FROM LEFT, Gene Hawe, Raymond Giminez and Joe Franco get ready to go to Chipmunk HIll with one of their handmade carts.
See complete story in June 18th issue.
See complete story in June 18th issue.
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Sacramento, CA — California State Association of Counties CEO Graham Knaus issued the following statement in response to reports that the Governor will propose legislation to shift wildfire liability away from California’s privately owned utilities: It’s an insult to Californians’ intelligence to spin this as “affordability.” The only people saving money would be rich shareholders. The rest of us wouldn’t save a dime. They'd just get a different bill — higher insurance rates or higher taxes. The state must not put private utilities’ profits above fire survivors and local communities. This is a corporate bailout. And counties will fight to protect survivors and our communities. Earlier this week, investigators found that Southern California Edison caused the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles last year. And PG&E is threatening a backroom financial deal to increase shareholders’ profits while reducing money available for California. Dumping the burden on local governments is an abdication of responsibility and puts corporate profits over fire survivors. *** Let’s be clear about where California’s 58 counties stand. Counties will oppose any proposal that:
Counties will support proposals that:
### *** Noticing an uptick in recalls? Here’s what to know. By Danielle DeAngelis Annie Nguyen, M.A., RD Deli meats. Apple juice. Eggs. Cinnamon. Vegetables. Plant-based milk. Coffee. Cheese. Baby food. Products in all of these food categories have been recalled this year—and not spanning from the start of 2024, but since June. As someone who has been covering recalls for EatingWell since 2022, I will say recalls are more common than you may think. However, the widespread recent nationwide, and at times international, outbreaks have been quite absurd. Has something changed? Why are there different alerts every week on a new foodborne illness to worry about? Nationwide Recalls on Cheese, Coffee Creamer and More to Be Aware of Right Now I talked to Food and Drug Administration spokesperson Janell Goodwin. I asked her why we are noticing more recalls than usual, and if consumers should be worried about it. Here’s what she had to say. Why Are There So Many Recalls?Simply put, recalls are a buzzy topic at the moment due to the huge deli meat recall earlier this summer. But recalls regularly occur, often without nationwide coverage and, as Goodwin notes, there isn’t a spike when compared to previous years. “The FDA takes its responsibility seriously to ensure the safety and proper labeling of the foods we eat,” Goodwin tells EatingWell. “While there may be a perception of more recalls, the number of food-related recalls in FY 2024 is generally consistent with years past.” She even provided a chart to show the comparison between the amount of recalls in 2024 versus the amount of recalls in each year since 2012. FDA Plus, Goodwin's claim is supported by a recent study published in the Journal of Food Protection, which shows that food recalls have declines over the past two decades thanks to increased safety regulations.1 While it’s positive to see that there have been a similar amount recalls in the U.S. this year in comparison to the past few years, it’s still concerning to see that there have been 2,182 recall events in the fiscal year. That’s nearly 6 recalls a day on food, medication and necessary health equipment. This appears to be an average amount of recalls over the last eight years, and while it’s trendy now for news outlets to be covering these announcements, this may shift. That’s why it’s crucial for consumers to stay informed about the latest recalls. “It is important that consumers be aware of recalls because recalled foods may cause injury or illness,” Goodwin explains. Your Favorite Packaged Foods May Have Less Salt in the Future—Here's Why I Have a Recalled Product. What Do I Do? If you have a recalled item in your kitchen, here’s what you need to do, per Goodwin’s advice. “If a consumer believes they have a recalled food product in their possession, they should first ensure that they have read the recall notice carefully and follow any product-specific instructions,” she says. “Often, recalled products may be returned to the store where they were purchased for a full refund. If not, dispose of the product properly—if it’s contaminated, wrap it securely before putting it in the trash and then wash hands thoroughly. Do not give the product to others, such as a food bank or a pet.” Once you have removed the product from your home, be sure to wash your hands and properly clean all surfaces and food that may have been in contact with the recalled item, especially if the food was recalled due to undeclared allergens or foodborne bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes or E. coli. “Wash with soap and water the inside walls and shelves of the refrigerator, cutting boards and countertops and utensils that may have contacted contaminated foods,” Goodwin recommends. “Then sanitize them with a solution of 1 tablespoon of chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of hot water. Dry with a clean cloth or paper towel that has not been previously used.” Be sure to wash your hands after these cleaning procedures. The Bottom LineWhile recall trends aren’t actually skyrocketing like they may seem to be, it’s important to keep food safety top of mind. Goodwin says, “Consumers should know that while recalls may seem daunting, they indicate that the problem has been identified and is being fixed.” EatingWell will be sure to keep you posted on the latest food recalls. It’s also important to constantly check the FDA and USDA's FSIS recall pages to stay up to date on recent outbreaks. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Recalls, market withdrawals, & safety alerts. Portola, CA June 22, 2026 – Plumas-Sierra Telecommunications is pleased to announce that it has accepted grant awards totaling almost $15 million to bring high-speed broadband internet to areas in Plumas, Sierra, and Lassen Counties. The four California Advanced Services Fund grants will bring broadband to some of the hardest-to-reach areas of our region. The grants total $14.7 million and will bring fiber-optics to over 450 homes in underserved communities across Plumas, Sierra and Lassen Counties. The approved projects include the Grizzly Road-Chilcoot Project which will connect 205 unserved locations in and around Grizzly Road and Laje Davis, Beckwourth, Chilcoot, Portola and Vinton. The Herlong Flats-East Milford Project will connect 72 locations in and around Herlong and Milford. The Mohawk Meadows Project will connect 83 locations in the communities of Blairsden, Greenhorn, Johnsville, Keddie, Mabie, Mohawk Meadows, and other areas near Whitehawk. The Sierraville Project will connect 100 locations in and around Sierraville. “With these grants we are focused on continuing to build on past success and infill more our service territory. This significant investment will enable PST to bring high-speed internet to hundreds of homes, businesses and community institutions that have been historically underserved by reliable broadband services,” PST General Manager Bob Marshall. These projects will not only benefit PST but also Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric Cooperative (PSREC), the member-owned electric utility that owns PST. Installation of fiber-optics along PSREC’s lines will increase the footprint of PSREC’s Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. "The award to Plumas-Sierra Telecom will help serve rural, low-income, and fire-prone