Good morning, Corvallis.

Oregon State University expert Erica Chernoh says unseasonably warm December weather in Southwest Oregon is helping local gardeners extend harvests on vegetables (like kale and lettuce) but may trigger early growth vulnerable to frost later.

Gardeners should monitor the conditions closely.

OSU's College of Forestry finalized a new plan for McDonald-Dunn Research Forest northwest of Corvallis.

The plan will reduce timber harvests from 6M to 4.3M board feet and boost old forest from 350 to over 1,100 acres when it takes effect in January — marking 100 years of stewardship.

Benton County is facing a storm today with heavy rain and strong winds expected to bring flooding and power outages; local officials advise residents to secure outdoor items and monitor forecasts.

Benton County Commissioner Pat Malone headed Gov. Tina Kotek’s state task force on municipal solid waste management in the Willamette Valley — it held its first meeting in Salem yesterday and will deliver its report by Dec.

15, 2026.

County officials withdrew approval to expand the Coffin Butte landfill after opponents filed an appeal and will revisit the decision at the Benton County Board meeting on Jan.

6 (public concerns over environmental risks remain high).

Corazón New Year’s Party 2026

8:30 PM – 12:00 AM — Corazón — $40 General Admission | $35 for Wine Club Members — Dance the night away with exceptional wines, handcrafted cocktails, and gourmet food as you ring in the new year.