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Rowe Creek Complex Near Fossil, Oregon Achieves 99% Containment

Rowe Creek Complex Near Fossil, Oregon Achieves 99% Containment

The Rowe Creek Complex wildfire, located 10 miles south of Fossil, Oregon, has reached 99% containment as of September 6, 2026. The fire, which began on July 15, 2026, was caused by lightning and has burned 373,927 acres of tall grass, timber, and brush. Despite recent rain, firefighters continue to locate and mop up pockets of heat and smoke that do not threaten containment lines. Over 215 miles of suppression repair have been completed, including dozer lines, handlines, and road repairs. Resource advisors, archaeologists, and local land managers are collaborating to prioritize remaining work while protecting natural and cultural resources. Rainfall is expected to continue into Sunday, potentially affecting operations, with drier and warmer conditions forecasted for the upcoming week.

Judge Clears Path for Catalina Island Conservancy to Begin Mule Deer Removal, Opponents Seek Governor's Intervention

Judge Clears Path for Catalina Island Conservancy to Begin Mule Deer Removal, Opponents Seek Governor's Intervention

A Superior Court hearing on September 1 has tentatively granted the Catalina Island Conservancy the right to proceed with its plan to remove non-native mule deer from the island. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Curtis A. Kin denied a request for a preliminary injunction, stating that no irreparable harm would occur as the process begins with a 'pre-removal assessment' and the 'actual eradication phase' is not immediate. The Conservancy announced that its 'limited deer removal assessment' work, scheduled throughout September and October, will commence, potentially affecting 200 to 400 deer. This action is part of the Conservancy’s 'Operation Protect Catalina Island' restoration plan, which aims to restore native flora and fauna and reduce wildfire threats by eliminating the entire mule deer population. Conservancy Interim President and CEO David Solomon stated that the organization is committed to protecting the island's ecosystem. However, opponents, including Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn...

Federal Judge Allows American Prairie Bison to Remain on Federal Grazing Land Despite State Opposition

Federal Judge Allows American Prairie Bison to Remain on Federal Grazing Land Despite State Opposition

A federal judge has ruled that American Prairie can continue grazing bison on three federal grazing allotments, temporarily blocking a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) rule that would have removed approximately 900 bison. This decision by Judge Brian Morris allows the bison to remain while a federal lawsuit, filed by American Prairie against the BLM and the Department of the Interior, proceeds. The BLM had previously canceled six of American Prairie's permits, covering over 60,000 acres, based on a new interpretation of the federal Taylor Grazing Act, which required livestock to be 'production-oriented.' Montana's all-Republican federal delegation and statewide Republican officials, including Governor Greg Gianforte, have opposed bison grazing on federal land, arguing that American Prairie's mission conflicts with the state's economy and removes land from agricultural use.

Southeast Colorado Town of La Veta Faces Severe Water Shortage Amidst Historic Drought

Southeast Colorado Town of La Veta Faces Severe Water Shortage Amidst Historic Drought

The town of La Veta in southeast Colorado is grappling with a severe water crisis as its primary water source, the Cucharas River, ran dry in early June. Mayor Doug Brgoch confirmed that while the town's two reservoirs are approximately 60% full, the significantly reduced flow from the Cucharas River means they cannot replenish their supply as usual. This year, the town can only draw a fraction of the water it typically would from the river. Huerfano County, where La Veta is located, is experiencing its second-worst drought year in 132 years, classified as extreme to exceptional. The drought has led to widespread drying of wells and creek beds, with the Wahatoya and Daigre reservoirs, state wildlife areas, being drained to supply downstream users, leaving behind cracked lakebeds and stranded aquatic life. La Veta has escalated its water restrictions to Stage Four, prohibiting all outdoor water use.

Two Children Die, Two Adults Critically Injured in Fresno Small Plane Crash

Two Children Die, Two Adults Critically Injured in Fresno Small Plane Crash

Two children were killed and two adults sustained critical injuries in a small plane crash that occurred in Fresno, California, on Saturday. The Fresno County Sheriff's Office reported that emergency services, including sheriff's deputies, Fresno firefighters, and Fresno Police Department officers, responded to the incident around 1:50 p.m. in the 7300 block of North Blythe Avenue. Responders discovered a fixed-wing single-engine airplane engulfed in flames on a bluff overlooking the San Joaquin River. Four individuals were on board the aircraft. The two adults were transported to a hospital in critical condition, while the two children were pronounced dead at the scene. The identities of the victims have not yet been released by authorities. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be conducting an investigation into the cause of the crash.

Polish Immigrant Window Washer Saved Five Men During 9/11 World Trade Center Attack

Polish Immigrant Window Washer Saved Five Men During 9/11 World Trade Center Attack

On September 11, 2001, Jan Demczur, a Polish immigrant working as a window washer, saved five men trapped in an elevator in the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Demczur, who had moved to the U.S. in 1980, was in an elevator with five others when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the building. The elevator plunged 15 floors before its emergency brake engaged, leaving them stuck around the 50th floor. When the elevator doors opened, they faced a wall, not an exit. Demczur utilized his window-washing squeegee to pry open the inner elevator doors, allowing the group to escape. His story is highlighted in National Geographic's docuseries '9/11: Reunited,' emphasizing the human impact and heroism during the tragic events of 9/11.