communities, strengthening access to critical services and emergency communications, and the Broadband Consortia awards will better connect the CPUC to the local governments, small businesses, and community-based organizations that use our broadband programs," CPUC Commissioner Darcie L. Houch said. CASF, whose purpose is to help bridge the digital divide in unserved and underserved areas in the state, was started in 2007 and is part of the California Public Utilities Commission. PST previously received a matching grant from CASF along with funds from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, in 2010 when PST constructed its middle-mile fiber optic network backbone from Reno, Nevada, north to Susanville and west to Quincy, California as well as Federal Funding Account grants in which PST received over $67 million dollars to bring high-speed broadband to over 5,000 locations. PST would like to thank the California Public Utilities Commission and all its staff for helping secure these grant funds. If you have not already contacted PST to be added to its interest list, please call 530-832-4126 or visit www.pst.coop. ### Plumas-Sierra Telecommunications is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plumas-Sierra Rural Electric Cooperative providing high-quality, high-speed broadband services to Lassen, Plumas and Sierra counties in California and Washoe County, Nevada. Headquarters are located in Portola, California. Founded in 1937, PSREC is a member-owned electric distribution, transmission and generation utility providing electrical power and related services to more than 7,500 member/owners in Plumas, Lassen, and Sierra counties in California, and parts of Washoe County, Nevada. The cooperative is controlled by the membership through an elected seven-person board of directors. From Sierra County Sheriff's Office.... On the morning of August 5, 2026, the Sierra County Sheriff's Office responded to a vegetation fire near Crystal Peak Mine in the Dog Valley area after receiving a report of smoke visible from a nearby residence. During the investigation, deputies located evidence at the scene that led them to identify Sarah Ortstadt (50 YOA) out of Reno NV. as the person responsible for the fire. Investigators determined the fire originated at Ortstadt's campsite. Ortstadt was arrested for California Penal Code section 452(c) – Unlawfully Causing a Fire on Forest Land. During the investigation, deputies also located a usable amount of suspected methamphetamine, and Ortstadt was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. She was additionally booked for Health and Safety Code section 11550(a) – Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance and Health and Safety Code section 11377(a) – Possession of Methamphetamine. Ortstadt was transported and booked into the Nevada County Sheriff's Office Jail in Nevada City. The Sierra County Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Tahoe National Forest for its assistance with both the fire investigation and suppression efforts. We also extend our appreciation to the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District for their quick response and bringing this incident under control. Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District U.S. Forest Service-Tahoe National Forest U.S. Forest Service-Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest See less  Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a) and (b), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Plumas National Forest. This Order is effective from August 6, 2026, through November 1, 2026.
FOREST ORDER No. 05-11-26-03 USDA Forest Service Plumas National Forest Fire Use Restrictions - Stage II
A violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or both. 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 18 U.S.C. §§ 3559, 3571, and 3581. Executed in Quincy, California, this 5th day of August 2026. ______________________________ Caitlin Ostomel Acting Forest Supervisor Plumas National Forest Pacific Southwest Region This Order supersedes Forest Order No. 05-11-26-02, executed August 4, 2026. BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT Big Cove Campground Chilcoot Campground Cottonwood Group Campground Cottonwood Springs Campground Frenchman Campground Frenchman Picnic Area Gold Lake Campground Grasshopper Flat Campground Grizzly Campground Lakes Basin Campground Lightning Tree Campground Spring Creek Campground Forest Order No. 05-11-26-03 Plumas National Forest Fire Use Restrictions (Stage II) Exhibit A Designated Recreation Sites MT. HOUGH RANGER DISTRICT Boulder Creek Campground Gansner Bar Campground Hallsted Campground Lone Rock Campground Long Point Campground Long Point Group Campground Mill Creek Campground Queen Lily Campground North Fork Campground Sandy Point Boat Ramp/Day Use Area (BBQs only) Spanish Creek Campground & Group Camp Sundew Campground FEATHER RIVER RANGER DISTRICT Cottage Creek Campground Red Feather Campground Campground Host Must Be Present. Newsom’s Acceleration of Herbicide Use Contradicts Retracted Safety Study and the WHO’s Classification of Glyphosate as “Probably Carcinogenic”
SACRAMENTO, CA — August 5, 2026 — A coalition of Northern California residents, parents, scientists, and health professionals is demanding that Governor Gavin Newsom immediately impose a moratorium on glyphosate and other toxic herbicide spraying in California’s private and state forests. The coalition also calls on Congress and the President to do the same for National Forests within the state. The call comes after a landmark safety study regulators relied on for 25 years was formally retracted in November 2025 because it was secretly written by Monsanto employees — and after Newsom’s 2025 emergency orders accelerated deforestation projects that routinely include the chemical. The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Residents warn of contamination of water supplies and other lesser-known risks. Treated forests pose an understudied inhalation risk when they burn: the chemical and its more toxic breakdown product, AMPA, can travel long distances in wildfire smoke. No state or federal agency has comprehensively measured these compounds in California wildfire smoke. Children, who breathe more air per unit of body weight, face an elevated risk. “We’re spraying a chemical on our forests that no regulator has ever fully modeled for what happens when it burns,” said Michelle Perro, MD. “That’s an experiment on the public without consent.” In 2023 alone, more than 266,000 pounds of glyphosate were applied to California forests — nearly five times the amount applied two decades earlier, according to state pesticide records analyzed by Mother Jones. Still, this amount pales in comparison with the chemicals state and federal agencies plan to use on forests. In the Plumas National Forest alone, according to an analysis of current federal projects available at FeatherRiverAction.org, the U.S. Forest Service plans to spray up to 14 million pounds of herbicide. Cal Fire, the U.S. Forest Service, and private timber companies typically apply the herbicide after logging and wildfires to suppress natural regrowth. In March 2025, Governor Newsom proclaimed a statewide State of Emergency, suspending key environmental review requirements to fast-track deforestation projects. These streamlined projects expanded opportunities for herbicide use on state lands even as the scientific case for glyphosate’s safety was collapsing. Kelly Ryerson, also known as Glyphosate Girl and as a mother of two who has organized major community opposition in the Tahoe area and has engaged policymakers in Washington, DC, added: “We’re seeing it applied in record amounts right where our kids hike, play, and breathe. Governor Newsom