January 18, 2024                                              View as Webpage

Benton County urges preparedness during winter storm response

 

Benton County Public Works teams have been hard at work in coordination with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Management, and other responders to address the challenges posed by the recent winter storm. These teams have utilized available resources to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.


With available resources, the public works teams have continued to respond to the aftermath of the storm. The current temperatures, which have risen above freezing, have enabled a plan to tackle slush removal and address tree-related issues. This coordinated approach involves teams dedicated to slush removal and teams focused on resolving tree-related issues.


“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the first responders, public works, utility providers, and medical teams for their commitment to the safety of Benton County residents,” said Benton County Commissioner Xan Augerot. “These dedicated individuals form an integral part of the larger team of amazing first responders in Benton County, and their hard work does not go unnoticed.”


The County encourages residents to stay informed and stay safe by having an emergency plan and emergency supplies.


“This means that if possible, having at least two weeks’ worth of emergency supplies readily available. We will publish a list of resources on our county website for individuals needing information and assistance with developing preparedness plans and accessing supplies” said Lee. “The most important thing is for us to look out for each other and take care of the community.”


Community Services Consortium for Benton and Linn Counties keeps an up-to-date list of all the local food pantries and meal sites on their website at: https://communityservices.us/linn-benton-food-share/.


211 Info can also provide various resources including housing, food, crisis, and other basic needs at 211info.org or dial 211.


During an emergency response, challenges are posed by the size of Benton County and the available resources, but responders remain committed.


Benton County officials are asking the community to stay safe and stay informed, by following Benton County in the following ways:


Benton County and Alliance for Recreation and Natural Areas secures Hubert K McBee Campground near Alsea Falls, Oregon through generous donation from Hull-Oakes Lumber


Benton County and the Alliance for Recreation and Natural Areas (AFRANA) are thrilled to announce the generous donation of the Hubert K McBee Campground near Alsea Falls, Oregon by Hull-Oakes Lumber, based in Monroe, Oregon.


Hull-Oakes Lumber has demonstrated their commitment to the well-being and enjoyment of local residents and a shared vision for the preservation of community spaces by donating the campground to AFRANA with plans to transfer ownership to Benton County. 


“We are ecstatic and humbled by this generous gift from the Nystrom family and Hull-Oakes Lumber. Yet again the timber community is stepping up and generously sharing an incredible public recreation space that families will enjoy for decades – we can’t thank them enough for this incredible donation,” said Natural Areas Parks and Events Director Tomi Douglas.


The Campground has long been a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a haven for recreational activities and a serene escape into nature. The area boasts scenic views, hiking trails and waterfalls that make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and family-friendly adventures. Margaret Hull, who was a part of the Benton County Parks advisory board from 1957-1970, proposed the Alsea/Green Peak Falls area for the first Benton County Park. This makes her dream of a Benton County park in the area a reality.


“Hull Oakes has a legacy of supporting the community. We are excited and grateful to be a partner in the future of the Hubert K McBee Campground.” said Ellen Tappon, spokesperson for AFRANA. “As a Backcountry Byway and with the growing popularity of mountain biking, there is a huge need for increased camping and recreation amenities in the Alsea corridor. Hull-Oakes Lumber’s generosity ensures that this special place will continue to be a hub for recreation, family gatherings, and nature appreciation for generations to come.”


Benton County Natural Areas, Parks, and Events will embark on essential repairs and improvements to enhance the Hubert K McBee Campground experience. To facilitate these upgrades, the campground will temporarily close for overnight camping throughout the year 2024 for the following planned repairs and improvements:


Infrastructure Upgrade: Repairing roads and trails, enhancing campsite amenities, and installing new toilet facilities, and on-site water well.

Habitat Restoration: Removing invasive species, restoring native plants and trees, and initiating a salmon habitat restoration project to support the Alsea River ecosystem.

Park and Campground Layout Enhancement: Adding more tent spaces while preserving the rustic and private atmosphere that campers love.

The campground will remain open for day use, offering opportunities for picnicking, hiking, biking, fishing, and various recreational activities.


About Alliance for Recreation and Natural Areas (AFRANA):


The Alliance for Recreation and Natural Areas is a non-profit organization whose mission is to facilitate community-supported projects to enhance recreation and connect people to their natural and cultural heritage, in Benton County Oregon and the surrounding areas.

snow_clear.jpg

Check local road closures


With winter weather upon us, please remember to check local road closures in Benton County. If you are traveling across the state use Tripcheck.com.


Hazardous conditions could impact morning or evening commutes. Slow down and use caution while driving. Have an emergency plan and supplies ready. 


Check out these safety travel tips.

Questions?


Benton County Public Information Office


541-766-6800 | www.bentoncountyor.gov


Email: pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov 

Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  Twitter  YouTube