groups and experts from OSU Master Gardeners to the Southern Oregon Native Plant Society on hand to answer questions and share knowledge. Visitors can enjoy a midday performance by the Side of the Tide Morris Dancers and stop by the historic Garden House for refreshments.
   
• LaPine State Park
  At LaPine State Park, a park ranger-guided hike leads visitors on a 1.5-mile walk to the world’s largest Ponderosa pine, commemorated as “Big Tree.” The route winds past an oxbow lake and through classic Central Oregon forest, offering opportunities to learn about the wildlife and plant communities that thrive in the area.  Registration is required.
   
• Prineville Reservoir State Park
  Calling all young builders! This hands-on celebration invites kids and families to create their very own birdhouse in honor of Oregon State Parks Day. A park ranger will be teaching participants about the diverse bird species that call Oregon home while encouraging creativity and curiosity. All materials, including hammers, gloves, safety glasses, and birdhouse kits, are provided at no cost.

You can see a list of all ongoing Oregon State Park events on the event calendar.
 

About State Parks Day
State Parks Day began in 1998 to celebrate the support of visitors around the state. This day serves as an opportunity for Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to welcome, connect, share with and to appreciate Oregonians and Oregon State Parks visitors. It is because of their support that Oregon State Parks are what they are today.
 

About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s (OPRD) mission is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov.

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OPRD Modernizes The 12-month Parking Permit With A New Digital Option - 05/20/26

(SALEM, Ore.) – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) is offering digital 12-month parking permits starting May 21. For the same price as a physical parking permit – $60 for in-state residents and $75 for out-of-state residents – you can always have your parking permit with you.

“The digital parking permit check one more item off your packing list,” said Deputy Director JR Collier. “This is a modern, convenient and accessible way to visit Oregon’s state parks.”

Both daily and 12-month digital parking permits will be available on the Oregon State Parks website starting May 21. Some parks also have signs with QR codes that link to the website. Digital permits can also be ordered by phone at 1-800-452-5687. The phone line is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.

You can register up to two license plates under your 12-month digital parking permit. No proof of permit is required to park; your registered license plate is your permit. These permits are good for 365 days from the purchase date at all Oregon State Park day-use parking lots. You will get a reminder by email 30 days before the permit expires.

If you’ve already purchased a physical 12-month parking permit, it is still valid until it expires. You cannot exchange a physical permit for a digital one.

Learn more about getting a digital parking permit online.

About OPRD

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department houses the State Historic Preservation Office and manages Heritage Programs, the state’s ATV Program, Recreation Grants and Community Programs, and Oregon State Parks.

Oregon State Parks’ Three Tips For Safer Campfires - 05/18/26

Oregon State Parks joins Oregon Department of Forestry and other local, state and national partners in recognizing May as Wildfire Awareness Month.

(SALEM, Ore.) – Campfires are a beloved tradition when visiting Oregon State Parks, and staff encourage visitors to enjoy them safely when and where permitted.

Everyone at the campsite should be familiar with campfire safety, including children. Always keep an eye on campfires; accidental fires can start even when campers leave their fire unattended for a short time.

Three tips for safer campfires

1. Build them only where allowed. Check online to see if campfires are allowed where you’re going or ask a park ranger. In some cases, even propane fire rings may not be allowed.

2. Build them safely. Only build campfires in the existing fire ring at your campsite, which are put in specific areas away from vegetation. If using a propane fire ring, keep it away from vegetation and overhanging branches. At the beach, only build campfires where permitted on open sand. Keep water close and keep flames below knee height, about two feet.

3. Put them out completely. Pour water over the flames and stir it into the embers to make sure everything is wet. Repeat this until you no long feel heat coming from the embers. Do not use sand to put out fires; it can insulate the coals and keep them hot for days.

Education is the top priority for rule enforcement, but rangers also have the option of issuing a Class A violation for significant violations or for multiple violations with a presumptive fine of up to $400.

In addition, explosives and fireworks are not allowed in state parks or the ocean shore because they pose a danger to visitors, wildlife and the landscape. High winds, flammable vegetation and the unpredictability of fireworks create a unique hazard particularly in crowded areas.

