Drought Emergency: Gov. Tina Kotek declared drought emergency status for Curry and Union counties, warning of impacts to farms, ranches, recreation and tourism, drinking water, fish and wildlife habitat, and higher wildfire risk. Wildlife & Public Health: Lane County confirmed a third rabies-positive bat in 2026, urging pet owners to keep dogs and cats vaccinated and reminding residents to seek care after any bat bite or scratch. Recycling Fight in Court: Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act is now on trial in Portland, with wholesalers challenging new packaging fees and arguing the law violates the Constitution and harms interstate commerce. Lower Columbia Fisheries Funding: Oregon lawmakers and fishery advocates pushed back against Bonneville Power Administration cuts to the SAFE program, warning of a $2.4 million gap starting Sept. 30. Recreation Access: Malheur National Forest proposed changes to recreation fees at multiple sites, while noting many locations would still remain free. Local Land-Use Mess: A Portland-area homeowner says more than 50,000 tires were dumped on his property, triggering a Multnomah County investigation. Data Centers & Litigation: A growing wave of nuisance and environmental lawsuits is targeting data center build-outs, adding pressure to how communities plan for power-hungry facilities.