Medford’s wastewater overhaul, toxic blooms at Emigrant lake, and cuts to Ashland’s parks

In the news Medford’s wastewater overhaul, toxic blooms at Emigrant lake, and cuts coming to Ashland’s parks.
The community spotlight this week is the Jackson County Master Gardeners Association.
Weekend events include the first Friday Art Walk, Barnstormers Spring Market, Spring Garden Fair.
The music preview is from Adam Gabriel.
Rogue Valley News
- Medford Approves $300 Million Wastewater Plant Overhaul
The Medford City Council has unanimously approved Salem-based Slayden Constructors Inc. to lead a massive, up-to-$300 million upgrade of the Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant. This three-year project will expand the facility by 25%, improving treatment for 160,000 valley residents and addressing long-standing environmental concerns. The overhaul is required by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality […]
- Emigrant Lake Faces Health Advisory After Toxic Algae Bloom
A preemptive health advisory has been issued for Emigrant Lake in Jackson County after the detection of a cyanobacteria bloom. State health officials urge visitors to avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, as ingesting contaminated water poses the greatest risk. While the toxins are not absorbed through the […]
- Ashland Parks & Rec Faces Deep Cuts Amid Budget Crisis
Ashland Parks & Recreation is bracing for major program cuts after the City Council rejected a proposed utility fee aimed at closing a $1.4 million budget gap. Without new funding, closures are expected after July 1, including the city pool, ice rink, splash pad, and park restrooms. The Nature Center at North Mountain Park, along […]
Community Spotlight
- Jackson County Master Gardener Association
The Jackson County Master Gardener Association (JCMGA) has been at the heart of the Rogue Valley’s gardening community since its founding in 1982. Originally launched as a chapter of the Oregon State University Master Gardener Program, the association’s mission is: to learn, practice, and teach the art and science of gardening to the public. The […]
Featured Events
- Jun 6th 5:00 PM - 8:00 PMFirst Friday Art Walk - Downtown Ashland
Join us for First Friday Art Walk! We’re excited to share a diverse array of wonderful artwork on display this month and created by our very talented artists.
- May 2nd 4:00 PMBarnstormer’s Spring Market - Jackson County Expo, Central Point
The Barnstormer’s Spring Market transforms the Jackson County Expo into a treasure hunter’s paradise featuring a delightful array of vintage items, handcrafted goods, unique home décor, and boutique clothing. This popular market brings together vendors specializing in true vintage pieces, alongside artisans offering handmade jewelry, gifts, and contemporary creations Garden enthusiasts will discover a variety […]
- May 3rd 9:00 AM - 5:00 PMSpring Garden Fair at The Expo - The Expo, Central Point
The Spring Garden Fair at The Expo is a must for gardeners and plant lovers. This annual event features dozens of vendors offering plants, garden art, tools, and expert advice. Workshops and demonstrations cover topics like sustainable gardening, landscaping, and pollinator-friendly planting. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, you’ll find inspiration, resources, […]
- May 3rd 5:00 PM - 7:00 PMAdam Gabriel and the Cavaliers at Remotion Wines - Remotion Wine, Jacksonville
Georgia-born singer-songwriter Adam Gabriel brings his signature “Acoustic Soul” to Remotion Wine in Jacksonville. Gabriel’s music fuses southern grit with soulful storytelling. Over more than two decades, he has written, recorded, and performed songs that draw from his life’s joys, struggles, and hopes. Gabriel’s work is deeply personal, reflecting on themes of resilience and connection, […]
- May 4th 2:00 PMJen Ambrose & Mystics Trio - Daisy Creek Vineyard, Jacksonville
The Jen Ambrose & Mystics Trio brings their enchanting sound to Daisy Creek Vineyard for an afternoon of soulful music amidst the picturesque vineyard setting. Jen Ambrose, known for her expressive vocals and emotionally resonant performance style, leads this talented trio in creating a musical experience that blends elements of folk, jazz, and soulful acoustic […]