Mental health for first responders

By Julia Shumway | Editor

“We’re really good at showing up when the tones go off, but we’re not good at asking for help when we need it.” — Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Lt. Erik Peterson, speaking at an event with U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas, D-Oregon, about legislation she introduced to provide funding for mental health support for first responders including firefighters.

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Oregon congresswoman proposes program to support first responder mental health

By Mia Maldonado

U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas, D-Oregon, addresses reporters on her new proposal to establish a grant program that would fund $7.5 million a year in nationwide suicide prevention programs, peer support and counseling for first responders and firefighters on August, 17, 2026 at a Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue station in Lake Oswego. (Photo courtesy of U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas)

An Oregon congresswoman is proposing a new grant program to support the mental health needs of firefighters and emergency medical services staff.

Conservationists sue feds over plan to allow cattle grazing on 24 million western acres

By Alex Baumhardt

Cattle graze along the Snake River. Snake River Basin steelhead are among species that conservationists are concerned could be harmed by expanded cattle grazing under a new federal plan. (Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management)

A nonprofit conservation group is suing the federal government over plans to allow cattle grazing on more than 24 million previously restricted federal acres across the West.

New Oregon survey for businesses facing wildfire losses could inform disaster assistance

By Shaanth Nanguneri

he Akawa Butte Fire in July 2026. State emergency officials are encouraging business owners to participate in a new survey seeking to understand the impact of wildfires on their work. (Photo courtesy of Oregon Department of Forestry)

Oregon officials are urging business owners who have closed their businesses, seen reduced customers and revenue or discovered physical damage due to ongoing wildfires to help inform future federal financial assistance efforts through a new survey.