News Stories Thu., Dec. 14, 2017

MOLALLA, Ore. (AP) — An earthquake hit about 40 miles south of Portland near Molalla and was felt by numerous residents in the area. The U.S. Geological Survey says the magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck about seven miles southwest of Molalla and less than two miles from Scotts Mills. The earthquake, which struck at 5:24 p.m. Wednesday, had a depth of 10.5 miles (17 kilometers). The Marion County Sheriff’s Office said on Twitter that according to the 911 dispatch center, there had been no reports of damage.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded over a million dollars to support 32 tribes, including Warm Springs, with their pollution programs, and an additional $975,00 under the competitive grant program to 10 of the tribes for specific restoration and protection projects, boosting tribal water quality programs across three Northwest states to help protect people’s health and the environment. EPA selected ten Pacific Northwest proposals from the Coeur d’Alene, Colville, Lummi, Nez Perce, Quinault, Siletz, Spokane, Umatilla, Upper Skagit, and Makah.  Examples of projects are reducing sediment from forest roads; controlling invasive species in degraded riparian areas; and reducing a creek’s water temperature by restoring the stream channel.

A Community Group has opened a Warming Shelter in Warm Springs located at the Agency Longhouse. The shelter relies on volunteers to help staff the shelter, cook as well as provide supplies and cold weather items such as blankets and winter coats.

Madras White Buffalo girls are playing in the South Coast Les Schwab Basketball Tourney at Marshfield High School. They face North Bend this evening at 7:00. The Madras Boys are at the Seaside Holiday Classic and play host team Seaside at 8:30 tonight.