must act now to protect California families. Stripping away environmental review of toxic herbicides under the broad umbrella of fire mitigation and restoration will trigger the greatest modern environmental disaster in California and the nation.” Ryerson, who is also co-Executive Director of American Regeneration, said: “Contaminating our soils and watersheds is not a sustainable solution for preventing wildfire but will deliver financial profit to chemical manufacturers and special interests.” Josh Hart is the Director of Portola-based Feather River Action!, one of the groups suing the US Forest Service over plans to apply herbicides to 51,000 acres near the Feather River. According to Hart, "Herbicide application must be understood in the context of what the U.S. Forest Service is planning for large areas of public forestland. It is not ‘reforestation’, ‘restoration,’ 'community protection’ or ‘removal of invasives’ — it is the combined use of chemical and mechanical methods to convert wild public forestlands into poisoned tree farms—an aim that should, a priori, be opposed. There is zero evidence that taking out trees or shrubs past 100 feet from structures has any impact on structure survival during a wildfire.[1] For community wildfire protection, we need structure hardening, defensible space pruning, and underburning around communities. We say NO to industrial logging and poisons in public forests. We say NO to tree farms on public lands, using wildfire fears as justification." The coalition is calling on Governor Newsom to approve:
The coalition is also calling on the federal government to:
“California claims to lead on environmental protection, yet we are dousing public lands with a chemical whose safety foundation has collapsed,” said Perro. “Governor Newsom accelerated these applications. He now has a duty to reverse course and protect public health.” The coalition plans rallies, petition drives, and public comment at the California Department of Pesticide Regulation hearing in Sacramento on August 11. For more information or to sign the petition, visit nopoisoncalifornia.org or contact [email protected]. Plumas County Sheriff's Office 08/03/2026 Office of the Sheriff 1400 E. Main Street, Quincy, California 95971 • 530-283-6300 • PRESS RELEASE Chester, Calif. — On Monday, August 3, 2026, just after 2:40 a.m., the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center began receiving calls reporting gunshots heard from several locations along First Avenue in Chester, California. A deputy swiftly responded and began checking the area. At approximately 3:20 a.m., a caller from the 400 block of Lassen Street reported a male subject on their porch. The caller stated the subject appeared to be intoxicated. Minutes later, a deputy arrived on scene and contacted the subject. The subject was identified as Elijah Hernandez, 20 years old, of Lake Almanor. Through the investigation, it was determined the suspect had been shooting off several rounds from a small caliber handgun in a negligent manner. A firearm and magazine were located in Hernandez’s possession. Shell casings were located in the areas of the reported gunshots. A later search of Hernandez’s bedroom resulted in the collection of additional evidence. There was no further threat to the public after the arrest. No injuries were reported, and there was no known property damage. Residents of the Chester area, especially from the First Avenue and Lassen Street areas, are asked to check cameras from around 2:40 a.m. to 3:23 a.m. to see if they captured any suspicious activity and report any findings to the Sheriff’s Office by calling 530-283-6300 and reference case number 26-658. The case is being referred to the Plumas County District Attorney’s office for review. 1 Charges Hernandez was booked on the following charges:
Contact information: Sergeant Chandler Peay Public Information Officer Plumas County Sheriff’s Office 530-283-6397 [email protected] 2 ### END ###
 RAY BELLI was the first to approach Loyalton City Council about Pickleball. And here he is at play!  SACRAMENTO— Today, the Assembly Republican Caucus announced that Assemblywoman Alexandra M. Macedo (R-Tulare) has been elected as the new Assembly Minority Leader. Incoming Assembly Minority Leader Macedo and the Assembly Republican Caucus are laser-focused on a shared priority: protecting California families and small businesses from the relentless affordability crisis gripping our state. From sky-high gas prices to soaring utility rates and rising taxes, everyday Californians are facing unsustainable economic pressures. “I am deeply honored by the trust my colleagues have placed in me, and I am proud to stand alongside a unified caucus dedicated to real, common-sense solutions,” said Leader Alexandra M. Macedo. “Our message is clear: California is becoming unaffordable for working families, and our caucus is united in the fight to bring down the cost of living, make our communities safer and hold state bureaucrats accountable.” Macedo continued, “As I step into this role, I want to thank Leader Emeritus Heath Flora for his service and commitment to our caucus. His work is appreciated.” Assembly Republicans stand together to push back against Sacramento’s costly policies and bring down the state’s high cost of living. To round out Macedo’s leadership, she has assembled a strong and diverse team of leaders including: Minority Whip – Assemblyman David Tangipa (R-Fresno) A proud, first-generation American and the son of a veteran, Assemblyman Tangipa brings a deep sense of service to the Capitol. He successfully authored and passed legislation to enforce strict oversight, transparency and fiscal accountability on California’s High-Speed Rail project. Assemblyman Tangipa stands out as a relentless, principled advocate for fiscal responsibility in state government. Minority Floor Leader – Assemblyman Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) A steadfast advocate for California families and youth, Assemblyman Hoover spearheaded the fight to reopen schools during the pandemic, successfully making the Folsom Cordova Unified School District the first in the region to welcome students back to in-person learning. He authored landmark legislation – the Phone-Free Schools Act – to increase academic performance and protect the mental health of students. Assemblyman Hoover has been a relentless advocate for ratepayers, authoring impactful legislation aimed at reining in rising utility costs and lowering household energy bills. Minority Caucus Chair – Assemblywoman Natasha Johnson (R-Lake Elsinore). Known for her practical approach and ability to unite diverse voices, Assemblywoman Johnson has built a reputation as a results-driven leader who puts her community first. Her leadership has helped her district’s local economy, attracted new businesses and enhanced public safety. She has worked tirelessly to protect taxpayers, cut red tape and ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to keep neighborhoods safe. Minority Deputy Leader – Assemblyman Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) A fighter for a safer and more transparent government, Assemblyman Patterson is committed to protecting neighborhoods and empowering families. Assemblyman Patterson is a champion for good government; he authored groundbreaking legislation that curbs secret state nondisclosure agreements (NDAs). He also successfully passed legislation that allows prosecutors to increase penalties on repeat fentanyl dealers. ### BEARS have been causing problems in Sierra County with heavy presence in the communities of Verdi and Loyalton. Sierra County Sheriff Mike Fisher stated he put out an Everbridge notification on July 27th to residents in Verdi due to bears breaking into three homes within four nights.