U.S. Wildfire Acreage Hits 10-Year High Amid Ongoing Fires

U.S. Wildfire Acreage Hits 10-Year High Amid Ongoing Fires

The United States has experienced its most destructive wildfire year by acreage in a decade, with over 8.3 million acres burned as of September 5, 2026, according to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). A total of 53,030 wildfires have been reported nationwide this year, with the Pacific Northwest being the epicenter of activity. Cooler temperatures and increased moisture have slightly reduced large-fire potential in parts of Washington, Oregon, and Northern California, but the risk remains high due to extremely dry vegetation. Oregon has been the hardest-hit state, with over 1.19 million acres burned, followed by Washington with 398,064 acres. Federal officials had raised the national preparedness level to its highest setting during the summer but lowered it to Level 4 on September 4 as conditions improved in some areas.

Four Major Maine Rivers Flow North Due to Geological Slopes

Four Major Maine Rivers Flow North Due to Geological Slopes

Contrary to most rivers in Maine that flow towards the Atlantic Ocean, four significant rivers in the northern part of the state—the Upper St. John, Allagash, Fish, and Aroostook—flow northward. These four rivers are integral components of the St. John River basin, which ultimately drains into New Brunswick, Canada, and then into the Bay of Fundy. The primary reason for this unusual flow direction is the topography of northern Maine; the land in this region slopes towards the St. John River basin rather than towards the major south-flowing rivers of Maine. A distinct drainage divide separates these two systems, ensuring that water falling on the northern side flows towards the St. John, while water on the southern side flows towards rivers like the Penobscot and Kennebec, eventually reaching the Atlantic. The Allagash River exemplifies this, flowing approximately 62 miles north from Churchill Dam to join the St. John River, descending over 300 feet in the process.

The US beef industry wants America to slaughter wild horses for meat

The US beef industry wants America to slaughter wild horses for meat

The Trump administration is letting livestock buyers slaughter horses in Canada. The beef industry wants it done here.

U.S. Senators Advocate for Expanded Grazing Access and Strengthened Risk Management for Cattle Producers Amid Industry Challenges

U.S. Senators Advocate for Expanded Grazing Access and Strengthened Risk Management for Cattle Producers Amid Industry Challenges

U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) have sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of the Interior, urging them to expand grazing access for livestock producers and enhance risk management tools. This call comes as America’s cattle herd has reached its lowest level in approximately 75 years. The senators emphasize the importance of prioritizing American beef production, advocating for the finalization of the Bureau of Land Management’s grazing rule and a reevaluation of federal programs that restrict grazing capacity. They also pressed for improvements in meat processing capacity. This initiative aims to support the U.S. beef industry, which accounts for nearly a quarter of U.S. agriculture receipts, by addressing current challenges faced by ranchers.

PotlatchDeltic Implements Complete Fire Ban Across Arkansas Due to High Wildfire Risk

PotlatchDeltic Implements Complete Fire Ban Across Arkansas Due to High Wildfire Risk

PotlatchDeltic has issued a complete fire ban for all recreational units (RUs) across Arkansas, effective immediately. This decision comes in response to persistent dry conditions and elevated wildfire danger in the region, highlighted by a recent wildfire at Cowhide Cove. The Murfreesboro Fire Department is disseminating this urgent safety notice, emphasizing the need for extreme caution from residents, property owners, and outdoor recreation groups. The temporary restrictions prohibit activities such as mowing or bushhogging, grilling or outdoor cooking with open flames, smoking, and the use of fireworks or Tannerite. Additionally, parking vehicles in tall grass or with hot exhaust systems in grassy or wooded areas is forbidden. Users are also advised to exercise extreme caution when towing to prevent sparks from equipment contact with pavement or rocks. These measures are crucial as even a small spark can rapidly escalate into a widespread fire under current conditions.

Warm Springs Ranchers Seek Aid After Wildfires Devastate Grazing Lands for Horses and Cattle

Warm Springs Ranchers Seek Aid After Wildfires Devastate Grazing Lands for Horses and Cattle

Jason Smith and Kremena Doust, ranchers on the Warm Springs Reservation in central Oregon, are seeking assistance after the Bench Fire destroyed approximately 80 percent of their grazing district. The wildfire, which spread rapidly, nearly reached their home but was ultimately halted by a highway. However, the extensive damage to their land has left between 400 to 500 wild horses and their cattle without adequate food sources. The couple had to cancel a planned live auction and photo shoot for their horses due to the fire's rapid approach. They are now working to raise funds to purchase emergency feed for their animals and are also looking to facilitate the adoption of horses to suitable homes. Doust is also in the process of establishing a non-profit organization to support these efforts.