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Bull kelp forests thrive in Oregon’s cold, nutrient-rich waters near shore. But rising ocean temperatures, along with overgrazing by purple sea urchins, threaten kelp’s survival and ability to provide essential habitat for fish, marine mammals and birds.

Protecting Oregon’s Enchanting Kelp Forests

written by Kerry Newberry Emerging from the tiny coastal town of Port Orford, a dedicated crew of marine scientists, commercial urchin divers, conservationists, tribal members, tour guides, drone pilots, SCUBA and free divers, and chefs have rallied together from various perspectives, but with a shared goal: to protect and restore kelp forests along the Oregon Coast. The Oregon Kelp Alliance (ORKA) formed in 2017, when divers and scientists first noticed a decline in bull kelp forests near Orford Reef and Nellies Cove on Oregon’s south coast. “Kelp forests provide critical habitat for a diversity of marine life and absorb large amounts of carbon,” said Tom Calvanese, the station manager for the Port Orford Field Station and director of ORKA. “And in many places, we are losing them.” The rapid decline of kelp forests is a global phenomenon—a result of rising ocean temperatures, along with overgrazing by species like spiny purple…

The remote Minam River Lodge is accessible only on foot, on horseback or by small chartered airplane.

Oregon Destinations for Every Type of Traveler

written by Jean Chen Smith With limited time between work, family and other commitments, a vacation is something I look forward to from the moment I decide where I’m going. As we welcome 2024 and begin to plan for the year ahead, we look to new destinations, and new experiences. Why not try something new this year based on the type of traveler you already are? Choose your own journey—here are nine of our favorite spots. THE ROMANTIC PICK: PACIFIC CITY As you arrive at the entrance of Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa, you will be struck by the spectacular views of this oceanfront property. Located alongside the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, this elegant hotel features thirty-three upscale guest rooms, along with spacious cottages. Both offer sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Haystack Rock. Watch the sunset from your private balcony with your sweetheart, or cuddle by the…

In Portland, countless cars were crushed or immobilized by the storm.

West Coast Hurricane

THE GREAT COLUMBUS DAY STORM OF 1962 written by Sig Unander Jack Capell was puzzled. As the veteran television meteorologist sat at his desk in the U.S. Weather Bureau office in Portland amid clacking teletypes and office chatter, he looked over routine weather reports that had come in that October morning. Reviewing the sketchy data, he thought he saw—or sensed—something unusual. Capell was no novice. Ten years into a long career as a meteorologist in the Pacific Northwest, his calm, professional on-air presence was familiar to viewers. He had previously served in World War II as a U.S. Army infantry soldier, surviving almost a year of combat before helping to liberate prisoners from a Nazi death camp at Dachau. In 1962 there was no Doppler radar, satellite imagery or computer-generated models. Meteorologists relied on spotty ship reports, data from far-flung weather stations and their own experience with volatile northwest weather…

Perhaps its the isolation (or the plunge to the water) of Heceta Head Lighthouse and its B&B that gives it an extra spooky feeling.

Spookiest Places in Oregon

THESE SEVEN HAUNTED VENUES WILL MAKE BELIEVERS OUT OF THE DIS-SPIRITED written by Jean Chen Smith | illustrations by Allison Bye Halloween is the ideal time to reconnect with your inner child. Remember sitting around the campfire, listening to ghost stories, and not being able to fall asleep because you were so scared? Or how about plotting your trick-or-treat route so you could maximize your treat bag? Even though the 31st of October is one day out of the entire year, some of us spend the whole month either decorating, planning a costume party or making a costume for our kiddos. Beyond the home, there are also a ton of events to check out. “Halloween is an iconic time to see unique sights in fall colors from the Coast to the Cascades,” said Kari Westlund, president and CEO of Travel Lane County. This year, if you are in the mood…

The outdoors are also a restorative meditation for dogs, as well as people.