In Loyalton there are several bears roaming the streets. Fisher said over a two-week period, his office has received over a dozen calls for bears breaking into garages and homes, destroying fences and eating two of three 4-H turkeys about to go to Fair. He also responded to the fire camp for the Elephant Fire who were having issues. Deputies have been hazing the bears with vehicles, air horns and bean bags. The Sheriff’s office is working with California Department of Fish & Wildlife. Two property owners applied for depredation permits. One was issued for Verdi and one in Loyalton. CDFW is in the process of trapping the problem bears. Fisher said they tried to get two additional permits for Verdi, but property owners were denied. He noted CDFW has a strict policy on when they will issue permits and the bears didn’t do enough damage when they broke into the homes to warrant the additional permits. Residents are urged to remove bear attracters, lock windows, doors and cars. Sierra County Supervisors Discuss Potential Impacts of Data Center Development Concerns over the possibility of future data center development brought a crowd of residents to the Sierra County Board of Supervisors' regular meeting on July 21, in Loyalton where officials emphasized that no proposal has been submitted and no project is currently under consideration. Board Chair Paul Roen explained that the mill property's owner had never previously been approached by any entity interested in developing a data center. However, Roen and the owner recently met with an individual who expressed interest in the site. Roen stressed that the conversation was preliminary. "There is no project," Roen assured those in attendance. "Nothing has come forward other than interest." Despite the absence of a formal proposal, many residents voiced concerns based on experiences in other communities. Denise Brown shared that her daughter lives next to two data centers and described noise and wastewater as significant problems. After researching the issue herself, Brown urged supervisors to consult with communities where data centers have already been built. Resident Pat McCarthy called on the board to adopt a moratorium on data center development until the technology improves. Chelsea Johnson, owner of The Gilded Drifter, said her business depends on the area's quality of life and expressed concerns about potential noise, wastewater, and increased electricity demands. Laura Sexton also supported a moratorium. "Don't leave a crack in the door for these people to come in," she said, adding that she sees little benefit to locating a data center in Sierra County. Planning and Building Director Brandon Pangman told the board that his department has received no applications or development proposals. He recommended waiting until a formal proposal is submitted and make an informed decision. Pangman assured residents that any future project would undergo a public review process. "There won't be any backroom deals, without full disclosure" he said. Roen stated he did not want to appear anti-business, noting he would like to see the Loyalton cogeneration plant operating again. He explained that biomass fuel projects have become significantly more expensive be- cause the facility is no longer in operation. Supervisor Lee Adams acknowledged residents' concerns and asked Pangman to explain the environmental review process. Pangman noted that any data center proposal would trigger review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), requiring environmental analysis, multiple public meetings, and likely more than a year to complete. He estimated the review process alone could cost more than $100,000. Roen said he intends to continue learning more about data centers before taking any position. Adams stated that public perception can quickly become reality and suggested forming a Standing Committee to allow continued public participation while the county gathers information. "We want to make sure whatever is coming to Sierra County fits," Adams said. Supervisor Sharon Dryden reflected on Loyalton's economic history, recalling that when she moved to the community in 1990, the town was thriving because of the mill. After the mill closed, she said, the community lost both jobs and population. Dryden noted that the former mill remains an unused industrial site and said the county still needs a location for green waste disposal and hopes to see the cogeneration facility restarted. "This town needs a viable option for jobs," she said, explaining that she is keeping an open mind while recognizing the community's concerns. Dryden added that many questions remain unanswered because no proposal exists, making it important for county officials to educate themselves before making decisions. Supervisor Lila Heuer said she understands why residents are concerned, acknowledging that data centers have created problems in some communities where information was not always transparent. However, she emphasized that California's environmental review laws require a public process. "You can't do that in California," Heuer said, referring to secretive development approvals. "There's a process, and they can't do anything behind closed doors." She added that she was saddened anyone would believe the board would knowingly support a project harmful to Sierra County, pointing to the county's own experience with strict environmental regulations that prevented construction of a bike path along Smithneck Road. "We love this county and don't want to harm it," Heuer said. At the conclusion of the discussion, the board agreed to establish a Standing Committee to further study the issue. The committee will consist of Board Chair Paul Roen and Supervisor Sharon Dryden, with Supervisor Terry LeBlanc serving as the alternate. THE EVICTION of Sierra County Probation from its longtime office at 105 Beckwith Street in Loyalton dominated discussion during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting on July 21, as officials, residents and community leaders weighed in on the on-going dispute with the City of Loyalton. Supervisor Sharon Dryden reported that an ad hoc committee has been working with Chief Probation Officer Chuck Henson to identify a new location for the department. The committee recently toured a prospective site that Dryden described as "a very viable option." She also suggested the County begin looking for an alternative location to hold Board of Supervisors meetings if relocation becomes necessary. Board Chair Paul Roen clarified the timeline leading up to the eviction notice, saying there had been no verbal negotiations with the City. Instead, an updated lease was found on Henson's desk in late March that proposed doubling the rent while adding “a whole lot of liabilities.” The Board rejected those terms, submitted a counteroffer that was denied, then sent a second proposal before ultimately receiving the eviction notice. Dryden noted the County offered a “fair price” several years ago when they tried to buy the building that needs repairs and Americans with Disabilities Act improvements. The offer was denied, though Dryden stated the City can’t afford to maintain it. While she said she was disappointed by the prospect having both Board meetings in Downieville, she believed the County may have no other choice if an agreement cannot be reached. Sierra-Plumas Joint Unified School District Superintendent Sean Snider emphasized the importance of keeping Probation in its current location near local schools and offered to help facilitate discussions between the County and City. Resident Joyce Cameron echoed those concerns, saying the decision came from the City Council rather than the community as a whole. She said Probation's location is valuable because officers can “run” to incidents at nearby schools and expressed hope the matter could be resolved. Resident Phyllis DeMartini argued that the County's current lease—$1,000 per month with a $100 credit for electricity—was well below market value. She didn’t think they could pay rent anywhere for that amount and didn’t feel it was unreasonable to raise the rent. She also felt the city was paying a “fair amount of money” for law enforcement at $2,500 per month and giving the County $100,000 from the COPS grant. County supervisors responded by pointing to the broader costs of providing public safety services. Supervisor Adams said the Sheriff’s current budget is $4 million a year and about 25% of the population lives in Loyalton. He said it should be paying close to $1 million and “isn’t even close.” Roen added that the Sheriff's Office responded to 632 emergency 911 calls in Loyalton last