Resources

Websites

• Oregon State Parks campfire rules and current campfire bans. Campfire regulations in Oregon Administrative Rules.
• Oregon Department of Forestry’s wildfire information web page.
• Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention web page.
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery website.
• Oregon Department of Environmental Quality smoke advisories.
• Oregon Department of Transportation TripCheck website for road conditions.

Social media

For breaking news and information, follow the social media accounts for Oregon State Parks, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Oregon Department of Transportation, and Oregon Department of Emergency Management.

About OPRD

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department houses the State Historic Preservation Office and manages Heritage Programs, the state’s ATV Program, Recreation Grants and Community Programs, and Oregon State Parks.

Committees To Review 2026 Historic Property And Archaeology Grant Applications - 05/18/26

Two separate committees will meet to score and rank applications for the Preserving Oregon and Diamonds in the Rough Grant programs. The recommendations from the committees will be forwarded to the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation for final review and approval at their June 2026 meeting.
 

Both meetings will be online via Zoom.
 

The Diamonds in the Rough Grant Review Committee will meet June 2, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.
 

The Preserving Oregon Grant Review Committee will meet June 11, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details.
 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

Statewide Trails Advisory Committee Seeks New Members For Three-year Terms - 05/18/26

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking two volunteers to serve three-year terms starting in January 2027 as trail user representatives on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee. Current openings are for a Biking Representative and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Representative.
 

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.
 

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.
 

Ideal candidates representing the interest of biking or OHV trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Trail related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates should demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs for their respective user group, other broad recreational issues or trends, and the importance of providing accessible and inclusive recreational opportunities.
 

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2026. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

 

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities. Learn more about the program on our website: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/Pages/GRA-rtp.aspx. 
 

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.



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Salmonberry Trail Council Virtual Meeting May 21 - 05/15/26

The Salmonberry Trail Council will meet virtually to discuss the proposed Salmonberry Trail corridor from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on May 21, 2026. The public can join via Zoom webinar.

On the agenda:

• Public comment.
• Governance transition update.
• Chartering the new Salmonberry Trail governance group.
• Trail project updates and sponsor roundtable.

The proposed Salmonberry Trail is an 82-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway from Tillamook to Banks, Oregon. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range. Explore more information about the Salmonberry Trail.

The Salmonberry Trail Council was established to promote and facilitate coordinated direction and guidance in the planning, development and maintenance of the multi-use trail. The council represents a new governance structure replacing the Salmonberry Trail intergovernmental Agency. The council is an advisory committee to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, which assumed the lease and federal railbank agreement for the trail from STIA.  The council shares the same membership as STIA and serves the same executive-level collaborative leadership function, while serving as an advisory committee to OPRD. 

To submit public comment for council members to review during the meeting, use the public comment form or email Jessica.R.Horning@oprd.oregon.gov.

Oregon Commission On Historic Cemeteries And Oregon Heritage Commission To Meet May 27 - 05/13/26

SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries and the Oregon Heritage Commission will meet online May 27. These meetings are open to the public.
 

• The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet online May 27 at 1pm. The primary agenda item is approval of the 2026 Oregon Historic Cemeteries grants. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. View the agenda and register for the meeting here to receive online access information.

• The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet online May 27 at 9am. The primary agenda item is approval of the 2026 Oregon Museum grants. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. View the agenda and register for the meeting here to receive online access information.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For more information about the commissions, visit www.oregonheritage.org.
 

About the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC)

The OCHC is comprised of seven citizens. It is empowered by the Legislature to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries in Oregon, make recommendations for funding, seek legislative appropriations for historic cemeteries, and assist in the coordination of restoration, renovation and maintenance of historic cemeteries statewide. The commission develops online resources, offers workshops, and promotes the value of historic cemeteries through storytelling.

The group meets four times per year in different locations around the state and online. There may be an occasional additional meeting for extra projects, programs, and grant selection. Commissioners are also asked to organize informal meetings in their regions or work on other projects outside of meeting time. Travel costs are reimbursed.
 

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about OCHC commission activities or to attend in person, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.
 

About the Oregon Heritage Commission (OHC)

The Heritage Commission’s nine Governor appointed members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission’s nine advisory members include representatives from the Oregon State Library, Oregon State Archives, State Historical Records Advisory Board, Higher Education Coordinating Committee, Travel Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, Department of Education, State Historic Preservation Office, and the Department of Land Conservation and Development.
 

The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary commemorations.
 

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 
 

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