Juniper Ridge Closure, Burn Ban, and Weekend Happenings in Bend, OR

31/05/2025 3 min
Juniper Ridge Closure, Burn Ban, and Weekend Happenings in Bend, OR

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Episode Synopsis

Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Saturday, May 31, 2025.As we greet another beautiful day in Central Oregon, the big headline this morning is the closure of public lands at Juniper Ridge. The City of Bend and Deschutes County have taken steps to address ongoing health and safety concerns by consolidating dispersed camping into a newly established Temporary Safe Stay Area. If you’ve been following the discussions, this means today is the final day for individuals camping in and around Juniper Ridge to either depart or move into the designated area, which is intended to offer more managed services and reduce risks for both campers and nearby neighborhoods. The city says this approach not only improves safety but also helps with wildfire prevention and the transition of unhoused community members into permanent housing. The Temporary Safe Stay Area will be operating at least until the end of 2026 as part of these efforts.If you’re planning to tidy up your property or do some yard maintenance, don’t forget that outdoor debris burning will officially close for the season tomorrow. Today is the last day in the Bend area to legally burn debris piles under permissible conditions, and after sunset that window closes as fire season ramps up. Remember, burning debris is not allowed within Bend city limits at any time, but backyard warming and cooking fires remain permitted as long as regulations are followed. With temperatures rising, keep an eye on fire risk and do your part by clearing brush and creating defensible space around your home.On a lighter note, there’s plenty happening around town if you’re looking for ways to kick off your weekend. Outdoor enthusiasts and families might want to check out guided tours out at Paulina Creek Preserve, or get your steps in for a good cause with the Miles For All Mothers event. There are also outdoor yoga classes, history walks on the Santiam Wagon Road, and more to keep you moving and inspired. For the arts and music lovers, there’s activity spanning from the A. R. Bowman Museum to local galleries and live performances, offering something for every taste and interest.Before you hit the road, keep in mind that Bend is continuing to invest in its transportation future, with improvements and construction projects popping up across the city. Be sure to check the latest city updates before you travel so you can avoid any unexpected detours.That's a look at what’s happening in and around Bend today. Whether you’re getting outside, helping your neighborhood gear up for fire season, or taking part in community events, there’s always a way to connect and make the most of what Bend has to offer. This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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