year and is conducting a five-year time study to better document the actual cost of services provided to the City. The discussion also turned to the distribution of tax revenues between the County and incorporated cities. DeMartini questioned how much of local tax dollars are returned to Loyalton. Adams explained that the current allocation is based on agreements established decades ago when the city was incorporated and that counties are legally required to provide many public services, while cities exist by choice of their residents. Roen added that the revenue-sharing formula is set by state law and has remained unchanged. Resident Becky Kinkead stated the County has been very good to the City and hoped for a fair and reasonable outcome. If not, she felt the County needed to exit both buildings, adding the “City brought this upon themselves.” At the Loyalton City Council meeting held that evening, Sierra-Plumas County Board of Education and District Governing Board President, Rhynie Hollitz spoke during Public Comment concerning the 120-day eviction notice on Probation, having read the newspaper. His hope was for the County and schools and City to work out a solution. He called it a “public safety issue.” He told of last year’s gun on campus and if the Probation moved to Sierraville School, response time for kids and staff concern him and Probation won’t be “right next door.” He called a solution a “win-win situation.” Joyce Cameron called having Probation “an asset to our town” and makes her neighborhood, school and park safer. She told how having the Probation building vacated won’t do anyone any help. She told of the need for communication and to get together. She stated how the City has no money and how “none of this makes any sense.” She was in favor of meeting every two weeks and wanted “real discussion” and to “get it settled.” Phyllis DeMartini would like to see the County and City work together and stated there’s always been a “separation.” She brought up what the City receives from property tax, and wanted it public knowledge, stating, “We don’t know what it is.” Chris Robles understood the County doesn’t give the City much property tax, stating most cities pay 15% with the mayor stating, as high as 45%. Mayor Joy Markum spoke up under caution from City Clerk Kathy LeBlanc and stated the City was in negotiations with the County. She gave a short history of the Probation rate increase in December and the new contract to Probation in March. The last response the County offered was $1,200 for the whole area which is “a lot of floor space,” and the mayor felt the amount was “not enough.” She’d done her research she said, and called the amount the City wanted “right on target” compared to other buildings in northern California. She told of no counter offer since the $1,200 and the City wanted $1,800 for the bigger floor space. Under question, Markum stated the Probation building was up to code and for maintenance, the City was supposed to maintain the outside and Probation inside. It was agreed County Supervisor Terry LeBlanc should be present and the mayor repeated, “We are in negotiations.” She verified how the Sheriff’s Office gets a grant that pays $100,000/year to take care of our community and the City pays an extra $1,250/month for services. She was willing to negotiate with two members of the County to sit down with her and Sue McIlravy. “The ball is now in the County’s hands.” The City attorney, according to Markum, has contacted their attorney. Under question, she stated the County has never paid for use of the conference room. SPEED LIMITS were discussed during the Department Manager’s reports at the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting July 21st. Public Works Director Josh Handel reported he had a discussion with Caltrans and felt Caltrans is trying to deny as many requests to revise speed limits as they can, noting they are receiving a lot. Handel said they will need to be the “squeaky wheel.” It was suggested to contact Assemblywoman Hadwick’s office to have a representative attend the next meeting with Caltrans. Handel also reported that the Sierra City Transfer Station would be closed to green waste after July 26th. On July 30, 2026, shortly after 2:00 a.m., the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting that a shooting had occurred at an address on Delleker Park Drive in Delleker, California. Deputies from the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office, officers from the California Highway Patrol, and fire and medical personnel responded to the scene. Upon arrival, responders located a single male victim suffering from what appeared to be a single gunshot wound. The victim was ultimately transported to a trauma center, where he remains in critical condition. The Plumas County Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere thoughts and support to the victim, his loved ones, and all those affected by this incident during this difficult time.
Plumas County Sheriff’s Office investigators and administrators responded to the scene and began an in-depth investigation. Through the course of that investigation, a suspect was identified as Michael Romero, 47, of Graeagle, California. Following a canvass of the area, Romero was located in his vehicle in the Graeagle area and was taken into custody without incident. Based on the information currently available, investigators believe this was an isolated incident and there is no further threat to the public at large. This investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office. Contact information: Sergeant Chandler Peay Public Information Officer Plumas County Sheriff’s Office [email protected] # Helps to Prevent Brake Failure While Driving Steep Downhill Grades
PLACER COUNTY – Caltrans is reminding commercial truck drivers of the importance to stop and check equipment at designated areas, including the mandatory brake check area along westbound Interstate 80 (I-80) near Nyack. Brake check compliance is a critical safety measure that helps to prevent brake failures that may result in a larger incident like a roadside fire, wildfire or major traffic collision. Stopping to check brakes ensures that drivers can inspect and adjust their brakes before entering steep downhill grades. Remains of a commercial big rig after catching on fire along westbound Interstate 80 near Secret Town on Thursday, July 23. Traffic along the highway and local streets were impacted for several hours while crews worked to clean up the incident. Signs and changeable message boards are posted along the corridor indicating the requirement. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) maintains active enforcement and commercial drivers may be subject to citations and additional inspection requirements for failing to comply. The brake check does not apply to cars and pickup trucks. Various signs and message boards encountered by motorists along the highway, indicating the brake check area ahead and the advisory message to watch downhill speeds. “Safe Stopping and Parking Places” are listed under title 13 § 1153 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), which is the official compilation and publication of the regulations adopted, amended or repealed by state agencies pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). Properly adopted regulations that have been filed with the Secretary of State have the force of law. Additional required inspection stops within Caltrans District 3 include the Donner Summit Rest Areas along I-80, the brake check area along U.S. Highway 50 near Echo Summit and the Luther Pass chain control area along State Route 89. Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. Caltrans reminds motorists to “Be Work Zone Alert” and slow in construction zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements. Caltrans issues construction and road condition updates on X @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic information, click on Caltrans’ QuickMap quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play. CleanWaterCA.com | #BeWorkZoneAlert | Instagram | Threads | YouTube Size: 13,930 acres