Celebrate the Dog Days of Summer

FIVE OREGON DAY TRIPS TO TAKE WITH YOUR DOG written by Jean Chen Smith Summer is a great time for getting outside with your four-legged buddy. The state has a plethora of state parks and eleven national forests, all with their own ecosystems and wildlife, ripe for exploring. In urban areas such as Portland and Ashland, there are huge parcels of verdant land for hiking, trail running or throwing a Frisbee. When traveling with your dog, be mindful of the leash regulations specific to the area. Some places call for leashing your dog because of sensitive wildlife and plant life. Additionally, make sure to carry some doggie bags and leave no trace. Here are our five picks for a summer of fun—choose one or do them all. We have even given you an overnight option should you choose to make a weekend trip out of it. BEND Riverbend Park is…

“The thin arches add to the aesthetics, but also, from an engineering standpoint, you can really see the level of detail analysis that went into it,” said ​​Bob Grubbs, ODOT southwest region lead bridge engineer, on the design of the Rogue River Bridge. “It took cutting-edge engineering to develop that design.”

Jewels of Concrete & Steel

C.B. McCullough’s legacy of bridges still unites & adorns the Oregon Coast written and photographed by Daniel O’Neil illustration by Lori LaBissoniere O’Neil “Jeweled clasps in a wonderful string of matched pearls,” C.B. McCullough once described his bridges, the pearls being the headlands, beaches, mountains, state parks and waysides along the Oregon Coast that he helped connect. McCullough accomplished a lot in Oregon. He managed the state’s bridge program from 1919 to 1937, designing and overseeing the construction of hundreds of bridges across the state, including more than 30 arched spans. McCullough earned a law degree from Willamette University, published books and articles on his expertise, and received an honorary doctor of engineering degree from Oregon State College (now University). Along the Oregon Coast, McCullough left a legacy that links towns and natural settings. “His bridges make a statement for themselves, but they also complement the landscape,” said Oregon Department…

Preparation for chef Franco Console’s Ale-Braised Rabbit with Ricotta Gnocchi at Larks Home Kitchen in Ashland.

Flavors of Fall

5 Game Recipes by Oregon Chefs written by lean Chen Smith As the leaves turn hues of gold and marmalade and temperatures drop, it is the optimal time to shift and focus on heartier dishes to nourish the body. What better way to whet your appetite than with five recipes using game indigenous to the region and inspired by Oregon chefs? Time to break out the pots and pans, along with an apron and oven mitts, if you are up for the challenge. These indulgent recipes might also offer inspiration for your upcoming holiday meals! Ale-Braised Rabbit with Ricotta Gnocchi Franco Console, Larks Home Kitchen Cuisine (Ashland) // Serves 4–6 Ingredients: FOR THE BRAISED RABBIT 5 rabbits seasoned with herb province, mace, salt and pepper 3 house-smoked bacon bellies 6 white onions, julienned 1 bunch thyme, minced on stick 4 blocks demi-glace 48 ounces ale or lager Chicken stock as…

Hunter Noack performs at Mount Bachelor in 2021 as part of his In a Landscape: Classical Music in the Wild outdoor concert series.

Classical Music, Liberated

Written by Cathy Carroll Lying under the nine-foot Steinway in the middle of a meadow at sunset, they felt the music resonate in their bodies as never before. Wading through a creek in a fragrant pine forest, Rachmaninoff washed over them. At the top of Mount Bachelor, they peered hundreds of miles over alpine lakes and valleys, Ravel unraveling in their ears, heightening the beauty. From Oregon’s dunes, waterfalls and wine country to its deserts, deepest lake and cathedral-like, river-carved canyon spires, pianist Hunter Noack’s 1,200-pound grand-piano-on-a-flatbed-trailer phenomenon, In a Landscape: Classical Music in the Wild, is transforming the classical music experience. Wireless headphones for each guest capture the music, freeing both Noack and his audience from concert halls as well as the requisite attire and pricing, both of which can pinch. A nonprofit with support from dozens of partner organizations, sponsors and foundations allows the artist to reach stunning,…