The Washington DNR warned this week that budget cuts could force closures at nearly 20 recreation sites, including campgrounds and an ORV area in Southwest Washington. Officials say staffing losses and lost crew partnerships have stretched maintenance thin.

PP&R released final designs for the North Portland Aquatic Center at Northgate Park and opened a short survey. The plan shows a 35‑meter pool, mass‑timber structure and site changes.

ODFW is investigating after a woman was bitten by a coyote near Orchard Heights Road on Feb. 11; officials warn residents to secure pets and remove attractants.

Leach Garden Friends warns the 17‑acre public garden could close by mid‑March after a reduction in city funding; the nonprofit says it needs $50K a month to stay open.

After years offline, Portland's Thompson Elk statue and fountain are back on SW Main Street following a multi‑agency restoration. The work adds seismic and water‑saving upgrades.

Metro set aside $50,000 for a geotechnical study as advocates press to restore the Oregon Zoo’s long Washington Park train loop. Community signatures and volunteer work are already in place.

A Netarts-Oceanside Facebook post flagged a satellite-tagged great white nicknamed Kara on a map near the Tillamook coast; experts say sightings need context.

Portland Parks & Recreation closed applications for advisory committee members to help guide the redevelopment of Gov. Tom McCall Waterfront Park's Bowl area.

ODFW is moving late‑season crab protections up to April 1, applying depth and pot limits earlier as whale entanglements rise. The change accelerates measures designed to cut the vertical lines that snag humpbacks.

The Oregon Coast was named one of the best travel destinations for 2026 by BBC Travel, praised for its natural beauty, accessibility, and commitment to sustainable tourism.

Oregon has halted mussel harvesting on its south coast due to high paralytic shellfish toxin levels and closed razor clam collecting for domoic acid concerns, but crab and bay clam harvesting remains open.

Portland City Council has adopted the updated Portland Urban Forest Plan, focusing on tree canopy expansion, especially in under-greened areas, promoting lower tree care costs, and updating city regulations to enhance urban forestry.

Oregon introduces a new zoo-themed license plate featuring Asian elephants, designed by artist Jeremy Nichols, to support conservation efforts through the Oregon Zoo Foundation.