Containment: 100% Start Date & Time: July 11, 2026, 1327 Cause: Under Investigation Location: Off Hwy 49, 2 miles northeast of Loyalton, Calif. ***THIS WILL BE THE FINAL WRITTEN ELEPHANT FIRE UPDATE UNLESS SIGNIFICANT CONDITIONS CHANGE*** CURRENT SITUATION The Elephant Fire remains contained. There are approximately 2,200 unburned acres within the interior of the fire, which will continue to burn over the coming weeks. Fire resources remain committed to the fire to patrol and monitor fire activity until the fire is determined to be controlled and out. As temperatures rise, fire activity within containment lines is expected to increase. The fire is burning in thick snow brush, heavy dead and down timber and standing snag patches within the 2020 Loyalton Fire scar. The fire will continue to smolder, creep and actively burn in the area as it continually consumes vegetation in the unburned green island. Smoke production will remain at moderate levels and will be visible to the surrounding communities for the next several weeks. Since the fire is located within a burn scar there is heavy dead and down fuels. Due to these factors and steep and difficult to access terrain, firefighters are unable to safely access the active fire area.  The Pickleball/Tennis courts are open for public play! With the added improvements being made to our Little League field getting all new fencing, it's a great upgrade to our City Park. We will have organized play for Pickleball with the following schedule: Mon., Wed., Fri. - 8:00 AM - 10:00, Tues., Thur. - 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM and Sat. morning @ 9:00 AM. Pickleball nets, provided by the Pickleball group, will remain up for public use. The courts are open for public play at all other times. Please roll the pickleball nets to the side when playing tennis or basketball. Some of the pickleball players are willing to volunteer their time to teach beginners the basics of pickleball right after organized play on Mon. and Wed. We have some extra paddles and balls that will be used. Please come join in the fun, it's a great outdoor activity for all ages and great family fun! Would like to touch on a little history of the journey to achieve these park improvements. The Recreation only grant was written by Barbara Beverly of Sparks, NV., free of charge, and received in June 2019. Council member Joy Markum had the vision of a community recreation bldg. that included batting cages, tennis court, pickleball and basketball courts. Through her leadership and the intense organization by Louis Sequeido, Tyler Martin and Sean Troup, working with Q&D and numerous other volunteers, brought down the old pool bldg. This donation was a savings of approximately 30K and used towards the City's match to the grant. Fast forward, COVID hit, prices soared and there was no hope for the recreation bldg. In 2025 a small group of pickleball players inquired about the grant and learned that it needed to be utilized by the end of 2028. The group worked with Little League, and a community member for a vision to utilize the grant. Pickleball group applied for several more grants, unfortunately unsuccessful, and started getting bids to redo the pickleball/tennis courts. Council member Sue Mcllray took over the grant process for the city and worked on getting bids for the Little League fencing. Community member Jessica Folchi received a quote for playground equipment. Unfortunately, all the bids for the three entities exceeded the grant funds. The city had to make the decision of how to best utilize the funds and reach the most people of all ages in our community. Being the Tennis/pickleball courts are utilized by the schools for PE/Tennis lessons in the spring and fall and the availability for adults to play at least 5 months of the year, the little league that has summer play of all ages, it was decided to go with those two options. We are reaching ages in the community of 5 through 80 years of age! We have had volunteers from both the pickleball group and the little league group to remove fencing, unwanted trees around courts and whatever else has been asked of these groups to help lower the costs. Other donations made to the Little League field by Joy Engineering (gravel), Keola Wills(spreading gravel) and the School District for bleachers. Everyone has stepped up! We would like to recognize Sue Mcllray for her countless hours working with the state to get all the needed information to get the funds flowing and what she will have to do to finish up and finalize the process. Working with government entities is not easy! I encourage people to search for grants that may help your community! Maybe reach out to your local county supervisors, Terry LeBlanc and Sharon Dryden, to see if they have service area funds that can be utilized for playground equipment. Lastly would like to thank all the volunteers, a small community doesn't succeed without volunteers! With that said a group will be working at the courts on Friday morning at 8:00 AM to put fencing up if anyone would like to help! Encourage everyone to get out and utilize our community park. - Photos and story by Phyllis DeMartini   Project represents 20 years of TRWC efforts in Coldstream Canyon to restore habitat, improve natural ecosystem function and address Truckee River pollution
TRUCKEE, Calif. (July 29, 2026) - The Truckee River Watershed Council (TRWC) has broken ground on the Coldstream Canyon Lower Floodplain Restoration project along the lower reach of Cold Creek. The project will reestablish important habitat for vegetation and wildlife, restore critical ecosystem functions, prevent erosion, increase climate resiliency, and improve water quality flowing downstream to the Truckee River. The project will create 3.2 acres of floodplain area and 1.9 acres of additional riparian habitat. The effort will remove erosive, nonnative filler soils and upland species such as lodgepole pine to create room for riparian (waterway-adjacent) species that stabilize banks, prevent erosion, and mitigate the impacts of flooding. “It’s exciting to see two decades of our work in Coldstream nearing completion and the return of healthy wetlands, natural drainage patterns, and overall resiliency in the area,” said Tiffanee Hutton, TRWC project director. “This project will help repair overall ecosystem health while continuing to address the adverse impacts of historic mining, clearcutting and development in this important headwaters area.” The project site is located along the Legacy Trail just east of Donner Lake. The trail will remain open, with traffic control in place when necessary for users’ safety. Work is expected to be completed this fall. In 2012, TRWC completed a similar project upstream of the current Lower Floodplain restoration. This previous Floodplain restoration established 2.3 acres of riparian habitat and has since prevented approximately 200 tons of fine sediment from entering the Truckee River each year. In partnership with California State Parks and other landowners, TRWC efforts in Coldstream Canyon have already restored over 50 acres of degraded stream channel and riparian floodplain, created 12 acres of additional wetland habitat, and repaired 12 miles of dirt roads. The Lower Floodplain Restoration project is being implemented in collaboration with Stonebridge Properties. Learn more about TRWC’s efforts to restore Coldstream Canyon and support the Truckee River Watershed at truckeeriverwc.org. ### Forest Service News Release
Contact: District Office Contacts Lassen National Forest Personal-use firewood permits now available (Susanville, CA, July 29, 2026) -- Choose which firewood permit purchase works for you — online or in person. Permits are $2 per cord for a 10-cord purchase. Most funds from firewood permit sales are returned to the forest for continued implementation of this program and the Lassen National Forest Fuelwood Strategy. Online purchase July 29–Dec. 31: Use a credit card to purchase firewood permits at epermits.fs2c.usda.gov. Print permit and wood tags before heading to the forest. In-person purchase: Traditional firewood permits will still be available to purchase at local Forest Service offices. About the Forest Service: The USDA Forest Service has, for more than 100 years, brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation. Grounded in world-class science and technology — and rooted in communities — the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other. The Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological, and social vitality. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. The Forest Service also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 900 million forested acres within the U.S., of which over 130 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live. ### USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. by Melinda Myers Trees form the framework in our landscapes, providing shade, cleaning our air of dust and pollutants, absorbing carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen, protecting our soil and helping to manage storm water. Once established, they are often overlooked when hot dry weather has us dragging hoses to water flower and vegetable gardens to keep them alive. Make ongoing care of trees part of your gardening routine, especially during extremely hot dry weather. Proper care will help keep your trees healthy and reduce the risk of insect pests and diseases that often attack drought-stressed trees for the following years. Let the weather, soil type, and type of tree determine the watering schedule. High temperatures and fast draining soils dry out quickly and trees will need more frequent watering. Cooler temperatures and slow or poorly drained soils stay moist longer. Established trees with larger root systems and drought tolerant trees need less frequent watering than moisture lovers and new plantings. Check the soil moisture and water established trees when the top few inches of soil are dry. Always water thoroughly, moistening the top 12 inches of soil under the canopy of deciduous trees. Do the same for evergreens, extending the area three to five feet beyond the dripline. To do this, apply 10 gallons of water for every inch diameter of trunk measured at 4.5 feet above the soil surface. For example, a 4-inch diameter tree should receive about 40 gallons of water. Apply the water directly to the soil surface using a soaker hose. Set the soaker hose in wide circles under the tree, starting several feet away from the trunk with the loops several feet apart. Or make your own drip irrigation system with 5-gallon buckets. Drill several holes in the bottom of the buckets, set around the tree, fill with water and let gravity do the rest. Spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of wood chips or other organic mulch over the soil surface. Pull the mulch away from the trunk of the tree to prevent rotting and disease. You’ll help keep the soil and roots cool and moist, suppress weeds and improve the soil as the mulch decomposes. Create as large a mulch or planting bed around your trees as you can tolerate. You’ll help eliminate competition from the grass and damage caused by weed whips and mowers that get a little too close. You’ll also save time by eliminating the need to hand trim around individual plants. If large beds of mulch do not fit your landscape design, create a beautiful garden in the shade of your trees. Shade tolerant groundcovers, perennials and shrubs can dress up the space with additional texture and color. Be careful when planting under mature trees. Do not cover the roots with soil as this can result in the decline and even death of your tree in coming years. Avoid deep tilling that can damage the surface roots and fine feeder roots used to absorb water and nutrients. Instead, dig relatively small holes to accommodate the plant, mulch and spot water new plantings. It may take a bit longer for them to fill in, but your tree will be healthier and longer lived. Your investment of time and care with be rewarded with years of beauty and the many benefits mature trees provide. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.  Dr. Glenn Mollette Most likely you are. Becoming familiar with Digital Ordering Kiosks. They are called lots of things like Self-Serve Kiosks or order Kiosks or Power Menu Boards and probably various other terms. You may love them, but I don’t care for them at all. Taco Bell, McDonalds and various other eateries have them stationed in many of their stores. Ion my than one occasion I have tried to place an order the old fashioned way and have been totally ignored. A couple of times I just got back in my car and ordered in the drive through. Everything was the same there, no worries. I just simply said “Give me a chicken burrito supreme.” I pulled up to the window, paid for my food, rece3ived my burrito and drove on my merry way. There have been occasions when some nice soul would come to the counter and take my order. I also make a big deal about thanking the person for taking my order. Often there are one or two people waiting to use the kiosk. They peck and poke around adding and subtracting the cheese, the sauces, the lettuce, adding something additional and often I start wondering if they playing some type of Las Vegas game. I am not real impatient but my patience is a bit thin if I’m starving and I am traveling. There is no perfect world and I like the good old days when you walked into McDonalds and there were three or four nice people standing to take my order. They took my order for a cheeseburger, fries and a coke, handed me a tray with food on the tray for a very reasonable price and it was simply fun,. Today, it’s not fun at many fast-food eateries. It’s peek and peck on a screen. They wear me out. Recently I saw some guy walking out of the men’s restroom in front of me. He didn’t wash his hands and went straight to the kiosk to make an order. How many times every day does this happen? How could these contraptions even come into existence after the days of Covid? People touch a lot of things. Credit card readers, door handles and the list is endless. Just add the menu ordering kiosks to the list. I suppose the owners love the kiosks? Are they really making them more money or saving them employee expenses? Are they really working? Have they made their business easier? The fact that I don’t care for them is not likely impacting anything. How4ever, the Hardees and the Burger King around the corner from where I live still takes my order at the counter. That’s where I find myself navigating when in need of that kind of food. Time will tell if my choices will make any difference. The Kiosk ordering board may or may not work for you. In a recent survey over 90% of those polled disliked or detested the kiosk ordering boards. Some said they simply chose the drive through or chose restaurants that did not insist customers use a kiosk to order their food. Dr. Glenn Mollette is the author of 15 books. He is a graduate of Georgetown College, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville Kentucky, Lexington Theological Seminary, Lexington, Kentucky, and is the founder of Newburgh Theological Seminary, Newburgh, Indiana. His column is published in over 600 media outlets nationally. Projects Underway Along State Routes 20 and 49
PLACER/NEVADA COUNTIES – Caltrans is reminding motorists of various lane closures in multiple locations along State Route 49 (SR 49) and State Route 20 (SR 20) as several projects continue in Placer and Nevada counties. Here is the breakdown for next week: SR 20 Projects:
SR 49 Projects:
The extended lane closures will help minimize the duration of the work and improve worker safety. The schedule is subject to change or be delayed due to weather, availability of materials or other unexpected events. Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. Caltrans reminds motorists to “Be Work Zone Alert” and slow in construction zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements. OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has delivered revised preliminary flood maps for the Unincorporated Areas of Plumas County, California. The maps identify revised flood hazards along more than 15 streams and channels throughout Plumas County. The new maps will help building officials, contractors, and homeowners make effective mitigation decisions, thereby contributing to safer and more disaster-resilient communities. Before the new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) become effective, there is a 90-day appeal period from August 7, 2026 to November 4, 2026. During that time, residents or businesses with supporting technical and scientific information, such as detailed hydraulic or hydrologic data, can appeal the flood risk information on the revised preliminary maps, which can be viewed at hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/. Flood hazards are dynamic and change frequently for many reasons, including weather patterns, erosion, and community development. Officials from FEMA and Plumas County worked together to provide updated information that accurately reflects the flood risk. These changes may also affect future building standards or insurance requirements. The local mapping project is part of a national effort led by FEMA to increase local knowledge of flood risks and support actions to address and reduce the effects of flooding on new and improved structures. FEMA encourages residents to review the revised preliminary flood maps to learn about local flood risks, potential future flood insurance requirements, and identify any concerns or questions about the information provided. Risk of flooding affects almost every corner of the nation. In total, 98% of counties have experienced a flood event, which makes floods the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters. For more information, contact Robert Thorman at the Plumas County Engineering Department at (530) 283-6268 or [email protected]. ### FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x.com/FEMARegion9. Broad coalition urges FCC to preserve California’s authority to protect access to reliable communications services for all residents SACRAMENTO, CA – The Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC), in coordination with a broad coalition of consumer, local government, labor, agricultural, and public interest organizations, has filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) opposing AT&T’s Petition for Preemption and Declaratory Ruling, which seeks to prevent California’s Carrier of Last Resort (COLR) requirements from applying to AT&T’s planned discontinuance of Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS). RCRC joined a coalition of organizations, such as The Utility Reform Network (TURN), California Alliance for Digital Equity, California State Association of Counties (CSAC), and the Communications Workers of America (CWA), in submitting comments to the FCC on July 7 and July 22. AT&T’s petition asks the FCC to determine that California’s COLR obligations, and any related state requirements, cannot prevent the company from discontinuing POTS service once it receives FCC authorization. California’s COLR requirements are longstanding universal service obligations that ensure residents have access to basic telephone service regardless of where they live. If the FCC grants AT&T’s petition, the company could move forward with abandoning universal service obligations that millions of Californians rely on, particularly those living in rural communities. The coalition’s comments raise significant concerns with AT&T’s petition improperly limiting California’s authority to enforce consumer protection and public safety standards, especially in rural and underserved areas where wireless alternatives remain unreliable, inadequate, or unavailable—or have not yet been demonstrated to provide equivalent service during emergencies. The comments also emphasize that California’s COLR framework does not require providers to maintain copper infrastructure or use any specific technology. Rather, it requires only that all Californians continue to have access to reliable and adequate communications services. “Universal service remains a cornerstone of public safety and connectivity for rural communities across California, especially during emergencies, natural disasters, and power outages,” said RCRC Second Vice Chair and Napa County Supervisor Anne Cottrell. “It is critical that any replacement technology provides the same or better reliability, functionality, and service quality as the existing landline network before these longstanding protections are eliminated.” In addition to filing comments with the FCC, RCRC and its partners recently submitted an amicus curiae brief supporting the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and California Attorney General in AT&T’s federal lawsuit challenging the state’s authority to maintain COLR obligations. RCRC also joined a motion to intervene seeking formal party status in the case to ensure the interests of California residents and communities are fully represented before a final decision is reached. These legal filings were submitted in partnership with TURN, CSAC, and CWA, reflecting a unified commitment to preserving reliable communications access and protecting the public interest for communities throughout California. ABOUT RURAL COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES OF CALIFORNIA (RCRC) The Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) is a forty member county service organization that champions policies on behalf of California’s rural counties. RCRC is dedicated to representing the collective unique interests of its membership, providing legislative and regulatory representation at the State and Federal levels, and providing responsible services for its members to enhance and protect the quality of life in rural California counties. To learn more about RCRC, visit rcrcnet.org and follow @RuralCounties on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. ### RURAL COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES OF CALIFORNIA 1215 K STREET, SUITE 1650 SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 PHONE: 916-447-4806 FAX: 916-448-3154 WEB: WWW.RCRCNET.ORG Next update will be when there is a significant change.
Twain, CA, July 23, 2026 — The Twain Fire is now 100 percent contained at 276 acres thanks to the great work by firefighters on steep, challenging terrain. Firefighters are continuing to work towards control of the fire, including mop up and patrol. Fuels continue to burn within the firelines. There may be smoke produced within the firelines and visible in the area, especially in the afternoons or when winds pick up. However there should not be smoke impacts to the highway or nearby communities. Area residents and visitors should watch for increased firefighting traffic area, especially in the morning and evening. It’s advised to reduce speed and be prepared to slow down for firefighting equipment entering and exiting the highway in the area around Twain. A Forest Road Closure Order remains in place for Forest Road 26N18, also known as Kingsbury Grade, from California State Highway 70 north to the intersection with Forest Road 8M30. The Closure includes Forest Road 25N21 from the intersection with 26N18 east-southeast for approximately a mile and a half. The Closure Order is in place through July 31 for public and firefighter safety as suppression activities continue. This is to help ensure that firefighting equipment can operate safely and there isn’t additional traffic on narrow forest roads. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The Twain Fire is located on the Plumas National Forest north of California State Highway 70 in the Feather River Canyon. There are no impacts to the Pacific Crest Trail. Weather in the area is expected to continue to be hot, dry and sunny with light winds in the afternoon and evening, typical for the Feather River Canyon in summer. Fuels are dry and with the current conditions, fire can spready quickly. The Forest is currently under Stage I Fire Restrictions. In Stage I Fire Restrictions, campfires are only allowed in specific designated recreation sites in established campfire rings. Sites are listed in Exhibit A of the closure order. Anyone with a campfire at an allowed location needs to have at least a shovel and one gallon of water or a fire extinguisher. Campfires are only allowed in established campfire rings with the area at least 3 feet in diameter completely clear of all flammable material. The campfire must be contained within the campfire ring, not hanging over the edge. Campfires should never be left unattended and need to be completely out and cold to the touch before leaving. Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle or building, in one of the designated recreation sites listed in Exhibit A, or an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is completely clear of all flammable material. Additionally, internal combustion engines, such as vehicles and generators, may only be used on designated roads and trails. Boat engines are exempt. Chainsaw use for firewood cutting is still permitted, but woodcutters need to ensure that they are checking the Woodcutting Status each day prior to cutting by calling 1-800-847-7766. Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited. Area residents and visitors are asked to be careful with anything that can spark a wildfire and to help prevent additional fires. The public can also report suspected wildfires by calling 911. For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas. About the Forest Service: The USDA Forest Service has for more than 100 years brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation. Grounded in worldclass science and technology and rooted in communities, the Forest Service connects people to nature and to each other. The Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological and social vitality. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, maintains the largest wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. The Forest Service also has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 900 million forested acres within the U.S., of which over 130 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live. ### USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. |
